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Check the complete UPSC Optional Subjects List 2025 with subject-wise success rates, PDF download link, and expert tips to choose the best optional for Mains. Learn how your choice can impact your UPSC preparation and final score.
PWOnlyIAS
June 16, 2025
UPSC Optional Subjects List: One of the most crucial decisions for candidates appearing in the UPSC Civil Services Examination is selecting the UPSC Optional Subject for the Mains examination. The UPSC Optional Subjects List is released every year as part of the official UPSC notification. This list contains a total of 48 subjects, including 25 core disciplines and 23 literature subjects. Understanding the UPSC Optional Subjects List 2025 is essential, as it plays a key role in determining a candidate’s overall performance in the Mains stage.
In the Mains stage of the UPSC Civil Services Exam, candidates are required to choose one optional subject from the UPSC Optional Subjects List. This subject consists of two papers: Paper VI and Paper VII, each carrying 250 marks, contributing a total of 500 marks. Unlike the General Studies papers, these are meant to test in-depth knowledge of a particular discipline, giving aspirants an opportunity to showcase their expertise.
The UPSC Optional Subjects List 2025 includes a total of 48 subjects—25 core subjects and 22 literature options. Here is the complete list:
Literature of any one of the following languages:
The UPSC Optional Subjects List PDF contains the complete list of 48 optional subjects, including detailed syllabi and paper structure. Aspirants are advised to regularly check the official UPSC website for timely updates and download the PDF.
| UPSC Optional Subjects List PDF |
| Click Here (Inactive) |
There are 48 optional subjects in total, but candidates are required to choose only one optional subject for the Mains examination. Each subject consists of two papers (Papers VI and VII), each of 250 marks, making the optional subject a crucial part of the Mains exam.
The UPSC Optional Subjects offer a platform for candidates to demonstrate their proficiency and deep understanding of a particular discipline. Unlike the compulsory GS papers, these subjects allow aspirants to build upon their academic background or personal interests. Choosing the right optional subject often becomes a strategic advantage and helps candidates stand out.
Selecting a subject that aligns with one’s strengths and educational background can not only ease preparation but also boost confidence and increase the chances of scoring higher marks.
While the selection is personal, historically, some subjects have been more popular due to high-scoring trends and overlap with the General Studies syllabus:
According to the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), success rates in the UPSC Optional Subjects List for 2019 were:
| Success Rate of Optional Subjects (UPSC 2019 Report) | |||
| Optional Subject | Appeared | Recommended | Success Rate |
| Sociology | 1263 | 126 | 10.0% |
| Anthropology | 1189 | 108 | 9.1% |
| Geography | 1916 | 105 | 5.5% |
| Political Science & IR | 1662 | 137 | 8.2% |
| Public Administration | 705 | 58 | 8.2% |
| Law | 186 | 19 | 10.2% |
| Medical Science | 247 | 26 | 10.5% |
| Commerce & Accountancy | 183 | 20 | 10.9% |
| Management | 54 | 6 | 11.1% |
| Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science | 16 | 3 | 18.8% |
This data highlights how success varies across the UPSC Optional Subjects List and underscores the importance of selecting the right subject.
Choosing the right subject from the UPSC Optional Subjects List 2025 is critical and must be approached thoughtfully. Here are key factors to consider:
A well-chosen optional subject can bring clarity and direction to the UPSC Mains preparation and ensure consistency throughout the study cycle.
The UPSC Optional Subjects List is an essential component of the civil services examination process. A thoughtful selection from the UPSC Optional Subjects List 2025 can significantly impact your chances of success. It is not merely about what is popular but about what aligns best with your interest, background, and preparation strategy. Candidates are advised to carefully go through the UPSC Optional Subjects List PDF, assess all factors, and make an informed decision.
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