| (A) Personality Traits | | | | semi-rural districts. |
| 1.) Mental alertness. | | | | 11.) Diplomatic and tactful in handling superior and |
| 2.) Interest in a variety of subject. | | | | subordinates. |
| 3.) Good intellect in order to be able to tackle any | | | | 12.) Sincere interest in social and government policies |
| subject or situation; | | | | and the development of the nation. |
| 4.) Weigh and apply differing opinions from various | | | | (B) Study Routes |
| people; | | | | The minimum age requirement for appearing for the |
| 5.) leadership qualities; | | | | Civil Services Preliminary Examination is 21 and the |
| 6.) The ability to inspire others and to channelise | | | | upper age limit is 28 years. The minimum academic |
| available talent; | | | | requirement is graduation in any discipline from a |
| 7.) tact and diplomacy; and, integrity. | | | | recognized Indian University or an equivalent academic |
| 8.) Keen interest in current affairs. | | | | qualification. All candidates are allowed four attempts. |
| 9.) Ability to work hard for long hours. | | | | There is a relaxation for SC/ST candidates on the |
| 10.) Willingness to be posted in small, sometimes | | | | number of attempts, if they are otherwise eligible. |