UPSC & BPSC 2025 Syllabus Explained in Simple Words



Preparing for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) or BPSC (Bihar Public Service Commission) exam in 2025? You've landed in the right place. We have crafted this comprehensive guide to help you understand the 2025 syllabus in simplified language, without missing any vital detail. Whether you're a first-time aspirant or someone aiming to refine your strategy, this detailed explanation will give you a crystal-clear roadmap for both these prestigious exams.


Understanding the Structure of UPSC & BPSC Exams

Before diving into the syllabus, it’s essential to understand the structure of both exams.

UPSC Civil Services Examination Structure

  1. Preliminary Exam (Objective)

  2. Mains Exam (Descriptive)

  3. Personality Test (Interview)

BPSC Combined Competitive Examination Structure

  1. Preliminary Exam (Objective)

  2. Mains Exam (Descriptive)

  3. Interview Round


UPSC 2025 Syllabus – In Simple Language

UPSC Prelims Syllabus (General Studies Paper I & CSAT)

General Studies Paper I (200 Marks)

This paper is used to screen candidates. The marks do not count in the final ranking.

Topics Covered:

  • Current events of national and international importance

  • History of India and Indian National Movement

  • Indian and World Geography – Physical, Social, and Economic

  • Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues

  • Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives

  • General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity and Climate Change

  • General Science

CSAT – General Studies Paper II (200 Marks)

This is a qualifying paper. You must score at least 33% to pass.

Topics Covered:

  • Comprehension

  • Interpersonal skills and communication

  • Logical reasoning and analytical ability

  • Decision-making and problem-solving

  • Basic numeracy (Class X level)

  • Data interpretation


UPSC Mains Syllabus (Total – 1750 Marks)

Compulsory Papers:

  • Paper A – Indian Language (300 Marks) (Qualifying)

  • Paper B – English (300 Marks) (Qualifying)

Papers Counted for Merit:

  1. Essay (250 Marks)

  2. General Studies I (250 Marks) – Indian Heritage & Culture, History & Geography of the World and Society

  3. General Studies II (250 Marks) – Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, International Relations

  4. General Studies III (250 Marks) – Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security

  5. General Studies IV (250 Marks) – Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude

  6. Optional Subject Paper I (250 Marks)

  7. Optional Subject Paper II (250 Marks)

Personality Test / Interview (275 Marks)


BPSC 2025 Syllabus – In Simple Language

BPSC Prelims Syllabus (150 Marks – 2 Hours)

This is a screening test and consists of one paper only.

Topics Covered:

  • General Science

  • Events of national and international importance

  • History of Bihar and Indian History

  • Geography of Bihar and India

  • Indian Polity and Economy

  • Changes in the economy of Bihar post-independence

  • Indian National Movement and Bihar’s contribution to it

  • General Mental Ability

Note: Prelims marks are not counted in the final merit.


BPSC Mains Syllabus (900 Marks)

The Mains consist of four papers:

  1. General Hindi (100 Marks) – Qualifying only

    • Essay, Grammar, Sentence Syntax, and Summary Writing

  2. General Studies Paper I (300 Marks)

    • Indian Culture

    • Modern History of India

    • Contemporary events

    • Statistical Graphs & Charts

  3. General Studies Paper II (300 Marks)

    • Indian Polity

    • Indian Economy

    • Science & Tech

    • International Relations

    • Bihar Special: Polity, Economy, Environment, and Current Affairs

  4. Optional Subject (300 Marks)

    • Choose from 34 subjects (e.g., History, Geography, Sociology, Anthropology, etc.)


BPSC Interview (120 Marks)

The final round tests the personality, decision-making skills, awareness, and suitability for administrative roles.


Key Differences Between UPSC & BPSC Syllabus

FeatureUPSCBPSC
Exam LevelNationalState (Bihar)
Optional SubjectsTwo Papers (250+250)One Paper (300)
GS Paper ComplexityHigher, covers more depthModerate, focused on Bihar also
Language PaperIndian Language + EnglishGeneral Hindi
Interview Weightage275 Marks120 Marks
Current AffairsGlobal + NationalNational + Bihar-centric

How to Prepare Smartly for UPSC & BPSC 2025

1. Understand the Exam Pattern Thoroughly

Always start by studying the syllabus line-by-line. Break it down into weekly and monthly goals.

2. Use NCERTs for Strong Foundation

Begin with Class 6 to 12 NCERTs for subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Science, and Economics.

3. Follow a Trusted Newspaper

For current affairs, read The Hindu or Indian Express and make daily notes.

4. Practice Answer Writing

Answer writing is the heart of Mains. Practice daily with time-bound questions.

5. Attempt Mock Tests

Mock tests help in time management and identifying weaknesses. Use reputed platforms.

6. Revise Religiously

Revision is key. Make concise notes and revise at least 3 times before the final exam.


Recommended Book List for UPSC & BPSC

UPSC Book List

  • Polity – M. Laxmikanth

  • History – Spectrum + NCERT

  • Geography – G.C. Leong + NCERT

  • Economy – Ramesh Singh

  • Environment – Shankar IAS

  • Current Affairs – Vision IAS/Drishti Monthly

BPSC Book List

  • General Studies – Lucent GK

  • Bihar Special – Arihant Bihar GK

  • History & Polity – NCERT + Spectrum + Laxmikanth

  • Science – NCERT Class 6–10

  • Mental Ability – RS Aggarwal


Final Words

The UPSC and BPSC 2025 syllabus, though vast, is manageable with the right strategy and consistent effort. Breaking it down into understandable parts and aligning your preparation accordingly will be the key to success. Stay updated, stay motivated, and remember – discipline beats motivation.

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