UPSC Interview Marks Distribution 

The final and most important step in the cycle of the exam is the UPSC Interview/ Personality Test. The interview is worth 275 marks, for a maximum possible score of 2025. The following are some of the attributes the panel looks for in a candidate while allocating marks to him/her during the personality test: 

✅ Mental sharpness 

✅ The critical power of analyzing 

✅ Rationality of thought 

✅ Variety and depth of interest 

✅ Competence in risk assessment 

✅ Capabilities in handling crises 

✅ A propensity for leadership 

✅ Moral and intellectual integrity

Zainab Sayeed: All-Time Highest UPSC Interview Marks Scorer 

The UPSC IAS Interview round’s all-time highest scorer is Zainab Sayeed (2014). By achieving a score of 220 out of 275 during the 2014 Interview, she made history. She had a 25-minute interview and the secret to her success was perseverance and punctuality. She studied for 6-7 hours every day. 

Candidates must constantly and intently study as they get ready for the Interview stage. Candidates are recommended to read the newspapers every day because current affairs-related topics are asked during the UPSC interview. It’s crucial for candidates to take breaks from studying and look after their mental health as they prepare for the UPSC CSE Exam. 

#The IAS interview is often based on the candidate’s background, hobbies, educational history, and work experience. 

Don’t be discouraged if you perform poorly in Mains – here’s why –  

Some candidates get high marks in UPSC Interviews despite their low Mains performance because they performed well under the stressful circumstances created during the personality test. To get the highest interview marks in UPSC interview, candidates should keep these TIPS in mind: 

✅ When entering the interview room, ask for permission from the Chairman, greet the panel head, and ask for permission to sit. 

✅ Dress Smartly and Appropriately (check out the dress code on the official website, including shoes. It is superfluous to mention that stilettos and pumps are inappropriate). 

✅ While responding to questions, one should interact with the Interview panel. 

✅ Be modest when responding. Ask them for more time if you don’t have the answer or are having trouble remembering it, or just mention that you’re not sure but will look it up. 

✅ Never avoid the subject, instead Take Your Time to respond (ask permission first, don’t let the interviewers misunderstand you’re rude) 

✅ Avoid Repetitive Phrases 

✅ Continue Speaking, don’t stop suddenly. Let the interviewers know you’re done speaking. 

✅ Avoid loaded questions that may lead you to make negative or biased statements. Stay composed and diplomatic in your responses, even when discussing sensitive issues. 

✅ While filling out your Detailed Application Form (DAF), be selective about the hobbies and areas of interest you mention. Don’t list too many, so as to ensure that the questions asked during the interview are more focused. 

✅ Be ready for ambiguous questions. 

✅ Maintain the Right Sitting Posture 

✅ Pay Attention to Your Body Language throughout the interview. 

In conclusion, the UPSC interview round is not just a test of knowledge but a test of character. Your demeanour, posture, and responses play a crucial role in making a positive impression on the interview panel.