How Many Exams are Conducted by UPSC List 2025

Explore the full list of UPSC exams 2025, including CSE, ESE, IFS, IES, ISS & more. Know exams after 12th & graduation, eligibility, and selection stages.

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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India’s highest constitutional authority and plays an important role in shaping the administrative framework of India by conducting various competitive examinations each year to recruit candidates for government services for various prestigious posts in the Central Government across civil, defense, engineering, medical, and economic services. If you are preparing for the exam and wondering how many exams are conducted by UPSC each year or looking for a detailed list of all exams conducted by UPSC, this guide covers everything you need.

From the prestigious and most popular UPSC Civil Services Exam to specialized fields like the UPSC Engineering Services Exam, UPSC Indian Forest Service Exam, UPSC Indian Economic Service Exam, and UPSC Indian Statistical Service Exam, UPSC offers a variety of career paths for aspiring candidates. Each UPSC exam is structured with its own eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and selection process, catering to diverse career aspirations. 

Here we have compiled a detailed list of exams conducted by UPSC in 2025 to help candidates plan their future with clarity and confidence.

Also Read: UPSC Prelims 2025

UPSC Exams Overview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is the premier constitutional body responsible for hiring top notch officers into India’s prestigious civil and defense services. While it is associated with the Civil Services Examination (CSE), UPSC conducts several other competitive examinations to fill Group A and Group B positions across various sectors.

UPSC organizes around 14 major exams, each with different eligibility criteria, selection processes, and timelines. Some exams like UPSC CSE 2025, Engineering Services (ESE), and Indian Forest Service (IFoS) are conducted annually, whereas exams like UPSC EPFO or Geoscientist are scheduled less frequently. Candidates who successfully qualify the UPSC Exams 2025 join the ranks of the most respected officers in the Indian government system.

Also Read: UPSC Exam 2025

List of UPSC Exams 2025

Here’s a complete look at the primary examinations administered by UPSC:

Civil Services Examination (CSE)

The Civil Services Examination is one of the most competitive exams in India, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for recruitment to top civil services such as Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Indian Revenue Service (IRS) and others. The USPC CSE Exam is held in three stages:

  • Prelims (MCQs – General Studies Paper I and CSAT (General Studies Paper II – qualifying)),
  • Mains (Descriptive Written Examination – 9 papers including Essay, General Studies (4 papers), Optional Subject (2 papers), and Language papers),
  • Interview (Personality Test).

Indian Forest Service (IFoS)

The IFoS exam is conducted by UPSC for recruiting officers dedicated to forest and wildlife management under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The IFoS exam has the Prelims stage with CSE, followed by IFoS-specific Mains (science subjects) and an Interview.

Indian Economic Service (IES) / Indian Statistical Service (ISS)

This Indian Economic Service (IES) / Indian Statistical Service (ISS) exam recruits officers for economic and statistical analysis roles in various government departments. The eligibility criteria for the exam is Postgraduate degree in Economics/Statistics and exam stages include  Written Examination + Interview. 

Combined Geo-Scientist Examination

The Combined Geo-Scientist Examination is conducted for recruiting Geologists, Hydrogeologists, Geophysicists, and Chemists in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board. The stages of examination include Prelims (MCQs), Mains (Descriptive), and Interview. 

Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I & II)

The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination (I & II) is held twice a year for recruiting officers into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The eligibility criteria require Graduates (with specific qualifications for Navy/Air Force). The stages of examination include Written Exam and SSB Interview. 

National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination (I & II)

The National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination (I & II) is conducted for admission to the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of NDA and Indian Naval Academy. The eligibility criteria for this exam is 12th Pass students. The stages of examination include Written Exam and SSB Interview. 

Naval Academy Examination

A part of NDA & NA Examination, this exam is specifically conducted for recruiting cadets into the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala.

Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination

The Combined Medical Services (CMS) Examination is for recruiting medical officers in various government organizations like Railways, Municipal Corporations, and Central Health Services. The eligibility criteria is for MBBS degree holders. The stages of examination include Computer-based test + Personality test.  

Engineering Services Examination (ESE)

This exam is conducted for recruitment into technical services like Indian Railways, CPWD, BRO, and others. The eligibility criteria for this exam is Engineering graduates. The stages of examination include Prelims (MCQ), Mains (Descriptive), and Interview.  

Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Assistant Commandant Examination

The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) Assistant Commandant Examination is to recruit Assistant Commandants in CAPFs like CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and CISF. The eligibility criteria for this exam is graduation. The stages of examination include Written Test, Physical Test, and Interview.  

Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) Examination

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) Examination is conducted to recruit Enforcement Officers/Accounts Officers in the EPFO under the Ministry of Labour. The stages of examination include Written Test + Interview. 

CISF AC (EXE) LDCE

Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE) for Assistant Commandants (Executive) in CISF. The eligibility criteria for serving CISF personnel. The stages of examination include Written Exam, Physical Standards/Tests, and Interview.

SO/Steno (GD-B/GD-I) LDCE

The SO/Steno (GD-B/GD-I) LDCE is a departmental exam for selecting Section Officers and Stenographers for Grade B/GD-I roles. The eligibility criteria for the exam is Government employees in eligible positions. The stages of examination include Written Test + Skill Test. 

