The IAS interview, also known as the UPSC Personality Test, is the final stage of the Civil Services Examination process. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the IAS interview:

Interview Details

  • Date: Provisionally set for January 2024
  • Venue: UPSC headquarters, Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, New Delhi.
  • Duration: Typically 20-30 minutes, but can extend up to 45 minutes.
  • Maximum Marks: 275

Interview Techniques

1. Maintain positive body language

2 .Use common sense and critical thinking for puzzles or on-the-spot

3 .Be yourself and express your genuine opinions

    Communication Skills

    1. Improve your command of the language for the interview. Practice speaking with friends in the interview medium.
    2. Speak politely, clearly, and audibly. Maintain eye contact with board members and avoid monotonous or robotic speech.
    3. Focus on the present question rather than dwelling on past responses.

    Pre-Interview Process

    1. E-Call Letter: UPSC issues an E-Call Letter to eligible candidates with interview details.
    2. Document Verification: Candidates must bring original documents and photocopies as specified in the e-call letter.
    3. Biometric Verification: Some candidates may undergo biometric verification.

    Interview Day

    • Arrival Time: 9 AM for morning session, 1 PM for afternoon session.
    • Dress Code: Formal attire (dark trousers with light-colored plain shirt for men, saree or ‘churidar’ for women)
    • Seating: Candidates are seated in a waiting area, often grouped by panel number.

    Preparation Tips

    • Start early and thoroughly review your Detailed Application Form (DAF)
    • Stay updated on current affairs and major events.
    • Develop a positive attitude and self-confidence.
    • Improve communication skills in the interview language.
    • Prepare balanced opinions on contentious topics.
    • Take mock interviews to identify weaknesses and improve consistency.

    During the Interview

    • Provide concise, to-the-point answers
    • Maintain positive body language
    • Be truthful and avoid lying to impress the board
    • Focus on the present question rather than past responses
    • Express genuine opinions and avoid memorized answers