State PSC & State Govt · Telangana · Updated October 2026
TSPSC Group 1 ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
Conducted by the Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC), the Group-I Services exam recruits Deputy Collectors, Deputy Superintendents of Police, Commercial Tax Officers, Regional Transport Officers, and District Panchayat Officers in Telangana. Selection is determined strictly by the six-paper descriptive Mains score (900 marks) following a single-paper Preliminary screening test.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- State · Telangana
- Conducting body
- Telangana PSC
Start for free with TSPSC Group 1 syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
TSPSC Group 1 exam overview and highlights
About TSPSC Group 1
The Telangana State Public Service Commission (now Telangana Public Service Commission - TGPSC) Group-I Services Examination is the highest state civil services recruitment examination in Telangana. Conducted from Hyderabad (Nampally), it recruits officers into 18+ premier gazetted cadres including Deputy Collector (Civil Services Executive Branch), Deputy Superintendent of Police (Category-II), Commercial Tax Officer, Regional Transport Officer, Municipal Commissioner Grade-II, District Panchayat Officer, and Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDO). Following the reorganization of Telangana, the exam underwent historic reforms: the 50-mark Interview / Oral Test was completely abolished to ensure 100% transparency, meaning final selection is determined purely by the 900 marks of the six descriptive Main Examination papers (plus a qualifying English paper), with dedicated papers and sections on the History, Cultural Heritage, Movement, Geography, and Economy of Telangana.
The examination process for TSPSC Group 1 comprises 2 stages: Preliminary Test (Objective Screening), followed by Main Examination (Written Descriptive - Final Merit Stage, No Interview). The official syllabus tests candidates across 5 core areas — Telangana Movement and State Formation (1948-2014) (Mains Paper VI - 150 Marks), History and Cultural Heritage of Telangana & India (Mains Paper II), Geography and Economy of Telangana & India (Mains Papers II & IV), Indian Society, Social Movements, Constitution and Governance (Mains Paper III), Science & Technology and Data Interpretation (Mains Paper V - 150 Marks) — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Prelims is a single 150-mark objective screening test that shortlists candidates in a 1:50 ratio (multi-zone and category-wise) for Mains. There is NO Interview in TSPSC Group 1; final merit is determined 100% by the aggregate marks of the 6 merit-counting Mains descriptive papers (150 marks each = 900 marks), subject to qualifying the General English paper.
Key subjects
- Telangana Movement and State Formation (1948-2014) (Mains Paper VI - 150 Marks)
- History and Cultural Heritage of Telangana & India (Mains Paper II)
- Geography and Economy of Telangana & India (Mains Papers II & IV)
- Indian Society, Social Movements, Constitution and Governance (Mains Paper III)
- Science & Technology and Data Interpretation (Mains Paper V - 150 Marks)
What clearing TSPSC Group 1 leads to
- Deputy Collector (Civil Services - Executive Branch)
- Deputy Superintendent of Police Category-II (Police Service)
- Commercial Tax Officer (Commercial Tax Services)
- Regional Transport Officer (Transport Service)
- Municipal Commissioner Grade-II (Municipal Administrative Service) & District Panchayat Officer
- Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDO, Panchayat Raj & Rural Development Service)
Quick facts
- Conducting body
- Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC)
- Frequency
- Periodic (as notified by the Government of Telangana based on state cadre vacancies)
- Exam mode
- Offline (OMR sheet) or Computer-Based Test for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains
- Languages
- English, Telugu, and Urdu
- Stages & papers
- 2 stages (8 papers total)
- Negative marking
- None in Prelims and None in Mains
- Official website
- www.tspsc.gov.in
TSPSC Group 1 — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of TSPSC Group 1 conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | TSPSC Group 1 |
| Conducting Body | Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) |
| Exam Category | State PSC & State Govt |
| Exam Level | State level (Telangana) |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Recruitment (Direct Recruitment & Cadre Selection) |
| Exam Frequency | Periodic (as notified by the Government of Telangana based on state cadre vacancies) |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Notification between February and March; Prelims in June; Mains in October |
| Mode of Application | Online through One Time Registration (OTR) on the official TGPSC portal (tspsc.gov.in / tgpsc.gov.in) |
| Mode of Examination | Offline (OMR sheet) or Computer-Based Test for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains |
| Medium / Exam Languages | English, Telugu, and Urdu |
| Selection Stages | 2 Stages (8 Papers Total): Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) → Main Examination (Written Descriptive - Final Merit Stage, No Interview) |
| Negative Marking | None in Prelims and None in Mains |
