UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist (Main) Examination
Your complete guide to the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination. Get detailed information about eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, preparation strategies, and expert assistance for form filling.
Eligibility
Master’s degree in relevant discipline
3 Stages
Prelims, Mains, and Interview
Annual Exam
Typically conducted in June
4 Categories
Geologist, Geophysicist, Chemist, Jr. Hydrogeologist
Exam Overview
The UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination is a prestigious examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission for recruitment to the Geological Survey of India and other government organizations. The exam is conducted in three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Personality Test.
Geologist
Group AGeologists study the Earth’s processes, materials, and history. They explore for minerals, fossil fuels, and groundwater resources.
Geophysicist
Group AGeophysicists study the physical processes and properties of the Earth using quantitative physical methods.
Chemist
Group AChemists in geo-sciences analyze the chemical composition of rocks, minerals, and other Earth materials.
Junior Hydrogeologist
Group AHydrogeologists study the distribution, movement, and quality of water beneath the Earth’s surface.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination varies based on the post you’re applying for. Here are the detailed requirements:
Nationality Requirements
Citizen of India
Candidate must be a citizen of India.
Subject of Nepal/Bhutan
A subject of Nepal or Bhutan may also apply.
Tibetan Refugee
A Tibetan refugee who came over to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India.
Person of Indian Origin
A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.
Age Limit Requirements
General Category
Must not have attained the age of 32 years as on January 1 of the examination year.
OBC Category
Upper age limit relaxable by up to 3 years.
SC/ST Category
Upper age limit relaxable by up to 5 years.
PwBD Category
Additional age relaxation up to 10 years for General, 13 years for OBC, and 15 years for SC/ST.
Ex-servicemen
Upper age limit relaxable by up to 5 years.
Educational Qualification
Geologist
Master’s degree in Geological Science or Geology or Applied Geology or Geo-Exploration or Mineral Exploration or Engineering Geology or Marine Geology or Earth Sciences and Resource Management or Oceanography and Climate Studies or Petrology or Sedimentology or Geochemistry or Geological Technology or Geophysics from a recognized university.
Geophysicist
M.Sc. in Physics or Applied Physics or Geophysics or Applied Geophysics or Marine Geophysics or Seismology or Integrated M.Sc. (Exploration Geophysics) or M.Sc. (Technology) (Applied Geophysics) from a recognized university.
Chemist
M.Sc. in Chemistry or Applied Chemistry or Analytical Chemistry from a recognized university.
Junior Hydrogeologist
Master’s degree in Geology or Applied Geology or Marine Geology or Hydrogeology from a recognized university.
Physical Standards
General Fitness
Candidates must be in good mental and physical health and free from any physical defect likely to interfere with the efficient performance of their duties.
Medical Examination
A candidate who, after such medical examination as the Government may prescribe, is found not to satisfy these requirements, will not be appointed.
Visual Standards
Distant vision: 6/6 or 6/9 Snellen. Near vision: J1 or J2 Snellen. Color vision by Ishihara test.
Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination consists of three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Personality Test. Here’s the detailed pattern:
Preliminary Examination Pattern
General Studies
Duration: 2 hours
Marks: 100
Type: Objective (MCQs)
Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd deduction for wrong answers)
Subject-specific Paper
Duration: 2 hours
Marks: 300
Type: Objective (MCQs)
Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd deduction for wrong answers)
Note: The Preliminary Examination is screening in nature. The marks obtained in this stage are not counted for preparing the final merit list.
Main Examination Pattern
Descriptive Papers
Number of Papers: 3 for each stream
Duration per Paper: 3 hours
Marks per Paper: 200
Total Marks: 600
Type: Descriptive (conventional type)
Stream-wise Papers
Geologist: Geology Paper I, II, III
Geophysicist: Geophysics Paper I, II, III
Chemist: Chemistry Paper I, II, III
Jr. Hydrogeologist: Geology Paper I & II, Hydrogeology
Note: The Main Examination is descriptive in nature. Candidates must qualify the Prelims to be eligible for the Mains.
Personality Test (Interview)
Interview Process
Marks: 200
Purpose: To assess the candidate’s suitability for a career in public service
Criteria: Mental alertness, critical powers of assimilation, clear and logical exposition, balance of judgment, variety and depth of interest, ability for social cohesion and leadership, intellectual and moral integrity
Preparation Tips
– Stay updated with current affairs, especially related to geosciences
– Be prepared to discuss your educational background and interests
– Practice answering questions clearly and concisely
– Develop a well-rounded personality with diverse interests
Detailed Syllabus
Geomorphology and Remote Sensing
Basic principles, landforms, applications of remote sensing in geomorphology
Structural Geology
Principles, folds, faults, joints, unconformities, shear zones
Geodynamics
Earth’s interior, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanism
Mineralogy and Petrology
Physical mineralogy, optical mineralogy, classification of rocks, igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic petrology
Economic Geology
Ore minerals, industrial minerals, mineral deposits, fuel geology
Mining Geology
Methods of prospecting, exploration, mining methods, mineral economics
Paleontology
Fossils, microfossils, paleobotany, vertebrate paleontology, applications
Stratigraphy
Principles, Indian stratigraphy, geological time scale
Hydrogeology and Engineering Geology
Groundwater, aquifer properties, natural hazards, geological factors in engineering
Note: The complete detailed syllabus is available on the official UPSC website. Candidates should refer to the latest notification for the most updated syllabus.
