The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the official cut-off marks for the Combined Section Officers (Grade-B) and Lower Division Clerk (LDC) Examination for the years 2019 and 2020, covering Category X. These cut-off details reveal the minimum qualifying marks required at each stage of selection, including the written test and the evaluation of service records. The official PDF is now available for download from the UPSC website, allowing candidates to check their performance against the final benchmarks.
I’m writing about this because the release of official cut-off marks for Category X is highly significant for departmental candidates who appeared in these examinations or are preparing for future UPSC departmental exams. It helps aspirants understand the competitiveness of the exam and gauge how close they were to the qualifying line. Such data also provides valuable insights into preparation strategy, performance analysis, and exam trends over the years. For those working in government offices and aiming for promotions through the departmental route, this information is not just useful — it’s essential.
About the Combined SO (Grade-B) LDC Examination
The Combined Section Officers (Grade-B) and Lower Division Clerk (LDC) Examination is a departmental competitive exam conducted by UPSC to fill vacancies in various central government ministries and departments. The exam is designed to promote eligible government employees to higher administrative grades like Section Officers (SO) and Assistants.
This exam tests not only subject knowledge but also administrative aptitude and familiarity with government procedures. The structure typically includes:
- Paper I: Objective-type questions on General Studies and relevant subjects
- Paper II: Conventional-type questions on office work and procedures
- Paper III: Practical questions on noting, drafting, and office communication
After the written papers, shortlisted candidates undergo evaluation of service records as per departmental rules.
About Category X
Category X in the Combined SO (Grade-B) LDC Examination represents specific departmental cadres for which UPSC conducts the examination. Each category corresponds to a different ministry or service under the Government of India. The cut-off marks released for Category X show the performance threshold required to qualify for the next stage, ensuring transparency and fairness in the selection process.
The 2019 and 2020 results indicate how merit levels have shifted over time, helping future candidates understand how competitive the departmental promotion route has become.
Key Details at a Glance
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined SO (Grade-B) LDC Examination |
| Category | X |
| Years Covered | 2019 and 2020 |
| Conducting Authority | Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) |
| Document Released | Official Cut-off Marks PDF |
| Mode of Availability | Online |
| Official Website | www.upsc.gov.in |
How to Download the Official Cut-off Marks PDF
Candidates who wish to view or download the Category X cut-off marks for the Combined SO (Grade-B) LDC Examination can follow these steps:
- Visit the official UPSC website – www.upsc.gov.in
- Go to the Examinations tab and click on Cut-off Marks
- Find the link for Combined SO (Grade-B) LDC Examination 2019 and 2020
- Click on the Category X cut-off PDF link
- The document will open in a new tab — download and save it for future reference
The PDF includes the minimum qualifying marks required in both the written examination and service record stages.
