State PSC & State Govt · Uttarakhand · Updated October 2026
UKPSC Upper PCS ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
UKPSC Combined State Civil / Upper PCS
Administered by the Uttarakhand Public Service Commission, the Combined State Civil / Upper Subordinate Services exam recruits Deputy Collectors, DSPs, Finance Officers, Assistant Commissioners (State Tax), and BDOs across Uttarakhand. The modernized syllabus features a two-paper Prelims followed by eight compulsory descriptive Mains papers including two dedicated to Uttarakhand.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- State · Uttarakhand
- Conducting body
- Uttarakhand PSC
Start for free with UKPSC Upper PCS syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
UKPSC Upper PCS exam overview and highlights
About UKPSC Upper PCS
The Uttarakhand Combined State Civil / Upper Subordinate Services Examination (popularly known as UKPSC Upper PCS) is the flagship civil services examination of Uttarakhand, conducted by the Uttarakhand Public Service Commission from Haridwar (Gurukul Kangri). It recruits Group-A and Group-B gazetted officers into the Uttarakhand Civil Service (Executive Branch - Deputy Collector / SDM), Uttarakhand Police Service (Deputy Superintendent of Police), Finance Officer (Treasury / Accounts), Assistant Commissioner (State Tax / GST), Block Development Officer (BDO), District Supply Officer, and Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO). Following major cabinet-approved reforms modeled on UPPSC and UPSC in 2024, UKPSC abolished the old quantitative/aptitudeMains paper and replaced it with a UPSC-aligned 8-paper descriptive Main Examination (1,500 marks total)—comprising General Hindi (150), Essay (150), GS Papers I to IV (200 each), and two dedicated 200-mark Uttarakhand Special papers (GS Paper V and GS Paper VI)—followed by a 150-mark Personality Test.
The examination process for UKPSC Upper PCS comprises 3 stages: Preliminary Examination, followed by Main Examination (Revised 8-Paper Descriptive Pattern - 1,500 Marks), followed by Interview (Personality Test). The official syllabus tests candidates across 6 core areas — Uttarakhand History, Culture, Statehood Movement & Polity (Mains GS Paper V - 200 Marks), Uttarakhand Geography, Economy, Migration, Forests & Disasters (Mains GS Paper VI - 200 Marks), Indian Heritage, History, Society & World Geography (Mains GS Paper I - 200 Marks), Indian Constitution, Governance & International Relations (Mains GS Paper II - 200 Marks), Indian Economy, Science & Technology, Environment and Internal Security (Mains GS Paper III - 200 Marks), Ethics (GS Paper IV), General Hindi & Essay (Mains Papers 1, 2 & 6) — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Prelims Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying at 33% (for all categories), and Prelims Paper I (150 marks, with at least one-third questions on Uttarakhand) shortlists candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, all 8 compulsory descriptive papers (1,500 marks total) are counted for merit, with a minimum 35% (53 out of 150) required in General Hindi. Final merit is out of 1,650 marks (1,500 Mains + 150 Interview).
