Why upsc is considered the toughest exam in the whole world?
Last Updated: 02.07.2025 06:35
In case you are wondering, how did my story end?
I lacked a mentor when I needed one.
“But, it is nearly impossible for one to predict who will make it to the ‘holy list’. Yes! I can say that if an aspirant who has done X, Y, and Z can increase their chances of selection, but it is just not enough. There is always a matter of luck (or, probability).”
.
And crushed myself and ‘my expectations’ on it.
There is no mathematical formula where you know that if the inputs are controlled, you can achieve X outcome.
Each class used to be 2.5 hours each. Making it a total of 5 hours of coaching classes daily. The classes used to be 7 days a week.
And, so I began preparing for the exam with high hopes and determination.
Dare you, peep in your neighbour's notebook. After all, it is a national-level competitive exam - people tend to be extremely competitive. Tough days…
What's an uncomfortable truth you've learned to accept?
2016 I graduated from college. The same year I began preparing for the UPSC.
Cleared multiple of them
A gazillion thoughts running through my mind.
I write answers on Quora that help UPSC and other government exam aspirants.
I prepared for the next 3 years (2016 to 2019)
A sense of grief and toil had taken over me.
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So, yes, the UPSC is considered the toughest exam in the world because there is a ‘luck’ factor coupled with subjectivity in the exam process.
And, I had not made it.
The struggle was real. The teacher would non stop go through his lecture, and explain the concepts/ theory/ ideas etc.
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So, hopefully, my answers help aspirants who need help.
I hurriedly opened the holy PDF.
It was summertime in Delhi. I was allotted a far-off centre in Najafgarh.
What problems do you face in everyday life?
I was constantly staring into the ground
“I, too, was an aspirant, 20 years back. I have met board toppers, state board toppers, and college toppers with more than 9+ CGPA who prepare for this exam.”
And, after all, it was a matter of great pride and respect.
But, then it hit me hard.
I looked around me
Anyway!
This exam has its own way of humbling you.
Your credentials do not matter!
After checking the PDF, I chained my cycle to a lamp post ..
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I had heard rumours going around that the results had been declared.
Searched for my roll number.
This is the very reason you will hear IIT, IIM, AIIMS graduates failing to clear the UPSC.
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All achievers in their own way.
You would have to be on your toes. If your mind drifts apart for even a second, you will lose your chain of thoughts and notes.
Relatively in a better position after my exam failures, but a void still exists!
Cut to 2-3 months post prelims. Results were declared.
Keep your ego aside.
I remember the very next day my coaching institute professor telling me -
“Suryansh, let me tell you something. Do you feel the best of the best students from all over India prepare for this examination?”
Found an empty bench..
If we haven’t met, my name is Suryansh Sodhani.
The batch sizes were huge!
I did not move for the next 30 minutes..
Also, simultaneously prepared for other exams
I was determined to clear the exam and then go back home.
And entered the park.
I did not go back to my home.
It is almost impossible.
Worked for a marketing agency
2017 June - I appeared for the first time for the UPSC Prelims (after a year-long preparation)
In my head, it was a do-or-die situation for me.
Thousands of students swarming in Old Rajendra Nagar.
I was alone in Delhi back then
“All of these students are great from an academic point of view. They have always scored 90%+ during their school days, some have even scored 9.6 CGPA and above during their 10th boards.”
I vividly remember that evening.
Appeared for the exam and instantly knew I would not be making it this time!
I joined two coaching institutes - One for mains preparation and one for my optional subject.
If one says, they can help you crack the exam with X AIR, it is difficult to do so.
And..
I parked my cycle near one of the parks en route to my PG.
Immediately after this conversation, I left the institute.
And, now working as a digital marketing freelancer for international clients.
Dropped them
It lasted approximately 10 months.
“I have more than 20+ years of teaching experience.”
Do drop in a message, would be happy to talk.
This exam has an element of probability that no one can predict.
500 students in each batch. God forbid if you were late to the class - you would have to push your way through the seats. (Old aspirants reading this know which institute I am talking about).
I was cycling from one of my coaching institutes back to my PG.
Nevertheless, I hustled my way through the coaching program.
All the best!
.
I said, “Yes! I believe so.”