MPSC State Services Mains Exam Date 2026 - Check Schedule PDF at mpsc.gov.in

The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has officially announced the exam dates for the State Services (Rajyaseva) Main Examination 2026. The descriptive examination is scheduled on 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 17, 18, 31 October and 1 November 2026. Candidates will receive a Question Cum Answer Booklet evaluated through digital On Screen Marking at mpsc.gov.in.

MPSC State Services Mains Exam 2026: Quick Overview

MPSC State Services Mains 2026: Important Dates

MPSC State Services Mains Exam Schedule Details

The Maharashtra Public Service Commission conducts the State Services (Rajyaseva) Main Examination across 9 designated days in October and November 2026. The examination is structured across multiple sessions to accommodate traditional descriptive papers.

Exam Dates Breakdown

• Phase 1 Dates: 03 October 2026, 04 October 2026, and 05 October 2026
• Phase 2 Dates: 10 October 2026 and 11 October 2026
• Phase 3 Dates: 17 October 2026 and 18 October 2026
• Phase 4 Dates: 31 October 2026 and 01 November 2026

The shift timings for descriptive sessions typically follow two operational slots:
- Morning Session: 10:00 AM to 01:00 PM
- Afternoon Session: 02:30 PM to 05:30 PM

Candidates must report to their allotted test centres at least 60 minutes prior to session commencement for verification, biometric scanning, and seated instructions.

Introduction of Question Cum Answer Booklet (QCAB)

As per official press note reference number Rasemu-02/Ja.Kra.57/2026/Athara, the Commission has implemented a significant procedural reform:
1. Single Combined Format: Candidates will no longer receive separate question papers and answer sheets. A Question Cum Answer Booklet (QCAB) will be provided, containing both the printed question and the allocated blank lines directly beneath it.
2. Standardized Pattern: This practice aligns with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and other State Public Service Commissions for descriptive civil services examinations.
3. Space Allocation: The Commission has clarified that ample, pre-calculated space is provided below each question. Candidates do not need to worry about shortage of answer space for descriptive explanations.
4. Digital Evaluation: After completion of the exam, all answer booklets will be scanned and assessed electronically via On Screen Marking (OSM), ensuring speed, accuracy, and security.

How to Download MPSC Mains Timetable PDF

Candidates can verify and download the official exam schedule directly from the MPSC portal by following these steps:

1. Visit the official portal of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission at mpsc.gov.in.
2. On the homepage header, locate and click on the Candidate Information tab.
3. Select Time Table or Press Notes / Announcements from the dropdown menu.
4. Locate the notification titled "Rajyaseva (State Services) Main Examination 2026 - Exam Schedule and QCAB Notice" (Ref: Rasemu-02/Ja.Kra.57/2026/Athara).
5. Click on the PDF icon to view the full circular.
6. Download and save the schedule PDF to your device for offline access and study planning.

How to Check the Specimen Answer Booklet

To familiarize themselves with the new booklet layout before entering the examination hall, candidates should review the official specimen:
1. Open mpsc.gov.in.
2. Navigate to Candidate Information.
3. Click on Specimen Answer Booklet.
4. Download the sample Question Cum Answer Booklet to examine margins, spacing, and presentation guidelines.

MPSC Mains Exam Pattern & Papers Overview

The MPSC Rajyaseva Main Examination is a comprehensive written test designed to assess administrative capability, analytical depth, and language proficiency.

• Answer Presentation: Candidates must write clear, structured answers within the space provided below each question.
• Word Limits: Specific questions carry designated mark weights and implied word limits. Exceeding the demarcated boundary is not permitted.
• Evaluation Standard: All papers are processed through On Screen Marking (OSM) where examiners evaluate high-resolution digital scans of the booklets.

Admit Card Availability & Exam Centre Rules

Admit Card Download Timeline

• The MPSC State Services Mains Hall Ticket is scheduled for release approximately 7 to 10 days prior to the first examination date.
• Candidates must access the admission card by logging into their MPSC candidate account at mpsc.gov.in using their Application ID/Registered Mobile Number and Password.
• The admit card displays the candidate roll number, allotted examination sub-centre, session timings, and detailed venue guidelines.

Mandatory Documents Required at Exam Centre

Candidates must present the following original documents at the registration desk:
- Clear printed copy of the MPSC Rajyaseva Mains Admit Card with visible photograph and signature.
- Original government-issued photo identity proof (Aadhaar Card with photo, Voter ID, PAN Card, Indian Passport, or Driving Licence).
- One clear photocopy of the photo identity proof.
- Two recent passport-sized color photographs matching the uploaded application profile.

Exam Hall Conduct & Prohibited Items

• Stationery: Candidates must use blue or black ballpoint pens for filling booklet details and descriptive writing. Fountain pens or gel pens prone to smudging must be avoided.
• Strictly Prohibited: Mobile phones, digital watches, fitness bands, Bluetooth devices, scientific calculators (unless explicitly allowed for technical optionals), notes, books, and loose sheets are banned inside the examination premises.
• Reporting Time: Candidates must be present in their allocated seats at least 30 minutes before the commencement of each paper. Entry is strictly closed after the scheduled starting bell.

Official Notification & Important Links

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)