Every year, millions of students dream of landing a secure government job. But one major question haunts almost every aspirant at some point:
“Should I start preparing during college or wait until I graduate?”
This single decision can define your career path, your peace of mind, and even your future timeline.
Let’s explore both sides honestly.
Option A: Start During College
Why It’s Smart:
- Early advantage: You get more attempts, more experience, and more time to build strong basics.
- Low pressure environment: No one expects you to crack it in first year — you can experiment and learn.
- By final year, you’re exam-ready: While others are just starting, you’ll already know the pattern, syllabus, and strategy.
What Makes It Tough:
- Distractions from college life (friends, events, semester exams)
- Lack of serious mentors or peer group
- Time crunch – balancing college and preparation is not easy
Option B: Start After Graduation
Why It Works for Some:
- Full focus: No assignments, no classes — only dedicated study time
- Mature mindset: You understand your strengths, weaknesses, and career goals better
- More resources: You can shift to coaching hubs, join test series, and invest in better materials
What’s Risky:
- Less time before age limit and pressure to succeed quickly
- Watching others get selected while you’re just starting can be mentally tough
- No back-up plan if you’ve put everything into just one path
So, What’s the Final Answer?
There’s no universal rule. But here’s the honest takeaway:
If you can manage at least 2–3 focused hours a day during college, START NOW.
If your college schedule is hectic, use that time to understand the syllabus, read current affairs, or solve aptitude questions casually.
The earlier you start, the more clarity and confidence you’ll build.
The later you start, the more sharply you’ll need to focus.
What matters most is consistency, not timing.
Some crack it in 1 year after graduation. Others take 3 years even after starting in college.
Now Over to You:
- When did you start your preparation journey — during college or after?
- Do you think starting early helps?
- What would you advise a 2nd-year college student today?
Drop your thoughts in the comments. Your story might guide someone who’s stuck at this exact crossroad today.