Are you gearing up for the IAS interview in 2025? Congratulations on reaching this crucial stage of the Civil Services examination! Prepare for your IAS interview questions with our comprehensive list of the top 30 IAS interview questions and answers provided by experts for 2025.
The first and foremost question that strikes an aspirant is- ‘How to prepare for an IAS interview?’ Well, there are several ways to prepare the IAS interview questions and answers. One can take the available IAS mock interviews of any renowned coaching centre to prepare yourself for the actual interview. With such tests, you’ll get the hang of real IAS interview scenarios along with the level of questions asked in an IAS interview.
Don’t worry; we are here to help you prepare some of the best IAS interview questions and answers for 2025, in addition to the most commonly asked IAS interview questions with answers.
IAS Interview Questions and Answers Section Wise
There is no set pattern or syllabus from which UPSC interview questions are asked. Essentially, interviewers must be updated on current events because the interview is conducted by Senior IAS officers and a director who ensures that candidates’ public civil servant characteristics are tested in ways that textbooks do not.
Check the section-wise UPSC Interview Questions provided below:
Introduction-Based IAS Interview Questions
Q1: Give a brief introduction of yourself.
How to answer: While answering this question in an IAS interview, one should mention all the details, which include personal details, educational qualifications, professional life, etc., confidently.
The answer should be precise and consistent with the resume provided to the panel. You can achieve proficiency in answering questions confidently by taking some IAS mock interviews before going for an actual interview.
Q2: Tell me about your strengths and weak points.
This is one of those IAS interview questions that the interviewing panel generally asks to check the candidate’s level of honesty and how well he knows himself. Honesty is the key quality that an IAS officer should possess apart from having all the knowledge.
How to answer: Always be honest about your answers while answering almost every question asked in the IAS interview. As no one in this world is born perfect, everyone has strengths and flaws, so don’t hesitate to tell your strengths and weaknesses. Always answer such questions with confidence.
Q3: Why do you want to become an IAS officer?
This is one of the standard yet trickiest questions asked in an IAS interview. The idea behind the question is to check a candidate’s clarity of thought and the motivation associated with his/her dream of becoming an IAS officer.
How to answer: There is no such best answer to this IAS interview question as every candidate has an entirely different story to present to answer this frequently asked question.
So, it is better to prepare this answer in advance to impress the interviewing panel. You can take some of the available IAS mock interviews to brush up on your answers before going for an actual IAS interview.
Education-Based IAS Interview Questions
Q4: “Tell us about your educational background and how it shaped your IAS aspirations.”
How to answer: The panel wants to see how your education aligns with your choice to join the civil services. Focus on how your academic journey made you realize the importance of governance or social service. You can discuss subjects or experiences that sparked your interest. Keep your response concise but insightful, clearly linking your studies and IAS aspirations.
Sample Answer: “My education in Political Science helped me understand the dynamics of governance and policy-making. This, combined with my active involvement in community service projects, solidified my aspiration to serve the nation through the IAS. I realized that civil services would provide me the platform to impact society at a larger scale.”
Q5: “Why did you choose your particular field of study?”
How to Answer: Your answer should reflect thoughtful decision-making. The interviewers are not just interested in what you studied, but why. Relate your field of study to the skills or knowledge that will help you as an IAS officer. Show how your academic choice was not random but part of a broader goal.
Sample Answer: “I chose Economics because it offers a deep understanding of how economies function and how policies can influence them. I believe this knowledge will be essential in making informed decisions as a civil servant, especially in areas of economic development and public finance.”
This is to check how out-of-the-box one can think to find solutions to solve some tasks and problems. So let’s check some of the trickiest IAS interview questions and answers to get the hang of them.
Situation-Based UPSC IAS Interview Questions
Q6: A person was pushed out of an airplane without any parachute. He survived. How’s that possible?
How to answer: The sole purpose of asking such questions and answers in an IAS interview is to check the presence of mind of a candidate.
The answer to this question will be: The airplane was on the runway or parked in the hangar.
Q7: What does half an apple look like?
How to answer: Mostly candidates are confused while answering tricky questions asked in an IAS interview. This one takes the right attention and a good presence of mind to answer this question.
