About the Geophysics Stream
The Geophysics stream under the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination is conducted to recruit
candidates with a postgraduate background in Geophysics for scientific roles in central government
organizations. This page strictly covers Geophysics-related information only, extracted and aligned with
the official UPSC notification, and deliberately excludes details of other disciplines such as Geology,
Chemistry, or Hydrogeology.
Posts Recruited Through Geophysics Stream
Candidates opting for Geophysics are considered for the following posts:
1. Geophysicist (Group ‘A’) – Geological Survey of India (GSI), Ministry of Mines
2. Scientist ‘B’ (Geophysics) – Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Ministry of Jal Shakti
3. Assistant Geophysicist (Group ‘B’)
These positions involve scientific, technical, and field-oriented responsibilities related to geophysical
investigations and national resource assessment.
Educational Qualification
As per the official UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist Examination notification, candidates applying under
the Geophysics stream must possess any one of the following qualifications from a recognized university:
1. Master’s degree in Geophysics
2. Master’s degree in Applied Geophysics
3. Master’s degree in Physics (or Applied Physics / equivalent), where the qualification is considered
acceptable by UPSC for Geophysics posts
Important: UPSC determines eligibility and subject equivalence strictly based on the
wording of the notification and degree certificates. Candidates with an M.Sc. in Physics
are eligible only if UPSC recognizes the degree for Geophysics posts during scrutiny.
Applicants are advised to carefully verify that their postgraduate degree title and specialization align with
the Geophysics eligibility conditions mentioned in the notification.
Age Limit
Minimum Age: 21 years
Maximum Age: 32 years
Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/PwBD, etc.) as per Government of India rules mentioned in the notification.
Examination Scheme for Geophysics Stream
Stage I – Preliminary Examination (Computer-Based)
The Preliminary Examination consists of objective-type papers:
Paper I: General Studies – 100 marks
Paper II: Geophysics – 300 marks
Both papers are counted for final merit.
Stage II – Main Examination (Descriptive)
For candidates opting for Geophysics, the Main Examination includes three conventional (descriptive)
papers, all from Geophysics:
Paper I: Geophysics – 200 marks
Paper II: Geophysics – 200 marks
Paper III: Geophysics – 200 marks
Total Marks (Mains): 600
Stage III – Personality Test
Marks: 200
The interview assesses: – Scientific aptitude – Conceptual clarity in Geophysics – Ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems – Suitability for scientific service under Government of India
Medium of Examination
Question papers are set in English only for the Geophysics stream, as specified in the notification
Pay Scale & Service Benefits
Pay Level: Level-10 (7th Central Pay Commission)
Basic Pay: ₹56,100 per month (approx.)
In addition, officers are entitled to: – Dearness Allowance (DA) – House Rent Allowance (HRA) or Government accommodation – Transport Allowance – Medical facilities, LTC, and pension benefits as per rules
Syllabus
Download Full Syllabus
Nature of Work (Geophysics Posts)
🔍Geophysicist / Scientist ‘B’ (Geophysics)
Conducting geophysical surveys (seismic, gravity, magnetic, electrical methods)
Interpretation of subsurface data for groundwater and mineral exploration
Field investigations and scientific reporting
Supporting national-level geoscientific and water resource projects
🔍 Assistant Geophysicist
Assisting senior officers in data acquisition and processing
Fieldwork support and preliminary interpretation
Technical assistance in surveys and documentation
Key Points to Note (Geophysics Aspirants)
Only one optional subject – Geophysics is allowed for this stream
All three Mains papers are purely Geophysics-based
Strong background in physics and mathematics is essential
Field orientation and applied understanding are valued during the interview
The Geophysics stream in the UPSC Geo-Scientist Examination is ideal for candidates seeking a career
that blends advanced science, field exploration, and national service. With a focused syllabus, subject-only
mains papers, and scientifically driven roles, this stream offers a clear and prestigious pathway for
postgraduate Geophysics students