Key subjects
- Uttarakhand History, Culture, Statehood Movement & Polity (Mains GS Paper V - 200 Marks)
- Uttarakhand Geography, Economy, Migration, Forests & Disasters (Mains GS Paper VI - 200 Marks)
- Indian Heritage, History, Society & World Geography (Mains GS Paper I - 200 Marks)
- Indian Constitution, Governance & International Relations (Mains GS Paper II - 200 Marks)
- Indian Economy, Science & Technology, Environment and Internal Security (Mains GS Paper III - 200 Marks)
- Ethics (GS Paper IV), General Hindi & Essay (Mains Papers 1, 2 & 6)
What clearing UKPSC Upper PCS leads to
- Deputy Collector / Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM, Uttarakhand Civil Service - Executive Branch)
- Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP, Uttarakhand Police Service)
- Finance Officer / Treasury Officer (Uttarakhand Finance Service)
- Assistant Commissioner (State Tax / GST)
- Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) & District Supply Officer (DSO)
- Block Development Officer (BDO) & District Panchayati Raj Officer (DPRO)
Quick facts
- Full name
- UKPSC Combined State Civil / Upper PCS
- Conducting body
- Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC)
- Frequency
- Periodic (typically every 1 to 2 years based on state requisitions)
- Exam mode
- Offline (OMR sheet) for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains
- Languages
- Hindi and English
- Stages & papers
- 3 stages (11 papers total)
- Negative marking
- One-fourth (0.25) of the marks allotted to a question deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains
- Official website
- psc.uk.gov.in
UKPSC Upper PCS — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of UKPSC Upper PCS conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UKPSC Upper PCS — UKPSC Combined State Civil / Upper PCS |
| Conducting Body | Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) |
| Exam Category | State PSC & State Govt |
| Exam Level | State level (Uttarakhand) |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Recruitment (Direct Recruitment & Cadre Selection) |
| Exam Frequency | Periodic (typically every 1 to 2 years based on state requisitions) |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Notification in March; Prelims in July; Mains in November or December; Interviews in March or April |
| Mode of Application | Online via the official UKPSC recruitment portal at psc.uk.gov.in / ukpsc.net.in |
| Mode of Examination | Offline (OMR sheet) for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains |
| Medium / Exam Languages | Hindi and English |
| Selection Stages | 3 Stages (11 Papers Total): Preliminary Examination → Main Examination (Revised 8-Paper Descriptive Pattern - 1,500 Marks) → Interview (Personality Test) |
| Negative Marking | One-fourth (0.25) of the marks allotted to a question deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains |
| Selection / Merit Process | Prelims Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying at 33% (for all categories), and Prelims Paper I (150 marks, with at least one-third questions on Uttarakhand) shortlists candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, all 8 compulsory descriptive papers (1,500 marks total) are counted for merit, with a minimum 35% (53 out of 150) required in General Hindi. Final merit is out of 1,650 marks (1,500 Mains + 150 Interview). |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university established by law in India (specific postgraduate or B.Ed./Law qualifications apply only to specialized posts like Deputy Education Officer or Probation Officer). |
| Age Limit | 21 to 42 years as on July 1 of the recruitment year, with 5 years upper age relaxation (up to 47 years) for SC, ST, OBC, and Dependents of Freedom Fighters of Uttarakhand, and 10 years for PwBD. |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | 7th CPC Pay Matrix Level 10 (INR 56,100 to INR 1,77,500) for Deputy Collector (SDM), DSP, Finance Officer, Assistant Commissioner State Tax, and ARTO; Level 7 (INR 44,900 to INR 1,42,400) for BDO, Sub-Registrar, and District Probation Officer |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | Around 1.5 to 2.5 lakh applicants competing for 150 to 300 Upper Subordinate posts |
| Official Website | psc.uk.gov.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
UKPSC Upper PCS exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for UKPSC Upper PCS. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official Uttarakhand PSC website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| UKPSC Upper PCS Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Notification in March; Prelims in July; Mains in November or December; Interviews in March or April | Periodic (typically every 1 to 2 years based on state requisitions) |
| Online Registration & Application Fee Window | Typically remains open for 21 to 30 days from the date of notification release | Online Portal |
| Application Form Correction / Edit Window | 2 to 5 days immediately following the close of the online registration window | As Notified |
| Exam City Intimation & Admit Card Release | City slip 10–15 days prior; Hall Ticket / E-Admit Card 4 to 10 days before the exam date | Via Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) |
| UKPSC Upper PCS — Preliminary Examination | Notification in March; Prelims in July; Mains in November or December; Interviews in March or April | Offline (OMR sheet) for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains |
| UKPSC Upper PCS — Main Examination (Revised 8-Paper Descriptive Pattern - 1,500 Marks) | Typically 6 to 12 weeks after declaration of Stage 1 results | Shortlisted Candidates |
| Provisional Answer Key & Objection Representation Window | Within 3 to 10 days after completion of the objective examination shifts | Online Challenge |
| Final Answer Key, Normalized Result & Merit List / Scorecard | Typically 3 to 6 weeks after conclusion of the examination stage | Merit List PDF / Login |
- Vacancies & Competition
- Around 1.5 to 2.5 lakh applicants competing for 150 to 300 Upper Subordinate posts. Exact post-wise, department-wise, and category-wise (UR, EWS, OBC, SC, ST, ESM, PwBD) vacancies are notified in the official UKPSC Upper PCS recruitment advertisement published by Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC).
