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BPSC Exam Pattern and Syllabus 2026

Are you preparing for the BPSC 73rd Civil Services Examination? Before you begin your preparation, understand the latest BPSC syllabus and exam pattern. A clear understanding of the subjects, marking scheme, and exam stages helps you prepare in the right direction.

The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) conducts the State Civil Services Examination to recruit Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) and other administrative officers. The BPSC 73rd examination includes the Preliminary and Mains stages, each with a prescribed syllabus and exam pattern. 

This page explains the complete BPSC Prelims syllabus, BPSC Mains syllabus, exam pattern, marking scheme, and other important details to help you prepare with confidence.

What is the BPSC Selection Process? 

The BPSC selection process consists of three stages. Candidates must qualify for each stage to move to the next level of the recruitment process.

The selection process includes:

  • BPSC Preliminary Examination – Objective-type examination to shortlist candidates for the Mains.
  • BPSC Mains Examination – Descriptive examination that evaluates subject knowledge and writing ability.
  • Interview – The final stage that assesses the candidate's personality, communication skills, confidence, and suitability for administrative services.

What Should You Know About the BPSC Syllabus?

The BPSC syllabus helps candidates understand what to study for every stage of the examination. It is divided into different stages to test general knowledge, analytical ability, subject understanding, and decision-making skills. Knowing the complete syllabus helps you plan your preparation, manage your time, and focus on the topics that matter most.

The BPSC examination consists of the following stages:

BPSC Selection Process

Stages of BPSC Exam

Type of Exam

Total Marks

Duration

Prelims

Objective

General study (150)

2 Hours

Mains

Subjective/ Objective

General Hindi (Qualifying)(100)

General Studies Paper-1(300)

General Studies Paper-2(300)

Essay(300)

Optional Paper(Qualifying)(100)

Total marks:-1100 

3 hours for each Paper

Interview

Personality Test

120

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What is the BPSC Prelims Exam Pattern?

The BPSC Preliminary Examination is the first stage of the Bihar Public Service Commission recruitment process. It is a qualifying examination that shortlists candidates for the BPSC Mains. The marks obtained in the Prelims are not included in the final merit list. The examination consists of one General Studies paper carrying 150 marks. All questions are Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). Check the BPSC Prelims Exam Pattern in the table below.

BPSC Prelims Exam Pattern

Name of Exam

Combined Competitive Exam

No. of Papers

1 – General Studies (150 marks)

Mode of Exam

Offline

Exam Duration

2 hours

No. of Questions

150

Negative Marking

⅓ mark

Nature of Questions

All questions will be of Objective type (MCQs)

BPSC Prelims Syllabus

  1. General Science
  2. Events of national and international importance
  3. History of Bihar and Indian History
  4. Geography(mainly Geography of Bihar)
  5. Indian Polity and Economy
  6. Changes in the economy of Bihar post-independence
  7. Indian National Movement and the Role of Bihar
  8. General Mental Ability

What is the BPSC Prelims Syllabus?

The BPSC Prelims syllabus helps candidates understand the subjects covered in the first stage of the Bihar Public Service Commission examination. The syllabus remains largely consistent every year and focuses on General Studies. Candidates should understand every topic and prepare each subject thoroughly to improve their chances of qualifying for the Mains examination.

General Science

Questions test your general understanding of science and everyday scientific concepts. The paper also includes basic Science and Technology questions that do not require subject-specific knowledge.

Current Affairs

Questions cover important national and international events. Candidates should regularly follow current affairs related to politics, the economy, science, sports, awards, government schemes, and important developments.

History

The History section covers the history of India and Bihar. Candidates should prepare important historical events, ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history, along with Bihar's historical background and contributions.

Geography

Questions cover the physical, social, and economic geography of India and Bihar. Candidates should also prepare:

  • Physical features of India
  • Indian agriculture and natural resources
  • Geographical divisions of Bihar
  • Major rivers of Bihar
  • Climate, soils, and important resources

Indian Polity

This section tests your understanding of the Indian political system. Important topics include:

  • Constitution of India
  • Panchayati Raj
  • Governance and administration
  • Community development
  • Planning and government initiatives in India and Bihar

Indian Economy

Questions focus on the Indian economy and the economy of Bihar after Independence. Candidates should prepare topics such as economic development, planning, agriculture, industries, budgeting, and government welfare schemes.

