UPSC CSAT Selection Process
The UPSC CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) is a process that has different stages. First, there are two papers: one is about general studies, and the other is the CSAT, which checks analytical and decision-making skills. The CSAT is not just a pass or fail; candidates need to score at least 33% to move forward. After passing the CSAT, candidates go to the next stages of the selection process, including a Personal Interview. This interview is like a conversation where the candidate talks with a panel of interviewers, showing their personality and communication skills. Doing well in the CSAT is crucial, as it helps candidates get closer to landing significant roles in the government.
UPSC CSAT 2024 Selection Process: Prelims (Stage-1)
UPSC CSAT 2024 Selection Process Prelims |
Paper | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Time Duration |
Paper 1- GS | 200 | 100 | 2 Hours |
Paper 2- CSAT | 200 | 80 | 2 Hours |
- The UPSC Prelims Exam consists of two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper I and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT), also known as General Studies Paper 2.
- These papers aim to evaluate candidates' knowledge, analytical skills, comprehension, and decision-making abilities.
- The Prelims Exam serves as a screening test in the UPSC Selection Process.
UPSC CSAT 2024 Selection Process: Qualifying in Nature (Stage-1, Paper-2)
The UPSC CSAT paper is there to make sure you're eligible to continue. You need at least 33% (or around 66 out of 200 marks) to move forward. Don't underestimate it as just a pass/fail test. Give it the same effort and attention as the other papers.
UPSC CSAT 2024 Selection Process: Mains (Stage-2)
UPSC CSAT 2024 Selection Process Mains |
Type of Paper | Name of the Paper | Total Marks |
Qualifying Paper (Descriptive) | Paper A- Indian Language (The candidate must choose one of the Indian languages from the languages mentioned in the Constitution's 8th Schedule.) | 300 |
Paper B- English | 300 |
Merit Paper (Descriptive) | Paper 1 Essay | 250 |
Paper 2- General Studies 1 | 250 |
Paper 3- General Studies 2 | 250 |
Paper 4- General Studies 3 | 250 |
Paper 5- General Studies 4 | 250 |
Paper 6- Optional Subject Paper -1 | 250+250 |
Paper 7- Optional Subject Paper -2 |
- The Mains Exam includes essay writing, language comprehension, general studies, and optional subjects.
- The Mains Exam Stage is Descriptive in nature.
- In the Mains Exam, the candidate needs to choose an optional subject in which they have to appear in both optional Paper 1 and optional Paper 2.
UPSC CSAT 2024 Selection Process: Interview (Stage-3)
In the third stage of the UPSC Selection Process, candidates who have successfully cleared the Preliminary and Main exams face a Personal Interview. This is like a face-to-face conversation between the candidate and a panel of interviewers. The UPSC interview aims to understand the candidate's personality, communication skills, and their approach to various situations. It's a chance for candidates to express their thoughts and perspectives on diverse topics. The panel assesses qualities like confidence, clarity of thought, and overall suitability for administrative roles. The Personal Interview is an important step, so candidates should be well-prepared and be themselves during this interaction.