UPSC Mains Syllabus 2026
The UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination is the second stage of the IAS selection process. It evaluates candidates on their conceptual clarity, analytical ability, and writing skills. Below is the detailed paper-wise syllabus and marks distribution for UPSC Mains 2026.
UPSC Mains Exam Structure
| Paper | Subject | Nature | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper A | Indian Language (Any from Schedule VIII) | Qualifying | 300 |
| Paper B | English | Qualifying | 300 |
| Paper I | Essay | Counted for Merit | 250 |
| Paper II | General Studies – I | Counted for Merit | 250 |
| Paper III | General Studies – II | Counted for Merit | 250 |
| Paper IV | General Studies – III | Counted for Merit | 250 |
| Paper V | General Studies – IV | Counted for Merit | 250 |
| Paper VI | Optional Subject Paper – I | Counted for Merit | 250 |
| Paper VII | Optional Subject Paper – II | Counted for Merit | 250 |
| Total Marks (Written) | 1750 | ||
| Personality Test (Interview) | 275 | ||
| Grand Total | 2025 | ||
Qualifying Papers
Paper A – Indian Language (300 Marks)
- Comprehension and précis writing
- Usage and vocabulary
- Short essay
- Translation between English and chosen Indian language
Paper B – English (300 Marks)
- Comprehension
- Grammar and usage
- Precis writing and short essay
- Translation between Indian language and English
Note: Both Paper A and B are qualifying in nature and not counted for merit ranking.
Paper I – Essay (250 Marks)
Write essays on multiple topics. The aim is to assess clarity of thought, argument structure, and effective expression on diverse issues like governance, ethics, and social development.
General Studies Papers
Paper II – General Studies I: Indian Heritage, History & Geography
- Indian culture – art, literature, architecture
- Modern Indian history and freedom struggle
- Post-independence consolidation and reorganization
- World history and political ideologies
- Society – diversity, women’s issues, urbanization
- Geography – physical & human geography, resources, disasters
Paper III – General Studies II: Governance, Polity & IR
- Constitution and polity – features, amendments, governance
- Social justice – welfare schemes, vulnerable sections
- International relations – bilateral and global groupings
Paper IV – General Studies III: Economy, Science & Environment
- Indian economy, growth, budgeting, investment
- Science & Tech – IT, AI, space, biotechnology
- Environment, biodiversity, climate change
- Disaster management & internal security challenges
Paper V – General Studies IV: Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude
- Ethics and human interface
- Attitude, emotional intelligence
- Public service values and probity in governance
- Case studies on real-life ethical dilemmas
Optional Papers (Paper VI & VII)
Candidate must choose one optional subject with two papers. Popular options include Public Administration, Sociology, Political Science, History, and Geography.
Interview / Personality Test
The interview carries 275 marks and tests the candidate’s mental alertness, moral integrity, and communication skills.
Preparation Strategy
- Build strong foundation with NCERTs and standard books.
- Practice answer writing regularly.
- Stay updated with current affairs and government reports.
- Revise frequently and manage time efficiently.
- Give equal attention to Essay, Ethics, and Optional subjects.