UPSC Optional Subjects List with Success Rate 2026 – Complete Detailed Guide
Overview
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination includes an Optional Subject in the Mains stage. The optional subject plays a major role in determining the final rank because it carries 500 marks in total across two papers.
Choosing the right optional subject is a strategic decision for aspirants. Many candidates look for the success rate of optional subjects before making a choice. However, success depends on preparation quality, interest, background knowledge, and answer-writing ability rather than only statistics.
This article provides a complete overview of UPSC Optional Subjects for 2026 along with general insights about trends and performance.
Important Dates
The UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026 notification is expected in February 2026.
Notification Release: February 2026
Prelims Examination: May–June 2026
Mains Examination: September–October 2026
Interview Stage: Early 2027
The Optional Subject is selected during the Detailed Application Form (DAF) stage after qualifying the Prelims examination.
Candidates must choose their optional subject carefully before submitting the DAF for the Mains Examination.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for choosing an optional subject are linked to the UPSC Civil Services Examination eligibility.
Candidates must be at least 21 years old and not exceed the upper age limit prescribed for their category.
A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory.
There is no restriction on choosing an optional subject based on graduation stream. Candidates can select any subject from the official UPSC optional subject list regardless of their academic background.
However, some optional subjects may be easier for candidates with academic familiarity in that field.
Application Process
Candidates apply for the Civil Services Examination through the official UPSC website.
After clearing the Prelims examination, candidates must fill out the Detailed Application Form for the Mains Examination.
During this stage, candidates must select one optional subject from the official list provided by UPSC.
The optional subject once selected cannot usually be changed after submission of the application.
Candidates must ensure they have access to study material and guidance before finalizing their choice.
Selection Process
The UPSC selection process consists of Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
The Optional Subject is part of the Mains Examination and consists of two papers, each carrying 250 marks. Together, the optional subject contributes 500 marks to the total Mains score.
The marks obtained in the optional subject are included in the final merit list.
Some optional subjects are considered popular due to availability of resources and overlap with General Studies. These include subjects such as Geography, Public Administration, Political Science and International Relations, Sociology, and Anthropology.
Technical subjects like Mathematics, Engineering disciplines, and Medical Science are often chosen by candidates with relevant academic backgrounds.
Success rate trends vary every year. No subject guarantees higher marks automatically. Performance depends on answer quality, conceptual clarity, and practice.
Candidates should choose an optional subject based on genuine interest, understanding, and availability of resources rather than solely on perceived success rate.
Salary
The choice of optional subject does not affect salary directly. Salary depends on final rank and service allocation.
Candidates selected into IAS, IPS, IFS, and other Group A services receive salary as per the 7th Pay Commission.
The starting basic pay for civil servants is ₹56,100 per month under Pay Level 10.
With promotions and seniority, salary increases significantly, along with additional allowances and benefits.
Direct Official Link
Candidates must refer only to the official Union Public Service Commission website for the updated list of optional subjects and official guidelines:
Always verify the official notification and syllabus before selecting an optional subject.