The UPSC panel consists of the interview board chairman and the other four members of the panel are UPSC experts from different fields. The interview carries 275 marks out of the total of 2025. 

The UPSC interview panel asks questions on various aspects of a candidate’s background including, career, interests and, general awareness.

Interview tests candidates on the following qualities:

– Reasoning ability

– Comprehension of different points of views

– Clarity of expression

– Grasp of narratives and arguments

– Awareness and concern towards socio-economic problems

– Range and depth of interests and personal attributes relevant to interaction with people

Tips to Prepare

1. Know yourself-

Try to know the different aspects of your personality, including those which are latent or unknown. Find your strengths, empower them and try to overcome the weaknesses.

2. Read your bio-data multiple times-

Most of the questions in the UPSC interview will be related to the biodata of the candidate. Revise your bio-data many times and prepare well for questions from multiple aspects of the same like hobbies, education, work experience, and cadre preferences, etc.

3. Develop a positive attitude-

Think positive about your knowledge and intelligence and believe in your capabilities. Focus on your strengths and hope for the best.

ل. Prepare well on aspects related to your hobbies-

Make sure you start well. Hobbies of the candidate help the interviewer to understand the personalities of candidates. Keep practicing your hobbies. Don’t give cliche answers.

5. Improve your communication skills-

Improve your command over the language for the UPSC interview. Listening to debates and news on television channels is one such way to improve communication skills.

6. Learn to give balanced answers-

Once you take a stand on controversial topics, be prepared with your justification for the same. Don’t give sweeping generalizations without a proper base.

7. Dress neat-

Be comfortable with what you wear. Look professional and clean.

8. Re-check your documents-

 Ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready.

9. The clear understanding of DAF-

Your Detailed Application Form (DAF) contains all the necessary information about your background and personality. Since interviewers do not any prior knowledge about your candidature, your DAF sets the tone for the personality test. The DAF gives them a preliminary idea about your profile to the board.

10. Personal traits to face the Interview-

Eye contact is an important parameter to grab your confidence level. Avoid looking down or elsewhere while giving answers.

10. Revise your optional subject-

The UPSC interview panel may ask questions related to the optional subject. Brush up on recent happenings related to your optional subject/s. 

11. Collect details about your birthplace-

Know your district and state and the problems in your village or city. Be prepared with solutions as well.

How to answer questions during the interview?

– You must answer questions clearly and confidently and try to remain calm and composed attitude. Try to give straight-to-the-point answers and avoid long-winded explanations. You should be logically consistent and analyze the answer rationally. 

– A candidate is supposed to defend the given answer, but with due respect to the board.

– Avoid crossing your arms. Try to keep your hands flat on your lap.

– Nod your head minimum. We subconsciously nod when we agree with someone.  Just nod once or twice to signal you are focused and attentive.

– Not to miss, be truthful to yourself and answer confidently.  

Thumbs up to everyone for the interview!!