Why it's Hard for Graduates to Get a Job Types of Government Jobs in India Competitive Exams After Graduation for Govt Jobs Tips on How to Get a Govt Vacancy After Graduation in India Exam Preparation Writing Application Documents Conclusions
Why it's Hard for Graduates to Get a Job Types of Government Jobs in India Competitive Exams After Graduation for Govt Jobs Tips on How to Get a Govt Vacancy After Graduation in India Exam Preparation Writing Application Documents Conclusions
Updated 27/07/2020

How to Get a Government Job After Graduation in India

Want to get a govt job in India right after graduation? We will provide you with popular job types, critical exams, and useful tips for starting your career.

Want to get a govt job in India right after graduation? We will provide you with popular job types, critical exams, and useful tips for starting your career.

According to Education Bhaskar, the Indian government remains one of the largest employers in 2024, offering financial stability, medical and retirement benefits, and more. Given these advantages, it is not surprising that every year thousands of students strive to start a career in the public sector, which causes high competition for the position. However, you should not rush into this competition thoughtlessly, as you risk either failing or occupying a post that does not meet your expectations. In both cases, it can lead to frustration. Instead, study the list of best govt jobs after graduation to choose your vocation and check the selection criteria to gauge your strength. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information.

01

Why it's Hard for Graduates to Get a Job

According to the India Skills Report, the employment of young professionals after obtaining a degree rose to 47% in 2019. For comparison, in 2014, this indicator was 33%. These statistics prove that more and more employers are interested in novel ideas and fresh perspectives. Nevertheless, 47% is still less than half of the total number of graduates, and therefore the issue of finding work after college or university remains open. The central obstacles faced by fresh graduates looking for employment are:

  1. Lack of experience - Even the best educational program does not provide full immersion in the chosen industry and position. Graduates without experience need more time to gain momentum, take on rhythm, and adapt to the real-world environment. Unfortunately, not all employers are ready to give this time and sacrifice instant results for prospects.
  2. High competition - The issue of employment is acute for all graduates. The number of graduates seeking employment often exceeds the number of available vacancies. This provokes a struggle for every workplace. To mitigate competition, do not knock on every door. In this case, you will have to compete with a myriad of applicants, which reduces your chances of finding a job. Instead, think about what kind of work meets your qualifications and will please you in the future. It is an easy way to shorten the list of potential employers and compete with fewer graduates, respectively. Rest assured, it is much easier to find your first job when you understand what you are actually looking for. Besides, a candidate who chose a profession consciously always has extra points in the selection process.
  3. Self-doubt - When it comes to high competition, self-doubt is an inexcusable error. Remember that all graduates are on equal footing: they have a degree but do not have experience. But some get the job, while others continue to look for work. Why does it happen? The former could prove that they are worthy candidates, while the latter did not realize their value and made excuses for the lack of experience. Therefore, your career opportunities are directly dependent on your self-presentation. Focus on your skills and personal qualities that are of value to the employer and can tip the scale in your favor.
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02

Types of Government Jobs in India

The public sector of India is not inferior to the private one in the number of vacancies and the range of career opportunities. Annually, official websites such as IndGovtJobs.in publish thousands of jobs for both technical and non-technical specialists in different states of India, including Mumbai, New Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and others. It is a great occasion to study the current market offers and get a government job in India which covers your preferences and qualifications. To start with, check out the most popular job types.

