HPSC HCS Notification 2026 Out for 102 Vacancies: Complete Guide on How to Apply Online for Haryana Civil Services Exam Before 26th February Deadline
Key Highlights at a Glance
- HPSC has released official notification for 102 HCS and Allied Services vacancies
- Online registration active from 6th to 26th February 2026 (5 PM)
- Prelims exam scheduled for 26th April 2026, Mains from 27th-29th June 2026
- Graduates aged 18-42 years (18-27 for DSP) can apply
- Application fee: ₹1000 for General/BC males, ₹250 for females and reserved categories
- Posts include HCS (EB), DSP, ETO, AETO, Tehsildar, and more
The Haryana Public Service Commission has just announced a major recruitment drive that could change the career trajectory of thousands of government job aspirants across the country. With 102 vacancies across prestigious administrative posts, this is one of the most significant state civil service recruitments of 2026. The HPSC HCS Notification 2026 for 102 vacancies was officially released on 30th January 2026, and the registration window opened on 6th February 2026. Candidates have a limited window until 26th February 2026 (5 PM) to submit their applications through the official portal at www.hpsc.gov.in. This recruitment covers Group A and Group B administrative positions including HCS Executive Branch, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Excise and Taxation Officer, and several other allied services that offer excellent career growth in Haryana's administrative framework.
Join My WhatsApp Channel for Latest Job UpdatesWhat is HPSC HCS Exam and Why Should You Apply for Haryana Civil Services Recruitment 2026
HPSC HCS stands for Haryana Public Service Commission – Haryana Civil Services. It's widely regarded as one of the most prestigious state-level examinations in India. This exam recruits eligible candidates for Group A positions in the Executive Branch and DSP cadre, along with Group B Allied Services administrative posts within the Haryana state government.
Selected candidates get posted in critical roles such as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Excise and Taxation Officer (ETO), Block Development and Panchayat Officer (BDPO), and several other administrative positions. The examination is designed to evaluate a candidate's capability to handle public administration responsibilities, analyze complex governance situations, frame effective policies, and make balanced decisions that serve the public interest.
If you're looking for other state-level opportunities, you might also want to check out the HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 which has 799 vacancies currently open for applications.
HPSC HCS Notification 2026 PDF Download Link and Official Announcement Details
The official notification PDF for HCS (Executive Branch) and Other Allied Services Examination-2026 was released on 30th January 2026 on the official HPSC website. The comprehensive document contains complete details about vacancy distribution, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, selection process, and application procedure.
Candidates can download the official HPSC HCS Notification 2026 PDF directly from the commission's website. The notification clearly outlines all 102 vacant positions across 12 different post categories, with detailed breakup according to reservation categories including General, SC (DSC), SC (OSC), BC (A), BC (B), and EWS.
The notification emphasizes that this is a time-bound opportunity. All applications must be submitted online between 6th February and 26th February 2026 by 5 PM. No offline applications will be entertained, and no extension is expected given the strict examination schedule already announced by the commission.
Complete Vacancy Details: 102 Posts Under HPSC HCS Recruitment 2026
| Post Name | General | SC (DSC) | SC (OSC) | BC (A) | BC (B) | EWS | Total Vacancies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HCS (Executive Branch) | 11 | 02 | 02 | 04 | 02 | 03 | 24 |
| Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) | 02 | 01 | 01 | 02 | 01 | 01 | 08 |
| Excise and Taxation Officer (ETO) | 14 | 03 | 02 | 04 | 02 | 02 | 27 |
| District Food and Supplies Controller (DFSC) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 02 |
| Assistant Registrar Cooperative Societies (ARCS) | 01 | 01 | 00 | 00 | 01 | 00 | 03 |
| District Food and Supplies Officer (DFSO) | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Excise and Taxation Officer (AETO) | 09 | 03 | 03 | 03 | 01 | 03 | 22 |
| Block Development and Panchayat Officer (BDPO) | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Treasury Manager (TM) | 02 | 01 | 02 | 01 | 00 | 01 | 07 |
| Enforcement Officer (AEO) | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Class A Tehsildar | 02 | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 03 |
| Class A Naib Tehsildar (Apprentice) | 02 | 01 | 00 | 01 | 00 | 01 | 05 |
| Total Posts | 44 | 13 | 10 | 15 | 07 | 11 | 102 |
The highest number of vacancies are for Excise and Taxation Officer (27 posts) followed by HCS Executive Branch (24 posts) and Assistant Excise and Taxation Officer (22 posts). The DSP category has 8 openings with specific physical standards requirements.
