January 16, 2026 11:35 pm
Introduction to OPSC OCS Notification 2026
The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has officially released the OPSC OCS Notification 2026 under Advertisement No. 05 of 2025-26, dated 31st December 2025. This notification invites online applications from eligible candidates for the Odisha Civil Services Examination (OCS) 2026 to fill 314 prestigious administrative posts in Group-A and Group-B services.
The OPSC OCS 2026 exam is one of the most anticipated state-level recruitment tests, designed to identify capable and motivated individuals for high-ranking administrative roles in Odisha. The recruitment process adheres to the Odisha Civil Services (Combined Competitive Recruitment Examination) Rules, 1991, and the third amendment of 2022.
Overview of OPSC OCS Notification 2026
Here’s a snapshot of the most important details from the OPSC OCS Notification 2026:
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Authority | Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) |
| Exam Name | Odisha Civil Services Examination (OCS) 2026 |
| Advertisement No. | 05 of 2025-26 |
| Total Vacancies | 314 (including 104 for women) |
| Online Registration Starts | 20 January 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 20 February 2026 (5 PM) |
| Last Date to Submit Application | 27 February 2026 (5 PM) |
| Preliminary Exam (Tentative) | 7 June 2026 (Sunday) |
| Mode of Application | Online only |
| Official Website | https://opsc.gov.in |
Posts and Pay Scales under OPSC OCS 2026
The OPSC OCS Notification 2026 offers positions across both Group-A and Group-B services.
Group A Services and Pay Scale
- Odisha Administrative Service (OAS)
- Odisha Police Service (OPS)
- Odisha Finance Service (OFS)
💰 Pay Scale: Rs. 56,100/- in Level-12, Cell-1 as per ORSP Rules, 2017.
Group B Services and Pay Scale
- Odisha Taxation & Accounts Service
- Odisha Co-operative Service
- Odisha Skill Development & Employment Service
- Odisha Labour Service
- Odisha Excise Service
- Odisha Tourism Service
💰 Pay Scale: Rs. 44,900/- in Level-10, Cell-1 under ORSP Rules, 2017.
Total Posts as Given in OPSC OCS notification 2026
| Name of Post / Service | Total Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Odisha Police Service | 12 |
| Odisha Taxation & Accounts Service | 176 |
| Odisha Cooperative Service | 4 |
| Odisha Skill Development & Employment Service | 10 |
| Odisha Labour Service | 98 |
| Odisha Excise Service | 6 |
| Odisha Tourism Service | 8 |
| Grand Total | 314 |
Eligibility Criteria for OPSC OCS 2026
The eligibility conditions as mentioned in the OPSC OCS Notification 2026 are as follows:
Age Limit (as on 01.01.2025)
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 42 years
(Applicants must be born between 2 January 1983 and 1 January 2004.)
Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST/SEBC/Women/Ex-Servicemen: 5 years
- PwD Candidates: 10 years
- PwD + SC/ST/SEBC: 15 years
Educational Qualification
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized University established under Indian law or recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Candidates possessing equivalent degrees from foreign universities recognized by the Government of India are also eligible.
Examination Fee for OPSC OCS 2026
- General Category: ₹700/-
- SC/ST/PwD: Exempted
- Mode of Payment: Online (UPI, Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, etc.)
Refund Policy:
The examination fee will be refunded only to candidates who appear in both papers of the Preliminary Examination. Refunds will be processed to the original mode of payment after the completion of the exam.
Stages of the Odisha Civil Services Examination 2026
As per the OPSC OCS Notification 2026, the examination will be conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
- Main Examination (Written Test)
- Interview/Personality Test
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is meant to screen candidates for the Main Examination. It comprises two objective-type papers:
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Studies – I | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper II | General Studies – II | 200 | 2 hours |
Key Highlights:
- Both papers are compulsory.
- Negative marking: 0.33 marks deducted for every incorrect answer.
- Candidates must score minimum 33% in Paper-II and sufficient marks in Paper-I to qualify for Mains.
Stage 2: Main Examination
The Main Examination evaluates the candidate’s academic knowledge, reasoning ability, and written expression. It includes 9 papers divided into Part-I (Qualifying) and Part-II (Merit-based).
Part I – Qualifying Papers
- Odia Language – 300 Marks
- English Language – 300 Marks
(25% marks required in each paper to qualify for evaluation of other papers.)
Part II – Papers for Merit Ranking
- Essay – 250 Marks
- General Studies I – 250 Marks
- General Studies II – 250 Marks
- General Studies III – 250 Marks
- General Studies IV – 250 Marks
- Optional Subject Paper I – 250 Marks
- Optional Subject Paper II – 250 Marks
Interview/Personality Test
- Marks: 250
- Final Merit = Marks of Main Exam (2000) + Interview (250)
Syllabus Overview for OPSC OCS 2026
Preliminary Exam Syllabus
General Studies Paper-I:
- Current Events (National & International)
- Indian History & Odisha History
- Indian and World Geography
- Indian Polity & Governance
- Economic & Social Development
- Environmental Ecology and Climate Change
- General Science
General Studies Paper-II (CSAT):
- Comprehension & Interpersonal Skills
- Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability
- Decision Making & Problem Solving
- Basic Numeracy
- Data Interpretation
Main Examination Syllabus for OPSC OCS 2026
The Main Examination is the second and most crucial phase of the Odisha Civil Services Examination 2026. As per the OPSC OCS Notification 2026, this stage evaluates candidates’ analytical ability, depth of knowledge, and command over written communication.
