How to Prepare for UPSC and UPPSC Simultaneously in 2025? Learn expert tips to crack both exams together by focusing on overlapping syllabus, exam patterns, and preparation strategies. Master both UPSC and UPPSC with one streamlined plan.

Competitive exams like the UPSC Exam and UPPSC Exam remain some of the India’s toughest public service recruitment processes. Many candidates often find themselves aiming for both, either by choice or due to overlapping syllabi and career prospects. This article provides a clear, factual, and structured guide on how to prepare for UPSC and UPPSC simultaneously while also addressing their key similarities, differences, syllabus overlaps, exam structures, and strategies for different aspirant categories.
Also Read: UPSC Exam Syllabus
Also Read: UPPSC Sylllabus

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts India’s central civil services examination to recruit officers for various prestigious All India Services and Central Services. Similarly, the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) is the constitutional body responsible for recruiting civil servants for the Uttar Pradesh state government.
Though both are administrative exams, their jurisdiction, pattern, and depth differ. Aspirants often seek clarity on whether UPSC or UPPSC is the bigger job, and if both can be prepared for together effectively.
Also Read: UPPSC Notification 2025
Also Read: UPSC Prelims Syllabus

The question of which job is bigger, UPSC or UPPSC, depends on the scope of responsibility and authority associated with each.
In terms of administrative hierarchy, UPSC recruits are higher in scale and policy impact. However, UPPSC officers hold significant power within the state, often operating independently in district and divisional roles.
Also Read: UPPSC Question Paper
Also Read: UPSC Prelims PYQs
Aspirants often choose to prepare for both exams because of several overlapping features:
| Aspect | UPSC | UPPSC |
| Exam Pattern | Prelims, Mains, Interview | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Prelims Exam | General Studies, CSAT | General Studies, CSAT |
| Syllabus Components | History, Polity, Geography, Environment, Economy | Same with focus on Uttar Pradesh state-specific topics |
| Languages Available | English, Hindi, other regional languages | English, Hindi |
| Essay Paper | Included | Included |
| General Studies Papers | 4 in Mains | 4 in Mains |
| Optional | 2 papers dedicated to chosen subject | No Optional rather 2 UP specific papers |
| Eligibility Criteria | Graduate in any discipline | Graduate in any discipline |
These similarities between UPSC and UPPSC Exams make it practical to pursue them together, provided one understands their nuances.
Also Read: UPPSC Mains Preparation Strategy
Also Read: UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Despite overlaps, there are distinct UPSC and UPPSC Exam differences aspirants should note:
| Factor | UPSC | UPPSC |
| Authority | Central government recruitment | State government recruitment |
| Vacancies per Year | 800–1100 | 300–400 |
| Exam Language for Interview | Optional English/Hindi/Regional | Optional English/Hindi |
| Geographical Focus | National | Uttar Pradesh-specific |
| General Studies Depth | Deeper, conceptual, analytical | More factual, state-centric |
Recognizing these UPSC and UPPSC Exam differences ensures candidates modify their approach where needed.
Both exams cover broadly similar subjects in their Prelims and Mains stages:
| Subject Area | UPSC | UPPSC |
| History | Indian history with world history in Mains | Indian history with UP history emphasis |
| Polity | Indian Constitution, governance | Indian Constitution, UP-specific acts |
| Geography | India and World, Environmental issues | India and UP geography |
| Economy | Indian economy, international economy | Indian economy, UP economy focus |
| Environment | Biodiversity, conservation, climate change | Biodiversity, environment in UP |
| Ethics Paper | Included in Mains | Included in Mains |
The UPSC and UPPSC syllabus similarities allow candidates to follow a common core syllabus with minor adaptations.
While the core subjects overlap, UPSC and UPPSC syllabus differences emerge primarily in:
Being aware of these ensures efficient UPSC and UPPSC strategy customization.
When comparing the UPSC and UPPSC Exam difficulty level, one must consider scope, competition, and question complexity:
| Factor | UPSC | UPPSC |
| Number of Applicants | 10+ lakh yearly | 4–5 lakh yearly |
