Top 10 Government Exams You Can Prepare for Apart from UPSC
Government jobs in India are considered stable, secure, and prestigious. While the UPSC Civil Services Exam is one of the most well-known government exams, it is not the only one. Many other government sector exams offer excellent job opportunities with high salaries, job security, and career growth. These exams span a variety of fields, ranging from administrative roles to specialized positions in various sectors.
This blog will guide you through the top 10 government job exams you can prepare for apart from UPSC, each offering distinct career paths and benefits.
List of Top 10 Government Exams Apart from UPSC
With numerous government job opportunities available, it’s important to explore various exams that align with your skills, interests, and career goals. Let’s take a look at the top 10 government exams list you can prepare for apart from UPSC.
1. Staff Selection Commission - Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL)
The SSC CGL exam is one of the most popular exam for government jobs conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) for recruitment into Group B and Group C posts in various ministries and departments of the Government of India.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Graduate from a recognized university |
| Exam Structure |
Four tiers – Tier I: Prelims Tier II: Mains Tier III: Descriptive Test Tier IV: Skill Test or Computer Proficiency Test |
| Popular Job Roles | Income Tax Inspector, Assistant Audit Officer, Assistant Section Officer |
| Salary Range | INR 30,000 – INR 80,000 per month, along with job security and career growth |
2. State Public Service Commissions (PSC)
Every Indian state has its own Public Service Commission (PSC) conducting exams for state administrative posts, similar to UPSC at the central level.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Graduate degree (specific requirements vary by state) |
| Selection Process |
Preliminary Exam Mains Exam Personal Interview |
| Popular Job Roles | Deputy Collector, Block Development Officer, Commercial Tax Officer |
| Salary Range | INR 50,000 – INR 1,00,000 per month (varies by state and post) |
3. Banking Exams (IBPS PO, SBI PO, RBI Grade B)
Banking exams are some of the most popular government exams conducted for recruitment in public sector banks and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Conducting Bodies | IBPS, SBI, RBI |
| Eligibility | Graduate in any discipline |
| Selection Process |
Preliminary Exam Mains Exam Interview |
| Popular Job Roles | Probationary Officer (PO), RBI Grade B Officer, Clerk |
| Salary Range | INR 40,000 – INR 1,00,000+ per month, plus bonuses, insurance, and pension plans |
4. Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Exams
The RRB exams are government exams conducted to fill various posts in Indian Railways, one of India’s largest employers. These exams provide a range of opportunities for candidates with different educational qualifications
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Common RRB Exams | NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories), Group D, JE (Junior Engineer) |
| Eligibility | 10+2, Diploma, or Graduate (varies by post) |
| Selection Process |
Computer-Based Test (CBT) Physical Efficiency Test Document Verification & Medical Exam |
| Popular Job Roles | Station Master, Junior Engineer, Technician |
| Salary Range | INR 25,000 – INR 80,000 per month |
5. Defense Exams (CDS, AFCAT, CAPF)
For those passionate about serving in the Indian Armed Forces, these government exams offer prestigious career opportunities.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Popular Defense Exams |
CDS (Combined Defense Services) – Army, Navy, Air Force AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test) – Indian Air Force CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) – Paramilitary Forces |
| Eligibility | Graduate degree + Physical Fitness Standards |
| Selection Process |
Written Exam SSB Interview / Physical Test |
| Popular Job Roles | Army, Navy, Air Force Officers, CAPF Assistant Commandants |
| Salary Range | INR 50,000 – INR 90,000 per month, plus accommodation, pension, and medical benefits |
6. SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level)
SSC CHSL is one of the popular government exams for 12th-pass candidates seeking clerical and assistant-level positions in central government departments.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | 12th Pass |
| Selection Process |
Tier I: Online Objective Test Tier II: Descriptive Paper Tier III: Typing/Skill Test |
| Popular Job Roles | Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Data Entry Operator (DEO) |
| Salary Range | INR 25,000 – INR 40,000 per month |
7. Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB)
The DSSSB conducts government exams to recruit for teaching, clerical, and administrative posts in Delhi Government departments.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Varies by post (generally graduate-level) |
| Selection Process |
Tier I Exam Tier II Exam (Objective + Descriptive) |
| Popular Job Roles | Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT), Post Graduate Teacher (PGT), Clerks, Stenographers |
| Salary Range | INR 30,000 – INR 70,000 per month |
8. Teacher Eligibility Tests (CTET, State TETs)
For teaching aspirants, these government exams are mandatory for securing teaching positions in government schools.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Popular Exams | CTET (Central Teacher Eligibility Test), State TETs |
| Eligibility | B.Ed or equivalent qualification |
| Exam Pattern |
Paper I: For Classes I – V Paper II: For Classes VI – VIII |
| Popular Job Roles | Primary & Secondary School Teachers |
| Salary Range | INR 30,000 – INR 60,000 per month, plus pension & other benefits |
9. LIC AAO & ADO (Life Insurance Corporation Exams)
The Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) conducts government exams for various managerial and sales roles, attracting candidates seeking stable careers in the public sector.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Graduate degree |
| Selection Process |
Preliminary Exam Mains Exam Personal Interview |
| Popular Job Roles | Assistant Administrative Officer (AAO), Apprentice Development Officer (ADO) |
| Salary Range | INR 60,000 – INR 80,000 per month, plus bonuses & insurance perks |