The written exam is divided into two distinct parts — Part I (Qualifying Papers) and Part II (Papers Counted for Merit), followed by a Personality Test (Interview).
Part-I: Qualifying Papers (Total – 500 Marks)
These papers are qualifying in nature, meaning the marks obtained in them are not counted for merit ranking. However, candidates must score at least 25% marks in each paper to have their other answer sheets evaluated.
| Paper | Subject | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | Odia Language | 250 |
| Paper-II | English Language | 250 |
Odia Language (Paper-I) – Pattern of Questions
- Comprehension of given passages
- Précis writing
- Usage and vocabulary
- Short essays
- Translation from English to Odia and vice versa
English Language (Paper-II) – Pattern of Questions
- Comprehension of given passages
- Précis writing
- Usage and vocabulary
- Short essays
✅ Both papers test the candidate’s ability to understand and express ideas clearly and accurately.
Part-II: Papers Counted for Merit (Total – 1,750 Marks)
This section determines a candidate’s rank in the final merit list. It includes seven papers designed to evaluate knowledge, judgment, ethics, and depth of understanding in various subjects.
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | Essay | 250 |
| Paper-II | General Studies–I (Indian & Odisha Heritage and Culture, History & Geography of the World and Society) | 250 |
| Paper-III | General Studies–II (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & Inter-State Relations) | 250 |
| Paper-IV | General Studies–III (Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security & Disaster Management) | 250 |
| Paper-V | General Studies–IV (Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude) | 250 |
| Paper-VI | Optional Subject – Paper I | 250 |
| Paper-VII | Optional Subject – Paper II | 250 |
| Total (Written Test) | 1750 |
Personality Test (Interview): 250 Marks
After qualifying in the written test, candidates are called for the Interview/Personality Test, which carries 250 marks.
This stage assesses leadership qualities, presence of mind, and the candidate’s suitability for administrative responsibilities.
| Stage | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|
| Written Test (Part II) | 1750 |
| Personality Test | 250 |
| Grand Total | 2000 Marks |
List of Optional Subjects for OPSC OCS Main Examination 2026
Candidates must choose one optional subject, which includes two papers (Paper-VI and Paper-VII) of 250 marks each.
Here is the complete list as mentioned in the OPSC OCS Notification 2026:
- Agriculture
- Agricultural Engineering
- Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
- Anthropology
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- Commerce & Accountancy
- Economics
- Education
- Electrical Engineering
- Fishery Science
- Forestry
- Geography
- Geology
- History
- Home Science
- Law
- Management
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medical Science
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science & International Relations
- Psychology
- Public Administration
- Sociology
- Statistics
- Zoology
- Literature of one of the following languages:
- English
- Hindi
- Odia
- Persian
- Sanskrit
- Urdu
Important Notes from the OPSC OCS Notification 2026
(a) Qualifying Nature of Language Papers:
The Odia and English papers (Part-I) are of matriculation level and are qualifying in nature. Marks in these papers are not counted for ranking.
(b) Evaluation Procedure:
All papers — Essay, General Studies, and Optional Subjects — are evaluated simultaneously. However, the marks of only those candidates who score at least 25% in both Odia and English papers are considered for merit.
(c) Merit Calculation:
Only marks obtained in Part-II (Paper I–VII) and the Personality Test are counted towards final ranking.
(d) Type of Questions:
All papers are of conventional (essay-type) nature, emphasizing analytical and descriptive responses.
(e) Duration:
Each paper is of three hours duration.
(f) Medium of Question Papers:
Except for Indian languages and literature papers, all question papers will be set in English.
Key Insights for Aspirants
- The Essay Paper (Paper I) plays a crucial role in determining merit. Candidates must practice structured, balanced, and insightful essays on social, cultural, and economic topics.
- The General Studies papers (II–V) cover a wide range of themes from Odisha culture to ethics and governance, requiring both conceptual clarity and current affairs awareness.
- The Optional Subject choice is vital — aspirants should pick a subject that aligns with their graduation stream or strong interest area.
The OPSC OCS Main Examination 2026 emphasizes analytical depth, conceptual clarity, and expression. Consistent preparation and mock writing are key to success.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for OPSC OCS Notification 2026
- Read the Advertisement Thoroughly
Before applying, candidates must carefully read the entire OPSC OCS Notification 2026 available on the official website https://opsc.gov.in. It’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria, instructions, and documentation requirements before filling out the online form. - Apply Online Only through the OPSC Website
Applications will only be accepted through the official OPSC website. No offline or postal applications will be entertained.
