How to Become an IAS Officer? Know Step By Step Process, Eligibility and Age Limit

How to become an IAS officer requires success in UPSC stages—Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Learn how to become an IAS officer step by step, from exam pattern to final selection and training.

Madhavi Gaur

June 19, 2025

How to Become an IAS Officer? Know Step By Step Process, Eligibility and Age Limit

How to Become an IAS Officer: Becoming an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer is a prestigious aspiration pursued by thousands of young minds each year. The IAS stands as one of the most respected and sought-after services in India, offering authority, responsibility, and an opportunity to make significant contributions to society. 

Candidates who want to appear for the Civil Services Examination must read on and understand how to become an IAS Officer step by step process, covering eligibility, preparation strategy, examination structure, and more.

How to Become an IAS Officer

How to Become an IAS Officer is a question that inspires countless aspirants each year. Becoming an IAS officer requires meeting eligibility criteria, clearing the Civil Services Examination, and undergoing rigorous training. 

Here is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to become an IAS officer step by step to help you pursue this esteemed career in public administration:

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Step 1: Understand the IAS Eligibility Criteria

The first requirement in the journey of how to become an IAS officer step by step is fulfilling the eligibility conditions set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the body responsible for conducting the Civil Services Examination (CSE).

How to Become an IAS Officer Age Limit?

  • Minimum Age: 21 years
  • Maximum Age:

    • General Category: 32 years
    • OBC Category: 35 years
    • SC/ST Category: 37 years

Educational Qualification

  • Must hold a graduate degree from a recognised university.
  • Final-year students and distance learning graduates are also eligible.
  • Professional qualifications like CA, ICWA, ICSI are accepted.
  • Medical students who have completed their degree and internship can also apply.

Number of Attempts

  • General: 6 attempts
  • OBC: 9 attempts
  • SC/ST: Unlimited attempts up to age limit

Step 2: Apply for the Civil Services Examination

Each year, UPSC releases an official notification inviting applications. Candidates must apply online via the official UPSC website. It’s crucial to keep track of notification dates through newspapers or the UPSC site to avoid missing deadlines.

Step 3: Appear for the Preliminary Examination

The Preliminary Exam is the first level of the Civil Services Examination and is qualifying in nature.

  • General Studies Paper I – Tests current affairs, history, polity, economy, geography, environment.
  • General Studies Paper II (CSAT) – Assesses comprehension, logical reasoning, and analytical ability.

Also Read: UPSC Exam Pattern

Each paper carries 200 marks and the duration is 2 hours. Only candidates who clear the Prelims qualify for the next stage.

Step 4: Fill the Detailed Application Form (DAF)

Upon clearing the Prelims, candidates must fill out the DAF for the Mains Examination, providing personal, academic, and service preference details. This form is submitted online and is mandatory for appearing in the Mains.

Step 5: Clear the UPSC Mains Examination

The Mains exam is descriptive and evaluates in-depth knowledge and writing skills. It includes:

  • 2 Qualifying Papers (English and an Indian Language)
  • Essay Paper
  • 4 General Studies Papers
  • 2 Papers on Optional Subject

Total: 9 papers

This is the most comprehensive and challenging phase in the how to become an IAS officer step by step process.

Step 6: Crack the Interview/Personality Test

The final stage is the Personality Test or Interview, which carries 275 marks. It evaluates your personality traits, ethics, awareness, and suitability for public service. This phase is conducted at the UPSC headquarters in New Delhi.

Step 7: Undergo Training at LBSNAA

Candidates who make it to the final merit list are selected as IAS officers and begin their training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. The training lasts approximately two years and is divided into multiple phases involving academic sessions and field training.

Also Read: UPSC Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs)

IAS Officer Selection Process

Understanding the IAS Officer Selection Process is fundamental for those aspiring to serve in the Indian Administrative Service. How to become an IAS officer is a question that begins with qualifying the Civil Services Examination (CSE) conducted annually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

The process is conducted in three distinct stages:

IAS Officer Selection Process Overview
Stage Description
Preliminary Examination (Prelims) This is the first stage of the exam and acts as a screening test. It includes two objective-type papers: General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II (CSAT). While Paper I is considered for merit, Paper II is qualifying in nature.
Main Examination (Mains) This is a descriptive written exam that includes nine papers, of which seven are counted for ranking. It assesses the candidate’s academic knowledge, critical thinking, and understanding of key issues.
Personality Test (Interview) This is the final stage, commonly known as the UPSC Interview. It carries 275 marks and evaluates the candidate’s personality traits, clarity of thought, decision-making, and suitability for public service.

To succeed in these three stages, an aspirant must exhibit consistent preparation, in-depth understanding of national and international affairs, and strong ethical grounding.

Also Read: UPSC Eligibility Criteria 2025

Responsibilities of an IAS Officer

Once selected, an IAS officer undertakes a wide array of responsibilities that vary depending on the nature of their assignment. How to become an IAS officer involves not just passing the exam but also understanding the weight and scope of the duties involved:

1. Field Assignments

  • Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM): The SDM is responsible for maintaining law and order, executing government schemes, and supervising administrative activities at the sub-divisional level.
  • District Magistrate (DM)/Collector/Deputy Commissioner: This is one of the most important field postings. The DM manages the entire district administration, overseeing departments like police, health, education, agriculture, and revenue. They coordinate development and welfare programs and act as a key link between the state and district machinery.

