State PSC & State Govt · Karnataka · Updated October 2026
KPSC KAS ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
Conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission, the Gazetted Probationers (KAS) examination recruits Group A and Group B officers including Assistant Commissioners, DySPs, Commercial Tax Officers, and Tahsildars in Karnataka. The exam features a two-paper Preliminary test, five compulsory descriptive Mains papers (Essay and GS I–IV with no optional subjects), and a Personality Test.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- State · Karnataka
- Conducting body
- Karnataka PSC
Start for free with KPSC KAS syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
KPSC KAS exam overview and highlights
About KPSC KAS
The Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) Gazetted Probationers (Group A & Group B) Examination—popularly known as the Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) Exam—is the premier civil services examination of Karnataka. Conducted from Bengaluru (Udyoga Soudha), it recruits officers into the Karnataka Administrative Service (Assistant Commissioner - Junior Scale), Karnataka Police Service (Deputy Superintendent of Police), Commercial Tax Officer, Tahsildar Grade-II, and Executive Officer (Taluk Panchayat). Following recent reforms by the Government of Karnataka, optional subjects were abolished in the Main Examination and the Personality Test marks were rationalized to 50 marks to ensure greater objectivity. The three-stage selection process comprises a 400-mark OMR Preliminary test, a seven-paper descriptive Main examination (1,250 merit marks across Essay and four General Studies papers plus qualifying Kannada & English), and a 50-mark Personality Test.
The examination process for KPSC KAS comprises 3 stages: Preliminary Examination, followed by Main Examination (Written Descriptive), followed by Personality Test (Interview). The official syllabus tests candidates across 6 core areas — History, Literature and Cultural Heritage of Karnataka & India (Mains GS 1), Geography, Natural Resources and Environment of Karnataka & India (GS 2 & 3), Indian Constitution, Public Administration & Karnataka Governance (GS 2), Indian & Karnataka Economy, Planning and Rural Development (GS 1), Science & Technology, Agriculture and Environment (GS 3), Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude & Prelims Mental Ability (GS 4 & Prelims Paper II) — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Prelims cutoff is determined by the combined aggregate of Paper I (200) and Paper II (200) out of 400 marks, shortlisting candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, Kannada and English papers are qualifying (35% needed in each); final merit is calculated from Essay (250) and General Studies Papers I to IV (250 each = 1,000), totaling 1,250 written marks, plus the Personality Test (50 marks) for a grand total of 1,300 marks.
Key subjects
- History, Literature and Cultural Heritage of Karnataka & India (Mains GS 1)
- Geography, Natural Resources and Environment of Karnataka & India (GS 2 & 3)
- Indian Constitution, Public Administration & Karnataka Governance (GS 2)
- Indian & Karnataka Economy, Planning and Rural Development (GS 1)
- Science & Technology, Agriculture and Environment (GS 3)
- Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude & Prelims Mental Ability (GS 4 & Prelims Paper II)
What clearing KPSC KAS leads to
- Assistant Commissioner (Junior Scale, Karnataka Administrative Service - Group A)
- Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP, Karnataka Police Service - Group A)
- Assistant Commissioner of Commercial Taxes (ACCT - Group A)
- Executive Officer (Taluk Panchayat, Rural Development & Panchayat Raj - Group A)
- Tahsildar Grade-II (Revenue Department - Group B)
- Commercial Tax Officer (CTO - Group B) & Deputy Superintendent of Excise (Group B)
Quick facts
- Conducting body
- Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC)
- Frequency
- Periodic (typically every 1.5 to 2 years based on cadre vacancies)
- Exam mode
- Offline (OMR sheet) for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains
- Languages
- Kannada and English
- Stages & papers
- 3 stages (10 papers total)
- Negative marking
- One-fourth (0.25 of the marks assigned to a question, i.e., 0.50 marks) deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains
- Official website
- kpsc.kar.nic.in
KPSC KAS — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of KPSC KAS conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | KPSC KAS |
| Conducting Body | Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) |
| Exam Category | State PSC & State Govt |
| Exam Level | State level (Karnataka) |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Recruitment (Direct Recruitment & Cadre Selection) |
| Exam Frequency | Periodic (typically every 1.5 to 2 years based on cadre vacancies) |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Notification between January and March; Prelims in July or August; Mains in December or January; Interviews in April or May |
| Mode of Application | Online via the KPSC One Time Registration portal at kpsc.kar.nic.in / kpsconline.karnataka.gov.in |
| Mode of Examination | Offline (OMR sheet) for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains |
| Medium / Exam Languages | Kannada and English |
| Selection Stages | 3 Stages (10 Papers Total): Preliminary Examination → Main Examination (Written Descriptive) → Personality Test (Interview) |
| Negative Marking | One-fourth (0.25 of the marks assigned to a question, i.e., 0.50 marks) deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains |
| Selection / Merit Process | Prelims cutoff is determined by the combined aggregate of Paper I (200) and Paper II (200) out of 400 marks, shortlisting candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, Kannada and English papers are qualifying (35% needed in each); final merit is calculated from Essay (250) and General Studies Papers I to IV (250 each = 1,000), totaling 1,250 written marks, plus the Personality Test (50 marks) for a grand total of 1,300 marks. |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor's degree or Master's degree from a recognized university established by law in India. |
| Age Limit | 21 to 38 years for General Merit (often granted one-time 3-year relaxation up to 41 years in special notifications), 41 years for Category 2A/2B/3A/3B, and 43 years for SC/ST/Category-1, with an additional 10 years for PwBD and Ex-Servicemen. |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | Pay Scale of INR 56,800 to INR 99,600 (Group A Junior Scale: Assistant Commissioner, DySP, Assistant Commissioner of Commercial Taxes) and INR 43,100 to INR 83,900 (Group B: Tahsildar, CTO, Taluk Panchayat EO) under Karnataka Revised Pay Scales |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | Around 2 to 3 lakh applicants competing for 300 to 400 Group-A and Group-B Gazetted Probationer posts |
| Official Website | kpsc.kar.nic.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
KPSC KAS exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for KPSC KAS. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official Karnataka PSC website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| KPSC KAS Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Notification between January and March; Prelims in July or August; Mains in December or January; Interviews in April or May | Periodic (typically every 1.5 to 2 years based on cadre vacancies) |
| Online Registration & Application Fee Window | Typically remains open for 21 to 30 days from the date of notification release | Online Portal |
| Application Form Correction / Edit Window | 2 to 5 days immediately following the close of the online registration window | As Notified |
| Exam City Intimation & Admit Card Release | City slip 10–15 days prior; Hall Ticket / E-Admit Card 4 to 10 days before the exam date | Via Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) |
| KPSC KAS — Preliminary Examination | Notification between January and March; Prelims in July or August; Mains in December or January; Interviews in April or May | Offline (OMR sheet) for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains |
| KPSC KAS — Main Examination (Written Descriptive) | Typically 6 to 12 weeks after declaration of Stage 1 results | Shortlisted Candidates |
| Provisional Answer Key & Objection Representation Window | Within 3 to 10 days after completion of the objective examination shifts | Online Challenge |
| Final Answer Key, Normalized Result & Merit List / Scorecard | Typically 3 to 6 weeks after conclusion of the examination stage | Merit List PDF / Login |
- Vacancies & Competition
- Around 2 to 3 lakh applicants competing for 300 to 400 Group-A and Group-B Gazetted Probationer posts. Exact post-wise, department-wise, and category-wise (UR, EWS, OBC, SC, ST, ESM, PwBD) vacancies are notified in the official KPSC KAS recruitment advertisement published by Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC).
- Application Fee & Payment Norms
- Standard Banking & Insurance application fee slabs apply: typically ₹750 to ₹850 (inclusive of GST) for General/OBC/EWS candidates, and ₹125 to ₹175 (intimation charges only) for SC/ST/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen candidates via online payment.
How to apply online for KPSC KAS
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit kpsc.kar.nic.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online via the KPSC One Time Registration portal at kpsc.kar.nic.in / kpsconline.karnataka.gov.in.
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the KPSC KAS application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (Kannada and English), and choose 3 to 4 preferred test cities.
Upload Photograph, Signature & Category Certificates
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in prescribed KB dimensions and light background), scanned running-hand signature, and valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD/Domicile certificates where applicable.
Online Application Fee Payment & Confirmation Page
Pay the category-wise examination fee via UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or e-Challan before the closing deadline, then download and preserve the final KPSC KAS Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
KPSC KAS eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for KPSC KAS must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by Karnataka PSC.