👉 Visit: https://opsc.gov.in - Follow the Detailed Online Instructions
The online form is automated and system-driven — meaning the system guides applicants step-by-step. Each field is enabled dynamically based on your responses.
⚠️ Ensure all details such as name, date of birth, and category are entered correctly. Incorrect information may lead to disqualification. - Upload Scanned Images
Candidates must upload the following clear and identifiable documents:- Recent passport-size photograph
- Full signature (scanned)
- Left-hand thumb impression (LTI)
- Keep Backup Copies of Photos
You should keep at least four copies of the same passport-size photograph used in the application form for future verification stages. - Permanent Public Service Account Number (PPSAN)
After successful registration, candidates will receive a unique Permanent Public Service Account Number (PPSAN).- Print the final submitted online application and registration form.
- Sign the declaration at the bottom.
- Keep the documents ready for submission when called by OPSC.
- Modify Applications Before Final Submission
If you need to correct any mistake, you must cancel the existing application and reapply before the closing date (27 February 2026).
Post-deadline corrections are not allowed. - Submit Early — Avoid Last-Minute Rush
OPSC strongly advises applicants to complete their online applications well before the closing date to avoid server congestion or technical issues.
Downloading Admit Cards (Admission Certificates)
- Eligible candidates can download their Preliminary and Main Examination Admission Certificates from the OPSC website before the respective exam dates.
- The exam date, time, and venue details will be mentioned on the admit card.
- OPSC will not send any hard copies by post or email.
- Keep checking the website regularly for updates.
Document Verification and Interview Notices
All updates related to Document Verification and Interviews will be published as “Notices” on the OPSC website prior to the scheduled dates.
Candidates must monitor the OPSC website frequently for updates on verification rounds.
Complaint and Grievance Redressal
If candidates have any complaints regarding the conduct of the examination, they must send an email to the Grievance Wing at
📧 opsc@od.gov.in
within 7 (seven) days of completion of the examination.
⚠️ Important Advisory
Experience shows that many applicants mistakenly submit incomplete or erroneous forms and later request corrections via email.
👉 OPSC will not entertain such correction requests.
Ensure your form is correctly filled, and documents are uploaded before submission.
☎️ Facilitation Counter and Technical Support
For any queries or assistance related to the OPSC OCS Notification 2026, OPSC provides both technical and general guidance counters.
1. Technical Support (Online Application Help)
- Phone: 📞 0671-2304707
- Timings:
🕓 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
🕔 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
(Available on all Odisha Government working days)
2. General Enquiries & Recruitment Guidance
- Phone: 📞 0671-2304141 / 2305611 (Extn.-218)
- Timings:
🕓 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
🕔 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
(Working days only)
Candidates can also refer to the FAQ section on the OPSC website for clarification on application, eligibility, and exam procedures.
Exam Centres and Schedule
- The Preliminary Exam is tentatively scheduled for 7 June 2026 (Sunday).
- The Main Exam will be conducted later in 2026 after prelims results are announced.
- Exam centres will be located in major cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Sambalpur, Berhampur, Balasore, and Rourkela.
Selection Process and Final Merit List
After the Interview stage, OPSC will prepare the final merit list based on total marks obtained in the Main Examination and Interview.
Service allocation will be determined by:
- Rank in the final merit list.
- Candidate’s preference for posts.
- Category-wise reservation rules.
Preparation Tips for OPSC OCS 2026 Aspirants
- Start early and follow the official syllabus closely.
- Focus on NCERTs, Odisha GK, and Current Affairs.
- Solve previous years’ question papers.
- Practice essay and answer writing regularly.
- Use credible resources like The Hindu, PRS India, and PIB for policy updates.
- Join a mock test series to enhance accuracy and speed.
FAQs on OPSC OCS Notification 2026
1. When was the OPSC OCS Notification 2026 released?
It was officially released on 31 December 2025 on the OPSC website.
2. How many vacancies are announced under OPSC OCS 2026?
There are 314 vacancies, including 104 for women candidates.
3. What is the last date to apply online?
The last date for registration and fee payment is 20 February 2026 (5 PM).
4. What is the exam date for the OCS Preliminary Exam 2026?
The Prelims Exam will be conducted tentatively on 7 June 2026 (Sunday).
5. Is there negative marking in OPSC OCS Prelims?
Yes. 0.33 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
6. Where can I download the OPSC OCS syllabus PDF?
You can download it directly from the official site: https://opsc.gov.in.
Conclusion: A Gateway to a Prestigious Career in Odisha Administration
The OPSC OCS Notification 2026 presents a golden opportunity for aspirants seeking to serve Odisha through administrative excellence. With clear eligibility norms, a transparent selection process, and a rewarding career path, this examination continues to be a symbol of merit and dedication.
Candidates are advised to start preparation early, follow authentic study materials, and stay updated through official OPSC announcements.
For detailed syllabus, updates, and mock test resources, visit the official OPSC portal at https://opsc.gov.in.