Important Dates You Cannot Miss for HPSC HCS Application 2026
| Event Description | Important Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release Date | 30th January 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 6th February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 26th February 2026 (5 PM) |
| Last Date to Pay Application Fee | 26th February 2026 (5 PM) |
| HCS Prelims Examination Date | 26th April 2026 |
| HCS Mains Examination Dates | 27th to 29th June 2026 |
| Expected Interview/Personality Test | August/September 2026 |
Mark your calendar carefully. The application window is open for just 20 days. Many aspirants make the mistake of waiting until the last moment, which often leads to technical glitches or incomplete applications. It's strongly recommended to complete your application at least 3-4 days before the deadline.
Similar to other major recruitments happening right now, like the OSPCB Recruitment 2026 for 113 Group B and C posts, time management during the application process is critical.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply for Haryana Civil Services Exam 2026
Educational Qualification Requirements
The educational qualification for HPSC HCS 2026 is straightforward but non-negotiable. Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized University or educational institution. This includes Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Commerce, or any equivalent graduation degree.
The degree must be completed and the certificate must be issued on or before 26th February 2026 (the last date of application). Candidates appearing in their final year examination are not eligible to apply. This is a common mistake many aspirants make, so verify your graduation completion status before applying.
Age Limit and Relaxation Details
| Post Category | Minimum Age (Years) | Maximum Age (Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) | 18 | 27 |
| All Other Allied Services Posts | 18 | 42 |
The age calculation is done as on 1st January 2026. This means if you were born on 2nd January 1984, you are eligible for non-DSP posts as you would be considered 42 years old as on the cut-off date.
Upper Age Relaxation for Reserved Categories
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| Scheduled Castes of Haryana | 5 years |
| Backward Classes of Haryana | 5 years |
| Persons with Disabilities (PwD) | 5 years |
| Wife of Disabled Military Personnel | 5 years |
| Widowed or Divorced Women | 5 years |
| Unmarried Women | 5 years |
| SC/BC Candidates for DSP Post | 5 years (maximum age becomes 32) |
Physical Standards for DSP Post
| Gender | Height Requirement | Chest (Unexpanded) | Chest (Expanded) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male Candidates | 5 feet 7 inches (170.18 cm) | 33 inches (83.82 cm) | 34.5 inches (87.63 cm) |
| Female Candidates | 5 feet 2 inches (157.50 cm) | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
These physical standards are mandatory only for DSP posts. All other allied services positions do not require any physical measurement tests.
How to Apply Online for HPSC HCS 2026: Step-by-Step Application Process
The entire application process is conducted online through the official HPSC portal. No offline or postal applications are accepted. Here's the complete procedure broken down into simple steps:
Step 1: Visit Official Website
Go to www.hpsc.gov.in and navigate to the "Advertisements" section or directly click on "Apply Online" tab on the homepage.
Step 2: New Registration
Click on the registration link specifically for HCS 2026 examination. You'll need to provide a valid and active mobile number and email ID. These will be used to generate your Login ID and Password. Make sure you have access to both as OTP verification might be required.
Step 3: Login to Your Account
Use the credentials sent to your email/mobile to login to the application portal. You'll be directed to the main application form.
Step 4: Fill Personal Details
Enter accurate information including your full name (exactly as per your Class 10 certificate), father's name, mother's name, date of birth, gender, category, and nationality. Any mismatch in these details during document verification can lead to disqualification.
Step 5: Educational Qualification Details
Provide your graduation details including university name, roll number, year of passing, percentage or CGPA, and subject/stream. Keep your graduation marksheet handy while filling this section.
Step 6: Choose Optional Subject
Select your optional subject for the Mains examination carefully. This choice is final and cannot be changed later. Choose a subject you're most comfortable with or have studied during graduation.
Step 7: Select Exam Center Preference
Choose your preferred examination center. While the commission tries to allocate centers as per preference, the final allotment depends on availability.
Step 8: Upload Required Documents
Scan and upload the following documents in the prescribed format (usually JPG/PDF with specific size limits):
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Signature specimen
• Class 10 certificate for age proof
• Graduation degree/certificate
• Category certificate (if applicable)
• PwD certificate (if applicable)
Step 9: Pay Application Fee
The payment can be made through Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card, or UPI. Make sure the payment is successful and save the transaction receipt.
