Mark Your Calendars: UPSC CSE Mains 2025 from August 22 to 31
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the Civil Services Main Exam 2025 schedule, with exams set for August 22, 23, 24, 30, and 31 in two shifts each day. The exam comprises nine papers, including optional subjects and language papers. A total of 979 vacancies will be filled, including reserved posts for PwBD candidates. Aspirants who cleared the prelims must now intensify their preparation for the crucial next stage.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the timetable for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) Main 2025. According to the notification published on upsc.gov.in, the UPSC CSE Main exam will take place on August 22, 23, 24, 30, and 31, 2025, across two shifts; a forenoon session from 9 AM to 12 noon, and an afternoon session from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
This year, the prestigious examination aims to fill 979 vacancies, including 38 reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD). These include allocations for various categories such as blindness and low vision, deaf and hard of hearing, locomotor disabilities, and multiple disabilities.
Exam Pattern & Eligibility
The UPSC CSE Main 2025 will consist of nine descriptive papers followed by a personality test (interview) for those who clear the written round. The nine papers include:
- Paper I: Essay
- Papers II to V: General Studies (GS I to IV)
- Papers A & B: Indian Language and English (qualifying)
- Papers VI & VII: Optional subject (two papers)
Only candidates who have successfully cleared the UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 are eligible to appear in the Main examination.
Notably, the marking scheme includes negative marking, with one-third of marks being deducted for each incorrect answer in objective-type questions (relevant to prelims).
UPSC CSE Mains 2025 Exam Schedule
Date | Forenoon Session (9 AM – 12 noon) | Afternoon Session (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM) |
|---|---|---|
| August 22, 2025 | Essay (Paper I) | |
| August 23, 2025 | General Studies I (Paper II) | General Studies II (Paper III) |
| August 24, 2025 | General Studies III (Paper IV) | General Studies IV (Paper V) |
| August 30, 2025 | Indian Language (Paper A) | English (Paper B) |
| August 31, 2025 | Optional Subject – Paper 1 (Paper VI) | Optional Subject – Paper 2 (Paper VII) |
In the words of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, "Dream is not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep." This resonates deeply with thousands of UPSC aspirants working tirelessly towards their goal.
An UPSC mentor from Delhi remarked, “This exam is more than a test, it’s a journey of discipline, resilience, and self-discovery. With the right mindset and preparation, every aspirant has a fighting chance.”
As the countdown begins, candidates are advised to align their study plans with the newly released timetable and focus on strengthening both core subjects and answer-writing skills. Consistency, clarity, and time management will be key in navigating this challenging but rewarding exam.
With just over a month left, the stage is set for India’s brightest minds to rise and lead. Let this be your moment.