Top 5 UPSC Online Coaching Platforms in India

December 12, 2023

14 Minutes

Table of Contents

Introduction

Starting the tough journey of preparing for UPSC exams? This blog is your guide to the best five UPSC online coaching platforms in India. Learn about these platforms that use smart teaching and provide helpful study materials. They are like guiding lights for anyone trying to succeed in one of the country's hardest exams.

Drishti IAS

Drishti IAS is a popular name today and within a short span of time, the platform has risen to the top ranks of institutes for UPSC coaching. This was possible through their teaching prowess, top-notch study material and excellent additional resources.

Let’s dive into an overview of the online courses offered by Drishti IAS and what they offer along with these courses. Notably, Drishti IAS brings an online GS Foundation Course for UPSC online coaching through the Drishti Learning App.

Schedule and Highlights :

The GS Foundation course offered by Drishti IAS spans about 15 months.
The institute offers daily live classes on the Drishti Learning App at 6:00 PM for 2.5 hours, led by a team of esteemed teachers.
The course, consisting of 400+ classes (1000+ hours), covers the syllabus comprehensively from the fundamental level.
Course Validity extends for 3 years with printed notes for each subject/module.
24 Mains Tests for answer writing practice.
Current Affairs classes for 3 years.
Prelims Test Series for 3 years.
Home delivery of Drishti Current Affairs Magazine (monthly) for 3 years.
11 books of Prelims Practice Series and Mains Capsule Series.
Adequate facility for clarification of class-related doubts.

Course Fee for GS Foundation Course: ₹1,00,000/- for 36 months.

Features of Drishti IAS’s GS Foundation Course (Prelims+Mains) :

Expert-Led Classes: Classes are conducted by experienced instructors under the guidance of Dr. Vikas Divyakirti, ensuring quality teaching.
Extensive Course Duration: With over 1000 hours of classes, the course spans three years, providing ample time for comprehensive learning and revision.
Focus on Understanding and Writing Skills: The course places a special emphasis on ensuring students grasp concepts thoroughly and develop effective answer writing skills.
Interactive Live Sessions: Most classes are live, offering real-time interaction. Ethics classes, however, are in recorded format, with regular doubt-clearing sessions.
Doubt Resolution Through WhatsApp: Doubts are addressed promptly through WhatsApp, ensuring clarity and understanding for students in the next day's live class.
Free Course Material: Students receive printed booklets, monthly magazines, and practice series books at no additional cost.
Free Current Affairs Classes and Prelims Crash Course: The course includes complimentary sessions on current affairs and a crash course for Prelims preparation over a three-year period.
Free Online Test Series: As part of the course, students have access to a free test series for UPSC CSE Prelims, comprising 90 tests (75 General Studies and 15 CSAT).
Answer Writing Practice: Facilitated through 24 tests, students receive valuable feedback and evaluations from the academic team, enhancing their writing skills.
Drishti Learning App Features: The Drishti Learning App allows students to evaluate and improve by providing a platform to assess and review up to 500 answers.

Josh Verdict

Drishti IAS has several notable features, including an experienced faculty, well-curated notes and practice tests and unique features like Whatsapp doubt-clearing services. The institute has constantly delivered good results in the CSE and due to these reasons, we have placed Drishti IAS at the first spot in our rankings for the best UPSC online coaching. If we consider Hindi to be the medium, Drishti IAS provides the best UPSC online coaching of all the online platforms as well.

KSG India

KSG, or Khan Study Group, is well-regarded in UPSC coaching for its effective teaching methods, study materials, and guidance. Dr. A.R. Khan, also known as Khan Sir, founded KSG, bringing with him three decades of teaching experience. Notably, many KSG students, including Srushti Jayant Deshmukh and Tina Dabi, have achieved top ranks in the UPSC exams. Let's delve into one of their courses to explore fees and details.

