What if you couldn’t clear the UPSC civil services exam?

Beyond the UPSC dream: Discovering modern pathways to civil services

“

You can’t let your failures define you. You have to let your failures teach you. 

~ Barack Obama

Approximately, only 50% of the 4 lakh candidates who apply for the UPSC prelims, appear for the exam, while only 5% of candidates make it to the mains exam. About 20% of the 50% who appeared in the mains, move to the final stage (Personality test and the interview round), and only 40% qualify out of that 20% and make it to the service. 

The success rate is less than 1%! But one thing is for sure – YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

Although not clearing the UPSC Civil Services Exam might feel like hitting a dead end, especially after dedicating years of hard work and perseverance, ask yourself if this is truly the end of your aspirations? Or could it be the beginning of a more relevant and fulfilling career path?

The world of public service is evolving rapidly, offering modern alternatives to those passionate about governance and societal impact. By pursuing programmes aligned with today’s challenges, you can achieve your goals without being confined to traditional routes. 

Let’s understand how you can reimagine your future and find success beyond the UPSC.

New horizons in public service careers!

Public service is no longer limited to those who clear the UPSC Civil Services Exam. Over the years, this domain has witnessed significant diversification, creating space for individuals with specialised knowledge and unique skill sets. Governments today are keen to collaborate with professionals who bring fresh perspectives and expertise, especially in areas like Public Policy, administration, and governance design. 

This evolution opens doors for aspirants to contribute meaningfully to society without needing to be part of the government machinery. By aligning your ambitions with the current needs of public service, you can carve out a career path that’s both impactful and rewarding.

“After five intense years of UPSC preparation, I found myself at a crossroads in October 2022. Though I fell short of clearing the exam, the journey honed my skills in analysis, empathy, and leadership. Recognising my passion for governance, I pivoted to Public Policy, enrolling at ISPP. Here, I discovered new ways to channel my UPSC learnings—balancing perspectives, synthesising ideas, and creating impactful solutions. Today, as a Research Associate in a Rajya Sabha office, I work on policies that drive change. This journey taught me that purpose transcends titles, and true impact lies in contributing to society meaningfully. Prakhyat Mathur, PDM Scholar, Class of 2024, ISPP

Equipping yourself for modern public service challenges

We all agree that modern problems require modern solutions. This is especially true in civil services. Today’s roles require advanced skill sets that were unheard of a decade ago. The increasing complexity of governance has created a high demand for subject matter experts—professionals equipped with the knowledge and tools to tackle issues such as policy implementation, data-driven decision-making, and public programme management.

This shift underscores the importance of enrolling in programmes that provide these critical skills. With the right education, you can position yourself as a sought-after expert in Public Policy and administration, contributing to governance while working alongside the government rather than within it.

A transformative pathway: ISPP’s Post Graduate Programme

If you’re looking for a transformative programme that aligns with your aspirations, the Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy, Design & Management at ISPP is a game-changer. Designed for modern public service professionals, this programme equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a tangible impact in the field.

From understanding policy design to mastering data analytics and stakeholder management, the programme provides a comprehensive foundation for careers in Public Policy. It’s more than just an educational qualification; it’s a gateway to opportunities that allow you to work closely with policymakers, NGOs, think tanks, and international organisations—all while driving societal progress.

The journey continues: Finding your path to impact

Failing the UPSC doesn’t mean the end of your journey. Instead, it’s an opportunity to pivot, reassess your goals, and embrace new avenues that align with your passions. Programmes like Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy, Design & Management’s empower you to build a meaningful career, contributing to governance and societal betterment in ways that are just as impactful as a civil service role.

So, what’s stopping you?

Take this moment to reimagine your future and explore opportunities that can lead you to success ON YOUR TERMS. Your aspirations deserve to thrive, and with the right tools and mindset, they will!

Register your Interest to Study at ISPP

FAQS