Applying for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Nationality:
- Must be a citizen of India.
Educational Qualification:
- For Geologist: A Master’s degree in Geology or Applied Geology or equivalent from a recognized university.
- For Geophysicist: A Master’s degree in Geophysics or Applied Geophysics or equivalent from a recognized university.
- For Geochemist: A Master’s degree in Chemistry or Applied Geology with specialization in Geochemistry or equivalent from a recognized university.
- For Hydrogeologist: A Master’s degree in Geology or Applied Geology with specialization in Hydrogeology or equivalent from a recognized university.
Age Limit:
- For General Category: 32 years
- For OBC: 35 years
- For SC/ST: 37 years
- For Persons with Disabilities (PWD): 42 years
Relaxation in Age Limit:
- Ex-Servicemen: Age relaxation as per government rules.
- Other Categories: Age relaxation as per government rules.
Important Dates
The UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024 is expected to be conducted in two stages:
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
- Notification Release: Usually in the month of February/March.
- Application Deadline: Usually in the month of April/May.
- Exam Date: Usually in the month of June/July.
Stage 2: Main Examination
- Notification Release: Usually after the declaration of Preliminary Exam results.
- Application Deadline: Usually in the month of August/September.
- Exam Date: Usually in the month of October/November.
Note: These dates are tentative and may vary. Candidates are advised to refer to the official UPSC website for the latest updates.
How to Apply Online
Step 1: Visit the UPSC Website
- Go to the official website of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC): https://www.upsc.gov.in/
Step 2: Access the Online Application Form
- Click on the “Online Application” link on the homepage.
- Select “Geo-Scientist Examination” from the list of available examinations.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
- Fill the application form carefully and accurately.
- Ensure that all the information provided is correct and complete.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specifications mentioned in the notification.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
- The application fee can be paid online through debit card, credit card, or net banking.
- The fee can also be paid offline through a bank challan.
- The application fee is non-refundable.
Step 5: Submit the Application Form
- After filling all the details and paying the fee, submit the application form.
- Take a printout of the application form for future reference.
Application Fee
The application fee for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024 is as follows:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General | â¹ 200 |
| OBC | â¹ 200 |
| SC/ST | â¹ 100 |
| PWD | â¹ 100 |
| Ex-Servicemen | â¹ 100 |
Note: The application fee can be paid online through debit card, credit card, or net banking. The fee can also be paid offline through a bank challan.
Important Points to Remember
- The application form must be filled online only.
- The application form must be submitted before the deadline.
- The application fee is non-refundable.
- Candidates are advised to keep a printout of the application form for future reference.
- Candidates are advised to read the notification carefully before filling the application form.
Exam Pattern
The UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024 is conducted in two stages:
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
- Objective Type: The Preliminary Examination is an objective type paper consisting of two papers.
- Duration: Each paper is of two hours duration.
- Number of Questions: Each paper consists of 100 questions.
- Marking Scheme: Each question carries one mark.
- Negative Marking: There is a negative marking of 1/3rd mark for each incorrect answer.
Stage 2: Main Examination
- Descriptive Type: The Main Examination is a descriptive type paper consisting of two papers.
- Duration: Each paper is of three hours duration.
- Number of Questions: Each paper consists of 6 questions.
- Marking Scheme: Each question carries 25 marks.
- Negative Marking: There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
Syllabus
The syllabus for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024 is as follows:
Paper 1: General Studies
- Current Events of National and International Importance: This section covers major events in India and the world, including politics, economics, social issues, and science and technology.
- History of India: This section covers the history of India from ancient times to the present day, including the Indus Valley Civilization, the Vedic Period, the Mauryan Empire, the Mughal Empire, and the British Raj.
- Indian Polity and Governance: This section covers the Indian Constitution, the structure of the Indian government, the working of the Indian Parliament, and the Indian judiciary.
- Indian Economy: This section covers the Indian economy, including its structure, growth, challenges, and policies.
- General Science: This section covers basic concepts in physics, chemistry, biology, and the environment.
Paper 2: Geology
- General Geology: This section covers the origin and evolution of the Earth, the structure and composition of the Earth, the processes that shape the Earth’s surface, and the geological time scale.
- Mineralogy and Petrology: This section covers the study of minerals, rocks, and their formation.
- Structural Geology: This section covers the study of the deformation of rocks and the formation of geological structures.
- Geomorphology: This section covers the study of the Earth’s surface features and their formation.
- Economic Geology: This section covers the study of the occurrence, distribution, and exploitation of mineral resources.
- Environmental Geology: This section covers the study of the interaction between geological processes and the environment.
Paper 3: Geophysics
- Introduction to Geophysics: This section covers the basic principles of geophysics, including gravity, magnetism, electricity, and seismology.
- Gravity and Magnetic Methods: This section covers the application of gravity and magnetic methods in exploration geophysics.