Geologists Examination

The Geologists Examination is now merged into the Combined Geo-Scientist Examination, it was earlier conducted to recruit Geologists into various scientific services.

Each of these UPSC exams 2025 opens the door to elite services under the Government of India.

Also Read: UPSC CSAT Exam 2025

List of Exams Conducted by UPSC After 12th

National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination

  • Purpose: Entry into Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force
  • Eligibility:
    • Must have passed or be appearing in 10+2
    • For Army Wing: 10+2 from any stream
    • For Navy & Air Force Wings: 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics
  • Age Limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years
  • Stages:
    • Written Exam (Mathematics and General Ability Test)
    • SSB Interview
    • Medical Examination
  • Frequency: Conducted twice a year (NDA I & NDA II)

Naval Academy (10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme)

  • Purpose: Direct entry into the Indian Naval Academy (INA) under the 10+2 B.Tech Cadet Entry Scheme
  • Eligibility:
    • 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics
      Appeared in JEE (Main)
  • Selection: Shortlisting based on JEE scores, followed by SSB Interview

Note: This scheme is not through a written UPSC exam but still comes under the broader purview of officer entry routes post-12th.

List of Exams Conducted by UPSC After Graduation

Exam Name Required Qualification Role/Service Stages
CSE Any Graduate IAS, IPS, IRS, IFS, etc. Prelims → Mains → Interview
IFoS Science/Engineering graduate Indian Forest Service Prelims (same as CSE) → IFoS Mains → Interview
CDS Any Graduate Army, Navy, Air Force officer Written Test → SSB Interview → Medical
IES/ISS PG in Economics/Statistics Economic/Statistical services Written Exam → Interview
ESE Engineering graduate Government engineering services Prelims → Mains → Interview
Geo-Scientist PG in science (Geology, etc.) Geological Survey roles Prelims → Mains → Interview
CMS MBBS Medical Officer in govt. services Computer-based Test → Interview
CAPF (AC) Any Graduate Assistant Commandant Written Test → Physical Tests → Interview
EPFO (EO/AO) Any Graduate Officer in EPFO Written Test → Interview
CISF AC (LDCE) Internal CISF + graduation Commandant (CISF) Written Test → Physical Tests → Interview
SO/Steno LDCE Govt staff + graduation SO/Stenographer Written Test → Skill Test

 

Also Read: UPSC Marking Scheme 2025

Conclusion

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) plays an important role in recruiting candidates for India’s civil, defense, engineering, medical, and economic services by conducting a wide range of examinations. Whether you’re a student just passed the 12th or a graduate aiming for a prestigious government role, UPSC offers numerous opportunities according to different academic backgrounds and career aspirations. By understanding the list of exams conducted by UPSC, their eligibility criteria, and selection processes, candidates can plan their preparation strategically. Stay updated with the UPSC exam calendar 2025 and begin preparation journey towards a fulfilling career in public service with clarity and confidence.

Are you preparing for UPSC 2025? Join IAShub’s UPSC coaching batches to boost your preparation. Enroll now!

List of Exams Conducted by UPSC FAQs

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UPSC CSE 2025 includes Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test (Interview).

There are 48 optional subjects (25 general + 23 literature subjects).

 The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) is the most popular and competitive across India.

Aspirants from General Category are allowed 6 attempts, with relaxations for OBC and SC/ST candidates.


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Best IAS Coaching In Delhi, UPSC Online & Offline Classes by IAShub

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.

UPSC Online Classes by IAShub

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.

Key Offerings Provided by IAShub

Here are some important services provided by IAShub:

  • UPSC Prelims: IAShub teaches for Prelims with a focus on basics. It also gives daily current affairs and monthly magazines.
  • Classroom Courses: IAShub has classroom learning for students in Delhi. The environment is good and peaceful for study.
  • Live Classes: Students who live far can join live UPSC online classes. These classes are just like real classes.
  • QEP for Mains: The Quality Enrichment Program (QEP) is special for Mains preparation. It helps students write better and faster.
  • Answer Writing: Regular answer writing practice is given. Teachers also check answers and give tips to improve.
  • Free Resource: IAShub gives free notes by toppers and helpful Main Booster material.
  • Test Series: Test series are available for every subject. These help students know their weak points and improve.
  • Interview Guidance Session: IAShub also gives interview practice sessions with experts. These help students feel confident.

UPSC Exam Overview

The UPSC Civil Services Exam has three parts:

  • Prelims: It has two papers: General Studies and CSAT.
  • Mains: It has nine papers, including essays and optional subjects.
  • Interview: It tests the personality and confidence of the student.

This exam is tough, but with the right guidance, it becomes easy to manage. Students must study smart and stay regular.

How IAShub Helps in the UPSC Journey

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.

Best IAS Coaching In Delhi FAQs

Yes, IAShub offers live and recorded online classes. Students can attend from any part of India.

Classes are available in both English and Hindi, so students can choose the language they are comfortable with.

The classroom centre is located in Delhi. Students can visit and join offline batches there.

IAShub gives interview guidance sessions to help students prepare for the final round of UPSC.
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