The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination (CSE) is widely considered one of the toughest exams in the world. A deep, micro-level understanding of the syllabus is your roadmap to success. Here is the updated, comprehensive syllabus for UPSC CSE 2026.
Phase 1: UPSC Preliminary Examination Pattern
The Prelims is an objective-type qualifying exam. Marks scored here are not counted for the final merit list.
- Paper 1 (General Studies): 100 Questions, 200 Marks, 2 Hours.
- Paper 2 (CSAT – Aptitude): 80 Questions, 200 Marks, 2 Hours. (Qualifying nature – 33% required).
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd penalty for incorrect answers in both papers.
Prelims General Studies (Paper 1) Syllabus
- Current events of national and international importance.
- History of India and Indian National Movement.
- Indian and World Geography – Physical, Social, Economic geography of India and the World.
- Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
- Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives, etc.
- General issues on Environmental ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change – that do not require subject specialization.
- General Science.
Phase 2: UPSC Mains Examination Pattern & Syllabus
The Mains exam is subjective/descriptive. It consists of 9 papers, out of which 2 are qualifying language papers.
Qualifying Papers (300 Marks Each)
- Paper A: Indian Language (from 8th Schedule)
- Paper B: English Language
Merit-Ranking Papers (250 Marks Each)
- Paper I (Essay): Candidates write essays on multiple topics. Tests structure, articulation, and broad understanding.
- Paper II (GS 1): Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society.
- Paper III (GS 2): Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations.
- Paper IV (GS 3): Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management.
- Paper V (GS 4): Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude. Tests problem-solving approaches and emotional intelligence via case studies.
- Paper VI & VII (Optional Subject): Candidates choose one optional subject, which is divided into Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Total Mains Marks: 1750
Interview (Personality Test): 275 Marks
Grand Total: 2025 Marks