- Application Fee & Payment Norms
- Standard Banking & Insurance application fee slabs apply: typically ₹750 to ₹850 (inclusive of GST) for General/OBC/EWS candidates, and ₹125 to ₹175 (intimation charges only) for SC/ST/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen candidates via online payment.
How to apply online for UKPSC Upper PCS
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit psc.uk.gov.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online via the official UKPSC recruitment portal at psc.uk.gov.in / ukpsc.net.in.
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the UKPSC Upper PCS application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (Hindi and English), and choose 3 to 4 preferred test cities.
Upload Photograph, Signature & Category Certificates
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in prescribed KB dimensions and light background), scanned running-hand signature, and valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD/Domicile certificates where applicable.
Online Application Fee Payment & Confirmation Page
Pay the category-wise examination fee via UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or e-Challan before the closing deadline, then download and preserve the final UKPSC Upper PCS Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
UKPSC Upper PCS eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for UKPSC Upper PCS must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by Uttarakhand PSC.
Educational qualification
Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university established by law in India (specific postgraduate or B.Ed./Law qualifications apply only to specialized posts like Deputy Education Officer or Probation Officer).
Age limit & relaxations
21 to 42 years as on July 1 of the recruitment year, with 5 years upper age relaxation (up to 47 years) for SC, ST, OBC, and Dependents of Freedom Fighters of Uttarakhand, and 10 years for PwBD.
Number of attempts
No limit on the number of attempts within the 42/47-year upper age ceiling.
Nationality & domicile
Indian citizen.
Other conditions & standards
Minimum 35% marks (53 out of 150) in the General Hindi paper of Mains is compulsory to qualify. 30% horizontal reservation applies for Uttarakhand Domicile Women. Physical standards apply for DSP and District Commandant Homeguards.
UKPSC Upper PCS — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) (Uttarakhand Domicile) | +5 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Requires valid Uttarakhand permanent domicile and caste certificate issued by the competent revenue authority. |
| Other Backward Classes — Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) (Uttarakhand Domicile) | +3 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Candidate must fall outside the Creamy Layer as on the crucial closing date of the online application. |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD — UR / OBC / SC-ST) | +10 Years (UR) / +13 Years (OBC) / +15 Years (SC/ST) | Subject to post suitability and 40%+ benchmark disability certificate under the RPwD Act, 2016. |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) & Commissioned Officers (ECO / SSCO) | +3 to 5 Years after deducting military service rendered from actual age | Must produce discharge book / NOC from the competent defence authority at document verification. |
| State Government Employees / Women / Departmental Candidates (Uttarakhand) | Up to +5 Years as per state service recruitment rules | Applicable to regular Uttarakhand state government servants and horizontal reservation categories notified in the advertisement. |
UKPSC Upper PCS selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: One-fourth (0.25) of the marks allotted to a question deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains. Selection & Merit Weightage: Prelims Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying at 33% (for all categories), and Prelims Paper I (150 marks, with at least one-third questions on Uttarakhand) shortlists candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, all 8 compulsory descriptive papers (1,500 marks total) are counted for merit, with a minimum 35% (53 out of 150) required in General Hindi. Final merit is out of 1,650 marks (1,500 Mains + 150 Interview).
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
Offline (OMR sheet) • 2 Papers (Paper I: General Studies (History, Geography, Polity, Economy, General Science & Environment of India and Uttarakhand, plus Current Events), Paper II: General Aptitude Test (CSAT - Aptitude, Communication, Logical Reasoning, Analytical Ability, Decision Making, Numeracy & Hindi/English Language Comprehension)) • Questions: 150 (1 mark each) • 300 Total Marks • Duration: 2 hours • An objective OMR screening test consisting of two papers of 150 marks each with 1/4 negative marking.
