UPSC Mains: English (qualifying)

Main Examination: the English paper (UPSC's Paper B). A qualifying paper. At a glance: • 300 marks, 3 hours. The level is Matriculation (Class 10) or equivalent. • Qualifying only: its marks are not counted for ranking. But you need at least 25% in it (75 of the 300 marks), and at least 25% in the Indian Language paper (Paper A) unless you are exempt from it; otherwise your Essay, General Studies and Optional papers are not considered at all. • You answer in English. What the language papers test: The aim of the paper is to test the candidates' ability to read and understand serious discursive prose, and to express ideas clearly and correctly, in English and Indian language concerned. The pattern of questions would be broadly as follows: • Comprehension of given passages. • Precis Writing. • Usage and Vocabulary. • Short Essays. Source: UPSC Civil Services Examination 2026, Examination Notice No. 05/2026-CSE, 4 February 2026.