The Uttarakhand Public Service Commission (UKPSC) has officially released the provisional answer key for the UKPSC Upper PCS (Combined State Civil/Upper Subordinate Services) Preliminary Examination 2025. This update is very important for thousands of aspirants who appeared for the exam, as it allows them to calculate their probable scores, check their performance, and plan ahead for the next stages of the recruitment process.
In this article, we’ll cover every detail about the UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims Answer Key 2025 including its release date, download steps, objection process, marking scheme, expected cut-off, and the next steps in the selection process.
UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims 2025: Exam & Answer Key Dates
Exam Conducted on: 29 June 2025
- Paper 1 (General Studies): 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
- Paper 2 (CSAT/General Aptitude): 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Answer Key Released on: 4 July 2025 (Provisional)
Objection Window: 5 July 2025 to 11 July 2025 (till 11:59 PM)
The official PDFs are available on the commission’s website:- psc.uk.gov.in
UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims 2025: Why the Answer Key is Important
The answer key is not just a list of correct answers. For candidates, it serves several purposes:
- Performance Analysis – You can match your answers with the official key and estimate your score.
- Transparency – It ensures fairness, as candidates can challenge any wrong answers.
- Future Strategy – By analyzing mistakes, you can identify weak areas for Mains preparation.
- Result Prediction – Estimating your score gives a rough idea of your chances of clearing Prelims and moving on to Mains.
How to Download the UKPSC Upper PCS Pre Answer Key 2025
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official website – psc.uk.gov.in .
- On the homepage, click on the “Answer Key” section under notifications.
- Search for the link “Combined State Civil/Upper Subordinate Services Preliminary Exam Answer Key 2025.”
- Choose your Question Paper Set (A, B, C, or D).
- Download the PDF and check your responses.
- Save a copy for future reference.
Marking Scheme of UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims
Understanding the marking system is crucial while calculating scores:
- Paper 1 (General Studies): 150 Questions | 150 Marks
- Paper 2 (CSAT/General Aptitude): 100 Questions | 150 Marks
- Correct Answer: +1 mark (Paper 1) / +1.5 marks (Paper 2)
- Negative Marking: –0.25 for each wrong answer
Qualifying Rule:
- Paper 1: Marks counted for merit
- Paper 2 (CSAT): Qualifying in nature (must score at least 33% i.e., 50 marks)
Formula for score calculation:
Total Score = (Correct Answers × 1) – (Incorrect Answers × 0.25)
Raising Objections Against the Answer Key
Candidates can raise objections if they find any discrepancies. Here’s how it works:
- Dates: 5 July – 11 July 2025
- Mode: Online only (via UKPSC portal)
- Fee: ₹50 per question challenged
- Supporting Documents: You must provide valid proof (standard textbooks, government references, etc.) for your objection.
Note: Objections submitted via email, post, or offline will not be accepted.
After reviewing objections, UKPSC will release the Final Answer Key. This key cannot be challenged further.
Expected Cut-Off for UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims 2025
Though the official cut-off will be announced with results, based on exam analysis and previous years, here’s the expected range:
| CATEGORY | EXPECTED SCORE |
| General | 95-105 marks |
| OBC | 90-100 marks |
| SC | 80-90 marks |
| ST | 75-85 marks |
| EWS | 90-100 marks |
Remember, these are tentative cut-offs and may vary depending on exam difficulty and number of candidates.
UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims 2025: Next Step After Answer Key Released
Once the final answer key is released, UKPSC will declare the Prelims Result 2025. Candidates who clear Prelims will be eligible for the next stages:
- Mains Examination – A descriptive test covering General Studies, Essay, and Optional subjects.
- Personality Test/Interview – To assess overall suitability for administrative roles.
- Final Merit List – Based on Mains + Interview performance.
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Download and keep your answer key PDF safe.
- Double-check answers carefully before raising objections.
- File objections only if you are confident and have proof.
- Start preparing for Mains without waiting for results as the time is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When was the UKPSC Upper PCS Prelims 2025 conducted?
Ans: On 29 June 2025, in two shifts.
Q2: When was the answer key released?
Ans: On 4 July 2025 (provisional).
Q3: Can I challenge the answer key?
Ans: Yes, between 5 July and 11 July 2025 with ₹50 per question fee.
Q4: How much should I score in CSAT to qualify?
Ans: At least 33% (50 out of 150 marks).
Q5: What comes after Prelims?
Ans: The Mains Exam, followed by the Interview.
Conclusion
The release of the UKPSC Upper PCS Pre Answer Key 2025 gives candidates the first clear picture of their performance. By carefully checking the answer key, raising objections where necessary, and preparing for the Mains, aspirants can move one step closer to their dream of serving in Uttarakhand’s administrative services.
Stay updated through the official website (psc.uk.gov.in ) for the latest announcements regarding the final answer key, Prelims results, and Mains schedule.
Tip: Don’t wait for results to start preparing. Your early preparation could be the difference between selection and missing out.
