UPSC Exam 2023: UPSC exam is one of the most competitive exams in India. It is conducted to select candidates for various posts in the central government of India such as IAS (Indian Administrative Service), IPS (Indian Police Service), and IFS (Indian Foreign Service). Clearing the UPSC exam requires a lot of preparation, dedication and hard work. That is the reason thousands of candidates prepare for the exam every year and try to crack it successfully.
However, the competition is tough, and even the slightest mistake can cost the aspirant dearly. Notably, the exam is not just about strong preparation but also demands error free application process. So, candidates must be careful and do not commit any mistake while applying for UPSC exam.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid while filling the application form for UPSC exam.
Not prioritizing eligibility criteria
The eligibility criteria is the most important factor to keep in mind in the UPSC application process. Every candidate must check whether his/her qualifications fulfill the eligibility criteria (such as nationality, age limit, educational qualification, number of attempts, physical and mental health status, etc.) prescribed by the UPSC Commission.
not reading instructions carefully
Many candidates make the mistake of not reading the instructions carefully before filling the application form. This is an important step, as not following the instructions may lead to mistakes in the form, which may result in rejection of the application. Therefore, candidates must make sure to read and understand the instructions carefully before filling the form.
undue haste
Many candidates rush through the application form in an attempt to fill it quickly. This often leads to mistakes in the form, which can lead to rejection of the application. Therefore, it is important for the candidates to take their time and fill the form carefully to ensure that they are filling all the information correctly.
fail to provide accurate information
Candidates must ensure to provide accurate information in their application form. Providing wrong information may lead to rejection of the application. Moreover, providing wrong information can also lead to disqualification from the exam. Therefore, candidates must double-check all the information filled in the application form to ensure that it is correct.
not attaching required documents
Candidates must make sure to attach all the required documents along with the application form. This includes documents like educational qualification, experience certificates etc. Failure to attach these documents may result in rejection of the application. Hence, candidates must make sure to attach all the required documents along with the application form.
non payment of application fee
Failure to pay the application fee may also result in rejection of the application. Hence, candidates must make sure to pay the required application fee before submitting the form.
not completing the application form
UPSC often rejects incomplete application forms. So, candidates must complete all the sections of the application form before submitting it.
not submitting the application form on time
Attention should be paid to the last date of submission of application form. Applicants who fail to submit the application form on time, their application may get rejected.
last word
These are some important mistakes to avoid while filling application for UPSC exam. Let’s say the candidates can avoid the pitfalls and focus on reading the instructions carefully, take their time to complete the form and double-check all the information before submitting the form. In that case, they increase their chances of appearing for the great exam with confidence.
These preventive measures will ultimately help the UPSC aspirants to be one step closer to achieving their desired results in all the three stages- preliminary, mains and interview round.
(The author Sriram Srirangam is Founder and Director, Sriram’s IAS. The views expressed here are personal.)