Every UPSC aspirant wonders about the “safe score” needed to clear different stages of the Civil Services Examination (CSE). The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) does not fix a specific safe score. However, analysing past trends helps in understanding the minimum marks required to stay ahead in the competition.
Safe Score for UPSC Prelims
The UPSC Preliminary Exam has two papers:
Paper |
Total Marks |
Qualifying Criteria |
General Studies (GS) Paper-I |
200 |
Determines selection for Mains |
CSAT (GS Paper-II) |
200 |
Qualifying with 33% (66 marks) |
Read UPSC Syllabus here.
Expected Safe Score for Prelims GS Paper-I
The cutoff changes every year based on factors like difficulty level, vacancies, and competition. Here is an estimate based on previous years:
Category |
Expected Safe Score |
General |
110+ |
OBC |
100+ |
SC |
90+ |
ST |
85+ |
To ensure selection, aim for 110+ marks in Prelims.
Safe Score for UPSC Mains
The UPSC Mains Exam has nine papers. Seven are counted for merit.
Minimum Qualifying Scores (Compulsory Papers)
Paper |
Total Marks |
Qualifying Marks |
English |
300 |
75 (25%) |
Indian Language |
300 |
75 (25%) |
Expected Safe Score for Mains (Total Marks: 1750)
The cutoff for the last recommended candidate is usually between 750-850 marks. A safe score to get an interview call is:
Category |
Safe Score |
General |
850-900 |
OBC |
800-850 |
SC/ST |
700-750 |
Aiming for 900+ marks ensures a strong chance of selection.
Safe Score for UPSC Interview (Personality Test)
The Interview carries 275 marks. Candidates score between 140-210. To be on the safer side, aim for 180+ marks.
Interview Score Range |
Performance |
140-160 |
Low |
160-180 |
Average |
180-200 |
Good |
200+ |
Excellent |
Final Safe Score for UPSC Selection
The final selection depends on Mains (1750 marks) + Interview (275 marks) = 2025 marks.
Expected Safe Score for Final Selection
Service |
Safe Score |
IAS |
1000+ |
IPS |
900-950 |
Other Services |
850-900 |
For IAS under the General category, aim for 1000+ marks.
Factors Affecting Safe Score in UPSC
1. Difficulty Level of Paper
UPSC changes the difficulty of exams each year. A tough paper lowers the cutoff, while an easy one raises it.
2. Number of Vacancies
More vacancies mean a lower cutoff. Fewer vacancies raise the required marks. Read vacancy information of 2025.
3. Number of Candidates Appearing
A higher number of aspirants increases competition and affects the cutoff score.
4. Reservation Quota
Different categories have different cutoffs. OBC, SC, and ST candidates get relaxation in marks.
5. Scaling in Mains Optional Papers
Some optional subjects get higher scaling, affecting the overall safe score.
How to Achieve a Safe Score in UPSC?
1. Strong Prelims Strategy
- Solve previous years’ papers.
- Attempt mock tests regularly.
- Focus on accuracy to avoid negative marking.
2. Effective Mains Preparation
- Practice answer writing daily.
- Follow a structured study plan.
- Cover current affairs along with static subjects.
3. Interview Preparation
- Work on communication skills.
- Stay updated on current affairs.
- Be confident and honest in responses.
4. Time Management
- Allocate time wisely between subjects.
- Follow a daily study schedule.
- Give extra time to weak areas.
5. Choose the Right Optional Subject
- Pick an optional subject with a good success rate.
- Ensure you have interest and understanding in it.
Why Understanding Safe Score Matters?
1. Helps in Goal Setting
Knowing the expected safe score allows aspirants to set realistic targets.
2. Reduces Exam Pressure
Having a clear score target makes preparation more structured and less stressful.
3. Aids in Smart Planning
Aspirants can adjust their strategy based on expected marks.
4. Increases Confidence
When students consistently score above the safe range in mocks, their confidence grows.
Safe Score Trends in Recent Years
The safe score fluctuates each year. Below is a trend analysis:
UPSC Prelims Cutoff Trend (General Category)
Year |
Cutoff Marks |
2023 |
90+ |
2022 |
88+ |
2021 |
87+ |
2020 |
92+ |
2019 |
98+ |
UPSC Mains Cutoff Trend (General Category)
Year |
Cutoff Marks |
2023 |
750+ |
2022 |
760+ |
2021 |
745+ |
2020 |
780+ |
2019 |
775+ |
UPSC Final Cutoff Trend (General Category)
Year |
Cutoff Marks |
2023 |
1000+ |
2022 |
980+ |
2021 |
970+ |
2020 |
990+ |
2019 |
1005+ |
Conclusion
The safe score for UPSC is not fixed. It depends on the year, paper difficulty, and competition. Aiming for 110+ in Prelims, 900+ in Mains, and 180+ in the Interview increases the chances of selection. Aspirants must focus on preparation strategy, answer writing, and current affairs to secure a rank.
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