The answer to this question will be: Exactly like the other half of the apple.
Q8: A woman has nine children. Out of which half are boys. How is it possible?
How to answer: One must use his common sense and a tad bit of analytical thinking while answering such questions asked in an IAS interview. If you go through the question sincerely, you’ll get your answer. The answer is right there, hidden in the question itself.
A woman has nine children. This makes the total number of members equal to 10. Out of which 5 are boys, and the other 5 are girls (woman and rest of the four children).
IAS Interview Tricky Questions with Answers
Q9: The peacock is a bird that doesn’t lay eggs. How do they get baby peacocks?
How to answer: Here is another tricky IAS interview question. The interviewer asks such a question to test your common sense and clarity of thought. Such tricky questions are quite easy to answer. Only one has to use common sense to answer these types of questions.
The answer will be Peahen lays eggs, not the peacock.
Q10: A cat had three kittens: January, March, and May. What was their mother’s name?
How to answer: Here is another tricky question from the pool of questions asked in an IAS interview. Such questions are all about applying common sense and paying attention to the asked question. Everything is given right there in the question itself. You just have to have that right eye to find out the answer.
The answer to this question will be: It is clearly stated that ‘What’ is the mother’s name.
Q11: There are these twin brothers who were born in May, but their birthday is in June. How is that possible?
How to answer: It is one of those frequently asked trickiest questions of all time. It takes a good presence of mind to answer these types of questions asked in an IAS interview. Such an approach can only be developed with lots of practice or by taking all those IAS mock interviews before an actual IAS interview.
The answer to this question will be: May is the name of the birthplace where the babies were born.
Q12: How can a person live up to 8 days without sleep?
How to answer: Let’s find out how to answer such tricky questions asked in an IAS interview. It all takes a good presence of mind along with some out-of-the-box thinking to answer such questions. You can easily find out the answer by paying sincere attention to all the tricky questions asked by the interviewing panel.
The answer to this question will be: By sleeping at night.
Q13: Suppose I’ve ordered coffee for the candidate. Coffee arrived on time and was kept before the candidate. What is before you?
How to answer: Here is another trickiest question from the pool of questions asked in an IAS interview. Let’s see how we can answer this one.
The answer to this question will be Alphabet ‘T’. Because the alphabet ‘T’ comes before the alphabet ‘U’.
Q14: If you had 2 plums and 3 pears in one hand and 3 plums and 2 pears in the other hand, what would you have?
How to answer: Let’s try to answer this tricky question asked in an IAS interview. Your answer can make you stand out from the rest of the crowd as most of the candidates will answer this one something like five plums and five pears.
The tricky answer to this question will be Very big hands!
Q15: What is the opposite of Nag Panchmi?
How to answer: The answer to this question in an IAS interview will be, “Nag did not punch me”. This one is quite funny, though.
Q16: Can you name three consecutive days without using the actual days?
How to answer: Often people fail to answer this question in an IAS interview. Well, it is usually complicated if you are not an out-of-the-box thinker or are generally new to such questions. You can slowly adapt to the level of such questions with practice.
The answer to this question will be Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.
Current Affairs and GK Questions for IAS Interview
Q17: What are the most recent developments in your state, region, or country?
How to answer: Start mentioning several significant developments worth noting. For instance, [mention specific recent events or developments]. Tell how these developments have had a notable impact on [mention the affected areas or aspects], leading to [describe the impact]. Mention how you gathered this information from [mention sources or references].
Q18: Discuss key national and international events from the previous year.
How to answer: Talk about how over the past year, both national and international events have significantly shaped our world. Domestically, [note notable national events]; globally, [emphasise significant international events]. How these events have influenced [explain their impact], emphasising the need to remain informed.
Tailor your answers to the interview context, keeping it concise and relevant.
Q19: What are the major difficulties confronting India’s economy, politics, and society today?
How to answer: This question tests your knowledge of major difficulties confronting India’s economy, politics, and society today. Mention economic challenges persist, while politically, issues like [highlight political challenges] present hurdles. Additionally, societal challenges including [address social difficulties] add to the complexity. These challenges are interconnected and require comprehensive strategies for resolution, such as [mention potential solutions].
