Many students who finish their diploma are eager to take on the MPSC or UPSC exams. These government positions come with attractive salaries, job stability, and a respected status in society. But the burning question remains:
Can someone with a diploma actually apply for MPSC or UPSC?
Let’s dive into the eligibility criteria, the options available, and the next steps for diploma holders looking to pursue these paths.
UPSC is responsible for selecting officers for roles like IAS, IPS, and IFS.
Minimum Qualification:
- To be eligible, you need to have a graduation degree from a recognized college.
- Your degree can be in any field—whether it’s Arts, Science, Commerce, or Engineering.
- Even if you’re in your final year of college, you can still apply.
What about diploma holders?
- Unfortunately, no. A diploma alone doesn’t cut it.
- A diploma isn’t the same as a graduation degree.
- You need to have completed a bachelor’s degree.
MPSC Eligibility
The MPSC holds exams for various positions such as Tahsildar, Deputy Collector, PSI, and more.
Minimum Qualification:
You need to have a graduation degree in any field.
Some positions may require specific degrees, like Law or Engineering.
Can someone with just a diploma apply for MPSC?
Unfortunately, no. A diploma alone won’t cut it.
MPSC requires you to have a degree.
What Can Diploma Students Do?
No need to stress — diploma students can absolutely pursue UPSC/MPSC by following these straightforward steps:
1. Complete your graduation
You have a few options:
- Take a lateral entry into the 2nd year of Engineering
- OR
- Opt for a BA/BCom/BSc
- OR
- Graduate from open universities (like YCMOU).
2. Start preparing early
- Dive into NCERT books
- Keep up with the news by reading newspapers
- Work on your writing skills
3. Choose a solid optional subject
Once you’ve completed your degree, pick a subject for the UPSC/MPSC mains that you really grasp well.
What is the Eligibility for UPSC?
If you’re looking for a job that doesn’t require a degree, consider taking some technical exams like these:
- SSC JE
- RRB JE (Railways)
- Positions in DRDO, ISRO, or BARC
- Maharashtra Technical Services Exam
These exams are designed around the diploma syllabus, so they could be a great option for you!
Important Points
- UPSC/MPSC need graduation, not diploma
- You can apply only after completing your degree
- Use diploma time to start basic preparation
- You can work in technical posts and prepare for UPSC later
How to Get Ready for UPSC/MPSC after Your Diploma?
- Once you start your degree, try to follow this plan:
- Study for 2–3 hours every day (NCERT from 6th to 12th)
- Spend an hour on current affairs
- Create notes on Polity, History, and Geography
- Practice MCQs and work on your mains answer writing
- And remember to revise on the weekends!
Conclusion
If you hold a diploma, can you apply for MPSC or UPSC?
→ Unfortunately, the answer is no, at least not directly. You need to complete your graduation first.
However, many diploma holders go on to earn their degrees and successfully pass the UPSC/MPSC exams through sheer determination and hard work. With the right strategy and commitment, you too can turn your dreams into reality!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can a diploma holder directly apply for UPSC?
No. UPSC requires a graduation degree from a recognized university. A diploma alone is not sufficient.
2. Is a diploma considered equal to graduation for MPSC?
No. MPSC does not treat a diploma as equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
3. Can final-year diploma students apply for UPSC or MPSC?
No. Only final-year graduation students are eligible, not diploma students.
4. Which degree is best after a diploma for UPSC/MPSC?
Any degree works—BA, BCom, BSc, Engineering, or even degrees from open universities.
5. Can I prepare for UPSC while doing a diploma?
Yes. You can start with NCERTs, newspapers, and basic subjects while completing your diploma.
6. Are there government exams for diploma holders?
Yes. Exams like SSC JE, RRB JE, and Technical Services exams are suitable for diploma holders.
7. Can I clear UPSC/MPSC after doing graduation through Open University?
Yes. Degrees from recognized open universities like IGNOU or YCMOU are valid.
