Aspirants of government jobs should know the distinction between UPPSC PCS and UPSC Civil Services. Both are prestigious exams, but are different in many ways, such as exam pattern, syllabus, language preference, and job posting.
What is the difference between UPPSC PCS and UPSC Civil Services?
|
Feature |
UPPSC PCS |
UPSC Civil Services |
|
Full Form |
Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission Provincial Civil Services |
Union Public Service Commission Civil Services Exam |
|
Exam Level |
State-Level (Uttar Pradesh) |
National-Level |
|
Governing Body |
UPPSC (State Govt.) |
UPSC (Central Govt.) |
|
Language Medium |
English & Hindi |
English & Hindi (Optional language papers available) |
|
Exam Stages |
Prelims, Mains, Interview |
Prelims, Mains, Interview |
|
Optional Subjects |
Removed (Post-2023) |
Still applicable |
|
Job Posting |
Within Uttar Pradesh |
All over India |
|
Syllabus |
State-oriented with a focus on UP-specific topics |
National and international issues-oriented |
|
Attempt Limit |
No limit (as per eligibility) |
Varies by category (6 attempts for General) |
|
Age Limit |
21-40 years (General) |
21-32 years (General) |
Is the difficulty level of UPPSC PCS and UPSC the same?
No. Although both exams are competitive, UPSC Civil Services is said to be more difficult because it has a national level scope, a larger syllabus, and a higher competition ratio. The UPPSC PCS is state-based and is comparatively easier to select individuals who have thorough knowledge about the general knowledge of Uttar Pradesh and its governance.
Read More: What are the Career Options After Clearing the UPPSC PCS Exam?
Do both exams have the same syllabus?
Not exactly. General Studies (GS) has an overlap; however, UPPSC contains issues related to Uttar Pradesh, such as culture, history, and economy. UPSC Books have a broader syllabus, such as international relations and national policies. In the case of UPPSC, candidates depend more on UPPSC Books, which are state level preparation oriented.
Are the solved papers important for both?
Yes, absolutely. The solved papers assist in knowing the trend and nature of questions. UPPCS Solved Papers can give a feel of the question framing in Uttar Pradesh, whereas UPSC aspirants can practice PYQs and test series to become an expert at analysis.
Are the job profiles the same in both services?
No, there are different job descriptions and designations. UPSC recruits All India Services such as IAS, IPS, and IFS, and they have central postings. UPPSC appoints to the state administrative services such as SDM, BDO, and Deputy SP in the state of Uttar Pradesh.
Which one is better - UPPSC or UPSC?
It is up to what you want to achieve. In case you want to reach the national level policy making and wider administrative positions, then take the UPSC. In case you want to serve in Uttar Pradesh with localized governance, UPPSC is a good option. Both of them need a lot of preparation with the help of appropriate UPSC Books or UPPSC Books, and practice with the help of UPPCS Solved Papers.
By understanding these differences, aspirants can make an informed choice about which path suits their aspirations and start their journey with clarity and purpose.
