The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the UPSC Notification 2025 on January 22, 2025, marking the beginning of the application process for one of India’s most prestigious examinations.
This year, the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) will recruit candidates for 979 vacancies across various Group A and Group B posts, including IAS, IPS, IFS, and IRS. Aspirants can apply online through the official UPSC website at upsconline.nic.in from January 22 to February 11, 2025.
This article provides detailed information about the UPSC CSE 2025 notification, including exam dates, eligibility criteria, vacancies, and the selection process.
Key Highlights of UPSC Notification 2025:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2025 |
| Conducting Body | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Total Vacancies | 979 |
| Application Start Date | January 22, 2025 |
| Application End Date | February 11, 2025 |
| Prelims Exam Date | May 25, 2025 |
| Mains Exam Date | August 22, 2025 |
| Selection Process | Prelims, Mains, and Interview |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
Important Dates for UPSC CSE 2025
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | January 22, 2025 |
| Application Start Date | January 22, 2025 |
| Application End Date | February 11, 2025 |
| Application Correction Window | February 12–18, 2025 |
| Prelims Exam Date | May 25, 2025 |
| Mains Exam Date | August 22, 2025 |
Candidates are advised to complete their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
UPSC CSE Vacancy Details for 2025
This year’s recruitment drive includes a total of 979 vacancies, which is slightly lower than the previous year’s count of 1,056. The breakdown of vacancies includes reserved positions for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD):
- Blindness and Low Vision: 12
- Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 7
- Locomotor Disabilities: 10
- Multiple Disabilities: 9
The final number of vacancies may vary based on updates from cadre-controlling authorities.
Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CSE 2025
Educational Qualification
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification.
Final-year students can also apply but must submit proof of passing before the Mains examination. Professional and technical qualifications recognized by the government are also accepted.
Age Limit
As of August 1, 2025:
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 32 years
Age relaxations are applicable as per government norms:
- OBC: Relaxation of up to 3 years.
- SC/ST: Relaxation of up to 5 years.
Number of Attempts
The number of attempts allowed varies by category:
- General Category: Up to 6 attempts.
- OBC: Up to 9 attempts.
- SC/ST: Unlimited attempts within the age limit.
How to Apply for UPSC CSE 2025?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing your application process:
- Visit the official UPSC website at upsconline.nic.in.
- Register on the One-Time Registration (OTR) platform if you’re a first-time applicant.
- Log in using your credentials and fill out the application form with accurate details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per specifications mentioned in the notification.
- Pay the application fee online using debit/credit cards or net banking. The fee structure is as follows:
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹100
- SC/ST/PwBD/Female Candidates: Exempted from fee payment.
- Review your application carefully before submitting it online. Once submitted, no changes can be made except during the correction window (February 12–18).
Selection Process for UPSC CSE 2025
The selection process consists of three stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Prelims): This is an objective-type exam consisting of two papers—General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT). Paper II is qualifying in nature (33% minimum required), while Paper I determines shortlisting for Mains.
- Main Examination (Mains): A descriptive exam with nine papers covering various subjects like Essay Writing, General Studies, and Optional Subjects.
- Interview/Personality Test: Candidates who clear Mains are invited for an interview round to assess their personality traits and suitability for administrative roles.
Final merit is based on performance in Mains and the Interview combined.
Why Is UPSC CSE Considered Prestigious?
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is widely regarded as one of India’s toughest and most prestigious competitive exams due to its rigorous selection process and the opportunities it offers in shaping public policy and governance at a national level.
Successful candidates join elite services such as:
- Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
- Indian Police Service (IPS)
- Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
- Indian Revenue Service (IRS)
These roles provide immense responsibility in driving India’s development agenda.