| Selection / Merit Process | Prelims is a single 150-mark objective screening test that shortlists candidates in a 1:50 ratio (multi-zone and category-wise) for Mains. There is NO Interview in TSPSC Group 1; final merit is determined 100% by the aggregate marks of the 6 merit-counting Mains descriptive papers (150 marks each = 900 marks), subject to qualifying the General English paper. |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor's degree in any discipline from any recognized university in India. |
| Age Limit | 18 to 46 years (following the Telangana Government's enhancement of the upper age limit by 2 years to 46 years; 21 to 35 years for uniformed services like DSP, Deputy Superintendent of Jails, and Assistant Excise Superintendent), with 5 years upper age relaxation for SC, ST, BC, EWS, and Telangana State Government employees, and 10 years for PwBD. |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | Pay Scale of INR 58,850 to INR 1,37,050 / INR 54,220 to INR 1,33,630 per month under Telangana Revised Pay Scales (RPS) for Deputy Collector, DSP, CTO, RTO, and Municipal Commissioner plus allowances |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | Around 3.5 to 4.5 lakh applicants competing for 500 to 565 Group-I vacancies |
| Official Website | www.tspsc.gov.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
TSPSC Group 1 exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for TSPSC Group 1. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official Telangana PSC website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| TSPSC Group 1 Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Notification between February and March; Prelims in June; Mains in October | Periodic (as notified by the Government of Telangana based on state 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 Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) |
| TSPSC Group 1 — Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) | Notification between February and March; Prelims in June; Mains in October | Offline (OMR sheet) or Computer-Based Test for Prelims; Offline descriptive pen-and-paper for Mains |
| TSPSC Group 1 — Main Examination (Written Descriptive - Final Merit Stage, No Interview) | 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 3.5 to 4.5 lakh applicants competing for 500 to 565 Group-I vacancies. Exact post-wise, department-wise, and category-wise (UR, EWS, OBC, SC, ST, ESM, PwBD) vacancies are notified in the official TSPSC Group 1 recruitment advertisement published by Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC).
- 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 TSPSC Group 1
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit www.tspsc.gov.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online through One Time Registration (OTR) on the official TGPSC portal (tspsc.gov.in / tgpsc.gov.in).
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the TSPSC Group 1 application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (English, Telugu, and Urdu), 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 TSPSC Group 1 Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
TSPSC Group 1 eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for TSPSC Group 1 must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by Telangana PSC.
Educational qualification
Bachelor's degree in any discipline from any recognized university in India.
Age limit & relaxations
18 to 46 years (following the Telangana Government's enhancement of the upper age limit by 2 years to 46 years; 21 to 35 years for uniformed services like DSP, Deputy Superintendent of Jails, and Assistant Excise Superintendent), with 5 years upper age relaxation for SC, ST, BC, EWS, and Telangana State Government employees, and 10 years for PwBD.
Number of attempts
No restriction on the number of attempts within the prescribed age limit.
Nationality & domicile
Indian citizen.
Other conditions & standards
Under the Telangana Public Employment (Organisation of Local Cadres and Regulation of Direct Recruitment) Order, 2018 (Presidential Order), 95% of Group-I posts are reserved for Local Candidates of the two Multi-Zones of Telangana (Multi-Zone I and Multi-Zone II) based on Class 1 to Class 7 schooling.
TSPSC Group 1 — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) (Telangana Domicile) | +5 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Requires valid Telangana permanent domicile and caste certificate issued by the competent revenue authority. |
| Other Backward Classes — Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) (Telangana 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 (Telangana) | Up to +5 Years as per state service recruitment rules | Applicable to regular Telangana state government servants and horizontal reservation categories notified in the advertisement. |
TSPSC Group 1 selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: None in Prelims and None in Mains. Selection & Merit Weightage: Prelims is a single 150-mark objective screening test that shortlists candidates in a 1:50 ratio (multi-zone and category-wise) for Mains. There is NO Interview in TSPSC Group 1; final merit is determined 100% by the aggregate marks of the 6 merit-counting Mains descriptive papers (150 marks each = 900 marks), subject to qualifying the General English paper.