Ethics and Values-based IAS Interview Questions
Q20: In a scenario where your personal values conflict with your professional responsibilities, how would you navigate the situation?
How to answer: In such a scenario, Prioritize professional responsibilities while respecting personal values. Assess the situation’s impact on stakeholders, seek guidance from mentors, and communicate concerns transparently. Ultimately, one must strive for a resolution aligning with ethical principles and organizational objectives.
Q21: Can you recount an ethical quandary you encountered and elaborate on the steps you took to resolve it?
How to answer: To resolve this, the following steps can be taken including evaluation, research, discussion, consultation, resolution and follow-up.
Through these steps, one can navigate the ethical quandary responsibly and uphold the commitment to ethical conduct while fulfilling professional responsibilities.
Q22: If you assumed a position of authority, what strategies would you employ to address instances of corruption within your domain?
How to answer: To answer this question when asked in an IAS interview, talk about the implementation of robust transparency measures, enforcing strict penalties for corruption, ensuring zero tolerance, and promoting a culture of accountability. In addition to establishing whistleblower protection, performing frequent audits and working closely with law enforcement to properly investigate and prosecute corruption cases.
IAS Interview Questions on Governance and Administration
Q23: What measures would you recommend to increase the efficiency of public service delivery?
How to answer: While answering this question in an IAS interview, one should mention improving public services, making processes digital, training staff, listening to feedback, and evaluating performance. This way, one can use resources better and give people better services.
Q24: How can technology be used to improve governance and transparency?
The interviewing panel generally asks this question to understand your technical knowledge. Technology plays a crucial role in modern governance. As future civil servants, IAS officers must understand how technology can be leveraged to enhance governance processes, promote transparency, and improve service delivery to citizens. Their ability to articulate strategies for using technology effectively demonstrates their awareness of contemporary challenges and readiness to adapt to evolving governance practices.
How to answer: Mention the benefits of technology in governance. For instance, Technology enhances governance and transparency through digital platforms for citizen engagement, data analytics for informed decision-making, and blockchain for secure and transparent transactions. It fosters accountability, participation, and efficiency in governance processes.
Policy and Decision-making based IAS Interview Questions
Q25: How would you approach policymaking on climate change, education, and healthcare?
This topic may be asked during an IAS interview to assess a candidate’s awareness of complicated policy issues, and their critical and strategic thinking skills. It evaluates their understanding of current difficulties as well as their ability to communicate prospective solutions, proving their eligibility for occupations that require policy formation or analysis.
How to answer: The answer must include Climate change, renewable energy prioritisation, carbon pricing, and conservation. One might propose that educational policy should prioritise equal access, high-quality instruction, and an updated curriculum. Healthcare reform should aim for universal coverage, cost control, and a focus on preventive care.
Q26: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a recent policy established in your state/country.
This question is used during interviews to measure a candidate’s ability to critically examine policies, consider their implications, and communicate effectively. It exhibits their analytical skills, grasp of current events, and ability to think critically about complicated issues.
How to answer: Consider a policy made to subsidise electric vehicles (EVs). The advantages can be listed as environmental benefits, Technological advancement, Reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels, and Decreased harmful emissions leading to health benefits. And addressing its disadvantages requires careful consideration of funding, equity, infrastructure, and broader economic impacts.
Opinions on Socio-political Issues
Q27: What are your thoughts on reservations in educational institutions and government jobs?
How to answer: There is no single optimal answer to this IAS interview question because each candidate has a distinctive story to share in response to this commonly asked question.
Reservations in education and government positions strive to promote equality in society by offering chances to historically marginalised groups. However, they can exacerbate inequality, impede meritocracy, and demand bigger systemic reforms to ensure long-term empowerment and inclusivity.
Q28: How does the government support gender equality and women’s empowerment?
In interviews for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), candidates are asked questions about government support for gender equality and women’s empowerment to assess their understanding of social issues, commitment to promoting inclusivity and gender equality, and awareness of relevant government policies and programmes. Given the importance of gender equality in governance and development, candidates’ thoughts on this issue can help determine their eligibility for administrative jobs.
How to answer: When answering questions about sociopolitical topics, it is critical to approach them with compassion, empathy, and an understanding of different points of view. Discuss about the gender equality and women’s empowerment. The government also passes legislation to prevent gender-based violence, supports women’s health and reproductive rights, and implements affirmative action policies.
