UPSC Prelims 2025 Exam on 25th May: Key Details and Last-Minute Useful Guidelines
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is all set to conduct the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 on Sunday, 25th May. This exam marks the first step for aspirants aiming to join prestigious services like the IAS, IPS, IFS, and others.`
✅ Admit Card Released
UPSC released the e-admit cards for the prelims exam on 13th May 2025. All registered candidates can download their admit cards from the official website: upsconline.gov.in.
🔔 Important: Candidates must carry a printed copy of the admit card along with a valid photo ID (as mentioned on the admit card). No entry will be allowed without these documents.
It is also advised to thoroughly read the instructions printed on the admit card to avoid any last-minute confusion at the exam centre.
🕘 Exam Schedule: Two Shifts on 25th May
The UPSC Prelims will be conducted in two sessions:
| Paper | Subject | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Studies (GS) | 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Paper II | CSAT | 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM |
📚 Exam Pattern and Subjects
The Civil Services Preliminary Examination consists of two papers, both objective-type (multiple choice) and carrying 200 marks each.
Paper I: General Studies (GS)
- History of India and Indian National Movement
- Indian Polity and Governance
- Geography of India and the World
- Economic and Social Development
- Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change
- General Science and Current Affairs
Paper II: CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test)
- Comprehension
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability
- Basic numeracy and data interpretation
⚠️ CSAT is qualifying in nature. You need to score at least 33% (66 marks) to qualify for the next stage.
🚫 Negative Marking: Be Careful!
- One-third marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
- If more than one option is marked for a question, it will be treated as wrong—even if one of them is correct.
- No deduction for unanswered questions.
🔍 Prelims is a Screening Test Only
It’s important to note that the prelims exam is only for screening purposes. The marks obtained will not be counted in the final merit list. Only candidates who qualify in the prelims will be allowed to appear for the Mains Examination.
📌 Final Tips for Aspirants
- Double-check your admit card, ID proof, and exam centre location.
- Reach your exam centre well in advance to avoid last-minute panic.
- Follow all instructions provided by the UPSC and the exam centre authorities.
📎 Useful Links
Stay calm, focused, and confident. All the best to every aspirant appearing for UPSC Prelims 2025!
Follow GovtExamTimes for more updates on UPSC and other government exams.