Get complete, updated details on the UPPSC Prelims exam. Learn about the UPPSC Prelims date, syllabus, pattern, book list, previous year question papers, and preparation strategy in one place.
UPPSC Prelims conducted by The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) through the Combined State/Upper Subordinate Services Examination, to recruit candidates for various administrative posts under the state government. This examination acts as the first stage in the selection process, making it an important milestone for any serious aspirant.
Also Read: UPPSC Sylllabus
The UPPSC Prelims is the preliminary examination conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission as the first stage in its recruitment process for various Group A and Group B posts in the state. It serves as a screening test to shortlist candidates for the Mains examination.
The exam is objective in nature, consisting of multiple-choice questions. While it filters candidates for the next stage, marks scored in the Prelims are not counted for the final merit list.

Also Read: UPPSC Notification 2025
As per the latest UPPSC calendar, the UPPSC Prelims date for the 2024 cycle is scheduled for 22 December 2024. The commission generally releases the official notification a few months prior, detailing the number of vacancies, eligibility, and exam structure.
Candidates should regularly visit the official UPPSC website to stay updated on any changes to the exam date or schedule.
Also Read: UPPSC Question Paper
Understanding the UPPSC Prelims pattern is essential for strategic preparation. The exam consists of two papers conducted on the same day.
| UPPSC Prelims Paper | General Studies I | General Studies II (CSAT) |
| Total Questions | 150 | 100 |
| Total Marks | 200 | 200 |
| Duration | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Negative Marking | 0.33 marks per wrong answer | No negative marking (Qualifying) |
| Qualifying Criteria | Cutoff | Minimum 33% marks required |
Paper II is only qualifying in nature. The final shortlisting for the Mains is based on Paper I marks alone, provided Paper II is cleared.
The UPPSC Prelims syllabus broadly covers topics from General Studies and Aptitude. A concise breakdown of both papers is provided below:
| UPPSC Paper | General Studies I (Paper I) | General Studies II (CSAT – Paper II) |
| Subjects/Topics | • Current events of national and international importance • History of India and Indian National Movement • Indian and World Geography • Indian Polity and Governance • Economic and Social Development • Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change • General Science |
• Comprehension • Interpersonal skills and communication • Logical reasoning and analytical ability • Decision-making and problem-solving • General mental ability • Basic numeracy (Class X level) • Data interpretation (Class X level) |
Candidates should refer to the official notification for the detailed syllabus as minor changes may occur annually.
Also Read: UPPSC Mains Preparation Strategy
A clear, structured UPPSC preparation plan ensures efficient coverage of the vast syllabus and improves scoring potential. Here are some practical steps aspirants should follow:

Time management and consistent revision hold the key to success in this exam.
Also Read: UPSC Exam Syllabus
Choosing the right resources can significantly enhance preparation quality. Below is a recommended UPPSC Prelims book list curated for both Paper I and Paper II:
| UPPSC Prelims Paper | UPPSC Recommended Books |
| Paper I (General Studies) | • Indian Polity – M. Laxmikanth • Indian Economy – Ramesh Singh • Certificate Physical and Human Geography – G.C. Leong • Modern Indian History – Spectrum • Environmental Studies – Erach Bharucha • Lucent’s General Knowledge (for quick revision) • State Board & NCERT books (for foundational concepts) |
| Paper II (CSAT) | • Quantitative Aptitude – R.S. Aggarwal • A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal • Previous Years’ CSAT Papers (for practice) |
Solving UPPSC Prelims PYQs is essential for any serious candidate. These papers reveal the commission’s focus areas, question difficulty, and subject-wise distribution.
| Download UPPSC Prelims PYQ 2024 | |
| UPPSC Paper 1 General Studies | Download Link |
| UPPSC CSAT Paper | Download Link |
Candidates should solve at least the last 5 to 10 years’ papers. Analyzing these papers helps identify high-weightage topics and repeated question patterns, guiding aspirants to fine-tune their preparation.
Also Read: UPSC Prelims PYQs
While the official UPPSC Prelims 2024 question paper will be available after the exam, aspirants can anticipate a balanced mix of factual, analytical, and Uttar Pradesh-specific questions based on previous trends.
The question paper typically tests:
Candidates should practice mock tests aligned with this structure to improve their readiness.
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The UPPSC Prelims is a competitive and significant exam that acts as a gateway to Uttar Pradesh’s prestigious administrative services. Understanding the exam date, pattern, syllabus, and preparation resources is essential for success. Candidates should use reliable books, practice UPPSC Prelims PYQs, and stay updated with the latest notifications to approach the exam confidently.
It is scheduled for 17 March 2024.
Two — General Studies I and General Studies II (CSAT).
Yes, candidates must score a minimum of 33% marks.
They are available on the official UPPSC website and in trusted exam preparation books.
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