What are some facts about UPSC exam that very few people know

The UPSC exam, known for its rigor and prestige, is a highly sought-after examination in India. While many aspiring candidates are aware of the basic aspects of the exam, there are several intriguing facts that remain lesser-known. In this blog post, we will uncover some hidden gems—little-known facts about the UPSC exam that very few people are aware of. Let's delve into these fascinating details and broaden our understanding!

1. Oldest Constitutional Body:
   • The UPSC is not just any exam-conducting body; it is the oldest constitutional body in India.
   • Established on October 1, 1926, under the Government of India Act, 1919, the UPSC has a rich history and has played a crucial role in selecting and appointing civil servants.
2. Limited Attempts:
   • While many aspirants are aware of the age limits for attempting the UPSC exam, few know about the limited number of attempts.
   • General category candidates have a maximum of six attempts, while the number of attempts is higher for candidates belonging to reserved categories.
3. Qualifying Languages:
   • English and Hindi are the two languages in which candidates can take the UPSC exam.
   • However, for certain qualifying papers like General Studies, candidates can choose from other languages recognized by the Indian government.
4. Unpredictable Question Patterns:
   • The UPSC is known for its unpredictable question patterns, which makes it challenging to rely solely on previous years' question papers for preparation.
   • Candidates must develop a comprehensive understanding of the subjects rather than relying on memorization alone.
5. Consideration of Marks:
   • UPSC considers the marks obtained in all three stages of the examination—Preliminary, Mains, and Interview—for determining the final selection.
   • Marks obtained in the Preliminary stage are considered only for qualification to the Mains stage and do not contribute to the final ranking.
6. Reservation Policies:
   • UPSC follows reservation policies mandated by the Indian government.
   • A certain percentage of seats are reserved for candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
7. Multiple Languages for Mains Exam:
   • The Mains exam allows candidates to write their answers in any of the scheduled languages recognized by the Indian government.
   • This provision ensures that candidates can express their thoughts and ideas effectively in a language they are comfortable with.
8. Provision for Extra Attempts:
   • In certain exceptional cases, the government may grant additional attempts to candidates who have exhausted their maximum permissible attempts.
   • This provision is subject to specific eligibility criteria and circumstances beyond the candidate's control.

Conclusion:

The UPSC exam holds many hidden gems that add to its uniqueness and complexity. These little-known facts about the exam shed light on its historical significance, eligibility criteria, language provisions, and reservation policies. By exploring these intriguing aspects, candidates can gain a deeper understanding of the UPSC exam and approach their preparation with a broader perspective. Stay curious, keep exploring, and use these lesser-known facts to enhance your knowledge of this prestigious examination. Best of luck on your UPSC journey!