UPSC Zoology Optional Previous Year Question Papers can help us understand the pattern of UPSC zoology optional papers and prioritise the topics to study according to the previous patterns, repetitions and format of questions. In this article, we are going to attach the PDFs of previous year UPSC zoology optional papers.
UPSC Zoology Optional Paper 2025
The UPSC Mains Zoology Optional consists of two papers- Paper I and Paper II, both carrying 250 marks, making a total of 500 marks. Zoology is one of the 48 optional subjects offered by UPSC and is often chosen by candidates with a background in life sciences or a keen interest in animal biology.
The UPSC Zoology Optional 2025 examination is scheduled for 31st August 2025 (Sunday), where candidates will appear for:
- Paper VI: Zoology Optional Paper I (Morning Session: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon)
- Paper VII: Zoology Optional Paper II (Afternoon Session: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
UPSC Zoology Optional Paper 2025 will be conducted on 31st August 2025. Candidates can download the PDFs of both the papers from below after the exam has concluded.
UPSC Zoology Optional Syllabus 2025 Overview
Following is the pattern of UPSC Zoology Optional:
| Particulars | Details |
|
Exam Conducting Body |
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
|
Exam Name |
UPSC Civil Services Mains |
|
Optional Subject |
Zoology (Paper I & Paper II) |
|
Marks |
250 marks per paper (Total: 500) |
|
Duration |
3 hours per paper |
|
Exam Date |
31 August 2025 |
|
Official Website |
www.upsc.gov.in |
UPSC Zoology Optional Previous Year Question Papers
Practicing UPSC Zoology Optional previous year question papers is crucial for understanding the exam pattern and recurring themes. Below are the downloadable PDFs:
| Year | Paper I | Paper II |
|
2025 |
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|
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 |
UPSC Zoology Optional Success Rate
The success rate of Zoology as an optional varies every year, but it has consistently provided opportunities for candidates with strong subject knowledge.
|
Year |
No. of Candidates |
Selected |
Success Rate (%) |
|
2020 |
44 |
5 |
12.2% |
|
2019 |
44 |
4 |
9.1% |
|
2018 |
43 |
6 |
14.0% |
|
2017 |
55 |
1 |
1.8% |
UPSC Zoology Optional PYQ Preparation Strategy
To prepare UPSC Zoology optional PYQs, the following strategy can be used:
- UPSC Zoology syllabus can be broken down into micro topics to make the syllabus more manageable.
- Books like R.L Kotpal for Animal Diversity, Cell Biology and Physiology can be studied for reference.
- Candidates should practice making well-labeled diagrams in order to improve the presentation.
- UPSC Zoology Optional PYQs can help in understanding the pattern and relevance of each topic and identify the frequently asked topics.
- Make short notes of classifications, physiology and genetics.
Last updated on January, 2026
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UPSC Zoology Optional Previous Year Question Papers FAQs
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