The recruitment aims to fill approximately 979 vacancies across different services, such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS), among others.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025, including eligibility criteria, important dates, application process, and frequently asked questions (FAQs). If you are planning to appear for this exam, this article will help you understand everything you need to know.
Key Highlights of UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025
| Details | Information |
| Exam Name | UPSC Civil Services Examination 2025 |
| Total Vacancies | Approximately 979 |
| Exam Type | Preliminary Exam (Phase I) |
| Application Start Date | 22nd January 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 11th February 2025 |
| Exam Date | 25th May 2025 |
| Age Limit | 21 to 32 years (as of 1st August 2025) |
| Minimum Qualification | Any Degree |
| Application Fee | Rs. 100/- (except for certain categories) |
| Mode of Payment | Online/Branch Payment |
Important Information
- Educational Qualification: Applicants must possess a degree from a recognized university or equivalent.
- Vacancy Details: Approximately 979 vacancies are available, including various prestigious positions in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and other services.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
| Female/SC/ST/Persons with Benchmark Disability | NIL |
| Other Candidates | Rs. 100/- |
Payment Methods:
- Candidates can pay the fee either by cash at a Branch of the State Bank of India or by using Net Banking, Visa/Master/RuPay/ Credit/Debit Card, or UPI payment.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release Date | 22nd January 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 11th February 2025 |
| Commencement of Examination | 25th May 2025 |
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 32 years
Candidates must have been born not earlier than 2nd August 1993 and not later than 1st August 2004. There are age relaxations for candidates from reserved categories such as SC/ST, OBC, etc.
| Category | Relaxation |
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| PwD (Persons with Disabilities) | 10 years |
Eligibility Criteria
1. Nationality
- A candidate must be a citizen of India.
- For certain services, candidates from Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibetan refugees (who came before 1962) are also eligible to apply.
2. Educational Qualification
- A candidate must possess a degree from any recognized university.
- Candidates who are in the final year of their graduation are also eligible to apply, provided they can produce proof of their degree during the interview.
3. Number of Attempts
Candidates are allowed a limited number of attempts to appear for the UPSC exam, depending on their category:
| Category | Maximum Number of Attempts |
| General | 6 attempts |
| OBC | 9 attempts |
| SC/ST | Unlimited attempts |
Exam Pattern and Selection Process
1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims)
- Objective Type: The Prelims exam consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies (GS) and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT).
- Duration: 2 hours for each paper.
- Negative Marking: There is a penalty for incorrect answers.
2. Main Examination (Mains)
- Descriptive Type: The Mains exam consists of nine papers, including General Studies, Essay, and Optional Subjects.
- Duration: Each paper is 3 hours long.
3. Interview (Personality Test)
- Candidates who qualify the Mains exam are called for an interview to assess their personality, general knowledge, and suitability for civil services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the application fee for the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025?
The application fee is Rs. 100 for general candidates, while female, SC/ST, and Persons with Benchmark Disability candidates are exempt from the fee.
How many vacancies are there for the UPSC Civil Services Exam 2025?
Approximately 979 vacancies are expected to be filled through the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2025.
How can I pay the application fee?
The fee can be paid through net banking, debit/credit card, UPI, or at a State Bank of India branch via cash.
Can I apply for the UPSC exam if I have a degree from an open university?
Yes, candidates with degrees from an open university or distance education can apply, provided the university is recognized by the Government of India.