Course Offered: KSG Online Learning

Course Fee: ₹1,00,000/- + GST

Features of KSG Online Learning Initiative (KOL):

Comprehensive Course Coverage: The participants of this course gain a thorough understanding of the UPSC syllabus through a well-structured module-based teaching program that ensures in-depth coverage of essential topics.
Daily Objective Tests: KSG assesses the progress of its students by conducting objective tests on a daily basis. The performance of the candidate is assessed regularly through individual progress charts. This helps students tailor their study strategies to focus on areas that need improvement.
Writing Skill Development: The course classes are designed to enhance crucial skills like answer writing, a key component for success in UPSC exams.
Answer Writing Practice Program: Students of this course engage in programs like Power Writing. This helps students to refine their answer writing abilities, ensuring effective exam preparation.
Monthly Scholarship Program: KSG also runs a monthly scholarship program and offers students the opportunity to earn their fee back. The institute conducts monthly tests and if the student is able to meet the criteria, they can get their fee refunded.
Personal Session with Dr. Khan: KSG offers personalized guidance with exclusive one-on-one sessions with Dr. Khan in this course, where he leverages his expertise and insights.
Mentorship and Guidance: For doubts and problems, KSG India’s mentors are available for consultation every day of the year on phone and WhatsApp. This feature offers the students a helping hand while preparing.
Exclusive Live Classes for Online Students: Unlike other coaching institutes, KSG offers dedicated live classes, which are exclusive for online students. This makes the student-teacher interaction better.
Recorded Classes with 14-day Access: KSG India also provides the facility of recorded lectures if a student misses a lecture. The student is given a 14-day period to watch the recorded form of the lecture and catch up with the syllabus.
Online Assessment & Reports: Regular assessments at KSG include detailed online reports, providing valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses for focused self-assessment and improvement.
Transfer from Online to Offline: KSG also offers this unique option to transit from online to offline classes if he likes. The student just has to pay the difference fee and start attending the classroom sessions. This ensures a flexible learning journey.

Why KSG is a Good Choice for Online UPSC Coaching:

Dedicated and Experienced Faculty: KSG India boasts a team of committed faculty, led by DR Khan, renowned for their technical expertise and unwavering support to students. Faculty engagement extends beyond classes, with personal contact details shared for continuous post-course assistance.
Emphasis on Answer Writing Skills: Recognizing the significance of Mains Examination marks, KSG focuses on nurturing answer writing skills. DR Khan conducts answer-writing sessions, emphasizing practice from the early stages of the course to ensure skill development.
Regular Evaluation Practices: Daily objective and subjective tests allow students to assess their progress regularly. Innovative evaluation techniques like POD and CIWP help identify answer writing techniques and mistakes. Monthly performance charts offer comparative analysis with past UPSC toppers.
Holistic Mentorship Program: KSG's Mentorship Program provides a holistic learning experience. Every student is assigned a mentor who acts as a guide throughout the UPSC journey, offering academic and emotional support. The goal is to provide assistance tailored to each student's needs.
Up-to-Date and Comprehensive Material: KSG's study material, including books, daily current affairs updates, and monthly compilations, is designed to align with the evolving UPSC examination pattern. Crafted by a team of expert researchers, these materials complement class notes and guide students in the right approach to the exam.
Directly Relevant Question: KSG's consistent ability to predict questions directly from class notes and supplementary material underscores its proficiency in understanding the UPSC exam pattern. This indicates a strategic approach in providing highly relevant material to students.
Post-Course Knowledge Transfer: KSG's commitment extends beyond the course completion. The Post-Course Knowledge Transfer Program offers students free access to updated material and tests through a dedicated portal until their name appears in the final UPSC list, ensuring continuous support.

Josh Verdict

KSG India has emerged as a robust online learning platform, featuring live classes, personalized sessions, and a well-structured approach to learning. It stands out for its interactive features, including dedicated support, regular assessments, and flexibility. With an option to shift from online to offline, all-days mentorship, monthly scholarship program and a comprehensive module-based learning system, it is one of the best choices for UPSC online coaching.

Physics Wallah | OnlyIAS by PW

Founded with a vision to revolutionize education, Physics Wallah, which has collaborated with Only IAS for UPSC online Coaching, has an illustrious history of empowering students for success. Physics Wallah stands out for its innovative teaching methods and dedication to guiding aspirants with the best UPSC online coaching.

Courses Offered :

Sankalp for 2025 - ₹21,999*
Prahar for 2024 - ₹19,999*
Prarambh for 2026 - ₹48,999*
Titan 2025 - ₹21,999*

*Discounts of up to 52% are available most of the times.

