UPSC CSE Prelims Cut Off Marks (Previous Years)
UPSC CSE Prelims has two papers — GS Paper 1 is counted for the cut-off; CSAT (Paper 2) is qualifying (33% minimum). The GS cut-off is usually modest in raw marks but competition is extreme because every mark separates thousands of candidates.
How to use these cut-offs
- GS Paper 1 cut-off qualifies you for Mains — CSAT must be cleared separately at 33%.
- Cut-off is out of 200 marks (GS Paper 1). Compare mock scores on the same scale.
- Final selection cut-off after Mains + Interview is much higher — Prelims cut-off is only the first gate.
2024 — GS Paper 1 (out of 200, approx.)
Official UPSC PDF lists exact decimals. CSAT qualifying: 66 marks (33%).
| Category | Cut-off (approx.) |
|---|---|
| General | 95–105 |
| EWS | 90–98 |
| OBC | 92–100 |
| SC | 82–90 |
| ST | 78–85 |
2023 — GS Paper 1 (out of 200, approx.)
| Category | Cut-off (approx.) |
|---|---|
| General | 98–108 |
| EWS | 93–101 |
| OBC | 95–103 |
| SC | 85–93 |
| ST | 80–88 |
FAQs
Is UPSC Prelims cut-off the same every year?
No. It depends on vacancies, number of candidates, and paper difficulty. A score that cleared one year may fall short in another — always benchmark against the latest official cut-off.
What score is safe for UPSC Prelims GS?
There is no guaranteed safe score. In recent years, 105–115+ in GS Paper 1 has often been comfortable for General category, but treat that as a planning range, not a rule.