  • Civil Services - Civil services include the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS) and Indian Foreign Service (IFS). These jobs are not only high paying, but also well regarded among the local population. IAS takes part in the development and adoption of important government decisions and bears responsibility for policy implementation. IFS officers are the frontmen of the country who play a critical role in external negotiations and diplomatic agreements. IPS provides security for citizens and takes care of law and order. All of the above branches of civil service have high requirements for candidates since each position carries a noble mission.
  • Bank Jobs - Bank jobs are among the most popular and accessible, as bank branches are located even in the smallest regions of the country. Your potential employers may be State Bank of India, Reserve Bank of India, PSU Banks, or Regional & Rural Banks. Requirements for qualifications and education vary depending on the position. In general, the candidate must have at least a bachelor's degree in the relevant industry, as well as computer and mathematical skills. If you are ready to meet the basic expectations of employers, then the sector is an up-close opportunity to get a government job after graduation.
  • Science - Science is an integral component of progress, and bright minds are always worth their weight in gold. Therefore, scientists at such state institutions of India as ISRO, DRDO have individual housing and medical insurance as rewards for their contribution to the development of the country. However, do not delude yourself with only the benefits of the scientific field. The government puts forward strict demands for each of its representatives and carefully monitors the productivity of their activities. But if you have a thirst for knowledge and the pursuit of innovation, it should not scare you.
  • Defense Services - This sector includes the coast guard, navy, and army. The security of the state and its citizens is a joint noble mission that unites all its representatives. In addition to education at the National Defense Academy, these works require physical fitness, endurance, stress resistance, and moral courage. In exchange for this, you get a high standard of wages, perks, and respect for your activities.
  • Healthcare Services - Healthcare providers are always in demand at government agencies such as the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), Safdarjung hospital, G.B. Pant Hospital. Given that you will be responsible for the health and life of the population, your qualifications play a critical role. Education, in this case, is the primary selection criterion. Therefore, each candidate must have a master's or doctoral degree. When choosing the healthcare industry as your professional path, be prepared for a stressful work environment, continuous self-improvement, and service to the indigents. Remember that the doctor is often the second God for people, so all your efforts should be fostered at justifying this honorary title.
  • Academic Jobs - Representatives of the education sector take an active part in the professional and personality formation of undergraduates. Therefore, your qualifications should include not only impeccable knowledge of the subject but also patience, emotional intelligence, and stress resistance. As a cherry on the cake, teaching allows for the conducting of research that is funded by the state, which is an additional opportunity to unlock your potential. Before applying for a position, remember that college or school teacher posts require at least a bachelor's degree. And if you are aiming for a professorship, be prepared to present a Ph.D.
  • Railway Jobs - Indian Railway offers the largest number of public jobs compared to other sectors. Contrary to popular opinion, this organization does not just accept specialists with a degree in engineering. It’s doors are also open to non-technical workers such as the ticket inspector, ticket reservation master, or the railway police officer. Education requirements and qualifications vary by position. Detailed information and job descriptions are always available on the official Indian Railway website.
  • Insurance Jobs - Insurance is gaining momentum around the world as people begin to think one step further and foresee how external factors can affect their well-being and financial condition. General Insurance Corporation and Life Insurance Corporation are the leading government organizations in India that are willing to provide entry-level positions to graduates. In particular, you can try your hand in roles such as Assistant Administrative Officer and Apprentice Development Officer.
  • Public Sector Undertakings - State-owned companies such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, Coal India, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., or Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited are market majors and suppliers of jobs for the population. The main advantages of these units are a wide range of job opportunities from junior to managerial positions that gives you a viable chance to join the public sector without experience.
  • State Public Service Commission Jobs - The State Public Service Commission operates in every state of India and offers jobs in local government, conducts examinations of applicants, and appoints candidates for public office in various sectors. Here you can try your hand at such positions as regional transport officer, maintenance, repair and overhaul specialist, tehsildar, and so on. However, be prepared to prove your compliance with the job and rank of a civil servant.
03

Competitive Exams After Graduation for Govt Jobs

Entrance examinations are the primary condition for obtaining any public job. They vary depending on the selected public sector branch, position, and required qualifications. These tests include several stages, which together provide a comprehensive assessment of the candidate and help to choose the best ones among thousands of applications. Sometimes the exam stages and approval of a candidate can take up to a year, which is one more excellent way to test your patience, motivation, and genuine desire to join the public sector.