An objective OMR screening test consisting of two papers of 150 marks each with 1/4 negative marking. At least one-third (33% or ~50 questions) of Paper I is dedicated to Uttarakhand History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Culture. Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying at 33%.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Paper I: General Studies (History, Geography, Polity, Economy, General Science & Environment of India and Uttarakhand, plus Current Events)Determines cutoff for Mains shortlisting; ~50 questions on Uttarakhand; 0.25 negative marking 150 (1 mark each) 150 2 hours Paper II: General Aptitude Test (CSAT - Aptitude, Communication, Logical Reasoning, Analytical Ability, Decision Making, Numeracy & Hindi/English Language Comprehension)Qualifying only; minimum 33% (49.5 marks) required across all categories 100 (1.5 marks each) 150 2 hours Stage 2: Main Examination (Revised 8-Paper Descriptive Pattern - 1,500 Marks)
Descriptive, pen and paper • 8 Papers (Paper 1: General Hindi (Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Précis, Official Drafting & Translation), Paper 2: Essay (3 Essays of 700-800 words & 50 marks each across Section A, Section B, and Section C including Uttarakhand social/environmental/developmental themes), Paper 3: General Studies I (Indian Heritage & Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society) + 5 more) • Questions: Descriptive • 1500 Total Marks • Duration: 3 hours • An eight-paper conventional descriptive examination totaling 1,500 marks with NO optional subjects.
An eight-paper conventional descriptive examination totaling 1,500 marks with NO optional subjects. Every paper counts toward the final merit list (with a mandatory 35% floor in Paper 1: General Hindi), and Papers 7 and 8 (GS V and GS VI - 400 marks combined) are dedicated exclusively to the State of Uttarakhand.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Paper 1: General Hindi (Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Précis, Official Drafting & Translation)Counted for final merit AND requires minimum 35% (53 marks) to qualify Descriptive 150 3 hours Paper 2: Essay (3 Essays of 700-800 words & 50 marks each across Section A, Section B, and Section C including Uttarakhand social/environmental/developmental themes)Counted for final merit; can be written in Hindi or English 3 Essays (50 marks each) 150 3 hours Paper 3: General Studies I (Indian Heritage & Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society)Counted for final merit Descriptive 200 3 hours Paper 4: General Studies II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International Relations)Counted for final merit Descriptive 200 3 hours Paper 5: General Studies III (Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management)Counted for final merit Descriptive 200 3 hours Paper 6: General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude)Counted for final merit Descriptive & Case Studies 200 3 hours Paper 7: General Studies V (Knowledge of State of Uttarakhand - I: History, Culture, Architecture, Literature, Tribes, Freedom Struggle, Uttarakhand Statehood Movement, Polity, Panchayati Raj, Land Laws, Revenue Police Removal, and Public Policy of Uttarakhand)100% Uttarakhand specific; counted for final merit Descriptive 200 3 hours Paper 8: General Studies VI (Knowledge of State of Uttarakhand - II: Economy of Uttarakhand, State Budget, Migration & Ghost Villages, Tourism, Hydropower, Horticulture, Physical & Human Geography of Uttarakhand, Glaciers, Rivers, Forests, Van Panchayats, and Disaster Management in Uttarakhand)100% Uttarakhand specific; counted for final merit Descriptive 200 3 hours Stage 3: Interview (Personality Test)
In-person interview • 1 Paper (Personality Test / Viva-Voce) • 150 Total Marks • Candidates shortlisted in a 1:3 ratio from the Main Examination appear before the UKPSC Board in Haridwar for a 150-mark Interview assessing administrative leadership, Himalayan disaster/ecological sensitivity, and integrity.
Candidates shortlisted in a 1:3 ratio from the Main Examination appear before the UKPSC Board in Haridwar for a 150-mark Interview assessing administrative leadership, Himalayan disaster/ecological sensitivity, and integrity.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Personality Test / Viva-VoceAdded to 1,500 Mains marks for a grand total of 1,650 marks Varies 150 Varies Stage 4: Document Verification, Medical Fitness & Final Cadre/Post Allotment
In-person verification by Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) • Original academic, age, category & domicile certificates • Medical fitness examination & final merit allocation
Candidates shortlisted in the final merit list undergo thorough verification of original educational, age, category and domicile certificates followed by a prescribed medical fitness examination before appointment letters and cadre/department allotments are issued.