Educational qualification
Bachelor's degree or Master's degree from a recognized university established by law in India.
Age limit & relaxations
21 to 38 years for General Merit (often granted one-time 3-year relaxation up to 41 years in special notifications), 41 years for Category 2A/2B/3A/3B, and 43 years for SC/ST/Category-1, with an additional 10 years for PwBD and Ex-Servicemen.
Number of attempts
5 attempts for General Merit, 7 attempts for Category 2A/2B/3A/3B, and Unlimited attempts for SC/ST/Category-1 candidates within their respective upper age limits.
Nationality & domicile
Indian citizen.
Other conditions & standards
Qualifying the 150-mark Kannada paper (35% minimum) in Mains is compulsory for all candidates. Article 371J reservation (Kalyana Karnataka / Hyderabad-Karnataka region local cadre reservation) applies to notified vacancies.
KPSC KAS — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) (Karnataka Domicile) | +5 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Requires valid Karnataka permanent domicile and caste certificate issued by the competent revenue authority. |
| Other Backward Classes — Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) (Karnataka Domicile) | +3 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Candidate must fall outside the Creamy Layer as on the crucial closing date of the online application. |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD — UR / OBC / SC-ST) | +10 Years (UR) / +13 Years (OBC) / +15 Years (SC/ST) | Subject to post suitability and 40%+ benchmark disability certificate under the RPwD Act, 2016. |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) & Commissioned Officers (ECO / SSCO) | +3 to 5 Years after deducting military service rendered from actual age | Must produce discharge book / NOC from the competent defence authority at document verification. |
| State Government Employees / Women / Departmental Candidates (Karnataka) | Up to +5 Years as per state service recruitment rules | Applicable to regular Karnataka state government servants and horizontal reservation categories notified in the advertisement. |
KPSC KAS selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: One-fourth (0.25 of the marks assigned to a question, i.e., 0.50 marks) deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains. Selection & Merit Weightage: Prelims cutoff is determined by the combined aggregate of Paper I (200) and Paper II (200) out of 400 marks, shortlisting candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, Kannada and English papers are qualifying (35% needed in each); final merit is calculated from Essay (250) and General Studies Papers I to IV (250 each = 1,000), totaling 1,250 written marks, plus the Personality Test (50 marks) for a grand total of 1,300 marks.
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
Offline (OMR sheet) • 2 Papers (Paper I: General Studies (National & International Current Events, Humanities - History, Polity, Economy, Geography of India & Karnataka), Paper II: General Studies (State Importance Current Events, General Science & Tech, Environment, and 30 questions on General Mental Ability)) • Questions: 100 (60 Indian Humanities + 40 State/National Current Events) • 400 Total Marks • Duration: 2 hours • An objective OMR screening test consisting of two compulsory papers of 100 questions (200 marks) each.
An objective OMR screening test consisting of two compulsory papers of 100 questions (200 marks) each. Unlike UPSC, marks of BOTH Paper I and Paper II are added together (out of 400) to determine the Prelims cutoff for Mains.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Paper I: General Studies (National & International Current Events, Humanities - History, Polity, Economy, Geography of India & Karnataka)Counted for Prelims cutoff; 1/4 negative marking (0.50 marks) 100 (60 Indian Humanities + 40 State/National Current Events) 200 2 hours Paper II: General Studies (State Importance Current Events, General Science & Tech, Environment, and 30 questions on General Mental Ability)Counted together with Paper I for the 400-mark Prelims cutoff 100 (40 State GS/Schemes + 30 S&T/Environment + 30 CSAT/Mental Ability) 200 2 hours Stage 2: Main Examination (Written Descriptive)
Descriptive, pen and paper • 7 Papers (Qualifying Paper 1: Kannada, Qualifying Paper 2: English, Paper I: Essay (One Essay on International/National Topic + One Essay on State/Local Importance Topic) + 4 more) • Questions: Descriptive • 1550 Total Marks • Duration: 2 hours • A seven-paper conventional descriptive examination with no optional subjects.
