The Prelims is the first qualifying stage, consisting of two objective-type (MCQ) papers designed to test students’ basic awareness and reasoning ability.
- Paper 1 – General Studies (100 marks | 1 hour):
Covers a wide range of topics including Indian history, geography, general science, environmental awareness and current affairs. This paper is merit-determining. - Paper 2 – CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) (100 marks | 1 hour): Tests logical reasoning, analytical ability, basic mathematics, and comprehension. This paper is qualifying in nature, and students must secure the minimum prescribed marks to advance.
Both papers are in multiple-choice format and aim to filter candidates for the next level based on aptitude and foundational knowledge. The Prelims stage is qualifying only. Scores in this stage do not affect final results.