The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) exam, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), follows a three-stage selection process: the Preliminary Examination (Prelims), the Main Examination (Mains), and the Personality Test (Interview). Here’s a detailed breakdown of each stage:
1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims)
Objective: To screen candidates for the Main Examination.
Components:
- Paper I: General Studies (GS)
- Total Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 hours
- Topics: Current events, Indian history, Indian and world geography, Indian polity and governance, economic and social development, environmental ecology, biodiversity, climate change, and general science.
- Paper II: Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT)
- Total Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 hours
- Topics: Comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning and analytical ability, decision-making and problem-solving, general mental ability, basic numeracy, and data interpretation.
- Note: CSAT is qualifying in nature, requiring at least 33% to pass.
Marking Scheme:
- Both papers consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
- Negative marking is applicable for incorrect answers.
2. Main Examination (Mains)
Objective: To assess the in-depth knowledge and understanding of candidates.
Components:
- Qualifying Papers:
- Paper A: Indian Language (selected by the candidate from the languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution)
- Total Marks: 300
- Paper B: English
- Total Marks: 300
- Paper A: Indian Language (selected by the candidate from the languages included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution)
- Papers Counted for Merit:
- Paper I: Essay
- Total Marks: 250
- Paper II: General Studies I (Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society)
- Total Marks: 250
- Paper III: General Studies II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations)
- Total Marks: 250
- Paper IV: General Studies III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management)
- Total Marks: 250
- Paper V: General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude)
- Total Marks: 250
- Papers VI and VII: Optional Subject Papers I and II (chosen by the candidate from a list of subjects)
- Total Marks: 250 each
- Paper I: Essay
Marking Scheme:
- Descriptive type questions.
- Candidates must write essays, answer questions based on the provided topics, and demonstrate analytical and critical thinking skills.
3. Personality Test (Interview)
Objective: To assess the personal suitability of the candidate for a career in public service.
Components:
- Total Marks: 275
- Assessment Areas: Communication skills, personality, general knowledge, intellectual abilities, leadership qualities, moral integrity, and other attributes.
Process:
- Conducted by a UPSC board.
- Candidates are asked questions on various topics including their DAF (Detailed Application Form), current affairs, and situational questions.
Final Ranking
The final ranking is based on the aggregate marks obtained in the Mains (written examination) and the Interview. The Prelims marks are not counted in the final ranking but are used solely for screening purposes.
Summary of Mark Distribution
- Mains (written): 1750 marks (7 merit papers)
- Interview: 275 marks
- Total: 2025 marks
Candidates who pass all three stages are included in the final merit list and allocated to various services like IAS, IPS, IFS, etc., based on their ranks and preferences.