Stage 1: Preliminary Test (Objective Screening)
Offline (OMR sheet) • 1 Paper (Single Preliminary Paper: General Studies and Mental Ability (13 Sections including History, Culture, Geography, Economy, Society & Policies of Telangana, Indian GS, Science & Tech, and Logical Reasoning/DI)) • Questions: 150 (1 mark each) • 150 Total Marks • Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes • A single 2.5-hour objective paper of 150 questions carrying 150 marks with NO negative marking.
A single 2.5-hour objective paper of 150 questions carrying 150 marks with NO negative marking. It covers 13 comprehensive sections ranging from National/International Current Affairs and General Science to Telangana History, Movement, Society, and Policies. Candidates are shortlisted in a 1:50 ratio for Mains.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Single Preliminary Paper: General Studies and Mental Ability (13 Sections including History, Culture, Geography, Economy, Society & Policies of Telangana, Indian GS, Science & Tech, and Logical Reasoning/DI)No negative marking; shortlists candidates in 1:50 ratio for Mains 150 (1 mark each) 150 2 hours 30 minutes Stage 2: Main Examination (Written Descriptive - Final Merit Stage, No Interview)
Descriptive, pen and paper • 7 Papers (Qualifying Paper: General English (SSLC Standard - Comprehension, Précis, Letter/Report Writing, Essay & Grammar), Paper I: General Essay (3 Essays of 50 marks each from 3 sections: Contemporary Social/Economic Issues, Dynamics of Indian Politics/History/Culture, and Science/Tech/Education/Environment), Paper II: History, Culture and Geography (Section I: History & Cultural Heritage of India; Section II: History & Cultural Heritage of Telangana; Section III: Geography of India and Telangana) + 4 more) • Questions: Descriptive • 1050 Total Marks • Duration: 3 hours • A seven-paper conventional descriptive examination with NO optional subjects and NO Interview afterwards.
A seven-paper conventional descriptive examination with NO optional subjects and NO Interview afterwards. It includes one qualifying General English paper (150 marks) and six merit-counting papers of 150 marks each (900 marks total), with Paper VI dedicated 100% to the Telangana Movement and State Formation. Mains answers can be written in English, Telugu, or Urdu.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Qualifying Paper: General English (SSLC Standard - Comprehension, Précis, Letter/Report Writing, Essay & Grammar)Qualifying only (40% for OC/EWS/Sports, 35% for BC, 30% for SC/ST/PwBD) Descriptive 150 3 hours Paper I: General Essay (3 Essays of 50 marks each from 3 sections: Contemporary Social/Economic Issues, Dynamics of Indian Politics/History/Culture, and Science/Tech/Education/Environment)Counted for final merit 3 Essays (approx. 1000 words each) 150 3 hours Paper II: History, Culture and Geography (Section I: History & Cultural Heritage of India; Section II: History & Cultural Heritage of Telangana; Section III: Geography of India and Telangana)Counted for final merit 15 questions (5 per section, 10 marks each) 150 3 hours Paper III: Indian Society, Constitution and Governance (Section I: Indian Society, Structure, Issues & Social Movements; Section II: Constitution of India; Section III: Governance)Counted for final merit 15 questions (5 per section, 10 marks each) 150 3 hours Paper IV: Economy and Development (Section I: Indian Economy & Development; Section II: Telangana Economy; Section III: Development and Environmental Problems)Counted for final merit 15 questions (5 per section, 10 marks each) 150 3 hours Paper V: Science & Technology and Data Interpretation (Section I: Role & Impact of S&T; Section II: Modern Trends in Application of Knowledge of Sciences; Section III: Data Interpretation and Problem Solving)Counted for final merit (includes 50 marks of Data Interpretation & Problem Solving) 15 questions (5 per section, 10 marks each) 150 3 hours Paper VI: Telangana Movement and State Formation (Section I: The Idea of Telangana [1948-1970]; Section II: Mobilisational Phase [1971-1990]; Section III: Towards Formation of Telangana State [1991-2014])100% dedicated to Telangana Movement; counted for final merit (900 total) 15 questions (5 per section, 10 marks each) 150 3 hours
TSPSC Group 1 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.