A seven-paper conventional descriptive examination with no optional subjects. Two language papers (Kannada and English) are qualifying at 35%, while five papers (Essay and GS I to IV) carry 250 marks each for a written merit total of 1,250 marks.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Qualifying Paper 1: KannadaQualifying only; minimum 35% (52.5 marks) required Descriptive 150 2 hours Qualifying Paper 2: EnglishQualifying only; minimum 35% (52.5 marks) required Descriptive 150 2 hours Paper I: Essay (One Essay on International/National Topic + One Essay on State/Local Importance Topic)Counted for final merit 2 Essays (125 marks each) 250 3 hours Paper II: General Studies 1 (History & Cultural Heritage of India & Karnataka, Social & Political Perspective, and Indian Economy & Rural Development)Counted for final merit Descriptive 250 3 hours Paper III: General Studies 2 (Physical Features & Natural Resources of India & Karnataka, Indian Constitution & Public Administration, and International Relations)Counted for final merit Descriptive 250 3 hours Paper IV: General Studies 3 (Role & Impact of Science and Technology, Advancement in Natural Science/Agriculture/Energy, and Environment & Disaster Management)Counted for final merit Descriptive 250 3 hours Paper V: General Studies 4 (Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude, and Case Studies)Counted for final merit Descriptive & Case Studies 250 3 hours Stage 3: Personality Test (Interview)
In-person interview • 1 Paper (Personality Test) • 50 Total Marks • Candidates shortlisted in a 1:3 ratio from the Main Examination face a structured interview panel at KPSC Bengaluru where panel members award marks moderated to a maximum of 50 marks.
Candidates shortlisted in a 1:3 ratio from the Main Examination face a structured interview panel at KPSC Bengaluru where panel members award marks moderated to a maximum of 50 marks.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Personality TestAdded to 1,250 Mains marks for a grand total of 1,300 marks Varies 50 Varies Stage 4: Document Verification, Medical Fitness & Final Cadre/Post Allotment
In-person verification by Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) • Original academic, age, category & domicile certificates • Medical fitness examination & final merit allocation
Candidates shortlisted in the final merit list undergo thorough verification of original educational, age, category and domicile certificates followed by a prescribed medical fitness examination before appointment letters and cadre/department allotments are issued.
KPSC KAS subject-wise syllabus and study material
SmartRank organizes chapter-wise study notes for every subject below in 12 languages, with an AI Tutor on hand for doubts. Start exploring for free, and unlock the complete syllabus with Learn or SmartRank Pass.
History, Literature and Cultural Heritage of Karnataka & India (Mains GS 1) — Part I (Dynasties of Karnataka)
- Dynasties of Karnataka: Kadambas, Western Gangas, Chalukyas of Badami & Kalyana, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Empire, Bahmani/Adil Shahi, and Wodeyars of Mysuru (Tipu Sultan & Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV)
- Vachana Movement (Basavanna, Akka Mahadevi, Allama Prabhu, Anubhava Mantapa) and Haridasa Movement (Purandaradasa, Kanakadasa)
- Freedom Struggle in Karnataka: Kittur Rani Chennamma, Sangolli Rayanna, Halagali Bedas, Shivapura Dhwaja Satyagraha, Vidurashwatha Tragedy, Isuru Rebellion, and Karnataka Ekikarana (Unification) Movement (Aluru Venkata Rao)
History, Literature and Cultural Heritage of Karnataka & India (Mains GS 1) — Part II (Art & Architecture of Karnataka)
- Art & Architecture of Karnataka: Badami-Aihole-Pattadakal temples, Shravanabelagola, Belur-Halebidu-Somanathapura Hoysala ensembles (UNESCO), Hampi, and Gol Gumbaz
- Folk arts (Yakshagana, Dollu Kunitha, Kamsale, Togalu Gombeyata) and Kannada literary heritage (Pampa, Ranna, Janna, Kuvempu, Bendre, Karanth, Girish Karnad)
- Modern Indian History, social reform movements, and post-independence reorganization
Geography, Natural Resources and Environment of Karnataka & India (GS 2 & 3) — Part I (Physiographic divisions of Karnataka)
- Physiographic divisions of Karnataka: Karavali (Coastal Plains), Malnad (Western Ghats), and Bayaluseeme (Northern & Southern Maidan plateaus)
- River basins of Karnataka (Cauvery, Krishna, Tungabhadra, Sharavathi, Kali, Netravathi, Mahadayi) and inter-state river water disputes
- Agro-climatic zones, soils, coffee/arecanut/ragi/sericulture belts, iron ore & gold mining (Kudremukh, Ballari, Hutti), and industrial corridors
Geography, Natural Resources and Environment of Karnataka & India (GS 2 & 3) — Part II (Western Ghats biodiversity, Tiger Reserves)
