Selection to the IFS is on the basis of a written test held in the month of August. The test comprises of two compulsory papers: general English and general knowledge; with additional papers in any two subjects chosen from the following options: agriculture; botany; chemistry; physics; geology; zoology; mathematics; agricultural engineering; chemical engineering; civil engineering; mechanical engineering; excepting combinations of: agriculture and agricultural engineering; chemistry and chemical engineering.

Preparation

Preparation for the qualifying examinations depends on the candidate's own application, and continues until the main examination is over. A number of `guide' books in the market contain study material, past question papers and tips on how to prepare for the test. 

Candidates must read at least one newspaper from cover to cover every day, to keep abreast of the latest developments in politics, international relations, science and technology and sports. A careful reading of a range of national and international magazines and periodicals is also recommended-as well as tuning in to current affairs and analytical programmes on the radio and television. Besides this, a thorough study of the two optional subjects, preferably at the post-graduate level, is essential. 

Most cities and towns have coaching schools that help candidates prepare for the civil service selections. No authoritative study has so far been conducted regarding their efficiency or success rate. Whether or not these schools will facilitate a candidate's preparation would depend entirely on the perceptions and studying habits of the individual.

Training

Once appointed, all probationary officers of the All India and Central Service undergo a compulsory foundation-training course at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of 
Administration, Mussoorie.

DURATION

Training begins in the last week of August with a foundation course for all probationers of four months duration.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMME

The programme combines academic studies of subjects that include economics, history, political 
science, sociology and one Indian language; with the opportunity to pursue a range of physical, intellectual and creative activities. The foundation course is followed up with specific job-oriented training, conducted separately by each service in different parts of the country. This training is part
institutional and part hands-on, and for most cadres of around twelve months duration.

CAREER PROSPECTS

On completion of training, probationers become full-fledged officers of the service to which they are appointed and continue in the service until retirement.