How to Become an IAS Officer, Process in Simple Steps
How to become an IAS officer? It is a common query among aspirants who dream of joining this service. Find your answer to how to become an IAS officer here.
Anil Solonki7 Jan, 2025
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How to Become an IAS Officer : The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is the top all-India service that has an integral role in administration and governance. To become an IAS officer, candidates must clear the UPSC Civil Services Exam with top ranks.
Successful candidates are recommended by UPSC for training at LBSNAA to become IAS. If you are also wondering how to become an IAS officer from scratch, read on to learn about eligibility criteria, the application process, and the selection procedure.How to Become an IAS Officer - Overview
An IAS officer is a top-tier government servant responsible for implementing policies, managing administrative functions, and maintaining law and order. They represent the government in various capacities, including district administration, state secretariat, and central ministries. Becoming an IAS officer is a dream for many aspirants. This prestigious role offers the chance to serve the nation and bring meaningful changes to society. However, achieving this dream requires a well-thought-out strategy, consistent effort, and insights into the UPSC exam.Step by Step Guide on How to Become an IAS Officer
To become an IAS officer, a candidate must be eligible for the UPSC CSE exam, then appear for the exam, clear the exam with top ranks, and finally complete the training. The process to become an IAS officer step by step is given below:Meet the IAS Eligibility Criteria
Before starting the preparation, ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria for the UPSC Civil Services Exam. This includes:- Age Limit: 21 to 32 years for general category (relaxations for reserved categories).
- Educational Qualification : A bachelor's degree from a recognized university in any discipline.
- Nationality : You must be a citizen of India.
- Number of Attempts: You will be allowed 6 attempts (9 for OBC and unlimited for SC/ST), subject to age limit.
Understand the UPSC IAS Exam
If you meet the eligibility criteria for the target year’s exam cycle, it is time to start preparing. The first thing you must do is thoroughly understand the UPSC syllabus and exam pattern. The exam is vast, and knowing what to focus on will save time and energy.- Prelims Exam: This is a screening stage having two objective-type papers: General Studies and CSAT. You need to score 33% in CSAT and clear the Prelims Cut off.
- Mains Exam: After qualifying prelims, you will have to appear for nine papers in the mains.
- Personality Test: Also known as the interview, it is for candidates who qualify in the Mains exam.
Plan Your Preparation
Now start your preparation by collecting the UPSC study material and making a study plan. A well-organized study plan is the backbone of your IAS preparation. Start early, and break your preparation into phases:- Phase 1: Foundation Phase – Read NCERTs and build your basic knowledge.
- Phase 2: Advanced Phase – Study in-depth subjects and follow advanced textbooks.
- Phase 3: Revision Phase – Revise all topics regularly and take mock tests.
Apply for UPSC CSE Exam
Once you are assured that you meet the eligibility criteria, wait for the application form on the UPSC website. The IAS application forms are generally released in January/February month at ‘upsc.gov.in’. Candidates need to ensure that they fill out the application correctly before the last date. The application fee is INR 100 for male candidates of the general category, others are exempted from fees.Clear the UPSC Prelims Exam
The UPSC Prelims exam consists of two objective-type papers:- General Studies Paper I : This tests knowledge in subjects like history, geography, polity, economy, science, etc.
- CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) Paper II : This evaluates your aptitude, reasoning, and analytical ability. You need to score a minimum qualifying mark in CSAT.
Fill Out UPSC Mains DAF
Once you clear UPSC Prelims, your name will appear in the result PDF, and you will be required to fill out the Detailed Application Form (DAF) for the UPSC Mains. Ensure all details are accurate and aligned with your credentials and complete it before the deadline. At this stage, you will also have to submit the necessary documents online.Clear the UPSC Mains Exam
The UPSC Mains exam is a written test comprising nine papers, including an essay, four General Studies papers, two optional subject papers, and two language papers. Answer writing is a critical skill for this stage. Focus on presenting well-structured, concise, and insightful answers. Try scoring good marks in this stage for better ranking.Fill Out UPSC DAF II
After clearing the Mains, candidates need to fill out the second part of the DAF (DAF II) . This form includes additional details like service preferences, hobbies, and cadre choices. Filling it out carefully and accurately is crucial, as it will determine your posting. Be mindful of providing realistic and well-thought-out details.Clear the UPSC Interview
The Personality Test, also known as the UPSC Interview , is the final hurdle. In this stage, the panel assesses your knowledge, personality, decision-making abilities, and confidence for 275 marks. Practising mock interviews can help refine your communication skills and boost confidence for this stage.Get Top Rank in Final Result
The final merit list is prepared by the UPSC based on the combined marks obtained in the Mains examination and the interview. Candidates who score above the cut-off are selected for the services they opted for, including IAS, IPS, IFS, and others. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) selects IAS officers based on their rank in results prepared by UPSC. To become an IAS officer, you need to be ranked under 100 (for general candidates). Finally, after selection, IAS officers are required to attend training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. Dreaming to become an IAS officer? Enroll in the UPSC Online courses offered by Physics Wallah to start your journey!| UPSC Related Articles | ||
| IFS Salary | Youngest IAS Officer in India | Difference Between IAS and IPS |
| IAS vs IFS | IAS Vs IPS Vs IFS | IAS Salary 2025 |
How to Become an IAS Officer FAQs
What qualifications do I need to be an IAS?
You must have completed graduation in any subject or appeared in the final year exam to be eligible to apply for the IAS exam.
What are the steps to become an IAS officer?
Meet eligibility, prepare for UPSC exams, clear Prelims, Mains, and Interview, and get selected with a top rank in your respective category.
How can I become an IAS officer?
You need to clear the UPSC Civil Services Exam with the top rank, which includes Prelims, Mains, and an Interview.
I want to become an IAS officer. What should I do?
Prepare for the UPSC exam by studying General Studies, an optional subject, and current affairs, and stay consistent in your efforts.
Can I directly become IAS?
No. You must either the UPSC CSE exam with a top rank or get selected as an SDM after clearing any state civil service exam. However, in the second case, you will be eligible for promotion to IAS only according to the Indian Administrative Service Regulations 1955.
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