How To Become An IAS Officer After 12th? Step by Step Guide for UPSC 2026 Exam

IAS Officer After 12th : Have you just completed the 12th and are wondering how to become an IAS officer? Start your journey by planning your preparation early and getting familiar with the exam process. To become an IAS officer after 12th grade, you need to complete your undergraduate degree and appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE ) after it. The application window will close on February 3, 2026, and a notification will be issued on January 14, 2026. 

What is the IAS?

Can You Become an IAS Officer After the 12th?

How to Become an IAS Officer After 12th in India?

First Step: Choose the Right Graduation Course

• Try to opt for a degree that aligns with your interests and the UPSC Mains optional subject .
• Some of the top courses include Political Science, History, and Economics, which can be particularly helpful for the UPSC syllabus.
• Maintain good grades throughout your college years, as a strong academic record is beneficial in a UPSC interview.

Popular Degree Options To Become IAS Officer After 12th

1. B.A. (Political Science)
2. B.A. (History)
3. B.A. (Economics)
4. B.A. (Public Administration)
5. B.Com (for Commerce students)
6. B.Sc. (for Science students)

Second Step: Start Preparation During Graduation

Year 1 of Graduation

• Focus on building a strong foundation in subjects like History, Polity, Geography, and Economics. Read NCERT books from classes 6-12.
• Develop a habit of reading newspapers daily and drafting concise notes on current affairs daily.
• Understand the structure of the UPSC exam, and read the UPSC syllabus and previous years’ question papers.

Year 2 of Graduation

• Begin reading standard reference books for UPSC.
• Join online or offline coaching classes if possible, or start with self-study using Physics Wallah UPSC preparation books and resources.
• Take mock tests or practice answer writing to get familiar with the exam pattern.

Year 3 of Graduation

• By now, you should have completed the core syllabus. Focus on revisions and solving mock tests regularly.
• Practice writing essays and improve your presentation skills.
• If you feel confident, think about appearing for the UPSC exam in the final year of your graduation or just after completing it.

Third Step: Appear for the UPSC Civil Services Examination

• Once the application forms are released, visit the official UPSC website and carefully fill out the form.
• Keep all documents ready with you that you need to upload during the application process online.
• Make sure each piece of information is accurate and updated; otherwise, the application may not be accepted.

Fourth Step: Clear the IAS Exam and Undergo Training

1. UPSC Prelims: This is the qualifying stage and consists of two objective-type papers, namely General Studies and CSAT. Practising multiple-choice questions will help in clearing this stage to be shortlisted for UPSC Mains 2026.
2. Mains Exam: If you clear the IAS Prelims 2026, you'll move on to the Mains, which consists of nine descriptive papers worth 1750 marks. This stage tests your in-depth knowledge and writing skills. You must cultivate the habit of writing answers regularly.
3. Interview: The final stage is the interview, where your personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for a career in civil services are assessed. Stay confident and honest, and prepare for common interview questions.

If you manage to clear all three stages of the UPSC exam, you will be selected for training as an IAS officer at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. The training period is approximately of two years , where you will learn administrative skills, governance practices, and leadership.

How to Start Preparation for IAS Officer After 12th?

• Focus on Basics: Begin with strengthening your foundation by thoroughly understanding basic concepts in subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Economics, and Science. NCERT books from classes 6 to 12 are highly recommended for this .
• Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving UPSC Previous year question papers will give you a clear idea about the exam pattern and the type of questions asked.
• Develop a Study Schedule: Create a well-structured study plan that covers all subjects and topics in the UPSC syllabus. Allocate specific time slots for each subject and stick to your schedule diligently to ensure consistent progress.
• Join an Online Course: Enroll in the PW online IAS coaching course for guided preparation under experienced mentors. Online courses are flexible and can be tailored to fit your personal study schedule.
• Stay Disciplined: Consistency and discipline are key to success in the IAS exam. Make a habit of daily study, regular revisions, and staying updated with current affairs that will keep you focused and motivated throughout your preparation journey.