India offers a wide range of government exams for graduates across streams like Science, Commerce, Arts, and Engineering. These exams not only provide stable jobs and social status but also offer perks like pension, housing, and allowances. (Government jobs)
Whether you’re interested in administration, banking, defense, or public services, there’s a competitive exam that can shape your future career.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the top 10 government exams to apply for after graduation, including eligibility, salary, departments, and exam patterns.
🏆 1. UPSC Civil Services Exam (IAS, IPS, IFS)
Conducted by: Union Public Service Commission
Posts: IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, etc.
Eligibility: Graduation in any stream
Age limit: 21–32 years (General)
Salary: ₹56,100/month (starting) + perks
Exam Pattern:
- Prelims (objective)
- Mains (written)
- Interview (personality test)
💡 One of the toughest but most prestigious exams in India.
🏦 2. IBPS PO / Clerk
Conducted by: Institute of Banking Personnel Selection
Posts: Probationary Officer, Clerk
Eligibility: Graduation in any stream
Age limit: 20–30 years (PO)
Salary: ₹35,000–₹45,000/month (approx.)
Exam Pattern:
- Prelims
- Mains
- Interview (PO only)
Best for those aiming to work in nationalized banks like PNB, BOI, Canara Bank, etc.
🏛️ 3. SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level)
Conducted by: Staff Selection Commission
Posts: Income Tax Officer, CBI, Auditor, Assistant Section Officer, etc.
Eligibility: Graduation in any stream
Age limit: 18–32 years (varies by post)
Salary: ₹25,000–₹60,000/month depending on post
Exam Pattern:
- Tier 1 (MCQ)
- Tier 2 (MCQ)
- Document Verification
Ideal for central government aspirants in Group B and C services.
🪖 4. CDS (Combined Defence Services)
Conducted by: UPSC
Posts: Army, Navy, Air Force Officers
Eligibility: Graduation (B.Sc, B.Com, B.A, B.Tech depending on branch)
Age limit: 19–25 years
Salary: ₹56,100/month (starting officer rank)
Exam Pattern:
- Written test
- SSB Interview
- Medical exam
Excellent option for defense aspirants who missed NDA.
🏫 5. State Public Service Commission (PSC)
Conducted by: Respective State PSCs (e.g., UPPSC, TNPSC, MPSC)
Posts: State Administrative Officers, Revenue Officers, etc.
Eligibility: Graduation in any stream
Age limit: Varies by state (typically 21–40 years)
Salary: ₹40,000–₹70,000/month
Work in state government services with good career growth.
💼 6. RBI Grade B Officer
Conducted by: Reserve Bank of India
Eligibility: Graduation with 60%
Age limit: 21–30 years
Salary: ₹83,000/month (approx. gross)
Exam Pattern:
- Phase I (MCQ)
- Phase II (subjective + objective)
- Interview
Among the highest-paying government jobs in India for graduates.
🚆 7. RRB NTPC
Conducted by: Railway Recruitment Board
Posts: Station Master, Commercial Apprentice, Traffic Assistant, etc.
Eligibility: Graduation in any stream
Age limit: 18–33 years
Salary: ₹25,000–₹35,000/month + benefits
Perfect for those seeking non-technical roles in Indian Railways.
👨🏫 8. CTET / State TET (For Teaching Jobs)
Conducted by: CBSE & State Boards
Eligibility: B.Ed + Graduation
Age limit: No age limit (CTET)
Salary: ₹30,000–₹60,000/month depending on school
Qualify for teaching positions in central or state govt schools.
👮 9. CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces – Assistant Commandant)
Conducted by: UPSC
Eligibility: Graduation
Age limit: 20–25 years
Salary: ₹56,100/month (Level 10 Pay Matrix)
For Forces: BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB
Lead units in India’s paramilitary forces.
💳 10. LIC AAO (Assistant Administrative Officer)
Conducted by: Life Insurance Corporation of India
Eligibility: Graduation
Age limit: 21–30 years
Salary: ₹53,000–₹60,000/month (approx.)
Exam Pattern:
- Prelims
- Mains
- Interview
For those looking for a government-like job in PSU insurance companies.
📌 Bonus: Tips to Prepare for These Exams
- Start early: Begin preparation 6–12 months in advance
- Follow a syllabus-based plan: Don’t waste time on unnecessary topics
- Practice with PYQs: Previous year questions help with accuracy & time
- Give mocks regularly: Use Testbook, Oliveboard, Gradeup
- Stay updated: Read current affairs daily (The Hindu, AffairsCloud)
✅ Final Thoughts
Whether your goal is to serve the nation, get job security, or earn well, government exams offer a variety of career paths.
Most exams are open to any graduate, regardless of stream — and the preparation resources are widely available online and offline.
Pick your exam wisely based on your interest, aptitude, and long-term goals, and start preparing today. Your dream job might just be one exam away!