- Western Ghats biodiversity, Tiger Reserves (Bandipur, Nagarahole, Bhadra, Kali/Dandeli-Anshi, BRT), and human-wildlife conflict mitigation
- Physical and economic geography of India and the world, monsoon systems, and disaster management
Indian Constitution, Public Administration & Karnataka Governance (GS 2)
- Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, DPSP, Federalism, Judicial Review, and Article 371J (Special Status for Kalyana Karnataka region)
- Panchayati Raj in Karnataka: Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act 1993, decentralized planning, Ward Sabhas, and Gram Sabhas
- Public Administration theories, bureaucracy, New Public Management, e-Governance in Karnataka (Sakala Act, Bhoomi, Kaveri, Kutumba, Seva Sindhu), and Lokayukta
- International Relations, UN agencies, India's foreign policy, and global trade groupings
Indian & Karnataka Economy, Planning and Rural Development (GS 1)
- Karnataka Economic Survey and State Budget: GSDP sectoral growth, fiscal responsibility (Karnataka Fiscal Responsibility Act), and regional imbalances (Dr. D.M. Nanjundappa Committee Report)
- Rural development, land reforms in Karnataka (1974 Amendment), cooperative movement (Nandini/KMF), SHGs (Stree Shakti), and guarantee/welfare schemes
- Bengaluru IT/Biotech/Aerospace/Startup ecosystem, semiconductor & EV policies, and port/infrastructure development
- National income, RBI monetary policy, GST council, NITI Aayog, WTO, and poverty estimation
Science & Technology, Agriculture and Environment (GS 3)
- ISRO headquarters & facilities in Karnataka (URSC Bengaluru, MCF Hassan, Byalalu Deep Space Network), DRDO labs, and IISc research
- Biotechnology, genetic engineering, dryland agriculture, watershed management, sericulture, and horticulture
- Renewable energy (Pavagada Solar Park, wind energy), solid waste management, EIA, and climate change action plan
Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude & Prelims Mental Ability (GS 4 & Prelims Paper II)
- Ethics and human interface, moral thinkers (including Basavanna, Vivekananda, Gandhi, Ambedkar), emotional intelligence, and administrative probity
- Case studies on ethical governance, public service delivery under Sakala, and conflict of interest
- Prelims Paper II Mental Ability (30 questions): data interpretation, coding-decoding, syllogisms, ratios, percentages, time-work, and probability
KPSC KAS salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
Pay Scale of INR 56,800 to INR 99,600 (Group A Junior Scale: Assistant Commissioner, DySP, Assistant Commissioner of Commercial Taxes) and INR 43,100 to INR 83,900 (Group B: Tahsildar, CTO, Taluk Panchayat EO) under Karnataka Revised Pay Scales. Appointments under Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
Pay Scale of INR 56,800 to INR 99,600 (Group A Junior Scale: Assistant Commissioner, DySP, Assistant Commissioner of Commercial Taxes) and INR 43,100 to INR 83,900 (Group B: Tahsildar, CTO, Taluk Panchayat EO) under Karnataka Revised Pay Scales.
Appointing / Cadre Authority
Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) (Karnataka State Government Service)
Allowances & Perks
Dearness Allowance (DA), HRA (by city classification), Medical Allowance, TA, and Karnataka NPS / Pension benefits.
Probation & Training
Initial probation period (typically 1 to 2 years) with induction/foundation training before cadre confirmation.
Allowances, Perks & Service Benefits
- Dearness Allowance (DA) revised bi-annually in line with Consumer Price Index (AICPI)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) or official government quarters / leased accommodation
- Transport Allowance (TA), Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and Children Education Allowance
- Comprehensive medical care (CGHS / ECHS / State Health Scheme) for employee and dependents
- National Pension System (NPS) employer contribution, gratuity, and paid maternity/paternity/study leave
Promotion Hierarchy & Career Progression
- Entry-Level Cadre Appointment (Post allotment & induction training under Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC))
- Senior / Higher Grade Scale via Time-Bound Financial Upgradation (MACP / Dynamic ACP)
- Sectional / Supervisory / Inspector / Assistant Executive Cadre via Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) or LDCE
- Middle Management / Gazetted / Divisional Officer Scale
- Senior Administrative / Directorate / Executive Leadership Cadre
KPSC KAS cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) releases stage-wise and category-wise KPSC KAS cut-off marks at each stage (Prelims/Tier-I shortlisting, Mains/Tier-II evaluation, and Final Merit List). Candidates must clear both minimum qualifying standards and overall/sectional merit cut-offs to advance.
