Know More About Race2IAS Exam

Experience IAS exam early and Win exciting Prizes and Scholarships

Race2IAS is India’s first and only national-level Model Civil Service Exam designed exclusively for school and college students — starting from Class 6 onwards. This one-of-a-kind platform offers young minds a powerful early opportunity to explore their aptitude for the Indian Civil Services and lays the foundation for tomorrow’s leaders. Launched in 2017, Race2IAS has grown into the most trusted and prestigious civil service simulation for students in the country. The exam mirrors the three-stage UPSC pattern — Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test — providing participants with a hands-on, age-appropriate experience of what it truly takes to succeed in India’s most competitive exam. What sets Race2IAS apart is the quality and authenticity of the question papers, crafted by civil service experts. Every paper is designed to reflect the real IAS pattern, helping students develop analytical thinking, current affairs awareness, and a problem-solving mindset — the essential qualities of a future civil servant.

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85000+
Participants
250+
cities
1200+
Schools
Four major Steps to Success

Phases of RACE2IAS Model Civil Service Exam

The Race2IAS Model Civil Service Exam is thoughtfully designed to mirror the actual UPSC Civil Service Examination, giving students a realistic, step-by-step experience of what it takes to become a civil servant. The exam is conducted in three stages, each assessing different dimensions of aptitude, knowledge, and personality.

  • Preliminary Examination
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    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.

  • This written stage consists of two descriptive answer papers, each designed to test the student’s depth of knowledge, clarity, and expression.

    • General Studies Paper 1
      Marks: 100 | Duration: 1.5 Hours
      Topics: History, Geography, Environmental Science, and Science & Technology
    • General Studies Paper 2
      Marks: 100 | Duration: 1.5 Hours
      Topics: Indian Polity, Economics, Ethics, and Indian Society

    Students must write well-structured answers, reflect analytical thinking, and support their responses with relevant facts or arguments.

    Mains Exam
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  • Personality Test (Interview)
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    Shortlisted candidates from the Mains are invited to the final stage—the Personality Test—conducted by a distinguished panel of eminent Civil Servants and domain experts. This round assesses confidence and presentation, general awareness and mental clarity,ethical decision-making and social sensitivity, leadership qualities, communication, and presence of mind. It offers a real-life simulation of the UPSC Personality Test and provides valuable feedback from those who’ve served in India’s top administrative roles.

  • Final Result
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    • The final ranking is based on the combined scores of the Mains Examination and the Personality Test.
    • The Prelims stage is only qualifying and does not contribute to the final result.
    • Winners will receive exciting rewards — the Top 5 rank holders will get an all-expenses-paid educational trip to Delhi, while other winners will be awarded free courses on the Race2IAS app, cash prizes and gift hampers. All awards will be presented by senior Civil Servants during a prestigious ceremony.
Categories
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Category 1

Students from class 6, 7, and 8 makes up Category 1

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Category 2

Students from class 9, 10 , 11 and 12 falls under Category 2

Why RACE2IAS Exam

Why RACE2IAS Exam
is a national
model

04 Reasons

1
National-level competition, ranking and exposure
The country’s one-of-its-kind exam provides school students with a firsthand experience of the Civil Service Examination with all-India participation and ranking.
2
Exam on the similar pattern of actual UPSC Civil Service Exam
RACE2IAS Model Civil Service Exam is conducted like an actual UPSC Civil Service Exam with three tier exams and similar syllabus.
3
Comprehensive exam prepared under the mentorship of serving/retired Civil Servants
The exam questions are designed under the able guidance and mentorship of serving and retired Civil Servants. RACE2IAS has its own pool of eminent Civil Servants who support us.
4
Personality Test (Interview) with eminent Civil Servants
Students who clear the Mains exam will earn the opportunity to sit in an in-person Personality Test with eminent Civil Servants. Winners get a lifetime opportunity of meeting with an IAS/IPS Officer in-person.
about
Not just an Exam

Bundled benefits with RACE2IAS Exam Registration

Students enrolled in Race2IAS receive live, interactive classes led by expert mentors and subject specialists. These sessions focus on strengthening core subjects, building analytical thinking and exam-oriented approach, offering real-time interaction, doubt clearance, and mentor support.
Staying updated is key to Civil Service preparation. Race2IAS provides daily current affairs updates focusing on national and international issues relevant to young aspirants, aprofessionally compiled monthly current affairs magazine, curated for easy reading and long-term retention and practice quizzes and revision capsules to reinforce what you’ve learned
Every student receives access to high-quality learning materials, including subject-wise notes tailored to the Race2IAS syllabus, solved question papers from previous editions of the exam to understand the pattern and improve writing skills, model answers and sample essays to develop structured thinking and answer writing techniques
To help students strengthen their preparation, Race2IAS offers interactive practice quizzes based on recent events and important topics, quick revision capsules for easy recall and focused review, answer writing practice for the Mains stage, helping students develop structured thinking, clarity of expression, and time management skills.
Testimonials

Why Do Participants *Hearts* Us?