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2. State Secretariat Assignments

  • Officers posted in the State Secretariat provide critical input in the formulation and implementation of policies. They assist the state ministers by offering insights drawn from their field experience. Their expertise is often used in planning, budgeting, and decision-making processes.
  • IAS officers may also serve in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), contributing to management and administration in industrial and infrastructure sectors.

3. Central Secretariat Assignments

  • In central ministries, IAS officers handle policy review, inter-ministerial coordination, and strategic planning.
  • They are involved in national-level policymaking, preparation of bills, and implementation of flagship programs like Digital India, Swachh Bharat, and Make in India.

Each level of assignment offers a different perspective of governance, making the role of an IAS officer both dynamic and impactful.

Be Familiar with the UPSC CSE Exam Pattern and Syllabus

A critical aspect of knowing how to become an IAS officer is gaining familiarity with the exam pattern and syllabus of the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE). The structure is designed to assess a candidate’s intellectual aptitude, comprehension skills, and decision-making capabilities.

1. Preliminary Examination

  • General Studies Paper I: Topics include history, polity, geography, economy, environment, science and technology, and current affairs.
  • General Studies Paper II (CSAT): Tests comprehension, logical reasoning, analytical ability, and decision-making skills. This is qualifying in nature.

2. Main Examination

  • Nine Papers in total:
    • 2 Qualifying Papers: Indian Language and English
    • 7 Papers for Merit: Essay, 4 General Studies Papers (GS I–IV), and 2 Optional Subject Papers
  • The Mains is descriptive in nature, requiring analytical writing and depth of understanding.

3. Interview/Personality Test

  • Focuses not just on academics but on personality attributes, integrity, leadership qualities, and emotional intelligence.

Understanding this structure thoroughly helps aspirants align their preparation effectively across all stages.

To Become an IAS Officer What to Study After 10th?

Though direct entry into the IAS is not possible after Class 10, early planning is beneficial. If you’re wondering to become IAS officer what to study after 10th, consider the following strategic steps:

  • Choose any Stream in Class 11 and 12: The Arts stream is often preferred due to its relevance with UPSC subjects like History, Polity, and Geography.
  • Develop Reading Habits: Reading newspapers like The Hindu or The Indian Express daily builds awareness of national and global issues.
  • Start NCERT Preparation: Begin studying NCERT textbooks from Class 6 to 12, especially for History, Geography, Polity, and Economics.
  • Participate in Debates & Quizzes: This helps improve general awareness and communication skills.
  • Stay Motivated: Understand the purpose behind your ambition and stay focused through school and college.

How to Become an IAS Officer After 12th?

After completing your 12th, the road to becoming an IAS officer involves pursuing higher education and strategic preparation. Here’s how you can begin:

  1. Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Course: Choose a subject of interest. Degrees in Political Science, History, Geography, or Public Administration align well with UPSC topics, but students from all disciplines are eligible.
  2. Understand the UPSC Syllabus Early: Familiarise yourself with the Prelims and Mains syllabus during your college years.
  3. Read Newspapers and Magazines: Current affairs play a crucial role in all three stages of the exam.
  4. Practice Writing: Develop the habit of writing analytical answers and essays. This is critical for the Mains exam.
  5. Join a Coaching Institute or Self-Study: Depending on your confidence and grasp of subjects, opt for the appropriate preparation method.

Can Commerce Students Become IAS Officers?

Yes, commerce students can definitely become IAS officers. How to become an IAS officer does not depend on your academic background but on your ability to understand the UPSC syllabus and prepare accordingly.

  • Commerce as an Optional Subject: UPSC allows you to choose Commerce & Accountancy as your optional subject in the Mains exam. If you are well-versed in subjects like economics, business studies, or accountancy, it’s a strategic advantage.
  • Balance General Studies and Optional Papers: Alongside your commerce background, invest equal effort in preparing subjects like Polity, History, Environment, and Ethics.
  • Focus on Current Affairs: Stay updated with economic policies, budget analysis, and government schemes—this strengthens both GS and interview preparation.

Commerce graduates bring analytical and financial perspectives to administrative roles, which is an asset in governance.

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Conclusion

Understanding how to become an IAS officer requires more than just academic excellence. It demands consistency, dedication, and a genuine passion for public service. Whether you are a school student exploring early or a college graduate planning your next steps, begin your journey by meeting the eligibility requirements, preparing strategically, and believing in your goal. The path may be tough, but the reward—serving the nation as an IAS officer—is truly worth it.

Ready to boost your UPSC 2025 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!

 

How to Become an IAS Officer FAQs

To answer how to become IAS officer eligibility, one must have a graduate degree and be aged 21 or above.

How to become an IAS officer age limit for general category is 32 years; 35 for OBC and 37 for SC/ST candidates.

To become IAS officer what to study after 10th, choose any stream; Arts subjects align best with the UPSC syllabus.

How to become an IAS officer step by step includes eligibility, prelims, mains, interview, and training at LBSNAA.

Yes, many start preparing in college. Knowing how to become an IAS officer step by step helps align your study plan early.

Yes. As per how to become IAS officer eligibility, general category has 6 attempts, OBC has 9, and SC/ST have unlimited attempts until age limit.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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