KPSC KAS — Qualifying Standards & Safe Target Benchmarks
| Category | Qualifying Floor / Standard | Recommended Safe Target |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 30% to 40% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 72% to 82% of Total Marks (95+ Percentile in Mock Tests) |
| General — Economically Weaker Section (GEN-EWS) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / PwBD | 20% to 30% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 58% to 70% of Total Marks |
Score Normalization & Marking Impact
Because KPSC KAS is evaluated on a uniform single-session paper scale under one-fourth (0.25 of the marks assigned to a question, i.e., 0.50 marks) deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains, raw score accuracy directly determines your rank on the official merit list.
Factors Determining KPSC KAS Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across Karnataka cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the KPSC KAS cycle
- Relative difficulty level of the question paper (and shift-wise variation in multi-shift CBT exams)
- Category-wise vertical (UR, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and horizontal (PwBD, ESM, Women) reservation ratios
- Previous year cut-off trajectory and candidate score distribution at the top percentiles
KPSC KAS admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
KPSC KAS Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official KPSC KAS Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on kpsc.kar.nic.in. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must log in with their Registration Number and Date of Birth / Password to download it.
- Clear A4 printout of the KPSC KAS e-Admit Card with visible barcode and photograph
- Original valid Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs matching the image uploaded in the online application
- PwBD / Scribe certificate and undertaking (if availing compensatory time or scribe facility)
Within 3–10 days after the examination
KPSC KAS Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on kpsc.kar.nic.in. Candidates can calculate their raw score and submit online representations against any ambiguous question or key discrepancy within the stipulated 48–72 hour window.
- Download your recorded Response Sheet PDF and match Question IDs with the Master Answer Key
- Calculate raw score using the official positive and negative marking formula
- Attach standard textbook / NCERT / official gazette proof if challenging any provisional key
- Review the Final Answer Key published after subject-expert scrutiny of all representations
3–6 weeks after stage completion
KPSC KAS Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) declares the KPSC KAS result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on kpsc.kar.nic.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official KPSC KAS Scorecard / Rank Letter PDF immediately upon release
- Verify category-wise and sectional cut-off marks in the official result write-up notice
- Keep original matriculation, degree, caste/EWS, and domicile certificates ready for verification
- Track reserve list / multi-round seat allotment updates on the official website
KPSC KAS mock tests
Practice in the official KPSC KAS pattern on the Free plan, and unlock 10 full or sectional mocks every month, unlimited chapter and topic tests, and the CBT Exam Simulator with SmartRank Pass.
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KPSC KAS Full Mock Test 1
Preliminary Examination · 100 (60 Indian Humanities + 40 State/National Current Events) questions · 2 hours
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KPSC KAS Full Mock Test 2
Preliminary Examination · 100 (60 Indian Humanities + 40 State/National Current Events) questions · 2 hours
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KPSC KAS Full Mock Test 3
Preliminary Examination · 100 (60 Indian Humanities + 40 State/National Current Events) questions · 2 hours
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KPSC KAS Full Mock Test 4
Preliminary Examination · 100 (60 Indian Humanities + 40 State/National Current Events) questions · 2 hours
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KPSC KAS Full Mock Test 5
Preliminary Examination · 100 (60 Indian Humanities + 40 State/National Current Events) questions · 2 hours
KPSC KAS previous year papers
Papers come with a solution for every question. Read them, or attempt them as timed tests. See all KPSC KAS previous year papers by year
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Recent KPSC KAS question papers
Included on the Free plan with step-by-step solutions
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Complete 10-year KPSC KAS paper archive
Up to 10 years of solved papers with SmartRank Pass (4 years with Learn)
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Predicted questions for KPSC KAS
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for KPSC KAS
- Remember that KPSC Prelims Paper II is NOT a qualifying CSAT paper—all 200 marks of Paper II (which includes 40 questions on State schemes/current affairs, 30 on S&T/Environment, and 30 on Mental Ability) are added to Paper I for the 400-mark cutoff.