UKPSC Upper PCS subject-wise syllabus and study material
SmartRank organizes chapter-wise study notes for every subject below in 12 languages, with an AI Tutor on hand for doubts. Start exploring for free, and unlock the complete syllabus with Learn or SmartRank Pass.
Uttarakhand History, Culture, Statehood Movement & Polity (Mains GS Paper V - 200 Marks) — Part I (Ancient & Medieval Uttarakhand)
- Ancient & Medieval Uttarakhand (Kedar Khand & Manas Khand): Kuninda dynasty, Katyuri dynasty (Kartikeyapura), Chand dynasty of Kumaon, Panwar (Parmar) dynasty of Garhwal & Tehri Riyasat, and Gorkha Rule in Uttarakhand (1790-1815) & Treaty of Sugauli
- British Rule in Kumaon-Garhwal (Traill's revenue settlements), Coolie Begar Movement (Bageshwar, January 1921), Dola-Palki Movement (Jayanand Bharti), Tilari / Rawain Forest Massacre (May 30, 1930), Peshawer Incident (Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali), and Tehri Praja Mandal (Sridev Suman)
- Uttarakhand Statehood Movement: Kumaon Parishad, Kranti Dal, Khatima, Mussoorie, and Rampur Tiraha (Muzaffarnagar) firing incidents (1994), and UP Reorganisation Act 2000 (formation on November 9, 2000)
Uttarakhand History, Culture, Statehood Movement & Polity (Mains GS Paper V - 200 Marks) — Part II (5 Scheduled Tribes of Uttarakhand)
- 5 Scheduled Tribes of Uttarakhand (Tharu, Buksa, Bhotiya, Jaunsari, Raji), folk dances (Chholiya, Jhora, Chanchari, Pandav Nritya, Barada Nati), Jagar & Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra, Aipan art, Kumaoni/Garhwali/Jaunsari literature, and Katyuri/Nagara temple architecture (Jageshwar, Katarmal, Baijnath, Char Dham)
- Polity & Governance of Uttarakhand: Unicameral Legislature (70 seats), High Court at Nainital, transition from British-era Patwari (Revenue Police) system to regular police stations, Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Uttarakhand 2024, Strict Land Laws (Bhu-Kanoon), and Uttarakhand Panchayati Raj Act 2016
Uttarakhand Geography, Economy, Migration, Forests & Disasters (Mains GS Paper VI - 200 Marks) — Part I (Physiographic divisions of Uttarakhand)
- Physiographic divisions of Uttarakhand: Trans-Himalaya, Greater Himalaya (Nanda Devi, Kamet), Lesser Himalaya (Mussoorie, Nag Tibba, Bugyals/alpine meadows), Dun Valleys, Shivaliks, Bhabar, and Terai
- Drainage systems & Panch Prayag (Vishnuprayag, Nandaprayag, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, Devprayag): Alaknanda, Bhagirathi, Mandakini, Kali (Sharda), Tons, and Yamuna basins; glaciers (Gangotri, Milam, Pindari) and glacial lakes (Roopkund, Hemkund, Nainital, Bhimtal)
- Forests & Biodiversity: Jim Corbett, Nanda Devi (UNESCO), Valley of Flowers (UNESCO), Rajaji, Gangotri, and Govind National Parks; Chipko Movement (Gaura Devi, Chandi Prasad Bhatt, Sunderlal Bahuguna), Maiti Movement (Kalyan Singh Rawat), and Van Panchayats (1931)
Uttarakhand Geography, Economy, Migration, Forests & Disasters (Mains GS Paper VI - 200 Marks) — Part II (Economy of Uttarakhand)
- Economy of Uttarakhand: Economic Survey, GSDP, Rural Out-Migration & 'Ghost Villages' (Rural Development and Migration Prevention Commission reports), Homestay/Adventure/Pilgrimage Tourism (Char Dham All-Weather Road, Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project), Organic Horticulture/Millets, and SIDCUL hubs (Haridwar, Pantnagar, Sitarganj)
- Disaster vulnerability in Uttarakhand: Joshimath land subsidence, Kedarnath 2013 & Rishiganga/Tapovan 2021 tragedies, Silkyara tunnel rescue lessons, cloudbursts, forest fires, and Seismic Zone IV/V preparedness
Indian Heritage, History, Society & World Geography (Mains GS Paper I - 200 Marks)
- Indian art, culture, and architecture from ancient to modern times, Modern Indian History (1757-1947), Post-independence reorganization, and World History
- Salient features of Indian society, women's organizations, urbanization, and physical/human geography of India and the World