IAS Interview Questions on Role of a Civil Servant
Q29: What do you believe is the most crucial quality for a civil servant to have?
This question is frequently asked during civil service interviews to test a candidate’s awareness of the core values and obligations of public service. It allows the UPSC interview panel to assess the candidate’s commitment to ethical behaviour, responsibility, and public service.
How to answer: A competent civil servant must be well-organized and effective in their duties. They should be able to efficiently manage their time and prioritise projects based on importance. They must also be able to manage large amounts of data and keep correct records.
Q30: What is your opinion on the role of youth in nation-building?
How to answer: Youth play a pivotal role in nation-building as catalysts for change and progress. Empowering youth through education, skill development, and civic engagement fosters a dynamic and resilient nation.
Detailed Application Form(DAF) Based Questions
The UPSC interview panel asks questions from the contestants’ DAF. The candidates must prepare all aspects of the smallest detail indicated in their DAF. Candidates might prepare the following for the IAS interview.
Educational Institution Attended
Candidates should prepare histories, institutional mottos, affiliations, and other information regarding the educational institutions they attended while studying. They should also ask for the names of their famous school alumni.
Educational background
The panel members can ask questions about the candidates’ educational backgrounds and the newest advancements in their field of study. Candidates are advised to prepare for the most recent developments in their field of study. The candidate should prepare applications for the subjects studied at the graduate level.
Parent’s Profession and Sector
The panel members can ask questions about their parents’ professions, their organisation, recent advances in their organisation, chronic difficulties associated with the industry in which they operate, and so on.
Residence City/State
Candidates should gather all relevant information about their city/state of residence. The UPSC interview panel may inquire about the historical status of their city, monuments associated with the city, Swachh Sarvekshan Rank, any current developments in their city/state, the economic and geographical significance of their city, or any development plan.
The panel member can also inquire about their parental/ancestral home.
Personal Appearance
Candidates should prepare all details about any medical conditions they may have, such as vision problems, hair loss, short/long stature, and so on. The panel member may also inquire about the candidates’ attire, favourite colour, and other details.
Hobbies And Interest
Candidates should provide all facts about their hobbies and interests in their Detailed Application Forms (DAF) and prepare the peculiar/technical specifics of the hobbies listed in their DAF.
Candidates are also advised to prepare information about prominent personalities related to the sports stated as hobbies in the DAF.
Sample Question on Hobbies:
What are your hobbies, and how do they contribute to your personality?“
Explanation: Your hobbies give the interviewers a glimpse into how you spend your free time and what interests you beyond academics. Select hobbies that reflect qualities like persistence, creativity, or leadership, which are crucial for an IAS officer. Be ready to explain how these activities have contributed to your personal growth.
Sample Answer: “One of my hobbies is trekking, which has taught me patience and resilience. Navigating difficult terrains and dealing with uncertainties during treks has shaped my problem-solving skills and perseverance, qualities that I believe are important for a civil servant.”
Service Related Questions
If the candidate is already employed in a profession or service, they should thoroughly prepare for all aspects and advancements relevant to their line of work.
It’s crucial to understand that the UPSC IAS Interview doesn’t focus on memorisation but assesses a candidate’s depth of knowledge, analytical abilities, ethical principles, and ability to think critically. Therefore, while these questions offer a general framework, candidates must be ready to delve into diverse topics, showcasing their cognitive abilities and articulation skills.
Managing Stress and Anxiety in IAS Interviews
Managing stress and anxiety is a less acknowledged but equally important component of preparation for the IAS interview. The strain of confronting an interview panel and responding to IAS interview questions from top candidates can be overwhelming. However, with the correct methods, you may convert this obstacle into an opportunity to demonstrate your perseverance and poise.
Sample Question on Stress Management:
“How do you handle stress and pressure?”
Explanation: Civil servants often face high-pressure situations. The panel is testing your resilience here. Talk about specific techniques you use to stay calm and how you manage stress in both personal and professional settings. Avoid generic answers like “I work hard” and instead focus on practical approaches like mindfulness, time management, or physical activities.