Step 10: Final Review and Submission
Before final submission, carefully review all entered information. Most recruitment bodies don't provide correction windows after submission. Once satisfied, click on the final submit button.
Step 11: Download and Print
After successful submission, download the confirmation page and take multiple printouts. This will be required during various stages of the examination process.
For candidates looking at multiple government job opportunities simultaneously, checking out resources like the ultimate guide on how to find and get government jobs can be extremely helpful in managing parallel applications.
Application Fee Structure for HPSC HCS Exam 2026
| Candidate Category | Application Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| Male Candidates (General Category) | Rs. 1000 |
| Male Candidates (Backward Classes) | Rs. 1000 |
| Other State Male Candidates (All Categories) | Rs. 1000 |
| Female Candidates (All Categories) | Rs. 250 |
| SC/BC-A/BC-B Category (Male & Female) | Rs. 250 |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | Rs. 250 |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | Rs. 250 |
| Persons with Disabilities (PwD) from Haryana | Nil (No Fee) |
The application fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. Make sure you meet all eligibility criteria before paying the fee. Payment modes accepted include Net Banking, Credit Card, Debit Card, and UPI-based payment systems.
HPSC HCS Selection Process 2026: Three-Stage Examination System
The selection for Haryana Civil Services is a rigorous three-tier process designed to assess candidates on multiple parameters. Understanding this process helps in better exam preparation strategy.
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (Screening Test)
| Paper Details | Subject Name | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | General Studies | 100 | 100 | 2 hours |
| Paper-II | Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) | 100 | 100 | 2 hours |
| Total | Both Papers | 200 | 200 | 4 hours |
The Preliminary examination is qualifying in nature, which means it's primarily for shortlisting candidates for the Mains examination. However, both papers are compulsory and candidates must score minimum qualifying marks in each paper separately.
All questions are objective type multiple-choice questions (MCQs). There's a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer, so random guessing should be avoided. Paper-II (CSAT) is qualifying with a minimum threshold of 33% marks required.
Stage 2: Main Written Examination (Merit-Based)
| Paper No. | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | English (Including Essay) | 100 | 3 hours |
| Paper-II | Hindi (Including Essay) | 100 | 3 hours |
| Paper-III | General Studies | 200 | 3 hours |
| Paper-IV | Optional Subject (Candidate's Choice) | 200 | 3 hours |
| Total | All Papers | 600 | 12 hours |
The Mains examination consists of conventional (descriptive/essay) type questions. This tests your analytical ability, understanding of subjects, and written communication skills. The marks obtained in Mains are counted for final merit list preparation.
Candidates need to choose their optional subject carefully during the application process. Popular optional subjects include Public Administration, History, Geography, Sociology, Political Science, and Economics. Choose based on your graduation background and interest level.
Stage 3: Personality Test/Interview (Viva Voce)
Candidates who clear the Mains examination are called for a Personality Test conducted by an expert interview board. The interview panel asks questions on matters of general interest, current affairs, awareness about Haryana state, and your understanding of administrative challenges.
The Personality Test carries significant weightage in final selection. It's not just about knowledge but also about your personality traits, confidence, decision-making ability, communication skills, and overall suitability for administrative roles.
The final merit list is prepared based on the combined marks of Mains Written Examination and Personality Test. Candidates are allocated to different services (HCS, DSP, ETO, etc.) based on their rank and preference.
Salary and Pay Scale for HPSC HCS Selected Candidates 2026
| Post Name | Pay Level (7th CPC) | Pay Scale Range |
|---|---|---|
| HCS (Executive Branch) | Level 10 | Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500 per month |
| Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) | Level 10 | Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500 per month |
| Excise and Taxation Officer (ETO) | Level 9/10 | Rs. 53,100 to Rs. 1,77,500 per month |
| Assistant ETO (AETO) | Level 7/8 | Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 1,51,100 per month |
Apart from the basic pay, selected candidates receive numerous allowances and benefits including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, Medical Benefits for self and family, Leave Travel Concession, Pension Benefits, and various other state government perks.
The career progression in these services is excellent. An HCS officer can rise to the level of Additional Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate with experience and performance. DSP officers progress through the ranks to become Superintendent of Police and higher positions in the state police hierarchy.
