For a majority of aspirants vying for Sarkari Naukri opt for the easier route to central government graduate jobs offered through the annual SSC CGL Exams. However, some ambitious aspirants who have secured a stable and lucrative career with central govt. Jobs are still vying for an opportunity to reach the higher echelons of the Indian governmental machinery i.e., the Civil Services. Preparing for civil services exam, also known as the IAS exams; is a very rigorous task involving not a few months but years of preparation along with complete dedication and commitment from the aspirants. With such a challenging task ahead, many of these ambitious students start asking themselves if it is possible for IAS aspirants to continue their SSC Jobs and also continue to prepare for Civil Services Exam!

Is it possible to prepare for IAS exam with SSC Jobs?

If you are one among the many such confused souls, we have some good news for you! Every year, many central government employees who have joined their SSC Jobs are not only attempting but also clearing the IAS examinations. It may sound like a miracle, but that is the thing with IAS Aspirants, they are best among the best and have always found new and innovative ways of dealing with challenges and competition. In fact, many such SSC job holders have also pointed out that, although they picked up the job as a backup, the SSC CGL jobs helped them crack the Civil services exam. This was possible because of the cooperative and encouraging attitude of seniors, who inspired them to go for the big exam. The second and probably the most important advantage that SSC CGL Employees have is of being close to government officers and civil services, who have already cleared the big exam. Along with guidance and tips for the exam, seeing the work every day keeps the spark alive and fire burning to achieve your dream of becoming an IAS Officer.

The Challenge

Irrespective of whether you are working or now, cracking the Civil Services Exam – one of the toughest recruitment exams not only of the country but in the world; is a great challenge. For people who are pursuing full-time SSC Jobs, the challenge is further aggravated with the lack of time, job responsibilities and several other personal and professional commitments. Many ambitious candidates also fall in the trap of complacency after getting a SSC Job thinking that they have achieved what millions are still trying for. In addition to this, regular monthly income and typical Sarkari Naukri attitude also doesn’t help the big cause of clearing the civil services exam. In such times, it is important to maintain your priorities and focus upon your dream of serving the country by becoming a civil servant.

No doubt the challenge is great, but it can be handled if you choose the right SSC CGL job that offers ample time, resources and inspiration to clear the Civil Services Exam.

Desk Job v. Field Job

One of the key decisions you must make in order to build a strong path towards Civil Services Exam while continuing SSC Job is to decide whether to opt for Desk Jobs or Field Jobs. Generally SSC CGL Desk Jobs are considered to be more appropriate for civil services preparation, as they are primarily clerical jobs and the job responsibilities and work hours are fixed allowing you to focus upon the civil services preparation process. You and opt for job profiles like Assistants, Auditors, Accountants, Tax-assistants and upper division clerks, which are primarily the desk jobs on offer through SSC CGL Exams.

Most preferred SSC Job Profile by IAS Aspirants: Assistant (CSS)

Although there is no rule as to which SSC job profile will suit you better for IAS preparation, many aspirants have pointed out the Central Secretariat services (CSS) Assistant profile is ideal for it. The profile falls under the Pay Band –II: 9300-34800 with GP 4600 (updated as per 7CPC to 30,000-1,00,000 with GP of 13500) and is a desk job with majority of job responsibilities being clerical in nature. Work involves handling files, preparing reports and maintaining documentation for concerned department or ministry. In addition to this the Assistant CSS postings are done in Delhi, which is considered to be the hub for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation. The post also has decent promotion policy in place and candidates can be promoted to following posts:

• Section Officer (Group-B gazetted Officer) (Grade Pay - Rs 4,800). After clearing departmental test conducted by the UPSC
• Section Officer (Group-A gazetted Officer) (Grade Pay - Rs 5,400). After completion of 4 years service at GP 4,800
• Under Secretary (Grade Pay - 6,600). Based on performance & available vacancies
• Deputy Secretary (Grade Pay - Rs 7,600). Based on performance & available vacancies
• Director (Grade Pay - Rs 8,700). Rarely possible for entrant through SSC

So, there is no doubt about the fact that preparation for IAS exam is very much possible even while continuing your SSC Job. However, it would take amazing dedication and unwavering commitment to crack the much-coveted exam.