UPSC Interview 2025: Check Details, Schedule, Date & Place, Documents, Marks and Strategy

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has opened the application window for aspirants who have qualified and successfully passed UPSC CSE Mains. The registration period will be open from November 13 to November 27, 2025, until 6 PM, and is essential for aspirants in order to appear in the upcoming UPSC Interview.

To appear in the UPSC interview, aspirants need to log into the UPSC’s official website. Candidates who have qualified for the UPSC Personality Test must update their Detailed Application Form-II (DAF-II) online. It is mandatory for aspirants to upload all required documents, including proof of educational qualifications and any other essential certificates. Not following all the necessary steps will result in the cancellation of the candidature, and aspirants will not receive the e-summon letter necessary for the interview.

What is the UPSC Personality Test?

The UPSC Personality Test is the last stage of the Civil Services Examination, examining an aspirant’s suitability for public service beyond their academic knowledge. The UPSC personality test evaluates personality traits like mental alertness, intellect, clear reasoning, judgment, ethical integrity, communication skills, and leadership potential through direct communication between the panellists and aspirants.

What is the E-Summon Letter in UPSC Interview?

The e-Summon Letters of UPSC Interview of the candidates will be made available on the official website of the union public service commission. The candidates, who may not be able to download their e-Summon Letters, should contact the office of the commission through letter or phone. The e-summon letter refers to an electronic document issued to aspirants who are shortlisted for the UPSC CSE Interview.

An e-summon letter is an electronic call letter for the personality test, which must be downloaded from the official UPSC website because no hard copy is sent. This letter contains crucial details like the UPSC interview date, time, and venue, and is only issued after candidates have submitted their detailed application form (DAF) and all required documents. All aspirants must download and use the e-summon letter for their interview as no physical copies are issued. It also serves as an official notification that a candidate has been shortlisted for the final stage of the selection process. To receive the e-summon letter, the aspirant must log in to the online portal to submit all required documents, such as address, higher education details, and other personal information.

UPSC Interview Schedule 2025-26

The official UPSC interview schedule 2025 has not yet been released. The UPSC Interview 2025 is expected to begin in January 2026 and will continue for several weeks. Once the UPSC interview schedule is officially announced, it will contain specific dates, times, and roll numbers for each candidate's personality test. All the aspirants appearing for the Interview should report at the tentative venue at 9 AM and for the afternoon session at 1 PM. The aspirants appearing for the UPSC Interview will be granted reimbursement for travelling expenses related to reaching the UPSC interview venue; however, it is only restricted to second/sleeper class train fare. The reimbursement can be claimed at the interview venue. Here is the full UPSC Interview Schedule 2025-26:-

List of Important Documents for UPSC Interview 2025

On the day of the interview, aspirants must reach the venue with the required documents and certificates. Also, the certificates should be original. Here is the list of important documents to keep handy for the UPSC Interview:

• Age Proof
• Educational qualifications certificates
• Community Certificate
• EWS Certificate
• PWBD Certificate (if applicable)
• Service Certificates (for ex-servicemen)
• Travel Allowance Reimbursement form (if applicable)

UPSC Interview 2025 Date and Place

The official UPSC Interview 2025 date will be announced soon. Earlier, the UPSC Interview 2024 was conducted in January, but this year, most likely, it will begin in December and will go on for weeks. The official UPSC interview or Personality Test is conducted exclusively at the Union Public Service Commission's headquarters, located at dholpur house, shahjahan road, New Delhi.

UPSC Interview Syllabus 2025

There is no definite for the UPSC interview syllabus 2025, as it is a personality test, not an exam. The interview itself assesses a candidate's overall personality, mental caliber, and suitability for civil services through a comprehensive test based on the information provided in the detailed application form (DAF), current affairs, and general knowledge.

UPSC Interview Language

The UPSC interview can be attempted in any of the 22 languages listed in the Indian Constitution, with Hindi and English being popular choices. For aspirants who want to attempt the interview in marathi, bengali and other regional languages, they need to mention that in their Detailed Application Form (DAF). Aspirants should select an UPSC interview language in which they are most comfortable and fluent.

