State PSC PCS Exams Guide (UPPSC/MPPSC/BPSC): Prelims, Mains, Interview Pattern
State Civil Services (PCS/State Services) exams in UP, MP, Bihar and Rajasthan follow a common three-stage architecture – Prelims (objective screening) → Mains (written papers) → Interview – with state-specific papers (e.g. state GK/history) and varying optional structures. Prelims is qualifying; mains + interview decide the final rank and service allocation.
Three Stages
| Stage | Format |
|---|---|
| Prelims | GS + CSAT-type objective papers with negative marking; qualifying for mains |
| Mains | Written papers (GS papers + Essay + Hindi/regional language + optional where applicable) |
| Interview | Personality test before the state commission board; DAF-based questions |
Admit Cards & Preparation
- Separate admit cards per stage on the respective PSC portal (e.g. uppsc.up.nic.in) – download each in its window.
- Master state-specific GK (history, geography, polity, schemes, budget, census data of the state).
- Practise mains answer-writing daily with diagrams, data and case studies; keep DAF consistent for the interview.
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FAQs
Do prelims marks count?
No – prelims only shortlists for mains across state PSCs.
What matters most for final rank?
Mains written scores plus interview – answer-writing quality decides toppers.