Why upsc is considered the toughest exam in the whole world?
Last Updated: 27.06.2025 18:41

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