Key Aspects of the UPSC Civil Services Interview 2025

The UPSC Civil Services Interview, or Personality Test, is the last stage in the civil services journey that evaluates an aspirant’s suitability for civil services beyond academic knowledge. The panellists analyze personality traits, moral integrity, sense of responsibility, and administrative aptitude. Let us understand the key aspects of the UPSC CSE Interview:

Analysis of Personality

During the interview, the panellists analyse the personality of an aspirant. They will assess the character, integrity, and decision-making abilities to determine if they are a good fit for civil services. Aspirants will be asked questions on their long-term goals and other significant areas, which will give the panellists an insight into the mind of the aspirant.

UPSC Interview Total Marks

The total marks for the UPSC interview (Personality Test) are 275. Also, the final marks of the UPSC Interview stage are linked with the UPSC Mains Examination scores (1750 marks) for a final total of 2025 marks, out of which the merit list is prepared.. This determines the final rank and whether the aspirant will get into the merit list. Therefore, aspirants need to make sure their preparation is on point.

Assessment of Administrative Aptitude

The UPSC Interview panel looks for qualities like leadership, balanced judgement, empathy for marginalised people, moral integrity, and the ability to handle difficult situations in pressure. The UPSC Interview board member will also evaluate the administrative knowledge of the aspirant by asking thought-provoking questions.

Evaluation of Knowledge about National and Current Events

Aspirants will be evaluated on their knowledge of the ongoing national and international events. They must demonstrate an understanding of societal issues, the Constitution, and recent events, and how they impact society, people and governance.

Evaluation of Background

An aspirant’s background and previous experiences will be evaluated by the panellists to gain an understanding of who the aspirant really is and what they bring to the table. Panellists may ask questions about background from the Detailed Application Form (DAF), assessing how well the aspirant has reflected on their journey and how clearly they can articulate it.

UPSC Interview Panel Members

It is important to know that the UPSC Interview Panel Members come with long careers in governance, policy, administration and security. The panel consists of a chairperson and four other members, such as a senior retired bureaucrat, a diplomat with extensive experience in international policy, a defence leader, an academic specialist and a senior officer known for procedural excellence. The diversity of the IAS interview panel ensures a complete understanding of an aspirant’s potential from all aspects.

What is the Process of the UPSC Interview?

The UPSC interview is a 20–30-minute personality test where the UPSC interview panel members engage the aspirant in a discussion based on the information they provide in their detailed application forms (DAF) and on subjects of importance to civil services. The UPSC Interview panel will have 4-5 members who are from the civil services background. Let’s understand the entire process of the UPSC interview:

Reaching the Venue

Aspirants should reach the UPSC interview venue at the scheduled time. All relevant information will be provided in the UPSC e-summon letter. Being late will not be appreciated and will highlight irresponsible behaviour.

Security Checking

Before sitting for the UPSC IAS interview, the aspirants will have to go for security checking which includes providing identity proof, e-summon letter, and checking of personal belongings. Document verification at the venue includes all relevant certificates.

Waiting Hall Verification

After passing the initial security checks, the second round of checking happens in the waiting hall and is done by the UPSC staff. Aspirants can have refreshments while waiting for their turn. Travel reimbursement forms are allotted to eligible aspirants.

Allotment of Panel

Every aspirant is allotted a panel number and sequence for the interview. It is important to keep the names of UPSC Interview panel members confidential to maintain neutrality and eliminate any chances of unfair practices.

Sitting for the Interview

Aspirants are grouped in sets of five, and then they enter the boardroom for the interview, which happens at an individual level. The UPSC interview board members evaluate the personality, knowledge, administrative acumen and suitability for the civil services. Interviews last 20-45 minutes, depending on the aspirant’s performance.

