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UPSC IAS/IFS Syllabus 2025: A Detailed Guide
Post Date / Update:
28 February 2025 | 04:19 PM
Short Information:
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the toughest exams in India attempted by thousands of candidates each year. It is the gateway to becoming an IAS, IFS, or IPS officer, with the opportunity to serve the country. The exam does not just check knowledge but also logical reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. With […]
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the toughest exams in India attempted by thousands of candidates each year. It is the gateway to becoming an IAS, IFS, or IPS officer, with the opportunity to serve the country. The exam does not just check knowledge but also logical reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. With such a large syllabus of history, geography, politics, economy, science, and current affairs, preparation is a planned strategy.
This guide gives a clear IAS/IFS syllabus 2025 to all the aspirants so that they can better understand it. Whether you are a beginner or already started preparing, this explanation will guide you in planning.
Phases of the UPSC Exam
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is a three-tiered exam: Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Each level has its purpose, and a different approach is to be followed. Below is a detailed table explaining each stage:
| Stage | Exam Type | Purpose | Key Details |
| Prelims | Objective (MCQs) | Screening test to qualify for Mains | Two papers (General Studies & CSAT) |
| Mains | Descriptive | Tests in-depth knowledge & writing skills | Nine papers, including Essay & Optional Subject |
| Interview | Personality Test | Assesses communication & decision-making | Nine papers, including Essay & Optional Subject |
Every step of the UPSC exam is equally important, and students must plan their preparation.
UPSC Prelims 2025: Syllabus & Exam Pattern
The Prelims is the first phase of the UPSC exam. It consists of two papers aimed at checking a candidate’s general awareness, reasoning skills, and analytical ability. Clearing the Prelims is eligible for the Mains examination.
Exam Pattern
| Paper | Subjects | Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | General Studies (GS) | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper II | CSAT (Aptitude Test) | 200 | 2 hours |
Note: Paper II (CSAT) is only for qualification. Candidates must score 33% (66 marks) to pass in Paper II. Only Paper I marks are considered for selection to Mains.
Prelims Syllabus
Paper I: General Studies (GS)
- Current events (National & International)
- Indian History & Freedom Movement
- Geography (India & World)
- Indian Constitution & Governance
- Economic & Social Development
- Environmental Issues & Climate Change
- General Science
Paper II: CSAT (Aptitude Test)
- Reading Comprehension
- Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability
- Decision Making & Problem Solving
- Basic Numeracy (Class 10 level)
- Data Interpretation (Charts, Graphs, Tables)
Key Strategy: Since CSAT is just qualifying, focus on scoring high in General Studies to clear the cut-off.
Syllabus & Exam Pattern for UPSC Mains 2025
The UPSC Mains 2025 consists of 9 papers, of which 7 papers are included in the final rank and 2 qualifying papers (Language and English). The exam includes an essay, general studies (GS-I to IV), and an optional subject (two papers).
Exam Pattern
| Paper | Marks |
| Essay | 250 |
| General Studies I | 250 |
| General Studies II | 250 |
| General Studies III | 250 |
| General Studies IV | 250 |
| Optional Paper I | 250 |
| Optional Paper II | 250 |
| English (Qualifying) | 300 |
| Regional Language (Qualifying) | 300 |
| Total Marks for Merit | 1750 |
Note: The qualifying papers (English & Regional Language) require at least 25% marks to pass. Their marks are not counted in the final ranking.
Mains Syllabus
Paper I: Essay
- Write two essays on different topics.
- Topics can be from current affairs, philosophy, history, or social issues.
- Marks are given for clarity, logic, structure, and argument strength.
Paper II: General Studies I (History & Geography)
- Indian Heritage & Culture (Art, Architecture, Literature)
- Modern Indian History (British Rule, Freedom Struggle)
- World History (Wars, Revolutions, Political Changes)
- Indian Society & Diversity (Caste, Women Issues, Population Trends)
- Geography of India & World (Physical, Economic, Human Geography)
Paper III: General Studies II (Governance & Politics)
- Indian Constitution (Amendments, Features, Fundamental Rights & Duties)
- Governance & Public Administration (Panchayati Raj, Policies, Reforms)
- Parliament & Judiciary (Powers, Functions, Landmark Judgments)
- Welfare Schemes (Health, Education, Employment Schemes)
- International Relations (India’s Relations with Neighboring Nations & Global Bodies)
Paper IV: General Studies III (Economy & Environment)
- Indian Economy (Growth, Banking, Budget, Inflation, Infrastructure)
- Agriculture & Food Security (Farming Methods, Government Schemes)
- Science & Technology (Space, AI, Biotechnology, IT Advancements)
- Disaster Management (Floods, Earthquakes, Cyclones, Government Action)
- Environmental Conservation (Climate Change, Renewable Energy, Pollution Abatement)
Paper V: General Studies IV (Ethics & Integrity)
- Ethics & Morality (Philosophy, Leadership, Honesty, Work Ethics)
- Case Studies on Public Administration (Decision Making in Bureaucracy)
- Governance & Public Service Values (Accountability, Transparency)
Paper VI & VII: Optional Subject
- Select one subject from a list given by UPSC (e.g., History, Geography, Political Science, Literature, etc.)
- There are two papers of 250 marks each for every subject.
Qualifying Papers
- English (300 Marks): Comprehension, Essay Writing, Grammar
- Regional Language (300 Marks): Writing & Grammar
UPSC Interview (Personality Test)
The UPSC Interview or Personality Test, is the final round of the Civil Services Examination. Below is a detailed breakdown:
| Aspect | Details |
| Conducted By | UPSC panel of experts |
| Eligibility | Only for candidates who clear the Mains exam |
| Evaluation Areas | Confidence, leadership, decision-making, ethics, and communication skills |
| Question Types | Personal background, current affairs, problem-solving scenarios |
| Total Marks | 275 |
| Final Selection | Based on Mains (1750) + Interview (275) = 2025 Marks |
A good score in this personality interview can significantly improve the final rank.
Final Merit Calculation
| Stage | Marks |
| Mains | 1750 |
| Interview | 275 |
| Total Marks | 2025 |
The final rank is determined on the total mark achieved in Mains (1750 Marks) + Interview (275 Marks).
Final Thoughts
The UPSC exam is very hard, but with proper planning, you can crack it. Practice regularly, manage time, and practice a lot. Read the newspaper, improve your writing, and feel confident about the interview. Give mock tests and revise your studied material so that you are aware of the exam.
Working hard continuously and having faith in yourself. With dedication, hard work, and a clever strategy, you will be successful in your dream of becoming a civil servant.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there any subject overlap between Prelims and Mains?
Yes, there are common subjects such as history, politics, geography, economy, and the environment shared by the Prelims and Mains, but the Mains analysis has to be in-depth.
- Is mathematics necessary for the UPSC exam?
Basic numeracy at the Class 10 level is included in the CSAT paper in Prelims, but qualifying only. For Mains, Math is optional.
- Is the UPSC syllabus updated every year?
The basic syllabus remains the same, but the subjects and areas of focus in contemporary affairs may vary in significance.