Indian National Movement

This section covers the Indian freedom struggle with special emphasis on Bihar's contribution. Candidates should study:

  • Social and political awakening during the nineteenth century
  • Growth of Indian nationalism
  • Major freedom movements
  • India's Independence
  • Contribution of Bihar to the Indian National Movement

General Mental Ability

Questions test logical reasoning, analytical ability, problem-solving skills, and basic mental aptitude. Regular practice helps candidates improve speed and accuracy.

What is the BPSC Mains Exam Pattern?

Candidates can appear for the BPSC Mains Examination only after qualifying for the BPSC Prelims Examination. The Prelims examination is qualifying in nature, so its marks are not included in the final merit list. The final selection is based mainly on the marks obtained in the BPSC Mains Examination and the interview.

What Papers Are Included in the BPSC Mains Exam?

  • The BPSC Mains Examination consists of the following papers:
    • General Hindi (Qualifying)
    • General Studies Paper I
    • General Studies Paper II
    • Essay
    • Optional Subject (Qualifying)

Is the General Hindi Paper Qualifying in Nature?

Yes. The General Hindi paper is qualifying in nature. Candidates must secure the required qualifying marks, but its score is not considered for the final merit list.

Is the Optional Subject Paper Qualifying?

Yes. The Optional Subject paper is also qualifying in nature. Candidates can choose one optional subject from the list of subjects notified by the Bihar Public Service Commission while submitting the application form.

How Many Optional Subjects Can Candidates Choose From?

Candidates can select one optional subject from a list of 34 subjects available for the BPSC Mains Examination.

What is the Question Pattern for the Optional Subject?

As per the latest BPSC examination pattern, the Optional Subject paper contains objective-type questions.

What is the Duration of Each BPSC Mains Paper?

The duration of each paper is 3 hours. The General Studies papers and the Essay paper are descriptive in nature, while the Optional Subject paper consists of objective-type questions.

What is the BPSC Mains Syllabus?

Candidates who qualify for the BPSC Preliminary Examination can appear for the BPSC Mains Examination. The BPSC Mains syllabus includes descriptive papers that test a candidate's knowledge, analytical ability, writing skills, and understanding of different subjects. The marks obtained in the Mains Examination are included in the final merit list. Therefore, candidates should understand the complete syllabus and prepare every subject with a clear strategy and regular answer writing practice.

BPSC Mains Syllabus

Subject

Topics

General Hindi

  • Essay (निबंध)
  • Grammar (व्याकरण)
  • Syntax (वाक्य विन्यास)
  • Summarisation (संक्षेपण)

General Studies Paper 1

  • Indian Culture
  • The Modern History of India
  • Current International and National Events of Importance
  • Statistical Analysis, Diagrams, and Graphs

General Studies Paper 2

  • Indian Polity
  • Indian Economy and Geography of India
  • Role and Impact of Science and Technology in the Development of India

Essay

  • Moral and Philosophical Essay
  • Hypothetical Essay
  • Essay related to Social, Economic, Political, Religious, and Administrative Issues
  • Essay related to self-reliant India and Digital India
  • Essay related to problems, solutions, and possibilities of Bihar
  • Essay related to popular proverbs and sayings of Bihar, etc.
Optional Subjects
  • English Language and Literature
  • Urdu Language and Literature
  • Hindi Language and Literature
  • Persian Language and Literature
  • Arabic Language and Literature
  • Pali Language and Literature
  • Maithili Language and Literature
  • Bengali Language and Literature
  • Sanskrit Language and Literature
  • Chemistry
  • Sociology
  • Physics
  • Agriculture
  • Statistics
  • Botany
  • Zoology
  • Philosophy
  • Political Science and International Relations
  • Psychology
  • Public Administration
  • Labor and Social Welfare
  • Management
  • Mathematics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Geography
  • Geology
  • History
  • Law
  • Civil Engineering
  • Economics
  • Commerce and Accountancy
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science
  • Anthropology

What Does General Studies Paper I Include in the BPSC Mains Syllabus?

General Studies Paper I tests your knowledge of Modern Indian History, Indian culture, Bihar's history, and data interpretation. Candidates should prepare every topic in detail because this paper carries significant weight in the BPSC Mains Examination.

What History Topics Should You Prepare?

The History section mainly focuses on Modern Indian History and the history of Bihar from the middle of the nineteenth century.

Important topics include:

  • Modern History of India
  • Modern History of Bihar
  • Growth of Western education
  • Technical education in Bihar
  • Indian culture
  • Bihar's contribution to Indian history

What Freedom Movement Topics Are Important?

