Understanding the UPSC syllabus is the foundation of effective preparation. The syllabus is vast, covering multiple subjects across Prelims and Mains stages. Knowing exactly what to study helps you plan your preparation strategy, allocate time efficiently, and avoid wasting effort on irrelevant topics.
The UPSC syllabus for 2026 remains largely unchanged from previous years, covering subjects like History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Environment, Science & Technology, Ethics, and Current Affairs. This comprehensive guide provides the complete UPSC 2026 syllabus.
Prelims Syllabus
Paper I - General Studies (200 marks):
- Current events of national and international importance
- History of India and Indian National Movement
- Indian and World Geography - Physical, Social, Economic Geography
- Indian Polity and Governance - Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues
- Economic and Social Development - Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives
- General issues on Environmental ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change
- General Science
Paper II - CSAT (200 marks - Qualifying):
- Comprehension
- Interpersonal skills including communication skills
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability
- Decision making and problem solving
- General mental ability
- Basic numeracy and data interpretation
Mains Syllabus
Paper A - Compulsory Indian Language (300 marks - Qualifying) Paper B - English (300 marks - Qualifying)
Paper I - Essay (250 marks)
Paper II - General Studies I (250 marks):
- Indian Heritage and Culture
- History and Geography of the World and Society
Paper III - General Studies II (250 marks):
- Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations
Paper IV - General Studies III (250 marks):
- Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management
Paper V - General Studies IV (250 marks):
- Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude
Paper VI & VII - Optional Subject (250 marks each)
Detailed Subject-wise Syllabus
History:
- Ancient India: Indus Valley, Vedic, Mauryan, Gupta periods
- Medieval India: Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, Regional kingdoms
- Modern India: British rule, Freedom struggle, Post-independence
- World History: Industrial revolution, World wars, Colonization
Geography:
- Physical: Geomorphology, Climatology, Oceanography
- Indian: Physiography, Climate, Resources, Agriculture
- World: Distribution of resources, Industries, Population
Polity:
- Constitution: Preamble, Fundamental Rights, DPSP
- Political System: Parliament, Executive, Judiciary
- Governance: E-governance, Transparency, Accountability
Economy:
- Basic concepts: National income, Inflation, Fiscal policy
- Indian Economy: Planning, Reforms, Sectors
- Current issues: GST, Digital economy, Inclusive growth
Environment:
- Ecology basics, Biodiversity, Climate change
- Environmental degradation and conservation
- International conventions and protocols
Optional Subject Syllabus
48 optional subjects available including:
- Literature subjects (20+)
- Social Science subjects (Public Administration, Sociology, Geography, etc.)
- Science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, etc.)
- Professional subjects (Law, Management, etc.)
Each optional has detailed syllabus covering both theoretical and applied aspects across two papers of 250 marks each.
Conclusion
The UPSC syllabus is comprehensive, covering humanities, sciences, current affairs, and ethics. Understanding the complete syllabus helps you plan effective preparation. Focus on high-weightage topics, integrate current affairs with static portions, and choose your optional subject wisely.
Use UPSC.AI's syllabus-based study modules to ensure complete coverage and systematic preparation for UPSC 2026!