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UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021 Detailed, Cut-Off Trends

UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021 can help candidates analyse the upcoming trends of the Prelims exam. Keep reading to get a detailed UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021.
authorImageSheetal Gaur19 Sept, 2025
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UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021

UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021: Preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) can be daunting for aspiring public servants. The exam is divided into Prelims, Mains, and an Interview stage, starting with the preliminary examination which acts as a crucial filter in the selection process. Understanding the dynamics of the Prelims cut-off can significantly aid candidates in their preparation. So, if you are also preparing for UPSC prelims, then go through UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021 to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level to strategise effectively for upcoming exams.

Overview of UPSC Prelims 2021

The UPSC Prelims is the first hurdle in the journey towards a coveted career in the Indian civil services including IAS, IPS, and IFS. The Prelims cut-off for 2021 was a benchmark that determined the fate of thousands of aspirants aiming to secure their place in the Mains examination. Here is the overview of UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021:
Particulars Details
Exam Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2021
Authority Union Public Service Commission
Release Mode Online
Exam Date October 10, 2021
Result Date October 29, 2021
Cut-Off Release Date April 10, 2022
Papers Involved General Studies Paper I, CSAT
Understanding these details offers a context for analysing the cut-off trends and the difficulty level of the exam each year.

UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021

As per the UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021, the exam seemed quite challenging, with intricate questions that tested candidates' depth of knowledge. Understanding the difficulty level helps candidates adjust their preparation strategies accordingly. The cut-off marks are not just numbers but reflect the exam's overall difficulty, the candidates' performance, and the aspirants' expected competencies by the UPSC. The 2021 Prelims cut-off is analysed here to guide future candidates.
Type General Studies CSAT
Name of Exam Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2021
Questions 100 MCQ 80 MCQ
Marks 200 Marks 200 Marks
Value for Correct Answer +2 marks +2.5 marks
Negative Marking for Wrong Answer -0.66 Negative Marks -0.83 Negative Mark
Exam Duration 2 Hours 2 Hours
Minimum Qualifying Marks Merit List Based On Varying Cut-off Marks Minimum 33% (66.67)
Medium of Questions English and Hindi English and Hindi

Detailed Category-Wise UPSC Prelims Cut-Off 2021

The category-wise UPSC Prelims Cut-Off 2021 is crucial as it shows the minimum score needed to advance to the Mains examination across various reserved and general categories. This segment also reflects on how inclusive or exclusive the examination trends were for the year 2021. This is the benchmark for aspiring candidates to gauge the competitive landscape of UPSC prelims. Table of Category-Wise Cut-Off Marks
Category UPSC Prelims Cut-Off 2021
General 87.54
EWS 80.14
OBC 84.85
SC 75.41
ST 70.71
PwBD-1 68.02
PwBD-2 67.33
PwBD-3 43.09
PwBD-5 45.80

Factors Influencing UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021

Several factors influence the determination of UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021 marks each year. Candidates can check UPSC prelims cut off last 5 years to gauge the competitiveness of the exam and adjust their preparation strategies accordingly. Understanding these can help candidates align their preparation accordingly.
  1. Difficulty Level of the Exam: A direct correlation exists between the difficulty of the exam and the cut-off scores. Tougher papers generally result in lower cut-offs.
  2. Number of Vacancies: The total available positions play a critical role in defining the cut-off marks each year.
  3. Candidate Performance: The overall performance of candidates also dictates the cut-off levels.
  4. Reservation Policy: Adjustments based on reservation norms significantly affect the cut-off trends across different categories.

Preparation Strategies Based on Cut-Off Analysis 2021

Leveraging the cut-off analysis, candidates can formulate more focused and strategic preparation plans to enhance their chances of success in the UPSC prelims. Understanding the nature of questions and the pattern from the previous year can tailor a candidate's approach to cover essential topics thoroughly. By dissecting the UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021, candidates can gain valuable insights into the competitive nature of the examination and better prepare themselves for future challenges. This analysis not only aids in setting achievable goals but also in strategising an effective preparation plan tailored to surpass the cut-offs.

Other UPSC Related Links

UPSC Prelims Cut-off Analysis UPSC Prelims Exam 2024
UPSC Prelims Test Series Important UPSC Prelims Topics
UPSC Prelims Exam Centre UPSC Prelims Previous Year Papers
Concerned about your readiness for UPSC Prelims 2024? Get expert guidance and access to top resources through Physics Wallah's UPSC Online batches . Elevate your preparation with the best support available.

UPSC Prelims Cut-Off Analysis 2021 FAQs

What was the cut-off for UPSC prelims 2021?

The general category cut-off for UPSC Prelims 2021 was 87.54.

How are the cut-off marks for UPSC Prelims determined?

Cut-off marks are determined based on factors like exam difficulty, number of candidates, and available vacancies.

What is the cut-off for UPSC Prelims analysis?

There was a slight increase in the cut-off for 2021 compared to 2020, reflecting a competitive exam environment.

What is the highest score of UPSC Prelims 2021?

Shruti Sharma, who lives in Bijnor District, Uttar Pradesh, got the highest score of 1105 marks in the exam.

Where can candidates check UPSC cut-offs and related updates?

The official UPSC website is the most reliable source for up-to-date information on cut-offs and other exam-related announcements.
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