If you're comparing different government job opportunities, you might also be interested in checking PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 or NTPC Executive Trainee Recruitment 2026 for alternative career paths in the banking and public sector.
Quick Comparison: HPSC HCS vs Other State Civil Services
| Comparison Parameter | HPSC HCS | Other State PCS |
|---|---|---|
| Total Vacancies (2026) | 102 posts | Varies (50-500+ typically) |
| Number of Attempts | No specific limit for general category | Varies by state |
| Age Limit (Non-DSP) | 18-42 years (highest among major states) | Usually 21-40 years |
| Exam Pattern | Prelims + Mains + Interview | Similar three-tier system |
| Optional Subject | Yes (in Mains) | Yes (most state PCS exams) |
| Starting Salary (HCS EB) | Rs. 56,100 (Level 10) | Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 56,100 |
| Application Fee | Rs. 1000 (General Male) | Rs. 500-1500 typically |
| Language Papers in Mains | Both English and Hindi compulsory | Varies by state |
Pros and Cons of Applying for HPSC HCS Recruitment 2026
| Advantages (Pros) | Challenges (Cons) |
|---|---|
| Excellent job security with lifetime government employment | Extremely high competition with lakhs of applicants for limited seats |
| Attractive salary package with Level 10 pay for HCS/DSP posts | Lengthy selection process spanning 6-8 months from prelims to final result |
| Higher age limit (42 years) compared to most state civil services | Rigorous three-stage examination requiring extensive preparation |
| Fast career progression and promotion opportunities in state administration | Posting in remote or rural areas initially, especially for field postings |
| Comprehensive benefits including medical, pension, HRA, and DA | High pressure and responsibility in administrative roles |
| Opportunity to serve Haryana state and contribute to governance | Transfer policies may require frequent relocation within state |
| Diverse post options from executive to taxation to police services | Prelims exam has negative marking which can be tricky |
| Reserved category benefits and age relaxations available | Mains exam requires strong Hindi and English writing skills |
Preparation Strategy: How to Crack HPSC HCS Exam 2026
Success in HPSC HCS requires a well-planned preparation strategy. Start by thoroughly understanding the syllabus and exam pattern. The Prelims focuses heavily on current affairs, Indian history, geography, polity, economy, and Haryana-specific topics.
For General Studies, use standard NCERT books from classes 6-12 as your foundation. Supplement these with current affairs magazines and newspapers. Since Haryana-specific questions carry significant weightage, dedicate special time to studying Haryana's history, geography, culture, economy, and current developmental schemes.
The CSAT paper tests your logical reasoning, comprehension, basic numeracy, and analytical skills. Regular practice with previous year question papers is essential. Don't underestimate this paper thinking it's just qualifying - many serious aspirants have lost opportunities by not scoring the minimum required marks in CSAT.
For Mains preparation, focus on developing your writing skills. Practice answer writing regularly with timed tests. Your answers should be structured, analytical, and to the point. Both English and Hindi papers require good essay writing skills, so practice writing on diverse topics.
The optional subject should ideally be one you've studied in graduation or have a genuine interest in. Whatever you choose, cover it comprehensively. Standard reference books for popular optional subjects are widely available.
For interview preparation, stay updated with current national and state-level news, especially related to governance, policy decisions, and developmental initiatives in Haryana. Read the interview experiences of previous successful candidates to understand the type of questions asked.
Many aspirants simultaneously prepare for multiple state PCS exams and central government recruitments. If you're following this strategy, you might find opportunities like RSSB Agriculture Supervisor recruitment with 1100 vacancies or Telangana Anganwadi recruitment with 15247 posts useful for parallel applications.
