FAQ-Frequently Asked Questions-Indian Civil Services in General

What is the pattern of civil services Examination?

The civil services examination consists of three stages-prelims, mains and interview. The preliminary test consists of two objective tests of two hours duration each. One paper of General Studies of 200 marks and one Civil Services Aptitude Test 200 marks. The main exam has nine papers of conventional essay type of 300 marks each except essay which is of 200 marks- two of G.S, two each of two optionals, one essay and two language papers, one each in English and Indian language. The language papers are only of qualifying nature. The interview is of 300 marks and the final merit list is made from total of mains and interview marks, i.e. out of 2300.