Civil Services Olympiad (CSO) by Samyak IAS Academy
Up to 100% Scholarship
A national-level exam for students of classes 9-12 to build a foundation for civil services careers, testing aptitude and general knowledge.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
₹51
Participation format
Individual
Duration
90 minutes
Eligibility
Open to all students enrolled in classes 9 to 12 in any recognized school across India. There are no specific academic or geographical prerequisites for participation.
- Grade level
- Grade 9 to 12
- Age range
- 14 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- No minimum percentage is required. Students must be enrolled in a recognized school.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
Up to 100% Scholarship
Top rankers receive up to 100% scholarship for IAS/RAS coaching programs at Samyak IAS Academy. A minimum 25% scholarship is assured for all participants.
Prizes
Bike, Laptop & more
The 1st rank holder wins a Bike/Scooty. The 2nd rank holder receives a Laptop. 3rd, 4th, and 5th rank holders get a Mobile Phone. All participants receive an exam pad.
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
Every participant receives a certificate to acknowledge their participation in the Olympiad.
Career pathways
Top 100 students who enroll in Samyak's coaching courses get a free educational tour to Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), Mussoorie.
Recognition
National-level recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Competition
- 26 Apr 2026
How to apply
- 1Register online through the official Civil Services Olympiad website.
- 2Provide necessary personal and academic information.
- 3Complete the process by paying the registration fee online.
- 4Download the E-Admit Card from the website prior to the exam date.
Rules and guidelines
- Candidates must bring their E-Admit Card and a valid original photo ID to the examination center.
- Entry to the exam hall is permitted only up to 30 minutes before the exam commencement time.
- Candidates must follow all instructions given by the invigilators and on the question paper.
- OMR answer sheets will be collected at the end of the examination.
- Use of electronic devices, including mobile phones and calculators, is strictly prohibited.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
A one-time registration fee of ₹51 is applicable for each participant.
Refund policy
The registration fee is non-refundable as per the terms and conditions on the official website.
About this opportunity
The Civil Services Olympiad (CSO), an initiative by Samyak IAS Academy, is a national platform for school students aspiring to join India's administrative services. It aims to encourage and prepare students for prestigious exams like IAS and RAS from an early age, helping build a solid foundation for future success.
This Olympiad is open to students from Class 9 to 12 across India, aiming to identify and nurture future 'Nation Builders' and 'Thought Leaders'. It provides early exposure to the pattern and rigor of civil services exams, offering a significant prize pool, scholarships, and certificates to foster a sense of achievement.
Exam format
- Total marks
- 100
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Format
- MCQ
- Language
- English, Hindi
Rounds and format
Sigle round exam.
How entries are judged
Performance is evaluated based on the total marks scored in the examination. Ranks are awarded at the National, Zonal, and School levels based on merit.
Selection process
Selection is based on the rank achieved in the Olympiad. Top-ranking students are eligible for prizes and scholarships to support their further education and civil services preparation.
How to prepare
- NCERT Textbooks (Classes 9-11)
- Previous Year Question Papers for IAS/RAS Prelims
- Online Mock Tests
- Current Affairs Magazines
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
The syllabus is primarily based on NCERT curriculum for classes 9th and 10th for Social Studies and Science, class 11th for Indian Constitution, and current affairs.
Frequently asked questions
How can students effectively manage competitive pressure during the Olympiad?
Students can manage competitive pressure by focusing on their preparation, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining a balanced routine. It is beneficial to view the Olympiad as a learning experience rather than solely a competition, which can reduce stress and enhance performance.
What are common mistakes participants make during preparation for such competitive exams?
Common mistakes include rote learning without understanding concepts, neglecting current affairs, not practicing enough mock tests, and poor time management. A structured study plan, regular revision, and analyzing previous year papers can help avoid these pitfalls.
How do top-performing students approach the Civil Services Olympiad?
Top-performing students typically adopt a comprehensive approach, focusing on conceptual clarity, extensive practice, and consistent current affairs updates. They also develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for success in such competitive examinations.
What role does aptitude play in the Civil Services Olympiad, and how can it be improved?
Aptitude is a significant component, testing logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities. It can be improved through regular practice of puzzles, logical reasoning questions, and quantitative aptitude exercises. Engaging in critical thinking activities also enhances overall aptitude.
How can students overcome performance anxiety on the day of the Olympiad?
To overcome performance anxiety, students should ensure adequate sleep before the exam, arrive early at the venue, and practice relaxation techniques. A positive mindset and confidence in their preparation can significantly reduce anxiety and improve focus during the test.
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