What makes the Race2IAS exam special? How does this exam transform thousands of students? Listen to the stories of our participants.

Taking part in the Race2IAS Model Civil Service Exam – Edition 8 – was a turning point for me. It was my very first attempt, and I’m thrilled to have secured the 1st rank at the national level. The exam closely follows the UPSC format, with three stages: Prelims (objective MCQs), Mains (essay-style answers), and an Interview – which was my personal favorite. The entire experience was incredible. I had the unique opportunity to interact with former civil servants and present my thoughts with confidence. This journey not only sharpened my writing and communication skills but also strengthened my self-confidence and understanding of current affairs. I’m truly thankful to the Race2IAS team for creating such a meaningful and enriching platform for students like me.

Anna Rose Antony

1st Rank – Race2IAS Edition 8 (Category 1)

Race2IAS has truly been a journey of excellence for me. This is my third time participating in the program. The first time, in Edition 5, I secured the 1st rank under Category 1. In Edition 6, I ranked 6th. And now, I’ve qualified as a winner in Edition 8 under Category 2. From the beginning stages of the prelims to the final personality test, what amazed me most was the constant support. There were always mentors to guide us, live classes to attend, and even recorded sessions if we missed anything. I don’t think any other platform in India offers such a vast and engaging environment for school and college students. Through Race2IAS, you get to experience every aspect of being a civil servant—including emotions like sympathy, empathy, and a true sense of responsibility. My experience was a pleasant and amazing one. No matter what field you choose, I would definitely recommend trying this program at least once. It allows you to taste a bit of reality.

Keerthi A S

Bethany Navajeevan CBSE School, Kanyakumari Winner – Race2IAS Edition 8 (Category 2)

Being part of Race2IAS Edition 8 was a transformative experience for me. The program’s structured guidance and expert-led sessions deepened my understanding of the IAS exam and helped me develop strong study habits and strategies. I particularly saw a significant improvement in my writing skills and gained extensive awareness of current affairs. Race2IAS not only prepared me academically but also inspired me to dream bigger—to become an asset to our nation. I’m truly thankful to the entire Race2IAS team for their constant support and mentorship. With the knowledge and confidence I’ve gained, I’m ready to take the next steps in my IAS journey. I highly recommend this platform to every aspirant aiming for the Civil Services.

Anumol CS

1st Rank – Race2IAS Edition 8 (Category 1)

Race2IAS has been a game-changer in my UPSC preparation journey. It helped me build essential habits like reading the newspaper daily, staying updated on current affairs, and developing the mindset of a future IAS officer. The platform encouraged me to look at every issue from multiple perspectives and provided valuable study materials that strengthened my general awareness. The online classes were especially helpful in making complex topics easier to understand. I’m truly grateful to Race2IAS for this incredible opportunity. It has not only boosted my confidence but also brought me one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming an IAS officer.

Shravani Dattu Shere

Carmel Convent Sr Sec School, Bhopal
Winner – Race2IAS Edition 8 (Category 1)

Joining Race2IAS was a turning point in my journey toward the civil services. I had the dream but lacked clarity on the path—until I found this platform. The recorded and video classes were incredibly helpful. Each stage of the exam helped me grow in confidence and discover my strengths. Most importantly, it made me believe in myself. I’m truly grateful to the Race2IAS team for their constant support and guidance. To anyone with a goal—believe in your abilities, trust the process, and stay committed. Success will follow.

Aneetta Theresa Aji

St. Thomas High School, Wayanad, Kerala
Winner – Race2IAS Edition 8 (Category 2)

FAQs

What we get asked
usually

RACE2IAS Model Civil Service Exam is an exam conducted on All-India Level for school and college students based on the actual IAS Exam with three tier exams and similar syllabus.
Students from Class 6 and above, including college students, are eligible to participate in Race2IAS. The exam is designed to suit different age levels with appropriate question patterns.
Preliminary, Mains exams and Personality Test will be conducted in offline centers.
Registered candidates can download them from the website.
Preliminary exam will be only in English. The Mains Exam can be written both in English or Malayalam.
Go to playstore and download the Testination App.
You can register via the official Race2IAS website. Registration links and deadlines will be announced in advance.
Unlike regular Olympiads, Race2IAS simulates the real UPSC Civil Services Exam format, including answer writing and a personality test. It focuses not just on knowledge, but also on leadership, governance, and analytical thinking.
Yes! Students can participate every academic year, improving their skills and trying for better ranks. Many toppers have advanced from lower ranks in previous attempts.
The three stages of the exam are conducted over a period of a few months:
  • Prelims → Mains → Personality Test
    Each round is announced in advance, giving students enough time to prepare.
Yes. Race2IAS is open to all students across India, regardless of the board of education.
Yes. Race2IAS is a national-level competition. Students from different states of India can participate.
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