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UPSC Interview is the final stage of the Civil Services Examination, playing a crucial role in determining a candidate’s eligibility for prestigious positions like IAS, IPS, and IFS. The interview assesses a candidate’s personality, leadership potential, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking skills. During the interview, candidates can expect questions on a broad spectrum of topics, including current affairs, general knowledge, their educational background, and situational judgment.

Here we will explore the UPSC Interview process, schedule, marks distribution and types of questions asked in the interview. We also provide answers to frequently asked questions to help candidates better prepare for this pivotal stage of the exam.

What is UPSC Interview?

UPSC Interview, also known as the Personality Test, is the final stage of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) in India. After successfully clearing the Preliminary and Mains exams, candidates are called for the interview to assess their personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for a career in public service.

The interview is conducted by a board of experts, usually consisting of senior civil servants, academicians, and other professionals. It is not a technical test of knowledge but focuses on the candidate’s character, mental alertness, clarity of thought, and ability to handle stress. Questions may cover a wide range of topics, including current affairs, general knowledge, and the candidate’s background and interests.

The interview typically lasts 20-30 minutes. It plays a crucial role in the final selection, with candidates being awarded marks based on their performance. This stage is key in determining the final rank and posting.

UPSC Interview 2024-2025 Dates

UPSC Civil Services Interview for 2025 began on January 7, 2025, following the declaration of the Civil Services (Main) Examination 2024 results on December 9, 2024. The Personality Tests (Interviews) for 2,845 candidates will be conducted from January 7 to April 17, 2025, in two sessions each day: 9:00 AM for the forenoon session and 1:00 PM for the afternoon session.

Candidates whose roll numbers are included in the schedule will receive e-Summon Letters, which can be downloaded from the official UPSC website. It is essential for candidates to submit their DAF-II (Detailed Application Form-II) on time; failure to do so will result in the cancellation of their candidature and no e-Summon Letter being issued.

Candidates attending the interview are eligible for reimbursement of traveling expenses, limited to Second/Sleeper class train fare (Mail/Express). Other modes of travel are subject to UPSC guidelines, and candidates must submit their Traveling Allowance (TA) form along with travel tickets.

UPSC Interview 2024 Schedule

The schedule includes the roll numbers, dates, and sessions for the 2,845 candidates selected for the interviews.

UPSC Interview Marks Distribution

Interview carries significant weight, its influence is most pronounced in cases where candidates have similar Mains scores. Here’s how the marks are distributed:

Total Marks for Interview: 275 Marks

• Weight in Final Rank:
  • The Interview marks are combined with the Mains Examination marks (which total 1750 marks) to determine the final merit list.
  • The Mains marks carry the most weight in the final ranking, but the Interview plays a crucial role in breaking ties between candidates with similar Mains scores.

Marks Distribution Table

While the Interview is vital, the overall rank is primarily determined by the combined performance in both the Mains Examination and the Interview.

What Type of Questions Are Asked in UPSC Interview?

UPSC Interview assesses a candidate’s personality, intellectual abilities, communication skills, and overall suitability for a career in the civil services. The types of questions asked can vary widely, but they generally fall into the following categories:

1. Personal Background

• These questions aim to understand the candidate’s personality, interests, and aspirations.
• Questions about your hobbies, family, upbringing, and personal interests.

2. Educational Background

• Questions related to your academic qualifications, subjects studied, and any specific achievements.
• Example: “Why did you choose this subject for your graduation?”

3. General Knowledge and Current Affairs

• Questions on recent national and international events, government policies, and socio-economic issues.
• Example: “What is your opinion on the current economic situation of India?”

4. Ethics and Integrity

• Questions to evaluate your moral and ethical outlook and decision-making ability.
• Example: “What would you do if you were asked to perform an illegal action by a superior?”

5. Situational Questions

• Hypothetical situations to test your problem-solving ability and decision-making under pressure.
• Example: “If you face a public protest, how would you handle it?”

6. Interest in Subjects

• If you have chosen a specific subject as part of the Mains exam, the board may ask questions related to that subject.
• Example: “Can you explain the significance of a particular theory in your subject?”

7. Personality Questions

• Questions aimed at understanding your personality traits, leadership qualities, and how you handle challenges.
• Example: “How would your friends describe you?”

8. Work Experience (if any)

• Candidates with work experience may be asked to explain their previous roles.
• Questions may focus on challenges faced, lessons learned, and how they addressed workplace situations.

9. Psychological and Situational Questions

• The board may pose questions designed to test problem-solving abilities, ethical judgment, and leadership skills.
• Situational questions could involve scenarios related to public policy, decision-making, or ethical dilemmas that require the candidate to demonstrate their ability to think critically under pressure.

The interview is less about answering questions perfectly and more about demonstrating your ability to think critically, express yourself clearly, and handle various types of pressure. It is important to stay calm, confident, and composed during the interview, while also being open and honest in your responses.

UPSC Interview dress code

UPSC Interview dress code is important as it reflects the candidate’s professionalism and respect for the process. While the UPSC does not have a strict, prescribed dress code, it is essential to dress in a manner that conveys seriousness, confidence, and respect. A well-groomed, formal appearance is expected.

For Female Candidates:

• Saree: Elegant, subtle colors (beige, white, light pastels). Avoid bright or flashy colors. Keep accessories minimal.

• Salwar Kameez: Well-fitted kameez, simple trousers. Neutral colors like navy, grey, black. Pair with a simple dupatta.

• Business Suit: Well-tailored, simple suit in neutral colors (navy, black, grey). Minimal accessories.

• Footwear: Closed-toe shoes or modest heels. Avoid flashy or high heels.

• Overall Look: Aim for comfort, professionalism, and modesty.

For Male Candidates:

• Suit & Tie: Dark-colored suit (navy, grey, black), light-colored shirt. Subtle tie. Avoid bold patterns or bright colors.

• Shirt & Trousers: Formal shirt (white, light blue), dark trousers. Neatly pressed, well-fitted.

• Footwear: Polished leather shoes (black or brown). Avoid casual shoes.

• Accessories: Keep to a simple watch. Avoid jewelry or flashy items.

• Hairstyle: Neat and tidy for a disciplined appearance.

UPSC Interview FAQs