Pursuing Indian Economic Services After MSQE from ISI
After completing a Master of Science in Quantitative Economics (MSQE) from the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), one may wonder about the feasibility of pursuing the Indian Economic Services (IES). This article discusses the eligibility criteria, the suitability of the ISI MSQE program, and the necessary preparation for the IES exam.
Eligibility and Recognition
The Indian Economic Services (IES) requires candidates to hold a postgraduate degree in Economics or a related field. Given the rigorous training in economics and quantitative methods provided by the ISI MSQE program, it qualifies you for the IES exam. Nevertheless, it is essential to meet any additional requirements set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), such as age limits and nationality, to ensure eligibility.
Personal Experiences and Realism
Two students from my senior batch at ISI successfully joined the Indian Economic Services after completing their MSQE program. They started preparing for the exam during their second year at ISI and cleared both the written test and the interview immediately after graduation. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the ISI curriculum does not fully prepare students for the IES exam, particularly its focus on India's economic aspects.
Curriculum and Preparation
The course structure at ISI is heavily mathematical and more oriented towards a PhD track in the United States. While the MSQE program will certainly strengthen your foundational knowledge in micro and macroeconomics and econometrics, it is unlikely to provide an advantage in the IES exam. The IES exam covers a broader range of economic concepts and requires a deep understanding of the Indian economy.
Additionally, the workload at ISI can be demanding, making it challenging to prepare seriously for the IES exam. The two students I mentioned demonstrated exceptional dedication and hard work. However, if the IES is your primary goal, you may find it more beneficial to pursue your studies in other places such as Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where the academic pressure is lower, the courses are more aligned with India's economy, and you will find numerous individuals preparing for the IES or UPSC exams.
Conclusion
While the MSQE program from ISI is highly regarded for its rigorous training in economics and quantitative methods, it does not entirely prepare you for the Indian Economic Services exam. If the IES is your primary objective, consider exploring other educational institutions and resources that better align with your goals.