Dress Code for the UPSC Interview 2025

Aspirants are encouraged to choose a professional dress code for UPSC Interview that reflects simplicity, cleanliness, and modesty. Opt for well-fitted, formal wear without any stains or wrinkles, showcasing respect for the occasion. Avoid including any of the following on the UPSC interview day:

UPSC Interview 2025 Preparation Strategy

To prepare for the UPSC interview 2025, aspirants should focus on knowing themselves by mastering their Detailed Application Form (DAF), staying up to date on current affairs, and having in-depth knowledge of optional subjects and graduation subjects. One should also practice effective communication skills and body language, and get experience and guidance through mock interviews. Aspirants should also prepare for ethical and situational questions, maintain a positive attitude, and be authentic while answering questions in the interview. Let’s understand the preparation strategy for the UPSC interview 2025:

1. Ace the DAF Form

Aspirants should thoroughly review their Detailed Application Form (DAF) and be prepared to answer questions on every single detail they have mentioned. This includes not just the major sections such as academic background, work experience, and achievements, but also the small aspects like hometown, hobbies, personal interests, family background, extracurricular activities, and anything else that has been listed.

2. Know Everything About Your State and District

Aspirants should be familiar with the geography, history, culture, and socio-economic profile of both their hometown and home state. One should be able to handle questions such as major geographical characteristics, historical milestones, local industries, demographic patterns, governance issues, development indicators, and current challenges or opportunities.

3. Revise Optional and Static Subjects

It is advised to brush up on the fundamental concepts of the optional subject as well as the key topics from graduation-level textbooks and static subjects in the UPSC CSE syllabus. One should ensure that their understanding is clear, updated, and conceptually strong, as interviewers may test their grasp of core principles, recent developments, practical applications, and the relevance of their academic background to civil service.

4. Keep a Balanced View on Sensitive Issues

Aspirants should form logical and balanced opinions on sensitive issues, and be ready to discuss them in an evidence-based manner. Ensure that one understands multiple perspectives on each topic, knows the causes, and can articulate their own viewpoint confidently.

5. Work on Communication Skills

Before sitting for the interview, aspirants should practice speaking in a clear, confident, and concise manner. They should focus on answering questions confidently and effectively, avoiding unnecessary details or rambling. Aspirants should form responses that are easy for the panellists to understand.

6. Work on Body Language

Maintaining a positive, composed, and confident demeanour throughout the interaction leaves a good impression on the UPSC interview panel​ members and highlights that one has done preparation effectively. The body language should reflect professionalism and alertness. One should maintain good posture, make appropriate eye contact, offer a natural smile, and use meaningful gestures.

7. Practice Through Mock Interviews

Participating in a UPSC mock interview will give a realistic sense of the actual interview environment. Such sessions are very helpful as they allow aspirants to get a reality check on how effective their preparation has been. One should practice articulating their thoughts under pressure, identify areas for improvement, and refine their communication style. Constructive feedback from mentors or peers can significantly enhance overall performance and boost confidence.

8. Always be Honest

Lying in the UPSC CSE Interview is the worst an aspirant can do. The UPSC interview panel has highly experienced individuals who can easily recognise dishonesty. They can even sense when the aspirant is wildly guessing or assuming answers. If one doesn’t know the answer to a question, politely acknowledging it is the best solution. Also, one should express their willingness to learn more about the topic later. This reflects integrity and humility. Avoid making random guesses, as they can harm credibility and overall impression.

Commonly Asked UPSC Interview Questions

Aspirants are usually asked many types of questions, ranging from personal life to current events and how they would handle different situations. However, some questions are commonly asked in the UPSC CSE Interview. Preparing well for these helps one feel confident and perform better in the interview. Let’s see what the commonly asked UPSC interview questions are by panellists:

Background and Intentions

• Why did you choose to pursue a career in the Civil Services?
• What motivates you to work in the civil service, and what do you hope to achieve?
• How do you think your previous work experience or education has prepared you for a career in the civil service?
• Why do you want to join [IAS/IRS/IPS/IFS]?
• Who is your rule model and why?

Personal Insights

• Tell us about your strengths and weaknesses.
• How do you think your strengths will help you in your rule as a civil servant?
• Tell us about your hobbies and how they relate to your personality.
• What motivates you in life?
• Are you a team player or a leader? Give examples.

