The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Civil Services Examination (CSE) every year to recruit candidates for various different services like IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, and others. To prepare effectively, aspirants must thoroughly understand the UPSC CSE Syllabus 2025 for both Preliminary and Main Examination. This article provides a complete and updated overview of the UPSC CSE Syllabus 2025, including subjects, topics, marks, and preparation tips. You’ll also find the option to download the UPSC syllabus PDF for future reference.
UPSC CSE Syllabus Details
Understanding the UPSC CSE Syllabus 2025 is the first step toward success in India’s toughest examination. Whether you’re targeting IAS, IPS, or other services, a strong grasp of the syllabus will help you stay focused and plan your preparation effectively. Bookmark this page and keep visiting for updates, tips, and strategy.
UPSC CSE 2025 Exam Overview
| Exam Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Exam Name | Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025 |
| Exam Stages | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Mode | Offline |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
Also Check – UPSC CDS 1 Admit Card 2025
UPSC CSE Syllabus 2025 – Preliminary Examination
The CSE Prelims is the first stage and is qualifying in nature. It comprises two papers:
Paper 1: General Studies (GS-I)
- History of India and Indian National Movement
- Indian and World Geography – Physical, Social, Economic Geography of India and the World
- Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
- Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.
- Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change – General issues, no subject specialization required
- General Science
Total Marks: 200
Duration: 2 Hours
Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd for each incorrect answer)
Paper 2: CSAT (GS Paper II)
- Comprehension
- Interpersonal skills including communication skills
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability
- Decision-making and problem-solving
- General mental ability
- Basic numeracy (Class X level)
- Data interpretation (Class X level)
Total Marks: 200
Duration: 2 Hours
Qualifying Paper: Must score at least 33%
Note – Only marks of Paper 1 (GS) are considered for Prelims cut-off.
UPSC Mains Syllabus 2025 – Paper-wise Overview
The UPSC Main Examination consists of 9 papers, out of which 7 are considered for merit ranking.
Qualifying Papers
- Paper A: Indian Language (Choose from 22 languages – 300 Marks)
- Paper B: English Language – 300 Marks
- Minimum 25% marks required in each to qualify.
Merit-Based Papers
Paper I – Essay (250 Marks)
- Candidates are required to write essays on multiple topics.
- Emphasis is on clarity, coherence, and structured presentation.
Paper II – General Studies I (250 Marks)
- Indian Heritage and Culture
- History and Geography of the World and Society
Paper III – General Studies II (250 Marks)
- Governance
- Constitution
- Polity
- Social Justice
- International Relations
Paper IV – General Studies III (250 Marks)
- Technology
- Economic Development
- Biodiversity
- Environment
- Security and Disaster Management
Paper V – General Studies IV (250 Marks)
- Ethics
- Integrity
- Aptitude
- Case studies on moral dilemmas and public service
Paper VI & VII – Optional Subject Papers (2 Papers of 250 Marks each)
Candidates must choose one optional subject (e.g., Geography, Sociology, PSIR, Anthropology, etc.)
UPSC Optional Subjects List
Some popular optional subjects include:
- Geography
- History
- Sociology
- Public Administration
- Political Science & International Relations (PSIR)
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Literature subjects (Hindi, English, etc.)
UPSC CSE Interview (Personality Test)
- Conducted for candidates who qualify the Mains.
- Maximum Marks: 275
- Tests personality traits, awareness, communication, and leadership skills.
Download UPSC Syllabus 2025 PDF
You can download the complete UPSC CSE Prelims and Mains Syllabus 2025 PDF from the official website:
UPSC CSE Preparation Tips 2025
- Start with NCERT books for basics
- Focus on newspapers and current affairs daily
- Solve previous year question papers
- Practice mock tests and CSAT regularly
- Create a structured timetable and stick to it
- Don’t ignore ethics and essay papers