Indian Constitution, Governance & International Relations (Mains GS Paper II - 200 Marks)
- Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, DPSP, Federalism, Parliament & State Legislatures, Judiciary, and Constitutional/Statutory commissions
- Development processes, e-Governance (Apuni Sarkar), Right to Service Act, Citizen's Charters, welfare schemes, and India's foreign policy (especially strategic border relations with China/Tibet and Nepal along Uttarakhand's international borders)
Indian Economy, Science & Technology, Environment and Internal Security (Mains GS Paper III - 200 Marks)
- Indian Economy, NITI Aayog, inclusive growth, government budgeting, agriculture, food processing, and infrastructure
- Science & Technology, space, IT, biotechnology, EIA, biodiversity conservation, and internal/border security (Vibrant Villages Programme in border blocks of Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Pithoragarh)
Ethics (GS Paper IV), General Hindi & Essay (Mains Papers 1, 2 & 6)
- Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude (200 marks): human values, attitude, emotional intelligence, moral thinkers, probity in governance, and administrative case studies
- General Hindi (150 marks - mandatory 35% floor + counted in merit): grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, précis, official letter drafting, and translation
- Essay (150 marks): three essays including one dedicated section on Uttarakhand's socio-cultural, ecological, and economic landscape
UKPSC Upper PCS salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
7th CPC Pay Matrix Level 10 (INR 56,100 to INR 1,77,500) for Deputy Collector (SDM), DSP, Finance Officer, Assistant Commissioner State Tax, and ARTO; Level 7 (INR 44,900 to INR 1,42,400) for BDO, Sub-Registrar, and District Probation Officer. Appointments under Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
7th CPC Pay Matrix Level 10 (INR 56,100 to INR 1,77,500) for Deputy Collector (SDM), DSP, Finance Officer, Assistant Commissioner State Tax, and ARTO; Level 7 (INR 44,900 to INR 1,42,400) for BDO, Sub-Registrar, and District Probation Officer.
Appointing / Cadre Authority
Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) (Uttarakhand State Government Service)
Allowances & Perks
Dearness Allowance (DA), HRA (by city classification), Medical Allowance, TA, and Uttarakhand NPS / Pension benefits.
Probation & Training
Initial probation period (typically 1 to 2 years) with induction/foundation training before cadre confirmation.
Allowances, Perks & Service Benefits
- Dearness Allowance (DA) revised bi-annually in line with Consumer Price Index (AICPI)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) or official government quarters / leased accommodation
- Transport Allowance (TA), Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and Children Education Allowance
- Comprehensive medical care (CGHS / ECHS / State Health Scheme) for employee and dependents
- National Pension System (NPS) employer contribution, gratuity, and paid maternity/paternity/study leave
Promotion Hierarchy & Career Progression
- Entry-Level Cadre Appointment (Post allotment & induction training under Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC))
- Senior / Higher Grade Scale via Time-Bound Financial Upgradation (MACP / Dynamic ACP)
- Sectional / Supervisory / Inspector / Assistant Executive Cadre via Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) or LDCE
- Middle Management / Gazetted / Divisional Officer Scale
- Senior Administrative / Directorate / Executive Leadership Cadre
UKPSC Upper PCS cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) releases stage-wise and category-wise UKPSC Upper PCS cut-off marks at each stage (Prelims/Tier-I shortlisting, Mains/Tier-II evaluation, and Final Merit List). Candidates must clear both minimum qualifying standards and overall/sectional merit cut-offs to advance.
