The UPSC Mains Exam 2025 includes a Compulsory English Language Paper, which is a qualifying test and does not add to the final merit ranking which is held on 30 August 2025 in the second shift from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
This paper is subjective in nature, carries 300 marks, and must be completed within 3 hours. The medium of the exam is strictly English. To qualify, candidates need to secure at least 75 marks out of 300. While the marks do not count towards the final merit list, clearing this paper is essential, as it serves as a key part of the evaluation process.
UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025
The UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025 is a compulsory qualifying paper for all candidates, irrespective of their chosen optional subject. It evaluates a candidate’s grasp of basic grammar, comprehension, and essay-writing skills. Since the paper is qualifying in nature, candidates are required to secure at least 25% marks to proceed further in the exam process.
| UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025 | |
| Feature | Details |
|
Exam Name |
UPSC Mains English Exam 2025 |
|
UPSC Mains Exam Date |
30 August 2025 |
|
Paper Type |
Compulsory and Qualifying |
|
Total Marks |
300 |
|
Qualifying Marks |
75 |
|
Duration |
3 hours |
|
Sections |
Essay, Precise, Comprehension, Grammar |
|
Language |
English |
|
Passing Requirement |
Must score at least 25% marks |
Also Check: UPSC Mains Question Paper 2025
UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025 Download PDF
Candidates can download the UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025 PDF from this page to use for reference and future preparation. The PDF will serve as a useful resource for future aspirants to analyze the exam pattern, question trends, and overall difficulty level.
UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025 Download PDF
Also Check:
UPSC English Compulsory Syllabus 2025
Candidates preparing for the UPSC Exam 2025 should have a clear understanding of the UPSC English Compulsory Syllabus 2025. The English paper evaluates the skills in essay writing, précis writing, reading comprehension, translation, and grammar.
UPSC English Paper A
This is a compulsory language paper designed to assess a candidate’s command of English. It includes:
- Essay writing
- Reading comprehension
- Précis writing
- Translation
- Grammar and vocabulary
UPSC English Paper B
This paper applies to candidates who opt for English as their optional subject. Unlike Paper A, it is literature-focused and requires an in-depth understanding of English literary works. The syllabus covers:
- Poetry
- Prose
- Drama
- Literary criticism
UPSC English Compulsory Previous Year Question Paper
UPSC English Compulsory Question Papers from 2018 to 2024 are available here to aid aspirants in their preparation. These papers can be accessed in PDF format, making them a valuable resource for understanding the exam pattern and practice.
| UPSC English Compulsory Previous Year Question Papers | |
| Year | PDF Links |
|
2024 |
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2023 |
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2022 |
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2021 |
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2020 |
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2019 |
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Last updated on August, 2026
→ UPSC Mains 2026 will be conducted on 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 29th and 30th August 2026.
→ Check out the latest UPSC Syllabus 2026 here.
→ UPSC Mains Admit Card 2026 is expected to be released in early August at upsc.gov.in or upsconline.nic.in
→ Enroll in Vajiram & Ravi’s UPSC Mains Test Series 2027 for structured answer writing practice, expert evaluation, and exam-oriented feedback.
→ Join Vajiram & Ravi’s UPSC Mentorship Program 2027 for personalized guidance, strategy planning, and one-to-one support from experienced mentors.
→ Go through the UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers to enhance your preparation.
→ Download UPSC Mains Essay Paper 2025, UPSC Mains GS Paper-I 2025, UPSC Mains GS Paper-II 2025, UPSC Mains GS Paper-III 2025, UPSC Mains GS Paper-IV 2025, UPSC Mains English (Compulsory) Paper 2025, UPSC Mains Hindi (Qualifying) Paper 2025 here.
→ UPSC has released UPSC Toppers List 2025 with the Civil Services final result on its official website.
→ UPSC Calendar 2027 has been released.
→ Also check Best UPSC Coaching in India
UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025 FAQs
Q1. What is the UPSC English Compulsory Paper?+
Q2. How many marks is the English Compulsory Paper?+
Q3. Is the English Compulsory Paper mandatory for all candidates?+
Q4. Does the English Compulsory Paper affect UPSC merit ranking?+
Q5. What is the syllabus for the UPSC English Compulsory Paper 2025?+
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