By Aman Kumar | 12 Nov 2025
The UPSC Civil Services Mains 2025 results have been declared, with a total of 2,736 candidates qualifying for the interview round. Among aspirants, renowned educator Dr. Vikas Divyakirti, founder of Drishti IAS Coaching, has shared crucial tips on which hobbies should be avoided during the UPSC interview and why.
UPSC Interview Overview
The UPSC Personality Test is the final step for candidates who have cleared the Prelims and Mains exams. Unlike the written exams, the interview evaluates personality, decision-making skills under pressure, and confidence.
- Interview Duration: Approximately 20–30 minutes
- Marks: 275
- Significance: Plays a crucial role in determining the candidate’s final rank in Civil Services. Even minor mistakes can impact the outcome significantly.
Hobbies Candidates Should Avoid Mentioning
Dr. Vikas Divyakirti emphasized that common hobbies like watching movies or listening to music can be risky to mention in the interview. The reason:
“When you list such hobbies, the UPSC panel has wide scope to ask unpredictable questions. For instance, they may ask about songs from the 1940s–50s that influenced society. If you are unprepared, this can backfire.”
Candidates are advised to mention hobbies that reflect analytical thinking, leadership, social engagement, or creative skills, rather than passive or generic activities.
UPSC Interview Venue & Timings
According to the official UPSC notification:
- Venue: UPSC Office, Dholpur House, Shahjahan Road, New Delhi – 110069
- Daily Sessions:
- Morning Session: 9:00 AM
- Afternoon Session: 1:00 PM
Details regarding the exact interview date and time will be communicated via e-summon letters. Candidates facing issues with downloading the letter can contact UPSC at:
- Phone: 011-23385271, 011-23381125
- Fax: 011-23387310, 011-23384472
- Email: csm-upsc@nic.in
No physical summon letters will be issued by the Commission.
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