THE Geologists’ Exam, a specialist one, is the only purely scientific service for which UPSC conducts an exam.

A throwback to the colonial times, geologists form the core of  administration’s ability to locate and exploit natural resources. Conducted at 19 centres across India, the exam is followed by a Personality Test conducted by UPSC for those shortlisted.

Eligibility: The minimum educational qualification is a Master's degree in Geology or Applied Geology or Marine Geology from a recognised university.

Those with Diploma of Associateship in Applied geology can also apply. Candidates with Master's in Mineral Exploration are eligible for GSI only while Master’s degree holders in Hydrgeology are eligible only for CGWB.

Fees: Rs. 100 payable through a single Central Recruitment Fee Stamp. Fee is exempted for all SC & ST candidates.


Don't miss! Career review on Geology 

About the Exam

Part-I: Candidates need to appear in the following essay-type papers: General English (100 marks, 2 hours) and four conventional papers on Geology (I, II, III, & Hydrogeology- 200 marks each, 3 hours). Those who compete for posts under both GSI & CGWB need to appear in all the five papers while those who opt for GSI only need not appear for Hydrogeology. Similarly  candidates opting only for CGWB need not appear in Geology Paper III.

The standard of papers in English is that of a science graduate level, while the standard of papers in other subjects is that Master’s with focus on fundamentals.

Paper on Geology I comprises syllabus of geomorphology and remote sensing; structural geology; geotectonics; stratigraphy & palaeontology. Geology II entails areas of mineralogy; igneous and metamorphic petrology; sedimentology; geochemistry & environmental geology. Paper III has questions from Indian mineral deposits & mineral economics; ore genesis; exploration; engineering of geology and geology of fuels. Paper on hydrogeology covers the syllabus on origin, occurence & distribution of water; well hydraulics & design; groundwater chemistry; groundwater exploration and problems of groundwater management.

Part II: Interview carries 200 marks and focuses on candidate's capacity for leadership & intellectual curiosity, mental & physical energy, powers of practical application, integrity & aptitude for adapting themselves to the field life.