Telangana Movement and State Formation (1948-2014) (Mains Paper VI - 150 Marks)
- Phase I - The Idea of Telangana (1948-1970): Hyderabad State under Nizam, Mulki Rules (1919 Farman), Police Action (Operation Polo, Sept 1948), Military & Vellodi Administrations, 1952 Mulki Agitation, Fazal Ali Commission (SRC), Gentlemen's Agreement (1956), violation of safeguards, and 1969 Telangana Agitation (Ravindranath fast, Telangana Praja Samithi)
- Phase II - Mobilisational Phase (1971-1990): Supreme Court judgment on Mulki Rules, Jai Andhra Movement, Six-Point Formula (1973), Presidential Order 1975 (Article 371D), G.O. 610, rise of Naxalbari/Peasant struggles, and spread of Telangana regional identity through literature and cultural revival
- Phase III - Towards Formation of Telangana State (1991-2014): 1996 Bhongir/Warangal declarations, formation of TRS (2001) by K. Chandrashekhar Rao, Prof. Jayashankar's ideological leadership, November 29, 2009 Fast-unto-Death, December 9, 2009 Announcement, Telangana JAC (Sakala Janula Samme, Million March, Sagara Haram), Srikrishna Committee Report, and AP Reorganisation Act, 2014 (June 2, 2014)
History and Cultural Heritage of Telangana & India (Mains Paper II)
- Pre-history of Telangana, Satavahanas (Kotilingala), Ikshvakus, Vishnukundins, Chalukyas of Vemulawada & Mudigonda, and the Kakatiya Golden Age (Rudrama Devi, Prataparudra, Ramappa Temple UNESCO site, Thousand Pillar Temple, chain-link tank irrigation)
- Rachakonda & Devarakonda Velamas, Qutb Shahis of Golconda (Charminar,Golconda Fort, Bhagmati, Telugu patronage), and Asaf Jahi (Nizam) Dynasty: Salar Jung Reforms, Osmania University, Nizam Sagar, and Telangana Armed Peasant Struggle (1946-51: Doddi Komaraiah, Chakali Ilamma, Ravi Narayana Reddy, Bheemreddy Narasimha Reddy)
- Socio-religious & literary awakening in Telangana:Library Movement (Komarraju Venkata Lakshmana Rao), Andhra Mahasabha, Adi-Hindu/Dalit Movement (Bhagya Reddy Varma, Arige Ramaswamy), and Telangana folk arts (Perini Shivatandavam, Oggu Katha, Bathukamma, Bonalu, Sammakka-Saralamma Medaram Jatara)
Geography and Economy of Telangana & India (Mains Papers II & IV)
- Physiography of Telangana Plateau (Deccan Trap & Archaean Gneiss), Godavari and Krishna river basins in Telangana, irrigation projects (Kaleshwaram, Palamuru-Rangareddy, Sita Rama, Sri Ram Sagar), soils, climate, and Tiger Reserves (Amrabad, Kawal)
- Telangana Economy (Paper IV Section II - 50 marks): Telangana Socio-Economic Outlook, GSDP & Per Capita Income growth, land reforms (Bhu Bharathi / Dharani), agriculture, sheep/fisheries, IT/Life Sciences/Pharma City/Aerospace hubs in Hyderabad, and flagship welfare guarantees
- Indian Economy, NITI Aayog, fiscal federalism, GST, sustainable development, EIA, pollution, and climate resilience
Indian Society, Social Movements, Constitution and Governance (Mains Paper III)
- Indian Society (50 marks): caste, tribe, ethnicity, family, kinship, Telangana Jogini/Devadasi eradication, fluorosis mitigation (Nalgonda Mission Bhagiratha), distress migration, and Tribal/Dalit/Backward Class/Environmental/Women's movements
- Indian Constitution (50 marks): Preamble, Fundamental Rights, DPSP, Federalism, Judiciary, 73rd & 74th Amendments, and AP Reorganisation Act 2014 schedules
- Governance (50 marks): Good Governance, e-Governance, RTI, Citizen's Charters, NITI Aayog, Lokpal/Lokayukta, Ethics & Values in Administration, and Welfare Mechanisms for SC/ST/BC/Women/Minorities
Science & Technology and Data Interpretation (Mains Paper V - 150 Marks)
- Role & Impact of S&T (50 marks): India's Space Programme (ISRO, NRSC Hyderabad), Defense (DRDO missile complex Hyderabad), Nuclear policy, ICT, Cybercrime, and Robotics
- Modern Trends in Applied Sciences (50 marks): Biotechnology (Genome Valley Hyderabad, vaccines, stem cells, CRISPR), Food Biotechnology, Infectious diseases (malaria, dengue, TB, COVID-19), and Renewable Energy
- Data Interpretation and Problem Solving (50 marks): analytical interpretation of tabular data, bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, time-work, speed-distance, averages, ratios, profit-loss, and decision-making problems
Previous Year Trend Analysis & High-Weightage Topics (TSPSC Group 1)
- Recurring multi-concept questions from past TSPSC Group 1 cycles
- High-yield chapters and section-wise mark distribution patterns
- Statement-based, assertion-reason and matching question formats
- Elimination techniques and negative-marking risk management
- Time allocation strategy across sections and papers
Current Affairs, Official Schemes, Economic Survey & Static GK
- National and international current events of the last 12 months
- Union and State Budget highlights, Economic Survey and flagship welfare schemes
- Constitutional amendments, landmark Supreme Court judgments and governance bills
- Science, space missions (ISRO), defence exercises, awards and sports