Candidates should prepare the major movements that shaped India's freedom struggle, with special focus on Bihar's role.

Important topics include:

  • Santhal Uprising
  • Revolt of 1857 in Bihar
  • Birsa Movement
  • Champaran Satyagraha
  • Quit India Movement, 1942

What Important Personalities and Art Forms Should You Study?

Questions may also cover important personalities and cultural heritage.

Important topics include:

  • Mahatma Gandhi
  • Rabindranath Tagore
  • Jawaharlal Nehru
  • Mauryan art
  • Pala art
  • Patna Qalam painting

How Are Statistical Analysis and Graphs Tested?

Candidates should know how to read and understand statistical data, graphs, charts, and diagrams. Questions test your ability to analyse information, draw logical conclusions, and identify important facts from the given data.

What Does General Studies Paper II Include in the BPSC Mains Syllabus?

General Studies Paper II tests your knowledge of Indian Polity, the Indian Economy, Geography, and Science and Technology. The paper also includes questions related to Bihar. Candidates should understand the concepts clearly and prepare each topic in detail.

What Topics Are Covered in Indian Polity?

This section tests your understanding of the Indian political system and the political system of Bihar.

Important topics include:

  • Constitution of India
  • Indian political system
  • Political system of Bihar
  • Governance and public administration
  • Panchayati Raj
  • Government policies and welfare programmes

What Should You Study in the Indian Economy Section?

The Indian Economy section focuses on the economic development of India and Bihar. Candidates should understand important economic concepts and government planning.

Important topics include:

  • Economic planning in India
  • Economic development
  • Agriculture
  • Industries
  • Budget and public finance
  • Economy of Bihar

What Does the Geography Section Cover?

The geography section includes the physical, economic, and social geography of India with special emphasis on Bihar.

Important topics include:

  • Physical geography of India
  • Economic geography of India
  • Social geography of India
  • Geography of Bihar
  • Natural resources
  • Climate and major rivers

What is Included in the Science and Technology Section?

This section tests your understanding of the role of science and technology in the development of India and Bihar. Questions focus on practical applications and recent developments.

Important topics include:

  • Scientific developments
  • Technology and innovation
  • Applications of science in daily life
  • Science and technology in India
  • Science and technology in Bihar
  • Impact of science and technology on development

What is the BPSC Essay Syllabus?

The Essay paper is an important part of the BPSC Mains Examination. It tests your ability to express ideas clearly, organise your thoughts, and present logical arguments. Candidates should write well-structured essays with simple language, relevant facts, and balanced viewpoints.

What is the Exam Pattern for the BPSC Essay Paper?

The BPSC Essay paper carries 300 marks and is divided into three sections.

The paper includes:

  • Three sections of 100 marks each
  • A total of 12 essay topics
  • Candidates must answer one essay from each section
  • Each essay should be 700 to 800 words

What Skills Does the Essay Paper Test?

The Essay paper evaluates a candidate's ability to:

  • Present ideas in a clear and organised manner
  • Write logical and balanced arguments
  • Use relevant facts and examples
  • Maintain a proper structure and flow
  • Express thoughts in simple and effective language

Regular essay writing practice helps candidates improve writing skills, organise ideas, and perform better in the BPSC Mains Examination.

What Happens in the BPSC Interview?

Candidates who qualify for the BPSC Mains Examination are called for the BPSC Interview. This is the final stage of the selection process. The interview helps the Bihar Public Service Commission assess a candidate's personality, communication skills, confidence, and suitability for administrative services.

Who Conducts the BPSC Interview?

A board appointed by the Bihar Public Service Commission conducts the interview. The board reviews the candidate's academic background, achievements, work experience, and other details provided in the application form before the interview begins.

What Does the Interview Board Assess?

The interview is not only about academic knowledge. It also evaluates a candidate's overall personality and decision-making ability.

The board mainly assesses:

  • Communication skills
  • Personality and confidence
  • Mental alertness
  • Analytical and logical thinking
  • Decision-making ability
  • Leadership qualities
  • General awareness
  • Knowledge of current affairs
  • Understanding of Bihar and national issues

How Should You Prepare for the BPSC Interview?

Candidates should stay updated with current affairs, government policies, and important developments in Bihar and India. They should also improve their communication skills, practise answering interview questions, and build confidence through regular mock interviews.

The interview is a meaningful discussion that helps the board understand your personality, attitude, and suitability for a career in the Bihar State Services.

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