The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025, providing a gateway to India’s most prestigious government roles. With approximately 979 vacancies, this is a unique opportunity to join services like IAS, IPS, and more. Aspiring candidates must meet eligibility requirements and clear a multi-stage selection process.
Job Summary
Job Title: Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025
Employer: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Location: Pan-India
Key Responsibilities: Selected candidates will take on leadership roles in Indian governance, contributing to policymaking, administrative management, and public service.
Key Information
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | January 22, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | February 11, 2025, by 6:00 PM |
| Preliminary Exam Date | May 25, 2025 |
| Expected Vacancies | 979 (38 reserved for PwBD candidates) |
| Application Fee | ₹100 for General/EWS/OBC; Exempt for SC/ST/PwBD and female candidates |
| Exam Centers | Available across 80 cities for Preliminary Exam and 24 cities for Main Exam |
| Website for Application | [Placeholder for Link to Official Website] |
Positions Available
The CSE 2025 provides entry into the following services and posts:
- Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
- Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
- Indian Police Service (IPS)
- Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Indirect Taxes)
- Indian Audit and Accounts Service
- Indian Defence Accounts Service
- Indian Railway Management Service
- Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu Civil Service (DANICS)
- Pondicherry Civil Service (PONDICS)
A total of 24 Group A and B services are available for recruitment.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Educational Qualification
- A graduate degree from a recognized university is mandatory.
- Final-year students can apply provisionally but must provide proof of qualification during the main examination.
2. Age Limit
- General Category: 21–32 years (as of August 1, 2025).
- Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST: Up to 5 years
- OBC: Up to 3 years
- PwBD: Up to 10 years
3. Nationality
- For IAS and IPS: Indian citizens only.
- For other services: Citizens of India, Nepal, Bhutan, and certain other eligible individuals are allowed.
4. Number of Attempts
- General: 6 attempts
- OBC: 9 attempts
- SC/ST: Unlimited attempts
Examination Stages
The CSE is conducted in three rigorous stages:
1. Preliminary Examination (May 25, 2025)
- Two objective-type papers of 200 marks each.
- Negative marking: 1/3 of the marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Marks obtained in this stage are used for shortlisting candidates for the main examination.
2. Main Examination
- Comprises nine descriptive papers, two of which are qualifying (English and an Indian language).
- Papers include:
- Essays
- General Studies (4 papers)
- Optional Subject (2 papers)
- Marks from seven papers contribute to merit.
3. Interview/Personality Test
- Candidates shortlisted from the Main Examination will appear for an Interview carrying 275 marks.
- The interview assesses leadership, problem-solving, and suitability for government roles.
The final merit list is based on the Main Examination and Interview scores.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | January 22, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | February 11, 2025, 6:00 PM |
| Preliminary Exam | May 25, 2025 |
| Main Exam | To be announced |
Application Process
- Register on the OTR Platform:
- New applicants must register on the One-Time Registration (OTR) system.
- Existing users can log in directly to apply.
- Complete the Application:
- Fill out the application form with accurate details.
- Upload a recent photograph and signature as per the specifications.
- Pay the Fee:
- ₹100 for General/EWS/OBC categories.
- Fee exemption applies to SC/ST/PwBD and female candidates.
- Submit and Save:
- Submit the application before the deadline and save a copy for future reference.
Application Fee Details
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/EWS/OBC | ₹100 |
| SC/ST/PwBD/Female | Exempt |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the application fee?
₹100 for General/EWS/OBC categories. SC/ST, PwBD, and female candidates are exempt.
2. Is there an age limit?
Yes, candidates must be between 21–32 years as of August 1, 2025, with relaxations for eligible categories.
3. How do I apply?
Applications are accepted online through the OTR platform.
4. What documents are required?
A valid photo ID, recent photograph, and proof of graduation are needed.
5. Can I withdraw my application?
No, withdrawal of applications is not permitted.
6. Is there negative marking in the Preliminary Exam?
Yes, 1/3 marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
7. How many stages are there in the CSE?
The examination includes three stages: Preliminary, Main, and Interview/Personality Test.
8. Are candidates with disabilities eligible?
Yes, candidates with benchmark disabilities are eligible and provided accommodations as needed.
9. Can I change my examination center after applying?
No, examination centers cannot be changed once selected.
10. When will the admit card be available?
Admit cards will be available for download approximately one week before the Preliminary Exam.
Important Links:
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