What is the UPSC EPFO Exam Pattern?

Dreaming of building a strong career in UPSC as an Assistant Provident Fund Commissioner (APFC) or an Enforcement Officer (EO)/Accounts Officer (AO)? If so, your first step is to thoroughly understanding the UPSC EPFO Exam pattern. To provide you with the most accurate exam pattern information, we’ve analysed the official UPSC EPFO papers from previous years and the official notifications.

So, let’s discuss every aspect of the UPSC EPFO exam pattern to equip you with the knowledge to strategize effectively and maximize your chances of success.

UPSC EPFO Exam Pattern

The UPSC EPFO EO/AO and APFC exam pattern includes 2 phases:

• Phase 1 (Recruitment Test)
• Phase 2 (Interview)

Let’s understand each of the phases in this article.

UPSC EPFO Recruitment Test (Phase 1) Pattern

Here is the written examination for the UPSC EPFO EO/AO and APFC posts:

●       Mode of Examination: Offline (Pen and Paper-based)

• The UPSC EPFO EO/AO and APFC Recruitment Test is an offline exam (pen-and-paper format).
• Using a blue or black ballpoint pen, you must mark the correct answers on your OMR sheet.

●       Type of Questions: Objective Type (MCQs)

• Each question will present you with multiple options, and you must select the correct answer.

●       Total Number of Questions: 120

• You’ll need to answer 120 objective questions within the given time frame, which demands speed and accuracy.

●       Total Marks: 300

• There are a total of 120 questions, where each question carries 2.5 marks, making it a total of 300 marks for the recruitment test.

●       Duration of Examination: 2 hours (120 minutes)

• Time management is critical in this exam as you’ll get 2 hours to attempt all 120 questions.
• Hence, you’ll need to strategize how you allocate your time across different sections.

●       Negative Marking: Yes, ⅓

• You must be cautious while attempting questions, as there’s a penalty of ⅓ marks for incorrect answers.
• If you leave any questions unattended, there will be no mark deduction.
• This necessitates a strategic approach to attempting questions, balancing accuracy with the number of attempts.

●       Language of Examination: Hindi and English

• The question paper will be bilingual, set in both English and Hindi, except for the General English section, which will naturally be in English.
• This caters to candidates with different language proficiencies.

●       Weightage: 75%

• The marks you secure in the Recruitment Test will contribute significantly to your final merit, carrying a weightage of 75%.

UPSC EPFO Interview (Phase 2) Pattern

Here is the pattern of the UPSC EPFO interview:

●       Mode of Interview: In Person

• The interview is in-person, requiring your physical presence at the designated venue.
• This allows the interview panel to interact with and assess you directly.

●       Location: New Delhi

• The interview occurs at the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, New Delhi.
• Confirming the exact venue mentioned in your interview call letter and planning your travel and accommodation accordingly, especially if you are coming from outside Delhi, is imperative.
• Arriving well before your scheduled time is highly recommended to avoid last-minute stress.

●       Language Options: Hindi or English

• You can give your interview in either Hindi or English.
• You will usually be asked your preferred language at the beginning of the interview.
• Choose the language you feel most comfortable expressing yourself clearly and confidently.

●       Number of Questions: Not Fixed

• The number of questions asked may vary depending on the composition and approach of the interview panel.
• Be prepared for a conversational flow rather than a fixed set of questions.
• The panel will likely delve into your background, knowledge, and personality.

●       Interview Marks: 100

• The interview is 100 marks.
• This constitutes 25% of the total marks for the final merit list (with the Recruitment Test holding the remaining 75%).
• Therefore, performing well in the interview is crucial for securing a higher rank.

●       Time Duration: 20 to 45 Minutes

• The UPSC EPFO interview usually lasts around 20 to 45 minutes.
• This time frame allows the panel to assess your suitability across different parameters.
• Be mindful of the time and try to provide concise yet comprehensive answers.

●       Cut Off Marks: Fixed for Each Category

• The UPSC sets category-wise minimum qualifying marks for the interview.
• You need to obtain these minimum scores in the interview to be considered for the final selection.
• The indicative minimum cut-offs are:
  • 50 marks for UR/General category
  • 45 marks for the OBC category
  • 40 marks for SC/ST/PH categories
• These are only minimum qualifying marks. Scoring above these thresholds significantly increases your chances of final selection, especially given the weightage of the interview.

Concluding Observations

By thoroughly understanding the UPSC EPFO exam pattern, you can chart a clear course for your preparation. Equip yourself with the proper knowledge, dedicate consistent effort, and cultivate effective test-taking strategies. Your dream of serving as an EPFO officer is within reach!

Good luck with your preparation!

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