Challenges and Success Drivers in Competitive Exam Preparation: A Thematic Analysis

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Page: 1089-1095

Madiha Fatima and Madhurima Pradhan (Department of Psychology, University of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh)

In India, the growing youth population and the high value placed on government jobs for financial security and social prestige have led to intense competition in competitive exams. Despite their popularity, these exams pose significant psychological, academic, and emotional challenges due to various factors such as societal expectations, limited vacancies, high stakes involved, etc. In this context, it becomes essential to understand not only the nature of challenges faced by aspirants during their preparation but also the key factors that positively contribute to their success in these exams so that future aspirants can benefit from these insights. The study aims to answer following research questions: 1) What are the challenges faced by aspirants during the preparation for competitive exams? 2) What factors positively contribute to success in competitive exams? To delve into the challenges and success factors in competitive exam preparation, the study adopted an exploratory qualitative design. Thirteen government officers (aged 25-35) who qualified for Grade A government exams in the last five years were selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview schedule and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis with Nvivo 14 software. Government officers preparing for competitive exams faced key challenges during exam preparation, including fear of failure, social isolation, academic pressure, and physical fatigue. Conversely, factors such as emotional resilience, cognitive abilities, disciplined behavioral traits, strong motivation, and a support system were identified as factors contributing in qualifying competitive exams.