What Is the UPSC Optional Subject List?

The Union Public Service Commission Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE) is one of the most difficult exams offered by the Indian government. Candidates who pass this exam earn the opportunity to work for a range of civil services roles, widely considered some of the most prestigious careers in the country. Read on to learn more about the UPSC optional subject list, what the UPSC exam entails, how to choose your Civil Service Exam optional subjects, and ways to prepare for the CSE exam.

What is the UPSC Civil Services Exam?

The UPSC Civil Services Exam is a test series conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to find qualified candidates for top government roles. Only a small percentage of candidates qualify for these positions, so take the time to prepare and study to do your best. The CSE has three different stages, spread out over a few months. The first is the preliminary exam, followed by the main exam, and, finally, the personality interview. Developing your writing, thinking, and communication skills can help you meet exam expectations.

Civil Services Exam structure

The Civil Services Exam structure divides the tests into three components. Learn more about each of these stages below:

Stages of the Civil Services Exam

IAS preliminary exam syllabus

The CSE, also known as the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) exam, begins with the preliminary exams (prelims). These tests are objective and require the candidate to complete two papers with multiple-choice questions covering historical, political, or economic topics. Candidates need to reach a particular points benchmark to clear this stage and qualify for the main exam. However, these scores are not counted towards the final marks.

IAS main exam syllabus

The IAS main exams (mains) syllabus requires nine written papers on various topics. Seven of these papers count towards the final score, while two need to meet minimum requirements. Each paper focuses on a topic or question covering history, politics, and technology.

UPSC optional subjects

Two of the main exam papers cover an optional subject. Candidates choose their subject from a list of options given in advance. This paper counts towards the exam’s final score.

UPSC personality test

A board conducts the UPSC personality test and judges a candidate’s ability to speak on various subjects and suitability for civil service work.

What is the UPSC optional subject list?

The UPSC optional subjects list contains almost 50 topics from which a candidate may choose for their optional subject essay. These subjects include:

Why are the Civil Service Exam optional subjects important?

The CSE optional subjects are important because they allow applicants to boost their scores by writing about a subject they feel confident and experienced in. Think about your particular background and interests when choosing a subject because successful papers are a great way to help you score the highest you can. The right optional subject also lets you showcase your expertise, which might help you secure a particular civil services role.

How to choose your UPSC CSE optional subject

When choosing your UPSC CSE optional subject, keeping several key things in mind is helpful. First, think about your study plan. When you approach the list of optional subjects, look for opportunities to choose a subject that has crossover with what you’re already studying, such as history or economics. Choosing subjects that align with your current studies is unnecessary, but if you’re feeling pressed for time or overwhelmed by the study prep, then a subject with overlap might help you feel more confident and assured.

Consider choosing an optional subject with plenty of resources for you to study. This way, you’ll have an easier time finding books or articles and maximise your study time with a wide range of sources to better understand your chosen subject.

Finally, pick an optional subject you feel comfortable with and passionate about. When you’re excited to write on a subject, your interest and expertise will likely come through in your words. A successful paper can help you secure a role in a field that interests you. Consider choosing a subject similar to what you studied in your graduate degree.

Tips to help you prepare for the UPSC CSE

Even though the UPSC CSE is rigorous and only a small fraction of applicants pass the exam successfully, preparation can go a long way. Make a study plan that works for you, then stick to it. You can self-study or hire a tutor or learning coach to help you cover your subjects. Whichever strategy you opt for, commit yourself to a comprehensive study.

Devoting time to reviewing previous exams’ syllabi and questions can help you better understand what to expect. Read newspapers and current news articles to stay updated on the latest world events and better prepare yourself for the papers and the personality interview.

Learn more with Coursera

The UPSC optional subject exams provide a key opportunity for you to display your expertise in the types of subjects that you are interested in working in. By choosing the right optional subjects for your background, you can demonstrate skill and passion, which will help you pass the CSE. 

Sharpen your skills to prepare for the Civil Services Exam, which includes optional subjects with courses and certificates offered on Coursera. With choices such as IIMA - IIM Ahmedabad’s Leadership Skills, you’ll learn important skills needed to have your best chance at successfully passing the CSE. Boost your confidence for the writing and interview portions of the exam with Coursera communication skills courses. Choose your optional subjects by exploring courses from top Indian universities on Coursera today.