- Reports, indices, summits, international organisations and static general awareness
Language Comprehension, Administrative / Academic Expression & Communication
- Reading comprehension of dense analytical, policy and scientific passages
- Contextual vocabulary, idioms, phrases, synonyms and antonyms
- Grammatical accuracy, sentence correction, para-jumbles and cloze tests
- Structured essay/précis writing or verbal reasoning inference
- Official terminology, formal communication and logical coherence
TSPSC Group 1 salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
Pay Scale of INR 58,850 to INR 1,37,050 / INR 54,220 to INR 1,33,630 per month under Telangana Revised Pay Scales (RPS) for Deputy Collector, DSP, CTO, RTO, and Municipal Commissioner plus allowances. Appointments under Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
Pay Scale of INR 58,850 to INR 1,37,050 / INR 54,220 to INR 1,33,630 per month under Telangana Revised Pay Scales (RPS) for Deputy Collector, DSP, CTO, RTO, and Municipal Commissioner plus allowances.
Appointing / Cadre Authority
Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) (Telangana State Government Service)
Allowances & Perks
Dearness Allowance (DA), HRA (by city classification), Medical Allowance, TA, and Telangana 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 Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC))
- 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
TSPSC Group 1 cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) releases stage-wise and category-wise TSPSC Group 1 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.
TSPSC Group 1 — 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
When TSPSC Group 1 is conducted across multiple shifts or sessions, Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) applies standard score normalization (Equi-Percentile or Mean-Standard Deviation method) to account for any variation in paper difficulty across shifts. Because raw marks are governed by none in Prelims and None in Mains, maintaining high accuracy (85%+) significantly boosts your normalized score.
Factors Determining TSPSC Group 1 Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across Telangana cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the TSPSC Group 1 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
TSPSC Group 1 admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
TSPSC Group 1 Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official TSPSC Group 1 Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on www.tspsc.gov.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 TSPSC Group 1 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
TSPSC Group 1 Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on www.tspsc.gov.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
TSPSC Group 1 Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) declares the TSPSC Group 1 result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on www.tspsc.gov.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official TSPSC Group 1 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
TSPSC Group 1 mock tests
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TSPSC Group 1 Full Mock Test 1
Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours 30 minutes
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TSPSC Group 1 Full Mock Test 2
Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours 30 minutes
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TSPSC Group 1 Full Mock Test 3
Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours 30 minutes
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TSPSC Group 1 Full Mock Test 4
Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours 30 minutes
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TSPSC Group 1 Full Mock Test 5
Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) · 150 (1 mark each) questions · 2 hours 30 minutes
TSPSC Group 1 previous year papers
Papers come with a solution for every question. Read them, or attempt them as timed tests. See all TSPSC Group 1 previous year papers by year
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Recent TSPSC Group 1 question papers
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Complete 10-year TSPSC Group 1 paper archive
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Predicted questions for TSPSC Group 1
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for TSPSC Group 1
- Appreciate that TSPSC Group 1 has NO Interview—every single mark in your final 900-mark merit score comes from your pen in the 6 Mains descriptive papers!
- Treat Paper VI (Telangana Movement and State Formation - 150 marks), Paper II Section II (Telangana History & Culture - 50 marks), and Paper IV Section II (Telangana Economy - 50 marks) as your core foundation; together, 250+ out of 900 Mains marks are 100% Telangana-specific.
