Registration Page for free UPSC Coaching in Odisha by the State government
The Government of Odisha’s Free UPSC Coaching Scheme is a transformative initiative aimed at empowering the state’s youth to excel in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination. This program provides free coaching, study materials, and, for residential candidates, boarding and lodging to 500 Odisha-domiciled aspirants for the 2025-26 session. With the introduction of both residential and non-residential options, the scheme caters to diverse needs across urban and rural Odisha.
Why Odisha’s Free UPSC Coaching Scheme Matters?
Empowering Odia Youth for Civil Services
The UPSC Civil Services Examination, with a success rate of just 0.1-0.2%, is among India’s most challenging exams. For Odia aspirants, the high costs of private coaching in cities like Delhi are a significant barrier. The Odisha government’s scheme addresses this by offering free, high-quality coaching, enabling local talent to compete nationally & encouraging them to represent their state in prestigious roles such as IAS and IPS.
Supporting Rural and Marginalized Communities
The scheme prioritizes inclusivity, reserving seats for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD). This focus ensures aspirants from regions like the KBK belt (Koraput, Bolangir, Kalahandi) gain access to quality preparation.
Who Can Apply for Free UPSC Coaching in Odisha?
Candidates must be permanent residents of Odisha, verified by a domicile certificate. The scheme offers 500 seats for 2025-26, with 200 residential and 300 non-residential slots. Those who availed coaching in 2023-24 or 2024-25 are ineligible, ensuring new applicants benefit.
Age and Educational Requirements
Applicants must be aged 21 to 30 years as of February 1, 2025 (born between February 2, 1995, and February 1, 2004). Relaxations include five years for SC/ST candidates and three years for OBC/SEBC candidates. A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is required, preparing candidates for the UPSC syllabus.
How to Apply for Free UPSC Coaching in Odisha? A Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
The application process is online, ensuring accessibility for Odia citizens. Follow these steps:
- Access the SAMS Portal: Visit dhe.odisha.gov.in or samsodisha.gov.in to find the Common Application Form (CAF).
- Complete the Form: Enter personal, educational, and domicile details, and upload documents like domicile and degree certificates.
- Pay the Fee: Submit INR 100 online during the application.
- Select Coaching Mode: Choose residential (with free boarding and lodging) or non-residential (coaching only) for 2025-26.
- Meet the Deadline: Applications opened on April 15, 2025, and close on June 12, 2025, at 11:45 pm.
- Download Admit Card: Available from July 1, 2025, on www.ssbodisha.ac.in for the entrance exam on July 6, 2025.
Refer to this official user manual for applying online: click here
What Is the UPSC Coaching Entrance Exam in Odisha?
Selection involves a pre-qualifying entrance exam on July 6, 2025, conducted by the State Selection Board (SSB). The exam comprises two sections: Section A (main evaluation) and Section B (qualifying, requiring 33% marks). It tests general knowledge, aptitude, and UPSC-relevant topics, with negative marking.
Exam Centers Across Odisha
To ensure accessibility, exams are held in five zones: Berhampur, Bhubaneswar, Balasore, Jeypore, and Sambalpur. In 2024, 3,731 candidates competed for 200 seats.
Where Are the Free UPSC Coaching Centers in Odisha?
The primary coaching center is at Centurion University, Jatni, Bhubaneswar, offering state-of-the-art facilities for both residential and non-residential candidates. The government plans to establish a dedicated coaching hub in Bhubaneswar that features a digital library and advanced resources.
Residential and Non-Residential Facilities
Residential candidates at Centurion University receive free coaching, boarding, and lodging, with a mandatory 90% monthly attendance. Non-residential candidates access the same high-quality coaching without accommodation, ideal for those in Bhubaneswar or nearby areas.
Curriculum and Duration of Free UPSC Coaching
The 11-month program (July 2025 to May 2026) covers UPSC Prelims and Mains, including General Studies and Optional papers. Faculty from reputed institutes like Aspire IAS, Delhi, and mentorship from IAS and OAS officers provide comprehensive guidance, tailored to UPSC standards.
By covering coaching, materials, and residential costs, the scheme eliminates financial barriers, enabling aspirants from modest backgrounds to focus on preparation. This support is critical given the UPSC’s demanding nature and high coaching costs elsewhere.
New Updates for 2025-26: Residential and Non-Residential Options
For 2025-26, the scheme has expanded to 500 seats, with 200 residential and 300 non-residential slots, announced on June 3, 2025. This update allows candidates to choose their preferred mode without reapplying if they applied earlier. The selection list and admission schedule will be published by the Higher Education Department.
Conclusion: Shaping Odisha’s Future Leaders
The Government of Odisha’s Free UPSC Coaching Scheme is a beacon of opportunity for Odia aspirants. By providing comprehensive support and accessible coaching centers, it empowers youth to pursue civil services with confidence. Apply by June 12, 2025, prepare diligently for the July 6 entrance exam, and leverage this initiative to achieve your dreams. Visit dhe.odisha.gov.in or samsodisha.gov.in for more details.