- Give tremendous focus to the 250-mark Essay paper (which requires one 125-mark National/International essay and one 125-mark Karnataka-specific essay) and the 250-mark Ethics paper.
- Study the Dr. D.M. Nanjundappa Committee Report on Regional Imbalances, Article 371J (Kalyana Karnataka), and the Karnataka Economic Survey thoroughly for Mains GS 1 and GS 2.
- Read Suryanath U. Kamath's 'A Concise History of Karnataka' and P.R. Nath / Ranganath's 'Geography of Karnataka' to master the high-weightage state portions.
- Ensure you clear the 35% floor (52.5 out of 150) in Compulsory Kannada and Compulsory English in Mains by practicing comprehension, précis, and translation.
- Read the official KPSC KAS notification carefully for the exact pattern, eligibility and selection stages.
KPSC KAS FAQs
Is Prelims Paper II only qualifying in the KPSC KAS exam?
No. In KPSC KAS Prelims, both Paper I (200 marks) and Paper II (200 marks) are counted together out of 400 marks to determine the cutoff for the Main Examination.
Are there any Optional Subjects in the KPSC KAS Main Examination?
No, the Government of Karnataka abolished optional subjects in KPSC Gazetted Probationers Mains; all candidates write the same five merit papers (Essay + GS 1 to 4) totaling 1,250 marks.
How many marks does the KPSC KAS Interview carry?
The Personality Test (Interview) in KPSC KAS carries 50 marks (reduced from earlier higher weightages to ensure greater transparency), making the final merit total 1,300 marks.
Is there a limit on the number of attempts in KPSC KAS?
Yes, General Merit candidates have 5 attempts, Category 2A/2B/3A/3B candidates have 7 attempts, and SC/ST/Category-1 candidates have unlimited attempts within their upper age limits.
What is the Kalyana Karnataka (371J) quota in KPSC KAS?
Under Article 371J of the Constitution, eligible local persons from the seven districts of the Kalyana Karnataka (formerly Hyderabad-Karnataka) region receive dedicated reservation in state-level and local cadre Group-A and Group-B posts.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for KPSC KAS?
KPSC KAS is conducted by Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) across 3 stages: Preliminary Examination → Main Examination (Written Descriptive) → Personality Test (Interview). Prelims cutoff is determined by the combined aggregate of Paper I (200) and Paper II (200) out of 400 marks, shortlisting candidates in a 1:15 ratio for Mains. In Mains, Kannada and English papers are qualifying (35% needed in each); final merit is calculated from Essay (250) and General Studies Papers I to IV (250 each = 1,000), totaling 1,250 written marks, plus the Personality Test (50 marks) for a grand total of 1,300 marks.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for KPSC KAS?
Educational Qualification: Bachelor's degree or Master's degree from a recognized university established by law in India. Age Limit: 21 to 38 years for General Merit (often granted one-time 3-year relaxation up to 41 years in special notifications), 41 years for Category 2A/2B/3A/3B, and 43 years for SC/ST/Category-1, with an additional 10 years for PwBD and Ex-Servicemen.
Is there negative marking in the KPSC KAS exam?
Yes — One-fourth (0.25 of the marks assigned to a question, i.e., 0.50 marks) deducted per wrong answer in Prelims; none in Mains. Candidates should use a two-pass attempt strategy during mock tests to keep accuracy above 85% and minimise negative marking deductions.
What is the salary and job profile after clearing KPSC KAS?
Pay Scale of INR 56,800 to INR 99,600 (Group A Junior Scale: Assistant Commissioner, DySP, Assistant Commissioner of Commercial Taxes) and INR 43,100 to INR 83,900 (Group B: Tahsildar, CTO, Taluk Panchayat EO) under Karnataka Revised Pay Scales.
When is the KPSC KAS notification released and how can I apply online?
KPSC KAS is held periodic (typically every 1.5 to 2 years based on cadre vacancies) (Notification between January and March; Prelims in July or August; Mains in December or January; Interviews in April or May). Online via the KPSC One Time Registration portal at kpsc.kar.nic.in / kpsconline.karnataka.gov.in.
How can I prepare for KPSC KAS on SmartRank?
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