What is the Best BA (Bachelor of Arts) Subject for UPSC Exam Preparation?

Candidates from different streams of subjects sit for the civil services examination. Today is the time when school students dream to sit for this coveted exam to get into civil services. Hence, it becomes imperative for them to plan for their graduation degree keeping the IAS Exam in mind. This article will help you find out which Bachelor of Arts (BA) subject can be best for the UPSC exam.

Best BA Subject for Bachelor’s Degree – Minimum Educational Qualification for UPSC

A lot of people who have set their eyes on an IAS tag behind their names right from their school days would probably wonder about the subjects they should take for their graduation. As you know, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum educational qualification needed to appear for the UPSC exam. Check the other eligibility criteria for IAS exam in the linked article.

In this article, we try to answer the question, ‘What is the best BA (Bachelor of Arts)subject for UPSC exam preparation?’ If you are an IAS aspirant, you would undoubtedly want to commence your IAS studies right from college. So, it would be prudent on your part to take up subjects that would aid your preparation for UPSC 2023. You not only save time but also would have the extra mileage compared to candidates who would start these subjects afresh.

Subjects that are part of the UPSC Syllabus

General Studies I: History, Geography

General Studies II: Polity, Public Administration

General Studies III: Economics, Ecology, Environment, Science & Tech

General Studies IV: Ethics (Philosophy/Psychology)

As you see, most of them are humanities subjects. In your graduation, you could take up any of the above subjects like history, geography, political science, public administration, philosophy, etc. Economics is also recommended for those who are interested in it. It will help you understand a lot of the concepts at the college level itself. Frankly, it is a good backup subject in case your IAS dream remains unfulfilled. You could also take up philosophy in your graduation since it will help in GS Paper IV and also in the essay paper.

Analyze the options before you and take up subjects that you can optimize for your general studies papers. Generally, humanities subjects have received good success in the UPSC exams. It is regarded as the home ground of the UPSC. Although there are many toppers who have bucked this trend, if you are sure about your IAS goal even before graduation, it would be wise to take up a related subject in your graduation.

Finally, this is a decision that must be made by you alone. Ask yourself where your interests lie and follow that interest. If a subject truly interests you, you will be able to fare well in that subject. If it is a subject that is not covered in the GS papers, you could always take it as your optional subject in the IAS mains.

UPSC Preparation