From 60% in Boards to IAS Rank 3: The Unbelievable Success Story of Junaid Ahmad
From 60% in Boards to IAS Rank 3: The Unbelievable Success Story of Junaid Ahmad
NEW DELHI – In a country where academic scores are often seen as the ultimate benchmark of future success, the journey of Junaid Ahmad serves as a powerful and inspiring exception. Despite being an ‘average student’ with just 60% in his 10th-grade and 41% in his 12th-grade board exams, he defied all expectations to secure the coveted All India Rank 3 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2018.
Junaid’s path to becoming a top IAS officer was not a straight line of academic brilliance but a winding road of extraordinary perseverance. After graduating with a 65% in electronics engineering, he set his sights on the civil services, one of India’s most challenging competitive exams. His resolve was immediately tested as he faced failure in his first three attempts.
However, where many might have given up, Junaid persisted. His hard work paid off in his fourth attempt when he secured a rank in the prestigious Indian Revenue Service (IRS). But his ultimate dream was the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). On his fifth and final attempt, he didn’t just qualify—he triumphed, landing among the top three candidates in the entire country.
His story has become a beacon of hope for countless aspirants, proving that a report card does not define one’s destiny. It highlights that qualities like relentless hard work, unwavering self-belief, and the courage to rise from failure are the true ingredients for success.
As Junaid Ahmad himself has shared, a ‘never-give-up’ attitude is crucial. His journey powerfully illustrates that with enough grit and determination, any goal is achievable, regardless of one’s past academic record.
