Last Verified: 2026-03-01 from official conducting body notifications.
Official Overview & Examination Scope
Purpose, Scope & Academic Impact
The Gazetted Probationers Examination is conducted by KPSC for appointment into Group 'A' and Group 'B' executive civil services of the Government of Karnataka. Successful candidates become Assistant Commissioners (sub-divisional administrative heads), DySPs, and Tahsildars.
Eligibility Criteria & Academic Qualifications
Exam Pattern & Test Structure
Total: 1300 Marks (Mains 1250 + Interview 50)| Section / Paper | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prelims Paper 1: General Studies & Humanities | 100 Questions (National, International, Humanities) | 200 Marks | 2 Hours |
| Prelims Paper 2: General Studies, Karnataka GK & Aptitude | 100 Questions (Karnataka issues, Science, Math, Logic) | 200 Marks | 2 Hours |
| Mains: Kannada & English (Qualifying) | Language Papers | 150 Marks each (Need 35% to qualify) | 3 Hours each |
| Mains: Essay + GS 1 to 4 | Essay (250 M) + GS 1 to 4 (250 M each) | 1250 Marks | 5 Papers / 3h each |
| Personality Test (Interview) | Commission Board Interview | 50 Marks | 30 Minutes |
Prelims: +2 marks for correct, -0.5 marks for wrong. Mains (1250 M) + Interview (50 M) = Total 1300 Marks for final merit ranking.
Negative Marking Rule: One-fourth penalty (-0.5 marks) on Prelims Papers
Recommended Preparation Roadmap & Strategy
Cutoff Trends & Score Benchmark
Prelims cutoff typically hovers around 180-210 marks out of 400 aggregate across both papers.
Recruited Posts, Services & Cadres
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kannada compulsory in KPSC Gazetted Probationers exam?
Yes, candidates must pass a compulsory qualifying Kannada language paper (150 marks, 35% minimum pass score), and have working knowledge of Kannada.
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