- Electrical and Electromagnetic Methods: This section covers the application of electrical and electromagnetic methods in exploration geophysics.
- Seismic Methods: This section covers the application of seismic methods in exploration geophysics.
- Geothermal Energy: This section covers the study of geothermal energy and its utilization.
- Geomagnetism: This section covers the study of the Earth’s magnetic field.
Paper 4: Geochemistry
- Introduction to Geochemistry: This section covers the basic principles of geochemistry, including the composition and abundance of elements in the Earth, the chemical processes that occur in the Earth, and the use of isotopes in geochemistry.
- Analytical Techniques in Geochemistry: This section covers the various analytical techniques used in geochemistry, including X-ray fluorescence, atomic absorption spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
- Isotope Geochemistry: This section covers the study of isotopes and their application in geochemistry.
- Environmental Geochemistry: This section covers the study of the chemical processes that occur in the environment and their impact on human health.
- Ore Geochemistry: This section covers the study of the chemical processes that lead to the formation of ore deposits.
Paper 5: Hydrogeology
- Introduction to Hydrogeology: This section covers the basic principles of hydrogeology, including the occurrence, movement, and distribution of groundwater.
- Groundwater Exploration and Development: This section covers the methods used to explore and develop groundwater resources.
- Groundwater Quality: This section covers the factors that affect groundwater quality and the methods used to assess and manage groundwater quality.
- Groundwater Management: This section covers the principles and practices of groundwater management.
- Hydrogeological Applications: This section covers the application of hydrogeology in various fields, including agriculture, industry, and environmental protection.
Preparation Strategy
- Understand the Syllabus: The first step in preparing for the UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024 is to understand the syllabus thoroughly.
- Gather Study Material: Collect relevant study material from books, journals, and online resources.
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a realistic study plan that covers all the topics in the syllabus.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving previous year papers is a great way to understand the exam pattern and the level of difficulty.
- Join Coaching Classes: Joining coaching classes can provide you with expert guidance and structured learning.
- Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with the latest developments in the field of geosciences.
- Take Mock Tests: Taking mock tests regularly can help you assess your preparation level and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Stay Motivated: It is important to stay motivated throughout your preparation journey.
Tips for Filling the Application Form
- Read the Instructions Carefully: Before filling the application form, read the instructions carefully and ensure that you understand all the requirements.
- Fill the Form Accurately: Fill the application form accurately and completely. Ensure that all the information provided is correct and up-to-date.
- Upload Scanned Copies: Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specifications mentioned in the notification.
- Pay the Application Fee: Pay the application fee online through debit card, credit card, or net banking. The fee can also be paid offline through a bank challan.
- Submit the Form Before Deadline: Submit the application form before the deadline.
- Take a Printout: Take a printout of the application form for future reference.
Conclusion
The UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024 is a challenging but rewarding examination. With proper preparation and dedication, you can crack the exam and secure a prestigious career in the field of geosciences.
Table 1: Important Dates for UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release (Preliminary Exam) | February/March |
| Application Deadline (Preliminary Exam) | April/May |
| Exam Date (Preliminary Exam) | June/July |
| Notification Release (Main Exam) | After declaration of Preliminary Exam results |
| Application Deadline (Main Exam) | August/September |
| Exam Date (Main Exam) | October/November |
Table 2: Application Fee for UPSC Geo-Scientist Exam 2024
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General | â¹ 200 |
| OBC | â¹ 200 |
| SC/ST | â¹ 100 |
| PWD | â¹ 100 |
| Ex-Servicemen | â¹ 100 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the eligibility criteria for the exam?
You must be a citizen of India and hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (Geology, Geophysics, Geochemistry, or Hydrogeology) from a recognized university. Age limits vary based on category.
2. When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is usually in April/May, but it’s best to check the official UPSC website for the most up-to-date information.
3. How do I apply for the exam?
You can apply online through the official UPSC website. The application process involves filling out a form, uploading documents, and paying the application fee.
4. What is the application fee?
The application fee varies based on category. It’s typically around â¹200 for General and OBC candidates and â¹100 for SC/ST, PWD, and Ex-Servicemen.
5. Can I pay the application fee offline?
Yes, you can pay the application fee offline through a bank challan.
6. What documents do I need to upload?
You need to upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specifications mentioned in the notification.
7. What is the exam pattern?
The exam is conducted in two stages: a Preliminary Examination (objective type) and a Main Examination (descriptive type).
8. What is the syllabus for the exam?
The syllabus covers General Studies, Geology, Geophysics, Geochemistry, and Hydrogeology. You can find detailed information on the official UPSC website.
9. How can I prepare for the exam?
You can prepare by studying relevant books and materials, joining coaching classes, practicing previous year papers, and taking mock tests.
10. Where can I find more information about the exam?
You can find detailed information on the official UPSC website: https://www.upsc.gov.in/