The UPSC Civil Services interview, also known as the Personality Test, is the final stage of the selection process for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and other civil services. This personality test is conducted once the candidate passes the Mains examination. Not every student passes the UPSC personality test.
How UPSC assess a candidate in the Interview round
The UPSC interview is designed to assess the candidate’s personality traits, communication skills, and suitability for the role of a civil servant. The interview panel consists of experienced and knowledgeable professionals who evaluate the candidate’s performance based on various parameters such as their knowledge of current affairs, subject knowledge, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and ethical values. The panel may ask probing questions to test the candidate’s knowledge, assess their decision-making abilities and understand their thought process.
As a result, the interview panel may not find every candidate suitable for the role of a civil servant, and some candidates may not clear the interview. However, candidates who have prepared well, have a good understanding of their subject, are confident and articulate, and possess the necessary personality traits and values may have a better chance of clearing the interview.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for and crack the UPSC Civil Services Interview:
- Be well-informed about current affairs and important issues related to the civil services. Stay up-to-date with the latest news and developments in politics, economics, society, and culture.
- Know your application and the subject you chose. Prepare thoroughly about the subject you have chosen as your optional subject, and make sure you are familiar with the key concepts, theories, and thinkers in the subject.
- Be confident and articulate. Practice speaking clearly and confidently. Try to express your thoughts and ideas logically and coherently.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your background, interests, achievements, and aspirations. The interview panel will want to know more about you as a person, so be prepared to share your experiences, motivations, and values.
- Be honest and authentic. Don’t try to present a false image of yourself or pretend to know something that you don’t. Be yourself and answer the questions truthfully.
- Practice mock interviews with experienced professionals. Seek the help of mentors or coaching centers to prepare yourself for the interview process. Mock interviews can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and give you an opportunity to practice answering questions in a formal setting.
- Dress appropriately and maintain a positive attitude. Dress formally and maintain a professional demeanor throughout the interview. Show enthusiasm and a positive attitude, even if you feel nervous or intimidated.
Note: Remember that the UPSC Civil Services interview is just one part of the selection process, and your performance in the written exams and other stages will also be considered. So, prepare well and give your best effort in all stages of the selection process.
Contact NEEHARIKA REDDY IAS ACADEMY for any queries on UPSC Civil Services exam.
D. Neeharika Reddy – Renowned educationist, mentor and Advocate. Graduated from Gujarat National Law University with B.Sc. L.L.B (Hons.). She has 9 years of experience in mentoring civil services aspirants and mentored more than 500 students in Polity, Geography and Sociology optional. She has also authored Polity book for Civil service aspirants.