Features :

MIRP Scheme: The MIRP Scheme by PW Only IAS is a golden opportunity for those who clear UPSC prelims. It offers an all-expenses-paid mains and interview preparation at the PW Only IAS offline center, covering accommodation and meals.
Daily Practice: In each class at PW Only IAS, students engage in valuable daily practice. This includes up to 10 MCQs, 1 Mains question, and a Model Answer, fostering consistent and effective learning.
Weekly Tests: PW Only IAS conducts regular weekly tests, providing students with opportunities to assess and reinforce their understanding of the course material.
Prelims Test Series: For focused UPSC prelims preparation, PW Only IAS offers a specialized test series, ensuring aspirants are well-prepared for this crucial stage.
Doubt Engine: The Doubt Engine at PW Only IAS is a dedicated platform where students can seek clarification from a team of experts and faculties, ensuring that no query goes unanswered.
Rich Study Material: PW Only IAS provides an array of rich study materials, including AMPOORNA (comprehensive e-books for CSE), MANTHAN (a monthly Current Affairs Magazine), UDAAN (quick revision booklets for prelims), and UDAAN 500 (a one-stop solution for 1.5 years of current affairs).
One-on-One Telephonic Mentorship: Students at PW Only IAS benefit from personalized guidance through one-on-one telephonic mentorship, supporting individual growth and improvement.
One-on-One Answer Evaluation: PW Only IAS goes the extra mile by offering detailed evaluations of student answers, providing constructive feedback for enhanced learning.
Access to Counseling and Guidance: PW Only IAS offers comprehensive support services, ensuring students have access to counseling and guidance for both academic and personal matters.
Access to SAT and Seminars: Aspirants get opportunities for additional learning and networking through SAT (Scholarship Admission Test) and Seminars held at PW Only IAS offline centers.
Optional Subject Courses: PW Only IAS provides coaching in both Hinglish and English for optional subjects like Anthropology, PSIR, History, Sociology, Geography, and Hindi Literature, all at an affordable ₹19,999.

Josh Verdict

PW Only IAS is the best UPSC online coaching platform because it gives you everything you need to pass the exam. They provide special schemes like MIRP, which covers all expenses for mains and interviews if you clear the prelims. With daily practice, weekly tests, and a doubt-solving platform, they ensure you're well-prepared. The study material is extensive, covering e-books, current affairs, and more. What makes it even better is the affordable pricing, making quality education accessible to all, unlike many others in the market.

StudyIQ IAS

StudyIQ IAS is our second pick for UPSC online coaching. It's like a step-by-step guide for people trying to pass the UPSC exam. They have different phases that help you learn everything you need. With features like P2I Advanced for Prelims and a special program for Mains, StudyIQ makes it easier for you to prepare for the UPSC exam.

The name of their flagship UPSC course is Prelims to Interview (P2I) Advanced batch, which costs ₹70,000/-*

*Discounts of 45-50% are mostly available for this course.

Phases of Preparation :

StudyIQ divides its UPSC preparation into four different phases and offers a well-planned and organised approach to the exam.

Phase 1 - The Integrated Approach: StudyIQ IAS begins its UPSC online coaching with an integrated approach to both Prelims and Mains. The syllabus is organized into weekly plans, with a day-wise timetable following a 3-2-1 format. Notable features include theme-based classes for advanced content in both Prelims and Mains, daily tests for integrated learning, and weekly current affairs classes for comprehensive coverage.
Phase 2 - Advanced - Success in Prelims: For those who have completed the foundation, StudyIQ IAS introduces P2I Advanced, focusing on Prelims-specific preparation. This phase includes daily classes, half-length tests for 90 days, a simulator test series for practical exam experience, and 10 SIP+ booklets for quick revision.
Phase 3 - Mains Residential Program: Prelims qualifiers are invited to the Mains Residential Program 2024, featuring a thorough revision of Phase 1, value addition classes for static and current affairs, and rigorous daily answer writing with weekend tests. For other students, access to live/recorded classes and tests is provided under the "Success in Mains" initiative.
Phase 4 - Interview Guidance Program: Post-Mains, StudyIQ IAS conducts an extensive DAF (Detailed Application Form) analysis for interviewees. Special sessions on answering controversial questions, effective response techniques, and mock interviews are offered to enhance preparedness.

