About Mains
Main Examination Overview
After successfully clearing the Preliminary stage, candidates move on to the Main Examination, which comprises a Written Examination followed by an Interview/Personality Test.
The written component includes nine papers, of which two are qualifying papers that must be cleared to have the remaining papers evaluated.
The scores from all compulsory merit-based papers (Paper I to Paper VII) combined with the marks from the Interview/Personality Test determine a candidate’s position in the final merit list.
Candidates who secure the minimum required marks in the written portion are shortlisted for the final stage — the Interview/Personality Test. Typically, around twice the number of available vacancies are invited to this stage.
The Interview/Personality Test carries a maximum of 275 marks, with no prescribed minimum qualifying score. The aggregate marks from both the written and interview stages decide the final ranking and service allocation of successful candidates.
Written Examination Structure
The Written Examination of the UPSC Main stage consists of nine papers, divided into qualifying papers and merit-based papers, as detailed below:
Qualifying Papers (Not counted for ranking)
-Paper A: An Indian language chosen by the candidate (300 marks)
-Paper B: English language (300 marks)
Both qualifying papers require candidates to score a minimum of 25% marks to have the remaining papers evaluated.
Note: Candidates from certain states and categories (like specific disabilities) are exempt from the Indian Language paper.
Merit-Based Papers (Counted for final ranking)
-Paper I: Essay (250 marks)
-Paper II: General Studies I — Indian Heritage & Culture, History, Geography of the World & Society (250 marks)
-Paper III: General Studies II — Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations (250 marks)
-Paper IV: General Studies III — Technology, Economic Development, Environment, Security & Disaster Management (250 marks)
-Paper V: General Studies IV — Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude (250 marks)
-Paper VI: Optional Subject — Paper 1 (250 marks)
-Paper VII: Optional Subject — Paper 2 (250 marks)
Candidates must select one optional subject from the list of subjects prescribed by UPSC.
Scoring & Duration
-Written Examination Total: 1750 marks
-Personality Test (Interview): 275 marks
-Grand Total: 2025 marks
Each written paper is of three hours’ duration and follows a conventional (essay-type) format.
Mentor-IQ is a virtual IAS training institute with a community-based learning model. We help aspirants prepare for UPSC exams through structured learning, mentorship, and a strong support system using digital tools and live guidance.
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