UKPSC Upper PCS — Qualifying Standards & Safe Target Benchmarks
| Category | Qualifying Floor / Standard | Recommended Safe Target |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 30% to 40% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 72% to 82% of Total Marks (95+ Percentile in Mock Tests) |
| General — Economically Weaker Section (GEN-EWS) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / PwBD | 20% to 30% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 58% to 70% of Total Marks |
Score Normalization & Marking Impact
Because UKPSC Upper PCS is evaluated on a uniform single-session paper scale under one-fourth (0.25) of the marks allotted to a question deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains, raw score accuracy directly determines your rank on the official merit list.
Factors Determining UKPSC Upper PCS Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across Uttarakhand cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the UKPSC Upper PCS cycle
- Relative difficulty level of the question paper (and shift-wise variation in multi-shift CBT exams)
- Category-wise vertical (UR, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and horizontal (PwBD, ESM, Women) reservation ratios
- Previous year cut-off trajectory and candidate score distribution at the top percentiles
UKPSC Upper PCS admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
UKPSC Upper PCS Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official UKPSC Upper PCS Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on psc.uk.gov.in. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must log in with their Registration Number and Date of Birth / Password to download it.
- Clear A4 printout of the UKPSC Upper PCS e-Admit Card with visible barcode and photograph
- Original valid Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs matching the image uploaded in the online application
- PwBD / Scribe certificate and undertaking (if availing compensatory time or scribe facility)
Within 3–10 days after the examination
UKPSC Upper PCS Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on psc.uk.gov.in. Candidates can calculate their raw score and submit online representations against any ambiguous question or key discrepancy within the stipulated 48–72 hour window.
- Download your recorded Response Sheet PDF and match Question IDs with the Master Answer Key
- Calculate raw score using the official positive and negative marking formula
- Attach standard textbook / NCERT / official gazette proof if challenging any provisional key
- Review the Final Answer Key published after subject-expert scrutiny of all representations
3–6 weeks after stage completion
UKPSC Upper PCS Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) declares the UKPSC Upper PCS result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on psc.uk.gov.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official UKPSC Upper PCS Scorecard / Rank Letter PDF immediately upon release
- Verify category-wise and sectional cut-off marks in the official result write-up notice
- Keep original matriculation, degree, caste/EWS, and domicile certificates ready for verification
- Track reserve list / multi-round seat allotment updates on the official website
UKPSC Upper PCS mock tests
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UKPSC Upper PCS Full Mock Test 1
Preliminary Examination · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours
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UKPSC Upper PCS Full Mock Test 2
Preliminary Examination · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours
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UKPSC Upper PCS Full Mock Test 3
Preliminary Examination · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours
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UKPSC Upper PCS Full Mock Test 4
Preliminary Examination · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours
- Unlock with SmartRank PassPASS
UKPSC Upper PCS Full Mock Test 5
Preliminary Examination · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours
UKPSC Upper PCS previous year papers
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Recent UKPSC Upper PCS question papers
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Complete 10-year UKPSC Upper PCS paper archive
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Predicted questions for UKPSC Upper PCS
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for UKPSC Upper PCS
- Note the 2024 UKPSC Upper PCS Mains reform: the old 200-mark Quantitative Aptitude/Ethics hybrid paper is gone, and just like UPPSC, Uttarakhand now has GS Paper V (200 marks) and GS Paper VI (200 marks) dedicated 100% to Uttarakhand!
- In Prelims Paper I, UKPSC statutory rules mandate that at least one-third (around 50 out of 150 questions) come directly from Uttarakhand GK—master Parikshavani ('Uttarakhand: Ek Samagra Adhyayan') and Ajay Rawat's 'History of Uttarakhand'.
- Do not take Paper 1 (General Hindi - 150 marks) lightly: you MUST score at least 35% (53 out of 150 marks) in General Hindi for your remaining Mains papers to even be evaluated, and all 150 marks count in the final merit list.
- Prepare analytical notes on Uttarakhand's headline policy developments—such as the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) 2024, Bhu-Kanoon (strict land law) committee, abolition of the Revenue Police (Patwari) system, and Migration Commission reports—for GS V, GS VI, and Essay.
- Take advantage of the 42-year upper age limit for General candidates (47 years for reserved categories of Uttarakhand), which provides ample career flexibility.