Situation Based

• If you are posted as a district cullector and face a farmers’ protest, how would you handle it?
• If two senior officers disagree on a pulicy decision, what would you do?
• How would you prioritize tasks when multiple urgent issues arise at the same time?
• How would you deal with corruption in your department?
• What would you do if you found someone in your team taking advantage of their position?

National and International Issues

• How do you assess the impact of the recent economic reforms and government pulicies?
• What is your perspective on how India should manage its ties with neighbouring nations?
• In your view, what are the biggest challenges India is currently facing, and what steps would you take to tackle them?
• What are the key pulicy issues that the country is currently grappling with?
• Why are we spending so much on ISRO missions while we have burning poverty in the country?

Optional Subjects

• What is the reason to choose this specific subject as your optional?
• Why didn’t you pick this subject as your graduation subject if you are really good at this optional subject?
• Some issues, events, and headlines related to your optional subject.

State/District/City

• Questions based on the index can be asked, like population, sex ratio, or if any present situation is there because of which the particular area is in the news.
• number of districts in the state, any alternate name the city has (like why Kulkata is also known as ‘the city of joy’).
• Questions on any historical monuments, fights/protests that took place during the freedom struggle, and famous personalities from that state/area.

Hobbies and Interests

• What are your hobbies?
• Why did you choose this particular hobby?
• What do you enjoy most about your hobby?
• What skills have you developed through your hobby that would be useful in public administration?
• Name a famous personality associated with your hobby.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the UPSC Interview

The UPSC Interview is the final stage in the civil services journey, and aspirants need to approach this stage with a lot of care. One interview mistake and your civil services journey will start from scratch. Since, interview is the key determinant of UPSC success, aspirants need to understand that all mistakes can happen and ruin their chances for success. Let’s take a look at the common mistakes to avoid in the UPSC interview:

1. Arrogance and Overconfidence

Overconfidence and arrogance in a UPSC interview a mistakes that can make an aspirant appear arrogant, dismissive, and irresponsible. To avoid it, aspirants should remain humble, acknowledge when they don't know an answer, and create a balance between being confident and humble. Being brash can be detrimental, so focus on being calm, composed, and authentic.

2. Beating Around the Bush

In an IAS interview, aspirants should avoid beating around the bush by being direct, specific, and honest in their answers. All the UPSC interview panel members are highly experienced in their fields and can easily pick up on guesswork. This means answering the question asked, avoiding unnecessary rambling, and admitting when one doesn't know something instead of lying. A good approach is to be concise, speak to the point, and state the most important information first.

3. Using Complex Words and Jargon

In the final UPSC Interview, aspirants should avoid using complex words and jargon that are difficult to understand. The goal of the UPSC personality test is to communicate ideas clearly, and future civil servants will be dealing with common people in public service, so it is important to keep the language simple.

4. Getting Defensive

Aspirants should avoid getting angry or defensive when facing a difficult question or argument. Even if the panellists challenge one’s views. It is crucial to maintain a calm and composed demeanour and handle tough situations maturely.

5. Not Sticking to the Dress Code

Not sticking to the UPSC interview dress code can make an aspirant appear unprofessional and disrespectful, so it is best to opt for formal, modest, and simple attire. Aspirants should research the dress code and how to carry themselves well on the day of the interview.

6. Interrupting the Panellists

Interrupting is seen as disrespectful to the experienced panel members, who are typically senior individuals from diverse fields. This also reflects poor listening skills and can drastically ruin the image of the aspirant.

Conclusion

The UPSC Mains 2025 results mark an important milestone, transitioning from the written evaluation to the stage of personality assessment. The interview schedule and date is yet to be announced, but it is likely to be held in early 2026. This is a critical time to reflect, refine, and strategically prepare for the interview stage. Aspirants should focus on presenting their ideas with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. The interview stage assesses not just knowledge but overall suitability for public service.

Frequently Asked Questions- FAQ’s