Sample Answer: “I handle stress by practicing mindfulness and yoga. These techniques help me maintain mental clarity and stay focused even during challenging situations. I also make it a point to prioritize tasks and break larger problems into manageable parts to reduce pressure.”
Regular Practice and Familiarisation
The fear of the unknown is a common contributor to anxiety. Familiarise yourself with the interview procedure, setting, and types of questions answered. Regular practice, including mock interviews, boosts confidence and reduces surprises on the day.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Skills
Including mindfulness skills in your everyday practice can significantly reduce stress. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing are all practices that can help you relax and focus. Simple activities such as walking or listening to relaxing music might be beneficial.
Positive Approach and Visualisation
Developing a positive approach is essential. Visualise success throughout the interview and use positive affirmations to boost self-esteem. Remember that maintaining a happy mindset can significantly impact your performance.
Physical Exercise
Regular physical activity is good for health and stress management. It produces endorphins, or ‘feel-good’ hormones, which help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
IAS Interview Tips
Here are some essential tips to help you shine during your UPSC IAS interview:
| Tip | Description |
| Be Confident | Maintain eye contact, speak clearly, and exude confidence in your responses. |
| Stay Informed | Keep abreast of current affairs, government policies, and global events to showcase your knowledge. |
| Practice Mock Interviews | Familiarise yourself with the interview process by practising with friends or mentors. |
| Body Language Matters | Pay attention to your body language. Maintain a composed posture and gesture naturally. |
| Be Honest and Authentic | Answer questions truthfully, and let your genuine personality shine through. |
| Brush Up on Your DAF | Know your Detailed Application Form (DAF) thoroughly, as questions may be asked based on it. |
| Think Before You Speak | Take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding to complex questions. |
| Revise Your Optional Subject | Be prepared to answer questions related to your chosen optional subject in the UPSC mains examination. |
| Read and Reflect on Your Hobbies | If asked about your hobbies, be ready to discuss them in a way that reflects your passion and dedication. |
| Stay Positive | Approach the interview with a positive mindset. Even if faced with challenging questions, maintain composure. |
Follow these tips for an IAS interview, and you’ll be well on your way to impressing the interview panel. Best of luck on your IAS journey!
FAQs on IAS Interview Questions with Answers 2025
Q. 1. What are some common UPSC interview questions?
Ans. The UPSC interview, also known as the IAS interview, covers a wide range of topics. Common questions include inquiries about the candidate’s background, education, hobbies, current affairs, and understanding of various socioeconomic and political issues. For instance, candidates may be asked about their motivation to join the civil services, their opinion on recent policy decisions, or their views on global events.
Q. 2. Can you provide examples of IAS interview questions with answers?
Ans. Here’s an example:
Question: “What motivated you to pursue a career in the civil services?”
Answer: “My motivation derives from a desire to serve my country and bring about constructive change. Growing up, I experienced firstly the issues that marginalised people endure and felt compelled to make a difference. I believe that civil service provides a platform for addressing systemic concerns and working towards a fairer society.”
Q. 3. What are some tricky questions asked in the IAS interview?
Ans. Tricky questions in the IAS interview often aim to assess the candidate’s analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and depth of understanding of various subjects. These questions may not have straightforward answers and may require candidates to think critically on the spot. For example, candidates may be asked hypothetical scenarios, ethical dilemmas, or questions that challenge conventional wisdom.
Q. 4. Could you share some UPSC interview questions with answers?
Ans. Here’s an example:
Question: “What is your opinion on the recent economic reforms introduced by the government?”
Answer: “I believe that the recent economic reforms demonstrate the government’s commitment to promoting growth and development. However, it’s essential to ensure that these reforms are implemented effectively and inclusively, taking into account the needs of all sections of society. Additionally, measures should be in place to address any potential challenges or adverse effects that may arise from these reforms.”
Q. 5. What questions are asked in English during the IAS interview?
Ans. Questions asked in the IAS interview in English cover a wide range of topics, including current affairs, socio-economic issues, governance, international relations, and more. The interview panel may also inquire about the candidate’s personal background, educational qualifications, work experience, and hobbies. Candidates must communicate fluently and confidently in English while articulating their thoughts and opinions during the interview.
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