Compulsory Subjects for UPSC Exam 2025, IAS Subjects List for Prelims and Mains
Compulsory subjects for UPSC exam are essential subjects that every candidate must attempt in the Civil Services Examination. Find the comprehensive list of compulsory subjects for UPSC Prelims and Mains.
Sheetal Gaur15 Mar, 2025
Share
Compulsory Subjects for UPSC 2025 are crucial components of the Civil Services Exam (CSE), and understanding them is key to formulating a well-rounded preparation strategy. These subjects are mandatory for all candidates, regardless of the optional papers they choose.
The list of compulsory subjects for UPSC consists of General Studies Paper 1 and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) in Prelims, and General Studies Papers 1 to 4, the Essay paper, and two language papers in Mains. To succeed in the UPSC exam, candidates must thoroughly prepare for all these compulsory subjects. Read on to know the compulsory subjects for UPSC Exam 2025 for both Prelims and Mains.
List of Compulsory Subjects for UPSC Exam 2025
The UPSC CSE tests a candidate's knowledge, analytical abilities, and aptitude for a career in civil services. It consists of three stages, Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test (Interview). Understanding the compulsory subjects for each stage is crucial for aspirants to structure their preparation effectively.Compulsory Subjects for UPSC Prelims 2025
The UPSC Preliminary Examination is the first stage of the Civil Services Examination. It consists of two compulsory papers: General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT). General Studies Paper-I This paper tests candidates on subjects like Indian History, Geography, Economy, Politics, Environmental Science, and General Science. Its syllabus includes:- Current Affairs: National and international importance.
- History: Indian history and Indian national movement.
- Geography: Physical, social, and economic geography of India and the world.
- Polity: Indian polity and governance.
- Economy: Economic and social development.
- Environment: General issues on environmental ecology, biodiversity, and climate change.
- General Science: Basic science concepts and applications.
- Comprehension: Reading and understanding passages
- Logical Reasoning: Analyzing logical arguments
- Analytical Ability: Data interpretation and analysis
- Decision Making: Problem-solving and decision-making skills
- General Mental Ability: Basic numeracy and data interpretation
| Paper | Subjects Covered | Total Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies I | History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment | 200 | 2 Hours |
| General Studies II (CSAT) | Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension | 200 | 2 Hours |
Compulsory Subjects for UPSC Mains 2025
The UPSC Mains Examination is the second stage and is more comprehensive, focusing on in-depth knowledge. It consists of nine papers, including four general studies papers, one essay paper, two language papers, and two optional papers. While all papers are compulsory, the marks in seven compulsory subjects for UPSC mains (except Qualifying papers) will determine your rank and final selection.| Paper | Subject Area | Topics |
| Paper A (Qualifying) | Indian Language | You will need to write two essays from a given set of topics. |
| Paper B (Qualifying) | English | Comprehension, Precis Writing, Usage and Vocabulary, and Short Essays |
| Paper I (Compulsory) | Essay | Writing essays on multiple topics |
| Paper II (Compulsory) | General Studies I | Indian Heritage and Culture, Art forms, literature, and architecture, Modern Indian history, world history, Geography, Physical, social, and economic geography |
| Paper III (Compulsory) | General Studies II | Governance, Constitution and Polity, Social Justice, International Relations |
| Paper IV (Compulsory) | General Studies III | Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity and Environment, Security, and Disaster Management |
| Paper V (Compulsory) | General Studies IV | Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude |
| Paper VI | Optional Paper I | Subject of Choice |
| Paper VII | Optional Paper II | Subject of Choice |
How to Prepare for Compulsory Subjects in UPSC?
Understanding the compulsory subjects for the UPSC exam is essential for effective preparation. Here we have provided tips to help students navigate the UPSC syllabus effectively.- Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus for each paper.
- Refer to Standard Books: Use recommended books and resources for comprehensive coverage.
- Make Notes: Create concise and organized notes for quick revision.
- Practice Answer Writing: Regularly practice writing answers to improve clarity and speed.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read newspapers and magazines to stay informed about current events.
- Join Test Series: Enroll in a test series to evaluate your preparation and improve your performance.
To ensure you are on the right track, explore the comprehensive PW UPSC Courses. They are designed to guide you through the syllabus, offering mentorship to help you!
Compulsory Subjects for UPSC 2025 FAQs
How many subjects are compulsory in UPSC Mains?
In UPSC Mains, 7 subjects are compulsory, including General Studies, Essay, and two qualifying language papers. Rest two can be selected from the list of 48 subjects.
Is CSAT a qualifying paper?
Yes, CSAT is a qualifying paper in the UPSC Prelims, requiring a minimum of 33% to pass.
Can I choose any language for the Indian Language paper in UPSC Mains?
Yes, you can choose any language listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution for the Indian Language paper.
Can I choose my optional subject?
Yes, in UPSC Mains, you can choose your optional subject from a list of over 48 subjects provided by the UPSC.
Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!
Check out these Related Articles
Join 15 Million students on the app today!
Live & recorded classes available at easeDashboard for progress trackingMillions of practice questions at your fingertips
Free Learning Resources
PW Books
Notes (Class 10-12)
PW Study Materials
Notes (Class 6-9)
Ncert Solutions
Govt Exams
Class 6th to 12th Online Courses
Govt Job Exams Courses
UPSC Coaching
Defence Exam Coaching
Gate Exam Coaching
Other Exams
Know about Physics Wallah
Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.
We Stand Out because
We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.
Our Key Focus Areas
Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.
What Makes Us Different
Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others
Copyright © 2025 Physicswallah Limited All rights reserved.