UPSC Interview will start on 7 January and conclude on April 17, 2025. It evaluates candidates' suitability by focusing on their personality, leadership, and awareness of current affairs.
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.
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 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.
The schedule includes the roll numbers, dates, and sessions for the 2,845 candidates selected for the interviews.
UPSC Civil Services Personality Test (Interview) Schedule |
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
Marks Distribution Table
Stage | Marks |
Mains Examination | 1750 marks |
Interview | 275 marks |
Total Marks | 2025 marks |
While the Interview is vital, the overall rank is primarily determined by the combined performance in both the Mains Examination and the 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:
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 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.
The UPSC Interview is for a total of 275 marks.
Yes, it is highly recommended to prepare for your DAF (Detailed Application Form).
The DAF contains a lot of personal information, including your educational background, work experience, hobbies, and extra-curricular activities.
UPSC Interview lasts around 20 to 30 minutes, though it can vary depending on the candidate's responses and the panel's queries. Some interviews may go slightly longer, but most candidates experience a session within this time frame.
No, it’s essential to dress formally for the UPSC Interview. A neat, professional appearance is expected, as it reflects your seriousness and respect for the interview process. Casual or overly bright clothing is not recommended.
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