BPSC 72nd CCE 2026 Prelims Exam Pattern Revised: Option ‘E’ Introduced, Negative Marking Tightened | Education and Career News
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BPSC 72nd CCE 2026 notification released for 1230 vacancies. The online application process will commence on May 7, and will continue until May 31, 2026.

BPSC has introduced a change in the pattern of the preliminary examination. (AI Generated Image)
The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has issued the notification for the 72nd Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) 2026. This recruitment drive is being conducted to fill various prestigious Grade-A posts in the Bihar government, including positions such as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). A total of 1,230 vacancies will be filled through this examination, offering a significant opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the Bihar State Service.
According to the official notification, the online application process will commence on May 7, 2026, and will continue until May 31, 2026. Applications will be accepted only in online mode through the official website of the Bihar Public Service Commission, bpsc.bihar.gov.in. Candidates must ensure that they enter accurate details and upload all necessary documents, as any incorrect information may result in rejection of the application.
BPSC 72nd Exam: Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification: To be eligible for the BPSC 72nd Combined Competitive Examination, candidates must possess a graduate degree from a recognised university.
Age Limit: The age limit for male candidates is 20 to 37 years, while for female candidates it is 20 to 40 years. Candidates belonging to reserved categories will be granted age relaxation as per the applicable rules.
BPSC 72nd CCE Selection Process
The selection process will be conducted in three stages. First, candidates will appear for the preliminary examination, which will be objective in nature. Those who qualify will be shortlisted for the main examination, which will be descriptive in nature. The final stage will be an interview, after which the final merit list will be prepared.
Change in Prelims Exam Pattern
The Commission has introduced a change in the pattern of the preliminary examination. As per the official notification, candidates must now select option ‘E’ if they wish to leave a question unanswered. If no option is marked, there will be negative marking, with one-third of the marks deducted for such questions, in addition to a penalty for incorrect answers.
The preliminary examination will be objective in nature and will comprise questions from the General Studies paper. The exam will carry 150 marks, and candidates will be given 2 hours to complete it.
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