UPSC Civil Services Examination

This exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission and includes three stages:

  1. Preliminary Examination or General Studies Paper 1
  2. Mains Examination or Civil Service Aptitude Test
  3. Final Interview

Passing the exam allows you to join the Civil Services of the Indian government. This includes jobs such as Indian Administrative Services (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and others.

Admission is limited to candidates from 21 to 32 years of age with at least a bachelor's degree from a recognized university of India.

SSC CGL Examination

The exam is conducted by the Staff Selection Commission and includes four phases:

  1. The test consists of four sections: reasoning, quantitative aptitude, English language, and general awareness
  2. Computer tests
  3. Four papers on quantitative abilities, English, statistics, and general studies
  4. Interview or essays, summaries, or letters in English or Hindi.

Passing the exam allows you to join the senior government of India, and the job profile ranges from clerical to audit duties. This test provides access to a wide range of activities. The most popular are:

  1. Assistant Audit Officer
  2. Inspector
  3. Income Tax Inspector
  4. Assistant Enforcement Officer

The age limits for candidates vary depending on the position, but on average are between 18 and 30 years old. Educational requirements imply a bachelor's degree.

LIC AAO Examination

LIC AAO & AE Examination is conducted by Life Insurance Corporation of India and includes such stages as:

  1. A written test for reasoning ability, general knowledge and current affairs, professional knowledge, insurance, and financial market awareness
  2. Personal interview.

The job profile covered by this exam includes working in the insurance sector, administrative duties, and direct interaction with clients in one of the many LIC branches throughout the country. In particular, you can take positions such as Assistant Administrative Officer or Assistant Engineer.

The exam admits candidates aged 21 to 30 years who have a bachelor's or master's degree.

CTET Examination

Central Teacher Eligibility Test is conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education and is divided into two papers. Paper 1 allows the candidate to teach in grades 1-5, and paper 2 makes it possible to cover grades 6-8. Therefore, the candidate who passed both parts of the test has more career opportunities and powers. Each test includes such branches of knowledge as:

  1. Child Development and Pedagogy
  2. Languages ​​English and Hindi
  3. Environmental Studies
  4. Mathematics
  5. Social Studies

Passing the exams allows candidates to apply for primary and secondary school teacher positions in public schools in India. The main criterion for admission to the examination is a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.

RRB NTPC Examination

Railway Recruitment Board conducts the exam for Non-Technical Popular Categories, which includes:

  1. Preliminary computer test
  2. Main computer test

Both stages establish your qualifications in general sciences, arithmetic, general awareness, and reasoning. The difference lies only in the level of complexity of the questions.

This test gives you the opportunity to join the Indian Railway as one of the largest state organizations in the country and take such non-technical positions as Junior Clerk cum Typist, Traffic Assistant, Goods Guard, Trains Clerk, accountant, and many others. For admission to the exam, you must be between the ages of 18 and 32 with a master's degree. A typing certificate is also required for some posts.

RRB JE Examination

The Railway Recruitment Board also supervises this exam. Unlike the RRB NTPC, it focuses on recruiting technical staff and includes two stages:

  1. The first test determines your knowledge of mathematics as well as general intelligence, awareness, and reasoning.
  2. The second test establishes your technical abilities, computer skills, and knowledge of physics and chemistry.

This exam gives you access to the position of a junior engineer which is one of the most popular roles for young professionals. RRB JE also allows you to apply for such jobs as a chemical and metallurgical assistant or a senior selection engineer, which is the foundation for a long-term career on the Indian Railway.

The age limits for this exam are 18-25 years. In addition, each candidate must have a degree in engineering.

RBI Grade B Examination

RBI Grade B Examination is conducted by Reserve Bank Of India, one of the country's most respected government institutions. The exam involves three steps:

  1. Testing English, general awareness, reasoning ability
  2. Testing of professional knowledge (economics, finance, statistics, social issues)
  3. An interview. You should confirm your qualifications and demonstrate your values ​​and personal qualities for obtaining a position.

