If you’re an aspirant for the prestigious Civil Services Examination (CSE), knowing the key dates is paramount. With the release of the UPSC Calendar 2025, it’s time to gear up and organize your preparation strategy.
Why Is the UPSC Calendar 2025 Crucial?
The UPSC examination process spans an entire year, comprising three rigorous stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Prelims): A qualifying round designed to test general awareness and aptitude.
- Main Examination (Mains): A written test to check in-depth knowledge and analytical ability.
- Personality Test (Interview): An interaction to evaluate a candidate’s overall personality and suitability for public service.
The UPSC Calendar 2025 outlines the dates for these stages, enabling aspirants to plan their preparation effectively. Missing any deadline can derail your journey, making it essential to stay informed.
Key Dates from the UPSC Calendar 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the important dates for the UPSC CSE 2025:
- Notification Release: January 2025: The official notification marks the beginning of the application process. It contains details like eligibility criteria, number of vacancies, and the UPSC Syllabus 2025.
- Application Window: January – February 2025: Candidates must complete their application during this period. Be cautious about the deadlines to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Preliminary Examination: June 2025: The first stage is scheduled in mid-June. The Prelims comprise two papers:
■ General Studies (GS)
■ Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) - Main Examination: September 2025: The Mains is typically held three months after the Prelims, giving aspirants adequate time to prepare.
- Personality Test: February – March 2026: The final leg of the examination process evaluates the candidate’s soft skills, decision-making abilities, and confidence.
| SI NO | NAME OF THE EXAM | NOTIFICATION DATE | APPLICATION DEADLINE | EXAM START DATE | EXAM DURATION |
| 1 | Reserved for UPSC RT/Exam | 11.01.2025 | 2 Days | ||
| 2 | Combined Geo-Scientist (Prelims) Exam, 2025 | 04.09.2024 | 24.09.2024 | 09.02.2025 | 1 Day |
| 3 | Engineering Services (Prelims) Exam, 2025 | 18.09.2024 | 08.10.2024 | 09.02.2025 | 1 Day |
| 4 | CBI (DSP) LDCE | 27.11.2024 | 17.12.2024 | 08.03.2025 | 2 Days |
| 5 | CISF AC (EXE) LDCE – 2025 | 04.12.2024 | 24.12.2024 | 09.03.2025 | 1 Day |
| 6 | N.D.A & N.A Exam (I), 2025 | 11.12.2024 | 31.12.2024 | 13.04.2025 | 1 Day |
| 7 | C.D.S Exam (I), 2025 | 11.12.2024 | 31.12.2024 | 13.04.2025 | 1 Day |
| 8 | Civil Services (Prelims) Exam, 2025 | 22.01.2025 | 11.02.2025 | 25.05.2025 | 1 Day |
| 9 | IFS (Prelims) Exam, 2025 through CS (P) Exam, 2025 | 22.01.2025 | 11.02.2025 | 25.05.2025 | 1 Day |
| 10 | Reserved for UPSC RT/Exam | 14.06.2025 | 2 Days | ||
| 11 | I.E.S./I.S.S. Exam, 2025 | 12.02.2025 | 04.03.2025 | 20.06.2025 | 3 Days |
| 12 | Combined Geo-Scientist (Main) Exam, 2025 | 21.06.2025 | 2 Days | ||
| 13 | Engineering Services (Main) Exam, 2025 | 22.06.2025 | 1 Day | ||
| 14 | Reserved for UPSC RT/Exam | 05.07.2025 | 2 Days | ||
| 15 | Combined Medical Services Exam, 2025 | 19.02.2025 | 11.03.2025 | 20.07.2025 | 1 Day |
| 16 | Central Armed Police Forces (ACS) Exam, 2025 | 05.03.2025 | 25.03.2025 | 03.08.2025 | 1 Day |
| 17 | Reserved for UPSC RT/Exam | 09.08.2025 | 2 Days | ||
| 18 | Civil Services (Main) Exam, 2025 | 22.08.2025 | 5 Days | ||
| 19 | N.D.A & N.A Exam (II), 2025 | 28.05.2024 | 17.06.2025 | 14.09.2025 | 1 Day |
| 20 | C.D.S Exam (II), 2025 | 28.05.2024 | 17.06.2025 | 14.09.2025 | 1 Day |
| 21 | Reserved for UPSC RT/Exam | 04.10.2025 | 2 Days | ||
| 22 | Reserved for UPSC RT/Exam | 01.11.2025 | 2 Days | ||
| 23 | IFS (Main) Exam, 2025 | 16.11.2025 | 7 Days | ||
| 24 | S.O/Steno (GB-B/GB-I) LDCE | 17.09.2025 | 07.10.2025 | 13.12.2025 | 2 Days |
| 25 | Reserved for UPSC RT/Exam | 20.12.2025 | 2 Days |
Navigating the UPSC Syllabus
Getting to know the UPSC Syllabus thoroughly is very important for effective preparation. Let’s briefly explore the syllabus for each stage:
- Prelims Syllabus
The Prelims test your GK and logical reasoning skills. The subjects covered include:
- Current events of national and international importance
- Indian polity and governance
- Economic and social development
- General issues on environmental ecology and biodiversity
- CSAT: Comprehension, logical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude
2. Mains Syllabus
The Main examination is of nine papers, out of which two are qualifying in nature:
- Essay Writing
- General Studies I-IV: Covering history, geography, ethics, governance, technology, and more
- Optional Subject Papers: Based on the candidate’s chosen discipline
3. Interview Process
While the Personality Test mentioned in the UPSC Calendar 2025 does not have a fixed syllabus, candidates must demonstrate a sound understanding of current affairs, their background, and the role they aspire to fulfill as civil servants.
How to Prepare As Per the UPSC Calendar 2025
January – May 2025: Build Your Foundation
- Focus on understanding the UPSC Syllabus 2025.
- Begin with NCERT books to strengthen your basics.
- Stay updated with daily current affairs by reading newspapers and magazines.
June – August 2025: Ace the Prelims
- Revise frequently and take mock tests to simulate exam conditions.
- Concentrate on time management and accuracy during practice sessions.
- Don’t neglect CSAT, even if you find it easy.
September – December 2025: Master the Mains
- Dive deep into General Studies and your optional subject.
- Write answers regularly to improve clarity and presentation.
- Practice essay writing and work on structuring your thoughts.
January – February 2026: Prepare for the Interview
- Enhance your communication skills and confidence.
- Develop a thorough understanding of current affairs.
- Participate in mock interviews to understand the format.
Key Tips for Staying on Track
- Use the UPSC Calendar Effectively:
○ Mark all important dates on your calendar.
○ Set milestones for syllabus completion and revision. - Create a Personalized Study Plan:
○ Allocate time for each subject by analyzing your strengths and weaknesses.
○ Include regular breaks to avoid burnout. - Stay Consistent: UPSC preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay disciplined and focused.
- Leverage Resources:
○ Utilize online platforms, coaching materials, and peer discussions for guidance.
○ For any updates on the UPSC Syllabus 2025, it is better to go through official notification. - Stay Positive: The journey is demanding, but a positive mindset can help you overcome challenges.
Conclusion
To conclude, the release of the UPSC Calendar 2025 is your cue to start your preparation journey with determination and clarity. Knowing the key dates and having a thorough understanding of the UPSC Syllabus can significantly enhance your chances of success. Remember, every day counts, so make the most of your time and resources. With the right strategy and consistent effort provided by KingMakers IAS Academy, you can achieve your dream of joining the prestigious Civil Services.