- Read the official UKPSC Upper PCS notification carefully for the exact pattern, eligibility and selection stages.
UKPSC Upper PCS FAQs
Did UKPSC change the Upper PCS Main Examination pattern in 2024?
Yes, UKPSC replaced the old 7-paper Mains pattern with a UPSC/UPPSC-aligned 8-paper pattern (1,500 marks) featuring General Hindi (150), Essay (150), GS I-IV (200 each), and two dedicated Uttarakhand papers—GS V (200) and GS VI (200).
What is the minimum qualifying score in General Hindi in UKPSC Mains?
Every candidate across all categories must secure at least 35% marks (53 out of 150 marks) in Paper 1 (General Hindi) to qualify, and those marks are also added to the final merit list.
How many questions in UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims come from Uttarakhand GK?
Under the official UKPSC syllabus, at least one-third (around 50 out of 150 questions) in Prelims General Studies Paper I are asked from the history, geography, polity, economy, and culture of Uttarakhand.
Is there a separate Quantitative Aptitude paper in UKPSC Mains now?
No, the standalone 200-mark General Aptitude & Ethics paper was abolished in the 2024 reform and replaced by a standard UPSC-style Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude paper (GS IV).
What is the negative marking in UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims?
One-fourth (0.25 marks in Paper I) is deducted for every wrong answer in the Preliminary Examination.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for UKPSC Upper PCS?
UKPSC Upper PCS is conducted by Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) across 3 stages: Preliminary Examination → Main Examination (Revised 8-Paper Descriptive Pattern - 1,500 Marks) → Interview (Personality Test). Prelims Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying at 33% (for all categories), and Prelims Paper I (150 marks, with at least one-third questions on Uttarakhand) shortlists candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, all 8 compulsory descriptive papers (1,500 marks total) are counted for merit, with a minimum 35% (53 out of 150) required in General Hindi. Final merit is out of 1,650 marks (1,500 Mains + 150 Interview).
What is the age limit and educational qualification for UKPSC Upper PCS?
Educational Qualification: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university established by law in India (specific postgraduate or B.Ed./Law qualifications apply only to specialized posts like Deputy Education Officer or Probation Officer). Age Limit: 21 to 42 years as on July 1 of the recruitment year, with 5 years upper age relaxation (up to 47 years) for SC, ST, OBC, and Dependents of Freedom Fighters of Uttarakhand, and 10 years for PwBD.
What is the salary and job profile after clearing UKPSC Upper PCS?
7th CPC Pay Matrix Level 10 (INR 56,100 to INR 1,77,500) for Deputy Collector (SDM), DSP, Finance Officer, Assistant Commissioner State Tax, and ARTO; Level 7 (INR 44,900 to INR 1,42,400) for BDO, Sub-Registrar, and District Probation Officer.
When is the UKPSC Upper PCS notification released and how can I apply online?
UKPSC Upper PCS is held periodic (typically every 1 to 2 years based on state requisitions) (Notification in March; Prelims in July; Mains in November or December; Interviews in March or April). Online via the official UKPSC recruitment portal at psc.uk.gov.in / ukpsc.net.in.
Where can I practice free UKPSC Upper PCS mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select UKPSC Upper PCS as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Uttarakhand History, Culture, Statehood Movement & Polity (Mains GS Paper V - 200 Marks), Uttarakhand Geography, Economy, Migration, Forests & Disasters (Mains GS Paper VI - 200 Marks), Indian Heritage, History, Society & World Geography (Mains GS Paper I - 200 Marks), Indian Constitution, Governance & International Relations (Mains GS Paper II - 200 Marks), solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact UKPSC Upper PCS pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for UKPSC Upper PCS on SmartRank?
Select UKPSC Upper PCS as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Uttarakhand History, Culture, Statehood Movement & Polity (Mains GS Paper V - 200 Marks), Uttarakhand Geography, Economy, Migration, Forests & Disasters (Mains GS Paper VI - 200 Marks), Indian Heritage, History, Society & World Geography (Mains GS Paper I - 200 Marks), Indian Constitution, Governance & International Relations (Mains GS Paper II - 200 Marks), solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact UKPSC Upper PCS pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.