| Selection Ratio | 1:1000 approx. | 1:800 approx. |
| Question Type | Analytical, concept-based | Factual, state-specific, moderate |
| Syllabus Breadth | Wider national and international topics | National with a UP-centric focus |
UPSC remains objectively tougher due to its scale, conceptual questions, and broader policy implications.
Yes, it is possible to prepare for both UPSC and UPPSC within one year, provided the study plan is focused and disciplined. Here’s how:
By following this structured, point-wise approach, aspirants can realistically prepare for both UPSC and UPPSC within one year.
A unified UPSC and UPPSC strategy should balance core commonalities with distinct differences:
| Preparation Stage | UPSC Preparation Focus | UPPSC Preparation Focus | Common Strategy |
| Prelims Preparation | Study NCERTs, standard textbooks, and national current affairs | Cover UP-specific facts, state schemes, and local current affairs | Use combined test series including national and UPPSC papers |
| Mains Preparation | Build conceptual strength in GS papers and essay writing | Prepare UPPSC’s UP-specific papers like UP history, economy | Follow a shared answer writing practice schedule |
| Optional Subject | Dedicate time for UPSC mains optional subject preparation | Not applicable (no optional subject in UPPSC mains) | Focus optional prep time solely for UPSC mains |
For aspirants managing jobs:
Smart time management and strategic prioritization make simultaneous preparation feasible for working professionals.
A common UPSC and UPPSC booklist helps optimize effort:
| Subject | Books (Common for Both Exams) |
| History | NCERTs, Spectrum Modern India |
| Polity | Laxmikanth Indian Polity |
| Geography | NCERTs, GC Leong, Oxford Atlas |
| Economy | Ramesh Singh Indian Economy |
| Environment | Shankar IAS Environment |
| Current Affairs | Monthly Magazines, Daily Newspapers |
| UP-Specific | UP Year Book, UP Budget, UP Current Affairs |
This integrated list supports both UPSC and UPPSC simultaneously.
Are you preparing for UPSC mains 2025? Join IAShub’s UPSC coaching batches to boost your preparation. Enroll now!
Are you preparing for UPPCS Mains 2024? Join IAShub’s UPPCS coaching batches to boost your preparation. Enroll now!
Attempting UPSC and UPPSC together is a pragmatic, achievable goal for serious aspirants. The overlapping syllabus, exam structures, and preparation resources make it possible to develop a consolidated strategy while adjusting for each exam’s unique demands. A clear understanding of UPSC and UPPSC similarities and differences ensures candidates use their time and resources efficiently.
Refine your answer writing skills and elevate your UPSC preparation with personalized support and expert feedback.
Fill out the form to get started with the program or any other enquiries !
Are you dreaming of becoming an IAS officer? Then, IAShub can be your best guide. It is one of the Best IAS Coaching in Delhi. Many students who want to clear the UPSC exam join IAShub for learning. The institute gives both online and offline classes. Their teachers are experienced and helpful. They easily explain every topic. Students also get notes, tests, and tips to do well in the exam.
IAShub is in Delhi and is trusted by many UPSC students. It offers coaching for every part of the UPSC exam – Prelims, Mains, and Interview. The classes are simple and easy to understand. The teachers are experts and guide students in the right way. IAShub is also known for its helpful notes, test series, and answer-writing practice. IAShub is the best coaching in Delhi and also gives UPSC Online Classes. This helps students from any place in India to learn. The online classes are live and also recorded. So, students can watch them anytime. These classes cover the full UPSC syllabus.
Here are some important services provided by IAShub:
The UPSC Civil Services Exam has three parts:
This exam is tough, but with the right guidance, it becomes easy to manage. Students must study smart and stay regular.
IAShub supports students from the beginning to the end. It gives the right books, tests, and notes. The classes are easy to follow, and the teachers are always ready to help. Students get personal doubt sessions too. The test series and answer checking help students learn where they need to do better. Also, free study materials save time and money.
IAShub also guides students during the final stage – the interview. Experts take mock interviews and give useful tips. This full support makes IAShub one of the best IAS coaching in Delhi.