Do Droppers Get Less Marks in the UPSC Interview?

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) interview, commonly referred to as the Personality Test, is a critical component of the UPSC examination. Candidates are assessed based on various criteria including their personality traits, communication skills, and overall suitability for a career in civil services. In the context of this article, we will explore whether candidates who have taken a year or more off (droppers) to prepare for the exam are automatically given fewer marks for being droppers.

The Evaluation Process

It is important to clarify that while droppers may face certain challenges, they do not invariably receive fewer marks based solely on their status as droppers. The interview panel evaluates candidates on an individual basis. They take into account the candidate's past experiences, motivations, and readiness for the civil services role.

On-Par Merit

Candidates are expected to present themselves well and respond to questions effectively during the interview. While a gap year might be a topic of discussion, it is not a disqualifying factor if used wisely. Candidates can leverage this period to demonstrate personal growth, learning, or relevant activities they undertook during their preparation.

Strategic Preparation

Handling questions related to taking a gap year requires strategic preparation. Candidates should be ready to discuss how they utilized their time constructively. If they engaged in activities such as self-study, internships, or community service, they should be able to articulate these in a way that showcases their maturity and readiness for the civil services role.

Transparency and Honesty

It is crucial for candidates to be honest and transparent with the interview panel. The UPSC interviewers are experienced and can spot inconsistencies. Candidates who lie may face severe repercussions, up to disqualification from the interview.

To illustrate this point, consider a real-life scenario. A friend of mine had to face a similar situation during his college placements. He had two backlogs and a score of 55 in his final year, and the criteria for sitting in any company required a score of at least 60 and no backlogs. Despite these hurdles, his presence in the HR round suggested he was still eligible to apply for a job. However, when the HR asked for his marksheets, he told them he had misplaced them and that he had two backlogs.

The HR was initially shocked but then heard a heartfelt plea from my friend. He assured the HR that he would clear his backlogs and achieve a cumulative score of 60 once his grades were finalized. He candidly admitted to not having performed well academically but expressed his willingness to improve and his regret over the situation. This honest approach impressed the HR, leading to his selection. The HR particularly appreciated his honesty and courage.

The UPSC interview is not just about checking your academic skills; it is a comprehensive assessment of your personality and readiness for a career in civil services. Being a dropper can influence the interview dynamics, but it does not inherently lead to lower marks. Ultimately, the outcome hinges on your ability to present yourself well and respond to questions effectively. Preparing for such situations with honesty and a strategic mind will significantly improve your chances of success.

Keywords: UPSC interview, candidate assessment, personality traits, civil services