FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Student: Hi, I have a few questions about the IAS Exam. Can you help me out?
Teacher: Of course, I'll do my best to answer your questions. What do you want to know?
Student: Well, first of all, what is the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The IAS Exam, also known as the Civil Services Exam, is a national-level competitive examination in India conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It is held annually to select candidates for various civil services positions, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and others.
Student: How many stages are there in the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The IAS Exam consists of three stages: the Preliminary Exam, the Main Exam, and the Interview. The Preliminary Exam is an objective type exam, while the Main Exam is a written exam. If a candidate qualifies for both these stages, they are called for the Interview or Personality Test.
Student: What is the eligibility criteria for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: To be eligible for the IAS Exam, a candidate must be a citizen of India, have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university, and be between 21 and 32 years of age as of 1st August of the year of examination. There are also some age relaxations for certain categories, such as SC/ST and OBC.
Student: How long does it take to prepare for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: It's hard to give a specific timeline as it depends on various factors such as the candidate's prior knowledge and preparation, study habits, and dedication. However, on average, it takes around 1-2 years to prepare for the IAS Exam.
Student: What are some of the subjects that are covered in the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The IAS Exam covers a wide range of subjects, including Indian Polity, History, Geography, Economy, Environment and Ecology, Science and Technology, and others. Additionally, candidates are also tested on their aptitude, analytical, and comprehension skills.
Student: How important is current affairs in the IAS Exam?
Teacher: Current affairs play a significant role in the IAS Exam. Questions related to current events and happenings are asked in all three stages of the exam. Aspirants need to stay updated with current affairs by reading newspapers, magazines, and other reliable sources.
Student: How can I prepare for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The best way to prepare for the IAS Exam is to start early and have a well-structured study plan. Aspirants should cover all the subjects, revise regularly, and practice solving previous years' question papers. Additionally, joining a coaching institute like The Everest IAS Academy can also be helpful for guidance and support.
Student: What is the syllabus for the Preliminary Exam of the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The syllabus for the Preliminary Exam of the IAS Exam includes two papers - Paper 1 covers General Studies and Paper 2 is a CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) paper. Paper 1 covers topics like History, Geography, Indian Polity, Economy, Science, and Technology, while Paper 2 tests the candidate's comprehension, reasoning, and analytical abilities.
Student: Can candidates write the IAS Exam in any regional language?
Teacher: No, the IAS Exam is conducted only in English and Hindi. However, candidates can choose to write their answers in any of the 22 official languages of India listed in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, except for English and Hindi.
Student: What is the marking scheme for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The IAS Exam is a highly competitive exam, and the marking scheme is designed to reflect that. The Preliminary Exam is a qualifying exam, and candidates need to score a minimum of 33% in Paper 2 to qualify for the Main Exam. The Main Exam is a written exam consisting of nine papers, and each paper is of 250 marks. The Interview is of 275 marks. The final ranking is based on the total marks scored in the Main Exam and the Interview.
Student: Is coaching necessary to crack the IAS Exam?
Teacher: No, coaching is not necessary to crack the IAS Exam. However, it can be helpful for aspirants who need guidance, support, and a structured study plan. Coaching institutes like The Everest IAS Academy can provide aspirants with the necessary resources, study materials, and practice tests to prepare for the exam effectively.
Student: What is the success rate of the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The success rate of the IAS Exam is very low, with less than 1% of the total number of candidates who appear for the exam every year qualifying for the IAS. However, with proper preparation, dedication, and hard work, aspirants can increase their chances of success.
Student: What is the age limit for candidates belonging to the SC/ST category for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The age limit for candidates belonging to the SC/ST category for the IAS Exam is 37 years. There is a relaxation of up to 5 years in the upper age limit for candidates belonging to the SC/ST category.
Student: Can a candidate who has completed their graduation in a distance mode apply for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: Yes, a candidate who has completed their graduation in a distance mode can apply for the IAS Exam. However, the degree should be recognized by the Distance Education Council and should be equivalent to a regular degree.
Student: What is the difference between the Preliminary Exam and the Main Exam of the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The Preliminary Exam of the IAS Exam is an objective type exam, while the Main Exam is a written exam. The Preliminary Exam consists of two papers, while the Main Exam consists of nine papers. The Preliminary Exam is a qualifying exam, and candidates need to score a minimum of 33% in Paper 2 to qualify for the Main Exam.
Student: Is there negative marking in the IAS Exam?
Teacher: Yes, there is negative marking in the IAS Exam. For every incorrect answer in the Preliminary Exam, one-third of the marks assigned to that question are deducted. There is no negative marking in the Main Exam.
Student: What is the cut-off for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The cut-off for the IAS Exam varies every year, and it depends on factors like the number of vacancies, the number of candidates appearing for the exam, and the difficulty level of the exam. The cut-off is usually released after the results of the Main Exam are declared.
Student: Can a candidate who has completed their graduation in a foreign university apply for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: Yes, a candidate who has completed their graduation in a foreign university can apply for the IAS Exam. However, the degree should be recognized by the Association of Indian Universities, and the candidate should have obtained an equivalent certificate from the AIU.
Student: What is the minimum educational qualification required to appear for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: The minimum educational qualification required to appear for the IAS Exam is a graduation degree from a recognized university.
Student: How many times can a candidate appear for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: There is no limit on the number of times a candidate can appear for the IAS Exam. However, candidates are required to meet the eligibility criteria for each attempt, including the age limit and the number of attempts.
Student: Is there any physical fitness requirement for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: Yes, there is a physical fitness requirement for the IAS Exam. Candidates are required to meet certain physical standards, including height, weight, and chest measurements. There is also a medical examination that candidates need to undergo to ensure that they are physically fit for the job.
Student: What is the salary of an IAS Officer?
Teacher: The salary of an IAS Officer varies depending on their position, level of experience, and the state they are serving in. The starting salary for an entry-level IAS Officer is around Rs. 56,100 per month, and it can go up to Rs. 2,50,000 per month for a senior-level officer.
Student: How can candidates prepare for the IAS Exam?
Teacher: Candidates can prepare for the IAS Exam by developing a systematic study plan, covering the entire syllabus, practicing mock tests, and improving their writing skills. They can also join coaching institutes like The Everest IAS Academy, which can provide them with expert guidance and resources to prepare for the exam effectively.
Student: What is the role of an IAS Officer?
Teacher: The role of an IAS Officer is to serve as an administrative officer in various government departments and ministries. They are responsible for the implementation of government policies and programs, as well as the management of public services and resources. They also work towards the development of their respective districts or states, ensuring peace and prosperity for the citizens.