UPSC CSE · Syllabus

UPSC CSE Syllabus 2026

The UPSC CSE is a comprehensive examination that assesses a candidate's knowledge, analytical ability, and suitability for a career in public service. Topics below follow the official UPSC CSE notification pattern — check the linked notification for the authoritative list.

Free mock tests View prep pack

Source

Verify against the official notification

UPSC Civil ServicesOfficial UPSC CSE previous question papers and notifications

Prelims — General Studies

Indian History and National Movement

Geography of India and the World

Indian Polity and Governance

Economic and Social Development

General Science and Technology

Environment and Ecology

Current Affairs and Events of National and International Importance

Mains — Qualifying Papers

Indian Language (Any one from the 8th Schedule)

English Language

Comprehension and Precis Writing

Usage and Vocabulary

Short Essays

Grammar and Language Skills

Mains — General Studies Papers

Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World

Governance, Constitution, Polity, and Social Justice

Technology, Economic Development, and Environmental Sustainability

Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude

Continue

Recommended preparation products

UPSC Prelims

UPSC CSE Prelims Foundation Course 2026

An English-medium UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) course book in 12 chapters, written to UPSC Examination Notice No. 05/2026-CSE for candidates preparing for Prelims 2027 (scheduled for 23 May 2027 in UPSC's Annual Calendar 2027). It opens with the exam pattern, marking, eligibility and an official syllabus map, then teaches every General Studies Paper I head — history of India and the national movement with art and culture, Indian and world geography, polity and governance, economic and social development, environment and climate change, and general science and technology — and the CSAT skills of comprehension, reasoning, decision-making, basic numeracy and data interpretation. All solved examples and practice questions are original; no previous-year papers are reproduced, and current events are taught as a method rather than as a news digest. This is self-paced digital preparation; live classes are not included.

Instant digital access after payment255-page course book8 structured modulesFree sample before purchase

Syllabus questions

UPSC CSE Syllabus 2026 FAQ

What is the difference between Prelims and Mains syllabus?

The Prelims syllabus is broader and tests general awareness, while the Mains syllabus is more in-depth and analytical. Mains requires a deeper understanding of specific subjects and their interlinkages.

Are the qualifying papers in Mains counted for the final rank?

No, the marks obtained in the two language papers are not counted for the final merit list. They are only qualifying in nature, and candidates must score a minimum percentage to be considered for evaluation.

How many optional subjects can I choose for the Mains exam?

Candidates must choose only one optional subject for the Mains examination. The syllabus for this subject is detailed and requires dedicated preparation.