Rau’s IAS Study Circle is one of India’s oldest and most reputed UPSC coaching institutes. Established in 1953, it has helped thousands of aspirants crack the Civil Services Examination with disciplined preparation, expert guidance, and structured programs. If you are planning to join this institute, here is a complete and honest guide to help you decide.

About Rau’s IAS Study Circle

Rau’s IAS is known for its academic-oriented teaching approach, well-researched study material, and strong mentorship support. The institute focuses heavily on concept clarity, answer writing, and analytical learning—three major pillars of UPSC success.

Rau’s IAS Courses & Fees (2025)

Here is an updated overview of the major courses offered by Rau’s IAS Study Circle along with their approximate fee structure:

1. General Studies (GS) Integrated Course

• Mode: Offline + Online
• Duration: 9–12 months
• Fee: ₹1,80,000 – ₹2,00,000

2. GS Foundation Course (Prelims + Mains)

• Mode: Classroom / Live-online
• Fee: ₹1,70,000 – ₹1,90,000

3. Optional Subjects

Popular optionals include:

• Public Administration
• Sociology
• Political Science & IR
• Geography
• History

Fees: ₹48,000 – ₹55,000 per optional

4. Prelims Test Series

• Fee: ₹15,000 – ₹18,000

5. Mains Test Series

• Fee: ₹25,000 – ₹30,000

6. Interview Guidance Program

• Fee: Usually Free for enrolled students

Rau’s IAS Fee Chart

Rau’s IAS Branches / Locations

The institute has centres in major UPSC hubs in India:

1. Delhi (Karol Bagh & Old Rajinder Nagar)

The main and most popular centre, known for classroom programs.

2. Jaipur (Rajasthan)

A great option for North Indian aspirants preferring a calmer study environment.

3. Bengaluru (Karnataka)

Known for online + offline blended batches and high-quality infrastructure.

What’s Good About Rau’s IAS (Pros)

1. Highly Experienced Faculty

Many teachers have decades of UPSC teaching experience.

2. Strong Study Material

Rau’s Blue Book and QIP notes are widely used even by non-Rau’s students.

3. Structured Learning Approach

Ideal for beginners who need discipline and step-by-step guidance.

4. Excellent Test Series

Especially Mains answer-writing guidance is considered top-tier.

5. Legacy & Trust

More than 70 years of experience adds credibility and reliability.

What’s Not Good (Cons)

1. Expensive Fee Structure

Compared to many newer institutes, Rau’s IAS is on the higher side.

2. Large Batch Sizes

Individual attention may feel limited in some batches.

3. Strict Schedules

Not ideal for students looking for flexible or slow-paced learning.

4. Limited Optional Subjects

Some popular optionals like Mathematics or Philosophy are not offered.

Student Reviews: What Aspirants Say

Here is a combined impression based on student feedback across platforms:

⭐ 4.4/5 – Faculty Quality

Students appreciate detailed lectures and clear explanations.

⭐ 4.3/5 – Study Material

The Blue Book and Mains Compass are especially loved.

⭐ 4.0/5 – Test Series Quality

Mains evaluation is strong, but Prelims tests are considered moderate.

⭐ 3.9/5 – Value for Money

High fee is a concern, but students say the quality matches the cost.

Overall Review:
A reliable and premium institute ideal for serious aspirants who prefer structured guidance and experienced faculty.

Things to Remember Before Taking Admission

• Always check batch size, timings, and teacher allocation before enrolling.
• Ask whether the batch is recorded + live or only live.
• Ensure you get access to study material, Blue Books, and test series with the course.
• Clarify refund or batch-change policies.
• Visit the centre physically (if joining offline) to check class environment.

Conclusion

Rau’s IAS Study Circle remains one of the most trusted and premium coaching institutes for UPSC aspirants. While the fees are higher compared to other institutes, the quality of faculty, structured teaching, and reputed study material make it a strong choice—especially for beginners or those who want disciplined preparation.
If budget is not a limitation and you value experience and legacy, Rau’s IAS can be a great investment for your UPSC journey.