Features of StudyIQ UPSC program :

Prelims GuidanceStudyIQ IAS offers your Prelims practice with 20 Full Length Tests (FLTs) for thorough practice and understanding. The student gets over 200 hours of focused classes covering both Static and Current Syllabus. The package also includes 75 Half Length Tests (HLTs) and 8 FLTs, followed by detailed discussions. StudyIQ aims to boost revision with 10+ Booklets for both Current and Static Syllabus, supported by weekly live classes for news and current affairs during Phase 1.
Mains GuidanceStudyIQ IAS's program features 20 Full Length Sectional Tests, theme-based classes (250+ hours), quick revision notes, and 1000+ Mains Questions-Answers discussions. To enhance writing skills, the platform provides Daily Answer Writing sessions, weekly tests, and simulator tests for a well-rounded preparation.
Interview GuidanceStudyIQ IAS offers DAF analysis with 300+ questions, 2 mock interviews, and special sessions with ex-bureaucrats.
Personalized MentorshipStudyIQ IAS also offers personalized support with mentorship, which includes tailored study plans, daily targets tracking for GS and optionals, feedback, and progress tracking for tests, and continuous personalized guidance from Prelims to Interview (P2I).

Josh Verdict

StudyIQ IAS offers a comprehensive approach with unique features to aid your UPSC online coaching, which also includes regular tests, MCQ handouts and a residential program for prelims qualifiers. The reason we put this course at the fourth spot in our rankings for the best UPSC online coaching is that their study material is a bit too lengthy and several popular faculty members have left the institute lately but still it is an excellent platform for UPSC online coaching.

Vision IAS

Vision IAS offers a variety of GS Foundational Courses for UPSC online coaching, each with distinct features. Despite providing excellent study material and a renowned test series, certain drawbacks place it at the fifth spot on our list.

Courses Offered :

1. GS Foundational Course 2025 - ₹1,70,000 (With Pre-Foundational Classes) :

Duration: 12 months
Comprehensive coverage of GS Mains, Prelims, CSAT, and Essay.
70 pre-foundation classes for understanding key GS concepts and fundamentals.
All India Test Series and Continuous Current Affairs classes.
Personalized Mentors for regular performance assessments.
Access to live and recorded classes on a personal online Student Platform.

2. GS Foundational Course 2025 - ₹1,50,000 (Without Pre-Foundational Classes) :

Similar to the above course but excludes the 70 pre-foundation lectures.

3. GS Foundational Course 2026 - ₹1,95,000 (Including Pre-Foundational Classes) :

Duration: 36 months with a promise to finish the GS syllabus in 16 months.
All features of the 2025 course, extending to 2026.
Comprehensive Current Affairs Classes 2025 & 2026: Monthly Current Affairs Classes (MCAR), Mains 365 & PT365.
Personalized Mentors, Continuous Assessment, and All India Test Series until Mains exam 2026.
Access to live and recorded classes on a personal online Student Platform.

4. GS Foundational Course 2027 - ₹2,15,000 (Including Pre-Foundational Classes) :

Duration: 48 months, completing the GS syllabus in 16 months.
All features of the 2025 and 2026 courses, extending to 2027.
Comprehensive Current Affairs Classes 2025, 2026 & 2027: Monthly Current Affairs Classes (MCAR), Mains 365 & PT365.
Personalized Mentors, Continuous Assessment, and All India Test Series until Mains exam 2027.
Access to live and recorded classes on a personal online Student Platform.

Features

Personalized Guidance: One-to-one guidance through phone, email, and in-person sitting to clear doubts and provide motivation.
Continuous Assessment: Regular tutorials, mini-tests, and the renowned All India Test Series for personalized feedback and performance assessment.
All India Test Series: Considered one of the best in the country, with a claim that 2 out of 3 selected candidates opt for their test series.
Vision IAS Post Test Analysis: A trademarked system to help students improve their performance, providing continuous assessment and performance improvement.
Current Affairs Material: Renowned Monthly Current Affairs magazine, PT 365, and Mains 365, considered among the best in the market.
Student Portal: Access to a student portal to solve technical problems, including glitches, resource issues, and performance assessments.

Josh Verdict

Despite Vision IAS providing excellent study material and a top-notch All India Test Series, it falls to the fifth spot on our list due to certain drawbacks.

Vision IAS courses are comparatively costlier than others without a significant difference in teaching quality.
The duration of their courses is shorter, potentially making it challenging for newer aspirants to catch up.
The absence of a residency program, despite the higher cost, places Vision IAS lower than other online UPSC coaching platforms.

Overall, Vision IAS is a solid option but has room for improvement, leading to its placement at the fifth spot in our rankings for the best UPSC online coaching.