Why upsc is considered the toughest exam in the whole world?
Last Updated: 28.06.2025 02:34
In my head, it was a do-or-die situation for me.
And, I had not made it.
.
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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.
The batch sizes were huge!
“Suryansh, let me tell you something. Do you feel the best of the best students from all over India prepare for this examination?”
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All achievers in their own way.
I looked around me
I was cycling from one of my coaching institutes back to my PG.
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Dropped them
I was determined to clear the exam and then go back home.
Do drop in a message, would be happy to talk.
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Immediately after this conversation, I left the institute.
Anyway!
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.
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“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.”
Thousands of students swarming in Old Rajendra Nagar.
I did not move for the next 30 minutes..
And crushed myself and ‘my expectations’ on it.
In case you are wondering, how did my story end?
This exam has an element of probability that no one can predict.
After checking the PDF, I chained my cycle to a lamp post ..
.
I hurriedly opened the holy PDF.
The struggle was real. The teacher would non stop go through his lecture, and explain the concepts/ theory/ ideas etc.
“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).”
But, then it hit me hard.
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Appeared for the exam and instantly knew I would not be making it this time!
And..
I joined two coaching institutes - One for mains preparation and one for my optional subject.
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2017 June - I appeared for the first time for the UPSC Prelims (after a year-long preparation)
I said, “Yes! I believe so.”
There is no mathematical formula where you know that if the inputs are controlled, you can achieve X outcome.
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I was alone in Delhi back then
If one says, they can help you crack the exam with X AIR, it is difficult to do so.
It was summertime in Delhi. I was allotted a far-off centre in Najafgarh.
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This is the very reason you will hear IIT, IIM, AIIMS graduates failing to clear the UPSC.
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.
I did not go back to my home.
Cleared multiple of them
I lacked a mentor when I needed one.
Your credentials do not matter!
Found an empty bench..
And entered the park.
“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.”
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).
Keep your ego aside.
I vividly remember that evening.
“I have more than 20+ years of teaching experience.”
Nevertheless, I hustled my way through the coaching program.
I had heard rumours going around that the results had been declared.
I remember the very next day my coaching institute professor telling me -
Also, simultaneously prepared for other exams
Cut to 2-3 months post prelims. Results were declared.
This exam has its own way of humbling you.
I was constantly staring into the ground
All the best!
And, after all, it was a matter of great pride and respect.
Searched for my roll number.
2016 I graduated from college. The same year I began preparing for the UPSC.
And, now working as a digital marketing freelancer for international clients.
It lasted approximately 10 months.
So, hopefully, my answers help aspirants who need help.
I write answers on Quora that help UPSC and other government exam aspirants.
A gazillion thoughts running through my mind.
I parked my cycle near one of the parks en route to my PG.
I prepared for the next 3 years (2016 to 2019)
A sense of grief and toil had taken over me.
And, so I began preparing for the exam with high hopes and determination.
If we haven’t met, my name is Suryansh Sodhani.
It is almost impossible.
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…
Worked for a marketing agency
Relatively in a better position after my exam failures, but a void still exists!