OPSC OCS Notification 2026: Get Full Details on Vacancies, Eligibility, Exam Dates & Syllabus

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.

OPSC OCS 2026: Important Dates & Overview

Here’s a snapshot of the most important details from the OPSC OCS Notification 2026:

Get Course Details

Get Course Details

Get Course Details

OPSC OCS Vacancy Details 2026

The OPSC OCS Notification 2026 offers positions across both Group-A and Group-B services.

Group-A Services

• 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

• 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

OPSC OCS Eligibility Criteria 2026

The eligibility conditions as mentioned in the OPSC OCS Notification 2026 are as follows:

Age Limit

• 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.

Application Fee & Refund Policy

• 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.

OPSC OCS Selection Process 2026

As per the OPSC OCS Notification 2026, the examination will be conducted in three stages:

1. Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
2. Main Examination (Written Test)
3. Interview/Personality Test

OPSC OCS Preliminary Examination

The Preliminary Examination is meant to screen candidates for the Main Examination. It comprises two objective-type papers:

Important Points for Prelims

• 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.

OPSC OCS 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

1. Odia Language – 300 Marks
2. English Language – 300 Marks
   (25% marks required in each paper to qualify for evaluation of other papers.)

Part-II: Papers Counted for Merit

1. Essay – 250 Marks
2. General Studies I – 250 Marks
3. General Studies II – 250 Marks
4. General Studies III – 250 Marks
5. General Studies IV – 250 Marks
6. Optional Subject Paper I – 250 Marks
7. Optional Subject Paper II – 250 Marks

Interview/Personality Test

• Marks: 250
• Final Merit = Marks of Main Exam (2000) + Interview (250)

OPSC OCS Syllabus 2026

Preliminary Examination 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

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 (Main Exam)

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.

Odia Language Syllabus

1. Comprehension of given passages
2. Précis writing
3. Usage and vocabulary
4. Short essays
5. Translation from English to Odia and vice versa

English Language Syllabus

1. Comprehension of given passages
2. Précis writing
3. Usage and vocabulary
4. Short essays

✅ Both papers test the candidate’s ability to understand and express ideas clearly and accurately.

Part II: Papers Counted for Merit (Main Exam)

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.

Personality Test (Interview)

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.

Optional Subjects for OPSC OCS Main Exam

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:

1. Agriculture
2. Agricultural Engineering
3. Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
4. Anthropology
5. Botany
6. Chemistry
7. Civil Engineering
8. Commerce & Accountancy
9. Economics
10. Education
11. Electrical Engineering
12. Fishery Science
13. Forestry
14. Geography
15. Geology
16. History
17. Home Science
18. Law
19. Management
20. Mathematics
21. Mechanical Engineering
22. Medical Science
23. Philosophy
24. Physics
25. Political Science & International Relations
26. Psychology
27. Public Administration
28. Sociology
29. Statistics
30. Zoology
31. Literature of one of the following languages:
    • English
    • Hindi
    • Odia
    • Persian
    • Sanskrit
    • Urdu

Important Instructions for Main Examination

(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.

Strategy for OPSC OCS Main Examination

• 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.

How to Apply for OPSC OCS 2026

1. 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.
2. 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
3. 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.
4. Upload Scanned Images
   Candidates must upload the following clear and identifiable documents:
   • Recent passport-size photograph
   • Full signature (scanned)
   • Left-hand thumb impression (LTI)All uploads must be visible and of high clarity. Applications with unclear images may be rejected without notice.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.

Admit Card & Exam Centre Details

• 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 & Interview Updates

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.

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.

General Guidance Counter

• Phone: 📞 0671-2304707
• Timings:
  🕓 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
  🕔 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  (Available on all Odisha Government working days)

Technical Support

• 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.

OPSC OCS Exam Schedule & Centres

• 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.

Final Merit List & Service Allocation

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

• 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.

Conclusion

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.

Relevant Links :

Environment and Ecology Notes >>

Agroforestry

Terrestrial Ecosystem

Functions of an Ecosystem, Food Chain, Ecological Pyramids, Biogeochemical Cycles

Ecology-Environment, Ecosystem, Ecotone, Biome

Climate Change

Climate Change and Climate Action

Climate Change and India: Policies, Impacts, and

Paris Agreement: A Comprehensive Overview

Kyoto Protocol: A Comprehensive Overview

Pollution

Indian Megacities Lag in Air Pollution Control

Biodiversity

Forest Conservation & Augmentation Act, 2023

Mangrove Ecosystem: Importance, Conservation, and Challenges

Wetland Ecosystem, Ramsar Convention

Biological Diversity Act, 2002 & Biological Diversity

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

Frequently Asked Questions