The UPSC Interview is the final and most crucial stage of the Civil Services Examination. Officially known as the Personality Test, it carries 275 marks and plays a significant role in determining your final rank. Many aspirants clear Prelims and Mains but struggle to maximize their score in the interview. To strengthen preparation, joining the right guidance center can help — institutes like best IAS academy in Chennai, the best IAS coaching in Delhi provides structured mentorship and proven strategies.
This guide gives you a complete overview of the UPSC Interview, including preparation tips, common questions, dress code, strategy, and mistakes to avoid.
What is the UPSC Interview?
The UPSC Interview is not just a test of knowledge—it evaluates your personality, attitude, confidence, decision-making ability, and clarity of thought. It is conducted at the Union Public Service Commission headquarters in New Delhi and usually lasts for 20–30 minutes.
Marks Distribution in UPSC
Interview Marks in UPSC: 275 marks
Written Exam (Mains): 1750 marks
Total Marks in UPSC Mains and Interview: 2025 marks
This means your performance in the interview can make or break your final selection. To understand how these stages fit together, you can also review the complete UPSC exam pattern stages.
UPSC Interview Schedule
The interview schedule is released after the Mains result. Candidates are allotted specific dates and boards. The interviews are conducted over 4–6 weeks in multiple sessions.
| Stage | Tentative Timeline |
|---|---|
| UPSC Mains Result | Jan–Feb |
| UPSC Interview Schedule Release | Feb–March |
| UPSC Interview Dates | March–April |
| Final Result | May |
Purpose of the UPSC Interview
The board members evaluate:
Personality and presence of mind
Balance of judgment
Awareness of current issues
Communication skills
Moral integrity and honesty
Suitability for a career in public service
It is not meant to test you academically again but to see whether you have the qualities of a future administrator.
Key Areas of Evaluation For UPSC
The UPSC panel evaluates candidates based on the following:
Clarity of thought and logical reasoning
Balanced opinions without extremes
Knowledge of current affairs (national and international)
Understanding of one’s own DAF (Detailed Application Form)
Confidence and humility
Communication and listening skills
Attitude towards governance and society
For comprehensive subject preparation, aspirants should also familiarize themselves with the complete UPSC syllabus and related areas.
Types of Questions in UPSC Interview
Questions are usually based on:
Personal background (hometown, education, family)
Optional subject chosen in Mains (check the UPSC optional subjects list)
Current affairs and important policies
Service preference (IAS, IPS, IFS, etc.)
Situational/ethical dilemmas
Hobbies and interests mentioned in the DAF
Sample Questions
Why do you want to join the Civil Services?
How can India balance economic growth with environmental protection?
If you were the District Magistrate during a flood, what steps would you take?
What is one major reform you would like to bring in the education system?
What are your views on India’s relations with its neighboring countries?
UPSC Interview Dress Code
Your appearance matters because it reflects seriousness and discipline. Follow the UPSC interview dress code guidelines:
For Male Candidates
Formal light-colored shirt with dark trousers
Plain tie (optional)
Formal shoes (well-polished)
Neat haircut and trimmed beard/moustache (if any)
For Female Candidates
Saree or simple salwar-kameez with dupatta
Neutral/light colors preferred
Minimal jewelry
Comfortable formal footwear
Tip: Dress should be simple, neat, and professional, not flashy.
UPSC Interview Preparation Strategy
Here’s a structured approach to prepare:
1. DAF Analysis
Read your Detailed Application Form (DAF) carefully.
Be prepared for questions about your hometown, college, hobbies, and work experience.
If you have written a hobby like “photography,” expect detailed questions.
2. Current Affairs Preparation
Read newspapers daily (The Hindu, Indian Express).
Cover major government schemes, international issues, and economic updates.
Be ready with your opinion on ongoing debates (climate change, AI, economy, etc.).
3. Mock Interviews
Appear for at least 2–3 mock interviews.
Get feedback on body language, tone, and content.
Practice answering in a calm and concise manner.
4. Communication Skills
Speak clearly and confidently.
Avoid long, confusing answers.
Maintain eye contact with the panel.
5. Personality Development
Stay calm under pressure.
Be polite, even if you disagree.
Show willingness to learn.
To better understand how candidates reach this stage, review the UPSC selection process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in UPSC Interview
Memorized answers instead of natural responses
Overconfidence or arguing with the panel
Not knowing details about your own DAF
Avoiding questions instead of attempting them calmly
Poor body language (crossed arms, lack of eye contact)
Tips for the Day of UPSC Interview
Reach the venue at least an hour early
Carry all necessary documents
Greet the board politely
Sit straight, maintain a confident posture
If you don’t know an answer, admit politely instead of guessing wildly
Marking System in UPSC Interview
The UPSC does not follow a strict marking scheme but evaluates overall personality. However, scores usually range between 140 to 210 out of 275.
| Component | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|
| UPSC Mains | 1750 |
| UPSC Interview | 275 |
| Total Marks in UPSC Mains and Interview | 2025 |
Cut-off trends vary each year, and you can refer to UPSC cut-off trends for better clarity.
Final Thoughts
The UPSC Interview is an opportunity to showcase your personality, values, and administrative potential. Knowledge is important, but qualities like clarity, confidence, and integrity are what truly make a difference. With the right preparation and mindset, you can score high in the interview and secure your place in the final merit list.
FAQs on UPSC Interview
1. How many marks are there in the UPSC Interview?
The interview carries 275 marks.
2. What is the total marks in UPSC Mains and Interview?
Mains (1750) + Interview (275) = 2025 marks in total.
3. When is the UPSC Interview schedule released?
The interview schedule is released after the Mains result, usually in February or March.
4. What should be the UPSC Interview dress code?
Men should wear a light formal shirt with dark trousers, while women should wear a saree or salwar-kameez. Dress should be simple and professional.
5. How to prepare for UPSC Interview questions?
Analyze your DAF thoroughly, stay updated with current affairs, and practice with mock interviews.
6. Is the UPSC Interview very tough?
It is challenging but not tough if you are confident, well-prepared, and genuine. It tests personality, not academic knowledge alone.