This exam is the most prestigious among graduates as it is a ticket to the financial sector in India. Your job profile will include mining and transporting currencies, fighting inflation, and managing public accounts. You get a chance to apply for the position of RBI officer, but your career opportunities can reach such roles as a general manager or head of the department. That's why the RBI Grade B Examination has the highest number of applicants. Their age should not exceed 30 years, and their qualifications must be confirmed by a master's degree.

04

Tips on How to Get a Govt Vacancy After Graduation in India

Applying for a public position is a crucial step, and the selection process is quite time-consuming. Your goal, in this case, is not just to bend every effort but also to make sure that these efforts are not wasted. The main mistakes of graduates are the wrong choice of profession, poor preparation, and lack of a winning self-presentation. Each of them is an obstacle to your career. To avoid them, pay attention to three essential stages that precede applications for the exam and position.

Choice of Profession

Choosing the right profession helps unlock your potential and affects your future satisfaction.

No matter how prestigious and popular the post may seem, all its advantages will be worthless if you feel out of place. Besides, if you really have a passion for a specific type of activity, it will be much easier for you to cope with all the intermediate difficulties of the application process and examination. To determine your career path in the public sector, follow these points:

  • Analyze what activities or subjects from the academic program you enjoyed
  • Think about what knowledge you would like to put into practice
  • Evaluate your strengths, be it skills, personal qualities, qualifications, etc.
  • Study all the niches and types of jobs offered by the state and write out the posts that are of your interest
  • Compare these posts with the lists of your preferences and qualifications and focus on points that showed the most number of matches
  • Examine job requirements and exam admission criteria and identify areas for improvement.

Following these simple steps, you will determine the most suitable profession for you and choose the appropriate exams for the application, respectively.

Exam Preparation

Now you have a clue about the main examinations for govt jobs. But once you have decided on the desired niche and profession, it's time to move on to a thorough preparation strategy that will allow you to get the highest score.

  • Learn the exam pattern and syllabus for your chosen niche. This information is available on the state website and the website of the organization that provides jobs.
  • Check last year's test questions.
  • Identify your strengths and weaknesses in the required knowledge and skills.
  • Make a preparation plan where your time and attention will be evenly distributed among important subjects.
  • Arm yourself with preparatory material, whether it is reading suggestions or online courses that cover the entire syllabus of the selected exam.
  • Take notes on each topic studied.
  • Take mock tests to measure your progress.
  • Examine the requirements for your niche in general and your position in particular. It will serve as the foundation for your self-presentation during the interview.
  • Keep track of application deadlines and set notifications or reminders for each critical step.

Writing Application Documents

As an employer, the government is the same as business owners who want to choose the right person for each position to form the best professional team. Accordingly, your resume and cover letter should still prove you as a worthy candidate for the role and valuable talent for the public sector.

  • Resume - At the moment, you are unlikely to have an extensive track record. But this is no reason to leave the resume blank. Instead, tell about academic and extracurricular activities where you excelled, list the skills that you have mastered in the learning process and are of value to your chosen role, and indicate your career objective. When writing the latter, briefly describe how you can benefit the country or what your mission is.
  • Cover Letter - Unlike a resume, a cover letter does not have a strict structure. This allows you to fill out the document with any information that will add points to your candidacy. Remember that the cover letter should always be adapted to the specific position. Therefore, carefully study the description and requirements of the role to reflect this information in your appeal. Pay attention to the following points:
    1. Motives for joining the public sector
    2. Reasons for choosing a niche or profession
    3. Your vision of the job and its value ​​for society
    4. Qualifications and personal qualities for successful execution
    5. Your professional goal or mission
05

Conclusions

Work in the public sector remains a cherished dream for many young professionals who want to start their career paths and contribute to the development and prosperity of India. Undoubtedly, the state appreciates and encourages talent. But you should not be guided only by benefits. Remember, every niche has a great responsibility to the country and society, which requires constant involvement, dedication, and passion for your work. Therefore, if you are wondering how to get a govt job easily, identify your true vocation. It will become your beacon, guiding you towards the goal through all the intermediate difficulties.

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