Preparation Strategy & Tips
Effective preparation is key to success in the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination. Here’s a comprehensive strategy:
Stage 1: Understanding the Syllabus
Thoroughly analyze the complete syllabus. Make a list of all topics and prioritize them based on weightage and your comfort level.
Stage 2: Resource Collection
Gather standard textbooks, reference books, previous years’ question papers, and current affairs materials related to geosciences.
Stage 3: Study Plan Creation
Develop a realistic study plan with daily, weekly, and monthly targets. Allocate time for revision and practice.
Stage 4: Core Concept Building
Focus on understanding fundamental concepts rather than rote learning. Use diagrams and flowcharts for better retention.
Stage 5: Answer Writing Practice
Practice writing descriptive answers within time limits. Focus on presentation, structure, and inclusion of relevant diagrams.
Stage 6: Revision & Mock Tests
Regular revision is crucial. Take full-length mock tests to improve time management and identify weak areas.
Pro Tip: Focus on current developments in geosciences, recent geological discoveries, and government initiatives related to mineral exploration and environmental conservation.
Recommended Books & Resources
Choosing the right study materials is crucial for effective preparation. Here are the recommended books for UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination:
| Subject | Book Title | Author/Publication | Usefulness |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies | India Year Book | Publication Division | Current affairs and government schemes |
| Geology | Textbook of Geology | P.K. Mukherjee | Fundamental concepts |
| Geology | Principles of Engineering Geology | K.M. Bangar | Engineering geology section |
| Geophysics | Fundamentals of Geophysics | William Lowrie | Core concepts |
| Geophysics | Applied Geophysics | W.M. Telford | Practical applications |
| Chemistry | Physical Chemistry | Puri Sharma Pathania | Physical chemistry concepts |
| Chemistry | Organic Chemistry | Morrison & Boyd | Organic chemistry section |
| Hydrogeology | Hydrogeology | H.M. Raghunath | Groundwater concepts |
Note: Always refer to the latest editions of these books. Additionally, follow scientific journals, government reports, and current affairs magazines for updated information.
Previous Year Cut-off Trends
Understanding previous year cut-offs helps in setting realistic targets. Here are the cut-off trends for recent years:
| Year | Geologist | Geophysicist | Chemist | Jr. Hydrogeologist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 480 | 460 | 490 | 470 |
| 2021 | 475 | 455 | 485 | 465 |
| 2020 | 470 | 450 | 480 | 460 |
| 2019 | 465 | 445 | 475 | 455 |
| 2018 | 460 | 440 | 470 | 450 |
Note: Cut-off marks vary each year based on the difficulty level of the examination, number of vacancies, and performance of candidates. The marks mentioned are approximate and for reference only.
Recommended Online Platforms
In addition to traditional books, these online platforms can enhance your preparation:
UPSC Official Website
InformationThe official UPSC website provides notifications, syllabus, previous year papers, and other essential information.
Visit WebsiteGeological Survey of India
ResourceGSI publications and reports provide valuable information on Indian geology and mineral resources.
Visit WebsiteNational Informatics Centre
Study MaterialNIC provides e-learning resources and study materials for various competitive examinations.
Visit WebsiteMinistry of Mines
Policy UpdatesStay updated with the latest policies and initiatives in the mining and geology sector.
Visit Website6-Month Study Plan
A structured study plan is essential for comprehensive preparation. Here’s a suggested 6-month plan:
Foundation Building (Months 1-2)
Week 1-4: Core Subject I
Focus on the first paper of your stream. Read standard textbooks and make detailed notes. Focus on understanding fundamental concepts.
Week 5-8: Core Subject II
Move to the second paper of your stream. Continue with standard textbooks and add reference books for difficult topics.
Advanced Study (Months 3-4)
Week 9-12: Core Subject III
Cover the third paper of your stream. Focus on applied aspects and recent developments in the field.
Week 13-16: General Studies
Dedicate time to General Studies. Focus on current affairs, especially related to geosciences, environment, and government policies.
Revision & Practice (Month 5)
Week 17-18: First Revision
Revise all three papers quickly. Focus on key concepts, formulas, and diagrams.
Week 19-20: Answer Writing Practice
Practice writing answers to previous years’ questions. Focus on time management and presentation.
Final Preparation (Month 6)
Week 21-22: Mock Tests
Take full-length mock tests under exam conditions. Analyze your performance and work on weak areas.
Week 23-24: Final Revision
Quick revision of all subjects. Focus on important topics, current affairs, and formulas.
Note: This is a suggested study plan. Adjust it according to your strengths, weaknesses, and available time. Regular revision is more important than covering new topics in the final days.
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Tentative Schedule
The UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination follows a typical annual schedule. Here’s the tentative timeline:
| Event | Tentative Timeline |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | September – October |
| Online Application Starts | September – October |
| Last Date for Applications | October – November |
| Admit Card Release | January – February |
| Preliminary Examination | February |
| Main Examination | June – July |
| Interview | September – October |
| Final Result | November – December |
Note: These are tentative timelines based on previous years. Always check the official UPSC website for the exact dates for the current year’s examination.
Start Your Preparation Today!
With proper guidance and dedicated effort, you can crack the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination and build a rewarding career in government service.