24October 9, 2025
Complete UPSC Prelims and Mains Syllabus 2026 with Updated Exam Pattern
The UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) has three stages: Prelims, Mains, and the Personality Test (Interview). The Prelims and Mains are the first two stages of the exam.
• The Prelims exam is the first stage and is used to screen candidates for the Mains exam.
• The Mains exam assesses your conceptual understanding, analysis, and writing ability.
• The final merit list is based on marks from the Mains and Interview.
➢ Important Dates – UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026
• Notification Release: 14 January 2026
• Application Closing Date: 3 February 2026
• Preliminary Examination: 24 May 2026 (Sunday)
• Main Examination Commences: 21 August 2026 (Friday)
➢ Attempt Limits for UPSC Civil Services Examination
• General Category: 6 attempts, up to the age of 32
• EWS Category: 6 attempts, up to the age of 32
• OBC Category: 9 attempts, up to the age of 35
• SC/ST Category: Unlimited attempts, up to the age of 37
➢ PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disability) Categories:
• General/EWS/OBC PwBD: 9 attempts, up to the age of 42
• SC/ST PwBD: Unlimited attempts, up to the age of 42
UPSC CSE Exam Pattern Overview
UPSC CSE Prelims Syllabus (GS Paper)
The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination is the first stage of the selection process. It includes two objective-type papers (multiple choice questions):
• General Studies Paper I
• General Studies Paper II (CSAT)
General Studies Paper I (GS Paper I)
This paper evaluates a candidate’s general knowledge, awareness of current events, and understanding of subjects related to India and the world.
• Current Events of National and International Importance: Important recent events and developments in India and around the world.
• History of India and Indian National Movement: Includes the history of India and important stages of the freedom movement.
• Indian and World Geography: Physical, social, and economic aspects of geography for both India and the world.
• Indian Polity and Governance: India’s Constitution, political system, Panchayati Raj, public policy, and rights issues.
• Economic and Social Development: Sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, and social sector initiatives.
• Environmental Ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change: General issues related to these topics, without requiring subject specialization.
• General Science: Basic concepts of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
General Studies Paper II (CSAT)
The CSAT paper is qualifying, candidates must score at least 33% (66 marks) to pass. Marks from this paper are not counted in the final merit list. It evaluates reasoning, analytical ability, and comprehension skills.
• Comprehension: Understanding and interpreting written passages.
• Interpersonal Skills including Communication Skills: Communication and interaction abilities.
• Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability: Thinking logically and analyzing situations.
• Decision-Making and Problem-Solving: Testing the ability to make sound and reasoned decisions.
• General Mental Ability: Basic reasoning and cognitive skills.
• Basic Numeracy: Numbers, arithmetic, and quantitative aptitude (up to Class X level).
• Data Interpretation: Reading and understanding charts, tables, and graphs.
UPSC CSE Mains Syllabus
The UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination includes a Written Examination and an Interview/ Personality Test. The Written Examination has 9 papers, of which 2 are qualifying. The remaining 7 papers and the Interview are counted for the final merit ranking.
UPSC Optional Syllabus
The UPSC Optional Subject includes Paper I and Paper II, each carrying 250 marks, for a total of 500 marks. Candidates may choose any one subject from the list of 48 optional subjects provided by UPSC. The marks obtained in these papers are counted in the final ranking of the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
Negative Marking in UPSC Prelims and Mains
In the UPSC Preliminary Examination, negative marking is applied in both General Studies (Paper I) and CSAT (Paper II). For every wrong answer, one-third (1/3rd) of the marks for that question are deducted, while questions left unattempted do not lose any marks.
Note: The UPSC Mains examination and the interview stage do not have traditional negative marking. However, marks can still be lost due to unclear answers, poor presentation, or lack of structure in your writing.
➢ In the UPSC Main Examination:
• Make sure your answers have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion so the examiner can easily follow your points.
• Write neatly; messy handwriting makes your answer hard to read and can lower your score.
• Use diagrams, flowcharts, or maps when needed to explain ideas more clearly.
• Underline or highlight important words so the examiner can quickly see your main points.
➤ For a detailed guide on strategies to avoid negative marking and maximize your score,
Read: How to Avoid Negative Marking in UPSC Prelims and Mains 2026.
Structured UPSC Preparation with Global Education Campus
Preparing for the UPSC exam requires smart strategies, consistent practice, and expert guidance. While some students study on their own, joining a UPSC coaching program at Global Education Campus provides the structured support and guidance needed, including a step-by-step plan, regular practice sessions, mock tests, and personal mentorship to reduce mistakes and prepare for both Prelims and Mains.
➢ Course Highlights
Course Duration: 9-10 months (900 hours)
Class Schedule: 4 hours per day (9:15 am – 1:30 pm)
➢ Learning Modes and Support
• UPSC Online and Offline Classes: Attend classes in person or online, with recorded sessions available anytime on the Skill Plus App.
• Personal Mentorship: One-on-one guidance to assist you at every stage of your UPSC preparation.
• Weekly Current Affairs Sessions: Stay updated with important news and practice questions to strengthen your understanding.
• Answer Writing Practice: Continuous practice with expert feedback to improve clarity, structure, and presentation skills.
• Prelims & Mains Mock Tests: Tests to evaluate your progress and track readiness.
• Interview Preparation: Expert guidance and tips to prepare for the Personality Test.
• Extended Resource Access: Two years of unlimited access to study materials and recorded classes.
• Free Mains QEP (Online): Online sessions and extra notes to support your Mains preparation.
Smart Preparation for UPSC Exams
Preparing for the UPSC exam is not just about memorizing the syllabus; it is equally important to answer accurately, manage your time, and plan your attempts carefully. Regular practice sessions, mock tests, and personal mentorship can help you understand the exam pattern, identify important topics, and improve your answer-writing skills.
For guidance or any queries about our programs, reach out to us at +91 9847 351 610 or email us at info@globaleducationcampus.com.