All UPSC Exams for Graduates: Eligibility, Age Limit & Job Opportunities

For many Indian graduates, cracking the UPSC exams after college is among the most challenging yet prestigious career goals. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts a wide range of exams to recruit candidates for civil services, defense, engineering, and various central government roles. These jobs come with a lot of responsibility, employment security, and respect from other people.

So, this blog talks about all UPSC exams after graduation that you may take, featuring the eligibility criteria, salary expectations, and how to prepare for upcoming exams.

Why Should You Think About UPSC Jobs After College?

Some of the most prominent jobs in the Indian government, administration, and defense services come under the UPSC department. These positions offer:

• Job Security: Permanent government jobs with benefits after retirement, including a pension.
• Social Status: Roles like IAS, IPS, and IFS carry immense respect in Indian society.
• Good Pay: Competitive salary along with grade pay, HRA, DA, and other allowances.
• Opportunities to Build a Nation: These roles give you the power to shape policies, drive governance, and make a real impact on people’s lives.

There are exams under UPSC after graduation—whether your degree is in arts, science, commerce, or engineering, there’s an opportunity for you. 

Types of UPSC Exams After Graduation

If you have completed graduation, you may apply for the following important UPSC exams:

1. The Civil Services Exam (CSE)

The CSE is one of the most famous UPSC tests after college. It employs people for high-level jobs such as

• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
• Indian Police Service (IPS)
• Indian Foreign Service (IFS)
• Indian Revenue Service (IRS)

The exam is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and the Interview (Personality Test).

2. Indian Engineering Services (IES/ESE)

The IES provides technical management jobs in government sectors, including Indian Railways, CPWD, Defense, and Telecom, to those who have a degree in engineering.

3. Combined Defense Services

Graduates may take the CDS exam for the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force. Though it’s a defense entry, the recruitment is conducted by UPSC.

4. Indian Forest Services

Science graduates may apply for IFoS, which is responsible for managing the nation’s forests, wildlife, and natural resources.

5. CAPF Assistant Commandant

For BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB Assistant Commandants, this exam is required.

There are certain age and qualifying requirements for each of these UPSC tests after graduation.

Basic Requirements for Taking the UPSC Exam

The requirements to take the UPSC test vary a little for each job. 

• Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is required. Certain exams, such as IES or IFoS, demand specific streams of study.
• Nationality: For most UPSC services, candidates must be Indian citizens.
• Attempts: General category candidates can attempt the Civil Services Exam up to 6 times, OBC candidates up to 9 times, while SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts until the age limit is reached.

Before applying for any UPSC exam, it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements clearly.

Age Limit for the UPSC Exam (Post-wise Overview)

The age limit for UPSC exam is 21 to 32 years for general category candidates, with relaxations for reserved categories.

Civil Services (IAS, IPS, and IRS):

• At least 21 years
• Maximum: 32 years for General, 35 years for OBC, and 37 years for SC/ST

The CDS Test:

• Different for each academy: IMA (up to 24 years) and OTA (up to 25 years)

CAPF (AC):

• At least 20 years
• Maximum: 25 years

IES (Engineering Services):

• 21 to 30 years
• People in groups like SC/ST, OBC, PwD, and ex-servicemen may relax.

Check the notice for each exam to find out the most recent age restriction for the UPSC exam.

UPSC Exams After Graduation: Your Gateway to Government Jobs

After graduation, these are some of the most distinguished UPSC jobs you may apply to:

• An IAS officer works in administrative jobs for both the state and the federal government.
• IPS Officer along with the state police and central agencies like the CBI.
• An IFS officer is a diplomat who represents India in other countries.
• An IRS officer is in charge of taxes, customs, and collecting money.
• IFS (Forest): Takes care of forests, the environment, and animals.
• In paramilitary forces, the Assistant Commandant (CAPF) is in charge of battalions.
• Engineer for Indian Railways: In charge of infrastructure and operations via IES.

These positions offer a good salary, the chance to serve the nation, and strong career growth—but first, you must understand the UPSC exam eligibility criteria.

Also read: A Complete Guide on SBI Clerk Exam

Salary Structure for UPSC Jobs After Graduation

According to the 7th Pay Commission, UPSC posts have set pay scales:

• IAS/IPS/IRS Officers: The starting pay is ₹56,100 per month plus HRA, TA, and DA. It may go up to ₹250,000 a month with incentives.
• CAPF (Assistant Commandant): Approx. ₹56,100 along with allowances and benefits.
• CDS Recruits: Post-training, officers earn between ₹56,100 and ₹81,000 per month, depending on rank and years of service.
• IES Officers: The starting salary is approx. ₹56,000 and goes up with experience and promotions.

These earnings also come with a place to live, medical benefits, a pension, and travel allowances during leave.

Preparing for UPSC Exams

Preparing for all of the UPSC exams after college is a long-term goal. 

• Understand the Syllabus & Exam Pattern: Know the structure of Prelims, Mains, and Interview, along with subjects and weightage.
• Choose the Right Optional Subject: Pick based on interest, scoring trends, and availability of study material.
• Make a Realistic Study Plan: A daily schedule with balance between current affairs, static subjects, and revision.
• NCERTs & Standard Books First: Build strong basics before moving to advanced books and notes.
• Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and reliable online sources.
• Practice Answer Writing: For Mains, focus on structured, time-bound answers.
• Mock Tests & Previous Papers: Attempt regularly for both Prelims MCQs and Mains writing practice.
• Revision is Key: Multiple revisions are needed to retain such a vast syllabus.
• Time Management: Balance preparation across GS, optional essays, and CSAT.
• Health & Consistency: Good sleep, diet, and stress management keep preparation sustainable.

Here’s a breakdown of the common expenses involved in preparing for the UPSC exams:

• Books and study materials range from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000, based on the curriculum and number of examinations.
• Online or in-person tutoring costs between ₹10,000 and ₹150,000, depending on the school or platform.
• Mock Test Series, which may cost around 1,000–3,000 rupees.

Final Words

Cracking the UPSC exams after graduation is more than just a career choice; it’s a commitment to serve the nation with integrity and responsibility. From civil services to defense and forest services, UPSC opens doors to diverse opportunities that combine job security, respect, and personal growth. However, success demands clarity on eligibility, consistent preparation, and smart time management. With the right guidance, study plan, and perseverance, graduates from any stream can aim for these prestigious roles. 

And if you’re on a budget, OLX has great deals on secondhand books, laptops, and furniture—everything you need to prep smart. Browse now!

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