Get a complete breakdown of UPSC Mains Total Marks 2025, including subject-wise distribution, marking scheme, and key insights to strategize your preparation effectively.
theIAShub | 11 Apr, 2025 | 5900 | 0 |
UPSC Mains Total Marks play a critical role in determining a candidate’s rank and selection. Understanding the marks distribution across various papers is essential for effective preparation. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the UPSC Mains Total Marks for 2025, including subject-wise distribution and frequently asked questions.
The UPSC Mains Examination is conducted to evaluate a candidate’s academic expertise, critical thinking, and overall personality. The total marks for the Mains Exam, excluding the interview, are 1750. These marks are distributed across nine papers, each focusing on a specific aspect of the syllabus. To qualify for the next stage, candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying marks in each paper.
The Mains Examination consists of nine papers. Out of these, seven papers contribute to the final merit list, while two are qualifying in nature. Each paper is designed to test specific skills and knowledge areas.
| Type of Paper | Number of Papers | Marks per Paper | Total Marks |
| Qualifying Papers | 2 | 300 | 600 |
| Merit-Based Papers | 7 | Varies | 1750 |
Candidates must score at least 25% in each language paper to qualify. Failure to clear these papers results in disqualification from the Mains Exam. The language papers include:
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Nature |
| Paper A | Indian Language | 300 | Qualifying |
| Paper B | English | 300 | Qualifying |
The Essay paper is Paper I in the Mains Examination and is worth 250 marks. Candidates are required to write two essays, each on a given topic. The essay tests a candidate’s ability to express ideas clearly and logically. Achieving a good score in this paper requires a combination of creativity, clarity, and structured thinking.
The General Studies (GS) papers form a significant portion of the Mains Exam. They include:
| Paper | Subjects Covered | Marks |
| GS Paper I | Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society | 250 |
| GS Paper II | Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations | 250 |
| GS Paper III | Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management | 250 |
| GS Paper IV | Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude | 250 |
The Optional Subject consists of two papers:
| Paper | Marks |
| Optional Paper 1 | 250 Marks |
| Optional Paper II | 250 Marks |
No, the language papers (Indian Language and English) are qualifying in nature and do not contribute to the total score used for ranking. Candidates must score at least 25% in each language paper to qualify for further evaluation.
The Essay paper carries 250 marks and plays a crucial role in determining a candidate’s final score. A well-structured essay with clear arguments and strong articulation can significantly boost an aspirant’s overall ranking in the examination.
A score of 800 can be considered good if it meets or exceeds the cutoff marks for that particular year. Since the cutoff varies annually based on competition and paper difficulty, securing 800 marks generally places a candidate in a competitive position for final selection.
The subject-wise marks distribution is as follows: 300 marks each for the two qualifying language papers, 250 marks for the Essay paper, 1000 marks distributed across the four General Studies papers, and 500 marks for the two Optional Subject papers. The final ranking is based on the total of the seven merit-based papers.
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.
