UPSC Prelims 2024: Expected Cut-Off Marks for IAS Preliminary Exam

The wait for the UPSC Prelims Result 2024 is nearing its end. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is expected to declare the results of the Civil Service Examination (CSE) Preliminary test conducted on June 16, 2024.

This highly competitive exam serves as a gateway to prestigious administrative services in India, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS).

Exam Pattern and Important Dates

The UPSC CSE Prelims Exam is a one-day affair consisting of two General Studies papers, each carrying 200 marks (100 questions) for a total of 400 marks. As per the exam scheme, negative marking applies, with a penalty of one-third mark deducted for every wrong answer. The minimum qualifying marks for the Prelims are 33% of the total score.

The official announcement regarding the UPSC Prelims Result 2024 date is yet to be made. However, based on past trends, candidates can expect the results to be released in the coming days or weeks.

How to Check UPSC Prelims Result 2024

The UPSC will publish the results on its official website, upsc.gov.in. Once declared, candidates can follow these steps to access their results:

  1. Visit the UPSC website.
  2. Look for the “What’s New” section and locate the link for “UPSC Civil Service Examination-2024 Result.”
  3. Click the link and enter your login credentials (registration ID/roll number).
  4. Submit the details and view your UPSC Prelims Result 2024.
  5. Download and print a copy of the result sheet for future reference.

UPSC CSE Cut-Off Marks

The UPSC determines category-wise cut-off marks for the Prelims exam, which sets the minimum qualifying score for each category. Candidates who score equal to or higher than the cut-off in their respective category will be shortlisted for the next stage of the CSE – the Mains exam.

The official cut-off marks are usually released alongside the results. However, based on expert analysis and past trends, here’s a predicted range for the UPSC CSE Prelims 2024 cut-off marks:

  • General Category: 85-90 marks
  • EWS (Economically Weaker Section): 76-81 marks
  • OBC (Other Backward Classes): 83-88 marks
  • SC (Scheduled Caste): 70-75 marks
  • ST (Scheduled Tribe): 63-68 marks
  • PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities):
    • Category 1, 2, and 3: 53-58 marks
    • Category 4: 40-45 marks
    • Category 5: 42-47 marks

UPSC CSE Merit List

Following the declaration of results, the UPSC will publish a merit list of shortlisted candidates for the Mains exam. This list will include the candidate’s name, roll number, subject-wise marks, and overall score. The merit list will be available for download as a PDF file from the UPSC website.

Factors Affecting UPSC CSE Cut-Off Marks

Several factors influence the UPSC CSE cut-off marks each year. Here’s a breakdown of the key determinants:

  • Overall Difficulty Level of the Exam: If the question paper is considered tough, the cut-off might be lower to account for the challenges faced by candidates. Conversely, a relatively easier paper could lead to a higher cut-off.
  • Number of Vacancies: The total number of vacancies available for various services also impacts the cut-off. A higher number of vacancies might result in a slightly lower cut-off.
  • Number of Candidates Appearing: The number of candidates who take the exam plays a role. A higher number of test-takers could potentially push the cut-off score upwards.
  • Performance of Candidates in Each Category: The overall performance of candidates within a specific category can influence the cut-off for that group.

What Happens After UPSC Prelims Result 2024?

Candidates who clear the UPSC Prelims cut-off in their category will proceed to the next stage of the CSE – the Mains exam. The Mains is a more detailed and comprehensive examination, testing candidates’ in-depth knowledge and writing skills across various subjects. Those who qualify in the Mains will then be called for the interview round, the final stage of the selection process.

Tips for UPSC Prelims Result 2024 Awaiters

While the official announcement regarding the UPSC Prelims Result 2024 awaits, here are some tips for candidates to manage this waiting period effectively:

  • Maintain Patience: The wait for results can be nerve-wracking, but it’s crucial to stay calm and patient. Focus on other activities to avoid getting consumed by anxiety.
  • Analyze Your Performance: If you have a rough idea of your attempted answers and their accuracy based on the answer key released by coaching institutes, you can do a self-assessment. This will help you manage expectations and prepare for the next steps accordingly.
  • Start Preparing for Mains (if shortlisted): For candidates who are confident of clearing the cut-off, it’s wise to utilize this waiting period by starting their preparation for the UPSC Mains exam. This head start can prove beneficial in the long run.
  • Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated by following the official UPSC website and reliable news sources for any announcements regarding the results or the Mains exam schedule.

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Beyond the UPSC Prelims

The UPSC CSE is a marathon, not a sprint. Clearing the Prelims is just the first hurdle. Even for those who don’t make it this time, valuable lessons are learned, and the experience gained can be a stepping stone for future attempts.

There are numerous resources available online and offline to guide aspirants through the entire UPSC preparation process. Remember, perseverance and the right approach are key to success in this highly competitive exam.

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