Documents Required for HPSC HCS Application 2026
Keep the following documents ready in scanned format before starting your online application:
Mandatory Documents for All Candidates:
- Recent passport-size color photograph (with white background, 50 KB to 100 KB size)
- Scanned signature specimen (10 KB to 50 KB size)
- Class 10 certificate or birth certificate for age proof
- Graduation degree certificate or provisional certificate
- Graduation final year marksheet
- Valid email ID and active mobile number for registration
Additional Documents for Specific Categories:
- SC/BC/EWS certificate issued by competent authority of Haryana state (for reserved category candidates)
- Person with Disability (PwD) certificate from authorized medical board (if claiming disability benefits)
- Ex-Servicemen discharge certificate (for ESM candidates)
- Haryana domicile certificate (for claiming domicile-based benefits and age relaxation)
- Character certificate from gazetted officer or educational institution
All certificates must be issued by competent authorities. Self-attested copies should be kept ready as they'll be required during document verification after final selection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for HPSC HCS 2026
Many deserving candidates lose their opportunity due to avoidable errors during the application process. Here are the most common mistakes you must avoid:
Incorrect Personal Details: Many applicants make spelling errors in their names or enter wrong dates of birth. Your details must exactly match your Class 10 certificate. Any mismatch leads to disqualification during document verification.
Wrong Category Selection: Choosing the wrong category (General/SC/BC/EWS) is a serious error. If you're from general category but select SC by mistake, or vice versa, your candidature will be cancelled when certificates are verified.
Poor Quality Photographs: Uploading blurred, old, or improperly sized photographs leads to application rejection. Use a recent passport-size photo with white background, formal attire, and clear facial features.
Ignoring Document Size Limits: Each document has prescribed size limits (usually in KB). Exceeding these limits prevents successful upload. Use online tools to compress files if needed while maintaining clarity.
Last-Minute Application: Thousands of candidates rush to apply on the final day, causing server congestion. Apply early to avoid technical glitches and payment failures.
Not Taking Printout: After successful submission, always download and print the confirmation page. This is your proof of application and might be required during the examination.
Wrong Optional Subject Choice: Selecting an optional subject without proper research or preparation can hurt your Mains performance. Choose wisely based on your strengths and interest.
Payment Issues: Many candidates assume their payment failed and make multiple payment attempts, leading to confusion. Always wait for the payment confirmation page and save the transaction details.
What Happens After HPSC HCS Application Submission
Once you successfully submit your application and payment, here's the timeline of events you should expect:
Admit Card Release (April 2026): The admit card for Prelims examination will be released approximately 7-10 days before the exam date (26th April 2026). You can download it from the official HPSC website using your registration number and date of birth. No admit cards are sent by post.
Prelims Examination (26th April 2026): Carry your admit card and a valid photo ID proof to the examination center. Reach the venue at least 30 minutes before the reporting time mentioned on your admit card.
Prelims Result (May 2026): The result is typically declared within 3-4 weeks after the exam. Qualified candidates will be eligible to appear for the Mains examination. The cutoff marks vary each year depending on difficulty level and number of vacancies.
Mains Admit Card (June 2026): Separate admit cards will be issued for the Mains examination scheduled from 27th to 29th June 2026.
Mains Result (July/August 2026): After the Mains examination, results are declared with the list of candidates qualified for interview. This usually takes 4-6 weeks.
Interview Call Letter (August 2026): Shortlisted candidates receive interview call letters with specific date, time, and venue for their Personality Test.
Final Result (September/October 2026): After completion of interviews, the final merit list is prepared and published. Selected candidates are then called for document verification and medical examination.
The entire selection process from application to final appointment typically takes 8-10 months. Stay regularly updated through the official HPSC website for all announcements.
Why HPSC HCS is One of the Best State Civil Service Opportunities in 2026
Among all state Public Service Commission examinations, HPSC HCS stands out for several reasons. First, the higher age limit of 42 years (compared to 37-40 in most states) gives more time for preparation and multiple attempts. This is particularly beneficial for candidates who started late or are switching careers.
Second, Haryana's administrative services offer competitive salaries. The Level 10 pay scale for HCS and DSP positions is at par with or better than many other state services. Combined with Haryana's relatively higher allowances due to proximity to NCR region, the effective take-home salary is attractive.
Third, the career growth trajectory in Haryana Administrative Services is well-defined. An HCS officer can reach senior positions like Additional Deputy Commissioner or District Collector with proven performance and experience. The state government also provides good exposure through diverse postings and policy-making roles.
Fourth, compared to UPSC Civil Services, the competition ratio is more favorable. While still highly competitive, state PCS exams offer better odds of selection compared to all-India services. Moreover, you can simultaneously prepare for both UPSC and state PCS as the syllabi overlap significantly.
For candidates exploring various government sector opportunities, understanding different recruitment patterns helps. Resources covering NIC STA Recruitment with 376 scientific and technical posts can provide insights into alternative career paths in the government sector.
