The countdown has begun for one of India’s most prestigious examinations. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will soon close the application window for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025, which recruits candidates for elite positions like the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS).

If you’re planning to appear for this fiercely competitive exam, make sure to submit your application by February 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM IST. This guide covers everything—eligibility, key dates, exam pattern, application process, and expert tips.

🗓️ UPSC 2025 Important Dates at a Glance

✅ UPSC 2025 Eligibility Criteria

To appear for UPSC CSE 2025, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Nationality

• IAS/IPS: Indian citizen

• Other services: Indian/Nepali/Bhutanese citizens or approved migrants

2. Educational Qualification

• A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university

• Final-year students can apply but must submit proof before Mains

3. Age Limit (as of August 1, 2025)

• Minimum: 21 years

• Maximum:

  • General: 32 years

  • OBC: 35 years

  • SC/ST: 37 years

4. Number of Attempts

• General: 6

• OBC: 9

• SC/ST: Unlimited (until age limit)

• PwD: 9 (General/OBC), Unlimited (SC/ST)

📝 How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2025

Step 1: One-Time Registration (OTR)
Visit the UPSC website, create your OTR profile, and generate login credentials.

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

• Log in using OTR credentials

• Select “Apply for Civil Services Examination 2025”

• Fill in personal, educational, and communication details

• Upload required documents:

  • Recent passport-sized photo

  • Signature

  • Valid Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, etc.)

Step 3: Select Exam Center
Choose your preferred Preliminary Exam center. Apply early as slots are limited.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

• General/OBC: ₹100

• SC/ST/Female/PwD: Exempted

• Modes: Net banking, UPI, card, or offline SBI challan

Step 5: Final Submission
Review the application carefully and submit it. Save the confirmation page for reference.

🧭 UPSC Exam Pattern 2025

The exam has three stages:

1. Preliminary Exam

• Mode: Offline (OMR-based)

• Papers:

  • Paper I: General Studies (200 marks)

  • Paper II: CSAT (200 marks; qualifying only)

• Negative Marking: 1/3rd per wrong answer

• Duration: 2 hours per paper

2. Main Exam

• 9 descriptive papers, including:

  • Essay

  • Four General Studies papers

  • Two Optional Subject papers

  • Two language papers (one qualifying)

• Total Marks: 1750

• Only those who qualify the Prelims can appear

3. Personality Test (Interview)

• Marks: 275

• Conducted at UPSC HQ in New Delhi

• Tests decision-making, integrity, and leadership

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can final-year students apply?
Yes, but they must produce proof of graduation before the Main Exam.

Q2. Is there a correction window?
Yes, from February 19 to February 25, 2025.

Q3. How many candidates qualify for Mains?
Only 3–4% of Preliminary exam candidates make it to Mains.

Q4. Can I change my exam center after applying?
No. Once selected, it cannot be modified.

Q5. When will the Prelims Admit Card be released?
In May 2025, around 3 weeks before the exam.

📈 Pro Tips to Crack UPSC CSE 2025

• Start Early: Cover NCERTs and build strong basics

• Read Newspapers: Stay updated on national and international issues

• Practice Mock Tests: Helps manage time and identify weaknesses

• Optional Subject: Choose based on your interest and background

• Revision: Regularly revisit key topics to retain concepts

• Stay Consistent: Create a realistic schedule and stick to it

🎯 Final Word

The UPSC CSE 2025 offers the gateway to India’s most respected civil services. With 979 vacancies this year, the competition is fierce—but with the right preparation and timely action, success is within reach.

✅ Don’t wait until the last moment—submit your application by February 18, 2025, and begin your journey toward a career that shapes the future of the nation.

For official updates and to apply, visit the UPSC website.