10. PSU Exams (FCI, ESIC, IOCL, etc.)
Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) offer well-paying government jobs with additional benefits. Popular PSU Recruiters: FCI (Food Corporation of India), ESIC (Employees' State Insurance Corporation), IOCL (Indian Oil Corporation Limited)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Diploma, Engineering, or Management graduates (varies by role) |
| Selection Process |
Written Exam Interview / Skill Test Some PSUs recruit via GATE scores |
| Popular Job Roles | Assistant, Engineer, Manager, Technician |
| Salary Range | INR 40,000 – INR 1,20,000 per month |
Why It’s Smart to Look Beyond UPSC
Let us be real, cracking UPSC is not everyone’s story, and that’s absolutely fine. But your dream of a stable, respectful government job doesn’t have to end there. There are plenty of other government exams jobs that offer great careers, solid perks, and personal satisfaction. Here’s why considering UPSC alternatives can be a smart, practical move:
| Advantages of Government Exams (Other than UPSC) | Information |
|---|---|
| Better Chances of Success | UPSC is known for its fierce competition — only a few thousand out of lakhs make it. In contrast, other government exams are held more frequently, and the competition is often less intense, giving you more room to succeed. |
| More Attempts, More Opportunities | While UPSC limits your number of attempts, many other exams are held annually or even twice a year, allowing you to learn from past mistakes and try again without long gaps. |
| Variety of Roles to Choose From | Whether you're into teaching, administration, banking, or tech — there's something for everyone. You can pick a path that matches your interests and strengths. |
| Specialized Career Paths | If you have a passion for a specific sector — say, banking, defense, or education — there are dedicated exams like IBPS, NDA, CTET, and more. You can build a focused, rewarding career in your chosen field. |
| Flexible Eligibility | Many government exams come with broader age limits and diverse qualification criteria, welcoming students from different academic backgrounds. |
| Lighter Syllabus Load | Compared to the vast and layered UPSC syllabus, many exams have more targeted and compact syllabi, making preparation easier and more manageable. |
| Work-Life Balance | Jobs like bank PO, SSC, or teaching roles often come with fixed hours and regular holidays, something that helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance. |
| Attractive Pay and Perks | Don’t worry about missing out on benefits, many of these roles offer good salaries, allowances, pensions, and internal growth opportunities. |
How to Choose the Right Government Exam Job for You
With so many options out there, picking the right exam can feel confusing. Here are some simple and practical steps to help you make the best choice for your future.
| Step | What to Check | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Know your qualification | Check the minimum educational requirement for the exam. | 12th Pass: SSC CHSL, State TET Graduate: SSC CGL, Bank PO Technical: Engineering/Diploma roles |
| Understand the job type | Decide if you prefer a desk job, fieldwork, permanent or contract-based job. | Desk Job: SSC, Banking Field Job: Defense, Railways |
| Check age limits | Make sure you're within the age range allowed for the exam. | UPSC: Up to 32 years Banking: Up to 30 years (varies) |
| Know your interest & strengths | Choose an exam based on what you're good at and what interests you. | Good with numbers: Banking, SSC Like teaching: TET Physically fit: CDS, AFCAT |
| Look at past year cutoffs | Understand the competition level and set a realistic target score. | Visit official websites for previous cutoffs and trends |
Tips to Prepare for Government Exams
The competition is tough, but with smart planning and regular study, you can succeed. Here are the top tips to prepare effectively:
- Know the Government Exam Pattern & Syllabus – Understand what topics are important so you can plan your studies better.
- Make a Simple Study Plan – Follow a daily timetable. Focus more on tough subjects, but revise everything regularly.
- Use the Right Books – Stick to trusted books like R.S. Aggarwal (Maths), Lucent (GK), Wren & Martin (English), and previous year papers.
- Practice Mock Tests & Old Papers – Improve time management and get used to the question pattern.
- Improve Speed & Accuracy – Learn short tricks, avoid spending too long on one question.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs – Read daily news and monthly current affairs PDFs for exams.
- Revise Regularly – Keep one day a week for revision. Use notes and flashcards for quick review.
- Stay Healthy & Positive – Eat well, sleep enough, and take breaks. A fresh mind learns better.
- Join Coaching If Needed – Pick online/offline coaching with good reviews if you need extra help.
- Be Consistent – Study daily, even for a few hours. Don’t give up — patience and regular effort bring results!
Summary at a Glance
Preparing for government exams jobs doesn’t mean only going after UPSC. India has a wide range of opportunities in the public sector. Whether it’s banking, teaching, railways, or administrative jobs – each exam offers a unique career path. If you choose the right exam based on your interests and prepare with focus, you can secure a stable and respected government job without even giving the UPSC exam. So explore your options, pick your path, and start preparing today.
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