Frequently Asked Questions About HPSC HCS Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply online for HPSC HCS Exam 2026 and can it be extended?
The last date to submit online applications for HPSC HCS 2026 is 26th February 2026 till 5 PM. Extensions are rare and not guaranteed. The commission has already announced the Prelims date for 26th April 2026, which makes extension unlikely. Candidates should complete their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Can I apply for HPSC HCS 2026 if I am from another state or do I need Haryana domicile?
Yes, candidates from any state in India can apply for HPSC HCS examination. Haryana domicile is not mandatory for application. However, Haryana domicile candidates get certain benefits like age relaxation and reservation advantages. Candidates from other states compete under the General category and pay the same application fee of Rs. 1000 for males.
How many times can I attempt the HPSC HCS examination and is there any attempt limit?
There is no specific limit on the number of attempts for HPSC HCS examination for General category candidates. You can appear as many times as you want till you reach the maximum age limit of 42 years (27 years for DSP). Reserved category candidates with age relaxation can attempt accordingly within their extended age limits.
What salary and allowances will I get after selection in HPSC HCS Executive Branch post?
Selected candidates for HCS Executive Branch will receive Level 10 pay scale ranging from Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500 per month as basic pay. Additionally, you'll receive Dearness Allowance (currently around 50% of basic pay), House Rent Allowance, Transport Allowance, and other benefits. The effective in-hand salary ranges from Rs. 75,000 to Rs. 85,000 for freshly appointed HCS officers.
Is there any interview or personality test in HPSC HCS selection process and how much marks does it carry?
Yes, the Personality Test or Interview is the final stage of HPSC HCS selection. Candidates who qualify the Mains Written Examination are called for this interview. While the exact marks for the interview aren't specified in the notification, it typically carries significant weightage in the final merit list along with Mains marks. The interview assesses personality, confidence, communication skills, and administrative aptitude.
Can I change my optional subject after submitting the HPSC HCS application form?
No, once you submit your HPSC HCS application form, the optional subject choice becomes final and cannot be changed. This is why it's extremely important to research and decide your optional subject carefully before application submission. Choose a subject you're comfortable with or have studied in graduation, as this decision significantly impacts your Mains preparation and performance.
What are the important subjects covered in HPSC HCS Prelims General Studies paper?
The HPSC HCS Prelims General Studies paper covers Indian History, Indian National Movement, Indian Polity and Governance, Economic and Social Development, General Science, Environmental Studies, Geography of India and Haryana, Current National and International Affairs, and Haryana-specific topics including its history, culture, geography, economy, and current developments. Haryana-specific portion carries substantial weightage.
Do I need to appear for both Paper I and Paper II in HPSC HCS Prelims examination?
Yes, appearing in both Paper-I (General Studies) and Paper-II (CSAT) is compulsory. While Paper-I is the main scoring paper, Paper-II is qualifying in nature with a minimum threshold of 33% marks required. However, you must qualify both papers separately to be eligible for Mains. Failing to appear in either paper results in disqualification regardless of performance in the other paper.
Is there any negative marking in HPSC HCS examination and how much is deducted for wrong answers?
Yes, there is negative marking in the HPSC HCS Prelims examination. For each incorrect answer, 0.25 marks (one-fourth of the total marks for that question) will be deducted. This means for a 1-mark question, you lose 0.25 marks for each wrong answer. Unanswered questions don't attract any penalty. Therefore, random guessing without reasonable elimination of options should be avoided.
What is the minimum qualifying marks required to clear HPSC HCS Prelims and Mains examination?
The qualifying marks or cutoff for HPSC HCS varies every year depending on factors like exam difficulty, number of applicants, and vacancies. Generally, General category candidates need around 50-55% marks in Prelims to qualify, while reserved categories have lower cutoffs. For Mains, the cutoff is usually higher. The commission announces category-wise cutoff marks along with results. Past year cutoffs can give you an approximate benchmark for preparation.
Author Bio
Aswin Anil is a government jobs content specialist and career advisor with extensive experience in covering central and state-level recruitment notifications. He helps thousands of job aspirants stay updated with the latest government job opportunities, exam patterns, and selection processes through detailed analysis and practical guidance. His expertise includes SSC, UPSC, Banking, Railway, State PSC, and various public sector undertaking recruitments across India. Connect with him for authentic and timely government job updates.