- Practice the 50-mark Data Interpretation and Problem Solving section in Mains Paper V (Section III) daily—scoring 45+ out of 50 in this mathematical section gives an enormous rank advantage over humanities-only peers.
- Study the Telangana Socio-Economic Outlook published annually by the Planning Department to quote exact district-wise GSDP, irrigation, and welfare data.
- Because Prelims has zero negative marking and shortlists in a generous 1:50 ratio, focus on attempting all 150 questions while practicing multi-statement analytical MCQs.
- Read the official TSPSC Group 1 notification carefully for the exact pattern, eligibility and selection stages.
TSPSC Group 1 FAQs
Is there an Interview in the TSPSC (TGPSC) Group 1 selection process?
No. The Government of Telangana abolished the Interview (Oral Test) for Group-I Services; final selection is based 100% on the 900 marks of the six merit-counted Main Examination papers.
How much weightage does Telangana-specific content carry in TSPSC Group 1 Mains?
An entire 150-mark paper (Paper VI: Telangana Movement and State Formation) plus dedicated 50-mark sections in Paper II (Telangana History & Culture) and Paper IV (Telangana Economy)—along with Telangana Geography and Society—account for roughly 300 out of the 900 Mains marks.
Is there negative marking in TSPSC Group 1 Prelims?
No, there is no negative marking in the TSPSC Group 1 Preliminary Test.
What is the 95% local reservation rule in TSPSC Group 1?
Under the Telangana Presidential Order 2018, Group-I cadres are organized into two Multi-Zones (Multi-Zone I and Multi-Zone II), and 95% of vacancies in each Multi-Zone are reserved for local candidates based on their study from Class 1 to Class 7.
Can I write the TSPSC Group 1 Mains in Telugu or Urdu?
Yes, candidates may write the six merit-counted Mains papers in English, Telugu, or Urdu, provided they write all six papers in the same chosen medium.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for TSPSC Group 1?
TSPSC Group 1 is conducted by Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC / TSPSC) across 2 stages: Preliminary Test (Objective Screening) → Main Examination (Written Descriptive - Final Merit Stage, No Interview). Prelims is a single 150-mark objective screening test that shortlists candidates in a 1:50 ratio (multi-zone and category-wise) for Mains. There is NO Interview in TSPSC Group 1; final merit is determined 100% by the aggregate marks of the 6 merit-counting Mains descriptive papers (150 marks each = 900 marks), subject to qualifying the General English paper.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for TSPSC Group 1?
Educational Qualification: Bachelor's degree in any discipline from any recognized university in India. Age Limit: 18 to 46 years (following the Telangana Government's enhancement of the upper age limit by 2 years to 46 years; 21 to 35 years for uniformed services like DSP, Deputy Superintendent of Jails, and Assistant Excise Superintendent), with 5 years upper age relaxation for SC, ST, BC, EWS, and Telangana State Government employees, and 10 years for PwBD.
What is the salary and job profile after clearing TSPSC Group 1?
Pay Scale of INR 58,850 to INR 1,37,050 / INR 54,220 to INR 1,33,630 per month under Telangana Revised Pay Scales (RPS) for Deputy Collector, DSP, CTO, RTO, and Municipal Commissioner plus allowances.
When is the TSPSC Group 1 notification released and how can I apply online?
TSPSC Group 1 is held periodic (as notified by the Government of Telangana based on state cadre vacancies) (Notification between February and March; Prelims in June; Mains in October). Online through One Time Registration (OTR) on the official TGPSC portal (tspsc.gov.in / tgpsc.gov.in).
Where can I practice free TSPSC Group 1 mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select TSPSC Group 1 as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Telangana Movement and State Formation (1948-2014) (Mains Paper VI - 150 Marks), History and Cultural Heritage of Telangana & India (Mains Paper II), Geography and Economy of Telangana & India (Mains Papers II & IV), Indian Society, Social Movements, Constitution and Governance (Mains Paper III), solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact TSPSC Group 1 pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for TSPSC Group 1 on SmartRank?
Select TSPSC Group 1 as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Telangana Movement and State Formation (1948-2014) (Mains Paper VI - 150 Marks), History and Cultural Heritage of Telangana & India (Mains Paper II), Geography and Economy of Telangana & India (Mains Papers II & IV), Indian Society, Social Movements, Constitution and Governance (Mains Paper III), solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact TSPSC Group 1 pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.