Yes, UPPSC (Uttar Pradesh Provincial Civil Services) is generally considered harder than SSC CGL.
This is due to its vast syllabus, multi-stage examination process, descriptive answer writing, and intense competition.

While SSC CGL primarily tests speed and accuracy through objective questions (Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English, and General Awareness), UPPCS demands:

• Accurate descriptive writing

• Deep UP-specific knowledge (history, geography, polity, economy)

• Essay writing skills

• Personality test (Interview)

Success Rate Comparison

• UPPSC PCS:
  Approx. 0.1% – 0.5% success rate
  Applicants: 5–10 lakh

• SSC CGL:
  Approx. 1% – 2% success rate
  Applicants: 20–30 lakh

Preparation Time

• UPPSC PCS:
  Requires 1–2 years of preparation
  Focus on GS, essays, optional subjects

• SSC CGL:
  Can be cracked in 6–12 months
  Focused MCQ-based practice

Core Differences in Toughness

Salary & Career Comparison

• UPPSC PCS

  • Group A posts: SDM, DSP, etc.

  • Salary: ₹56,000 – ₹1.77 lakh (basic)

  • High prestige and administrative authority

• SSC CGL

  • Posts: Inspector, AAO, Auditor, etc.

  • Salary: ₹44,000 – ₹1.42 lakh (basic)

  • Faster results and pan-India transfers

Which Exam Should You Choose?

• Choose UPPSC PCS if:

  • You aim for prestige and authority

  • You are a UPSC aspirant

  • You can invest long-term effort

• Choose SSC CGL if:

  • You are strong in Quant & English

  • You want quick job stability

  • You prefer objective exams

UPPSC PCS 2025 Rank 1 Topper

As of 13 December 2025, UPPSC has not declared the final results or Rank 1 for PCS 2025.

• Mains and Interviews are ongoing

• Final merit list is expected in early 2026

• Official website: uppsc.up.nic.in

Final Verdict

UPPCS tests endurance, depth, and writing ability, making it tougher for most aspirants.
SSC CGL rewards speed, accuracy, and consistency.

👉 Choose based on your career goals, not just exam difficulty.

While BPSC or MPPSC may feel relatively easier among State PCS due to smaller applicant pools, UPSC remains the ultimate prestige benchmark.