Learn How to Become an IPS Officer in 2025 with this step-by-step guide. Check eligibility, exam process, physical standards, IPS syllabus, training, salary, and career path after graduation. Start your journey to serve India through the Indian Police Service.
theIAShub | 17 Jun, 2025 | 5997 | 0 |
Becoming an IPS officer is a prestigious aspiration for many Indians, whether high-school students or college graduates. The IPS is one of the three All-India Services, and IPS officers provide senior leadership to police forces in states and at the national level. Aspiring officers are drawn by the challenge of maintaining law and order and by the honor of serving the country.
Also Read: Indian Police Service
In India, IPS officers are recruited through the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE). This CSE has three stages – Preliminary, Mains, and Interview – and candidates must pass all these stages (and a final medical examination) to be selected. This guide explains the eligibility criteria to become an IPS officer, the exam you need to take, the step-by-step procedure, training phases, and career insights you should know.
Also Read: Famous IPS Officers in India
To be eligible for the IPS, a candidate must meet several requirements. The basic qualification to become an IPS officer is a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Final-year college students may also apply for the Preliminary exam (provided they pass the degree exam before Mains). Key eligibility rules include:
Following table captures the basic physical standards
| Attribute | Male Requirement | Female Requirement |
| Height | ≥165 cm | ≥150 cm |
| Height (relaxed) | ≥160 cm (ST/Gorkha) | ≥145 cm (ST/Gorkha) |
| Chest Girth (min) | 84 cm (expanded) | 79 cm (expanded) |
| Chest Expansion | ≥5 cm | ≥5 cm |
Also Read: Youngest IPS Officers in India
The exam to give to become an IPS officer is the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE). This is a national-level examination conducted annually to recruit candidates to the IAS, IPS, IFS, and other services. The CSE consists of:
| Stage | Format | Description |
| Prelims | 2 Objective Papers (GS + CSAT) | Screening test; must clear cut-off to qualify |
| Mains | 9 Descriptive Papers | Evaluates subject knowledge and analytical skills |
| Interview | Personality Test (275 marks) | Assesses personality, integrity, communication |
Candidates must clear each stage in sequence and also meet medical and physical standards specifically required for IPS roles.
Also Read: UPSC Exam Syllabus
The syllabus is vast: Current Affairs, Indian Polity, Economics, Ethics, Geography, Environment, Science & Tech, international relations, etc. Mains also demand essay writing and deep analysis. However, the syllabus detail is standard UPSC CSE, not IPS-specific. (Candidates can refer to the official UPSC CSE syllabus for full topics.) For brevity, note that the IPS exam covers the same curriculum as the IAS exam, with emphasis on law, order, and ethics in the interview stage.
Here is a breakdown of the stepwise process:
Many ask how to become an IPS officer after graduation. The answer is simple:
Graduates from any stream (science, arts, commerce, engineering) are eligible.
After selection, IPS trainees go through a two-year training process. This includes:
| Training Phase | Duration | Location | Focus |
| Foundation Course | 3 months | LBSNAA, Mussoorie | Basic administration and ethics |
| Phase I Training | 11 months | SVPNPA, Hyderabad | Law, policing, physical training, investigation |
| District Training | 9 months | Assigned districts | Field exposure, real-world case work |
| Phase II Training | 3 months | SVPNPA, Hyderabad | Advanced training, leadership, modernization |
Under the 7th Pay Commission, IPS officers receive attractive pay and perks:
| IPS Rank | Basic Pay (₹/month) |
| DySP / ACP (Junior Scale) | ₹56,100 |
| Addl. SP / SP (Senior Scale) | ₹67,700 |
| SP (Junior Time Scale) | ₹78,800 |
| DIG (Senior Time Scale) | ₹1,31,000 |
| IG (Selection Grade) | ₹1,44,200 |
| ADG | ₹2,05,400 |
| DGP | ₹2,25,000 |
Allowances include:
Following is an objective comparison of IPS with other services:
| Feature | IPS | IAS | IFS |
| Core Role | Law enforcement | Policy administration | Diplomacy & foreign affairs |
| Cadre Allocation | State-based | State-based | Global (Embassies) |
| Exam Route | UPSC CSE | UPSC CSE | UPSC CSE |
| Physical Fitness | Mandatory | Not mandatory | Moderate |
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Whether you’re wondering how to become an IPS officer after graduation or what physical requirements are needed, this roadmap helps you take informed steps. The key is to stay consistent, strategic, and motivated. With disciplined study and a clear understanding of the exam process, you can succeed and serve the nation as an IPS officer.
The procedure starts with checking eligibility and applying for the UPSC CSE. You must clear the Prelims, Mains, and Interview stages. After selection, candidates go through medical tests and two years of rigorous IPS training.
To become an IPS officer, you need to appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination. It is a three-stage exam conducted every year by the Union Public Service Commission. This exam also selects officers for IAS, IFS, and other services.
A candidate must hold a bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university in India. Final-year students can also apply, provided they submit proof of graduation before the Mains exam. There is no minimum percentage required for graduation.
You must be an Indian citizen aged between 21 and 32 years for the General category. Physical standards like height, chest measurements, and vision are also mandatory. Additional attempts and age relaxations are available for reserved categories.
Yes, the Indian Police Service (IPS) is considered one of the most respected and impactful civil services in India. It offers a unique opportunity to serve the nation by maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and leading police forces at the state and national levels. With strong career progression, decision-making authority, and societal respect, IPS is a rewarding choice for those committed to justice and public service.
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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.
