BPSC: Complete Guide on Bihar Public Service Commission Exams

The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) is one of the most important institutions in Bihar. It is responsible for recruiting candidates to various civil services and state-level posts. Every year, lakhs of candidates prepare for BPSC exams, especially the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE), which is the flagship test of the commission.

BPSC works under the framework of the Indian Constitution, ensuring fair and transparent selection. From administrative officers to engineers and professors, BPSC provides opportunities for different posts across government departments. For candidates of Bihar, BPSC is considered the main gateway to a stable government career.

This article explains the history, functions, exam details, syllabus, eligibility, preparation tips, controversies, and latest updates of BPSC in simple words.

History of BPSC

The system of Public Service Commissions in India was introduced during British rule. Competitive exams for government jobs were first suggested in 1853. Later, after independence, the Constitution made provisions for central and state commissions.

The Bihar Public Service Commission was formed on April 1, 1949, after separation from the joint commission of Bihar, Orissa, and Madhya Pradesh. Initially, its office was in Ranchi but was later shifted to Patna in 1951.

The first Chairman of BPSC was Shri Rajandhari Sinha, while Shri Radha Krishna Choudhary was its first Secretary. Over the years, the strength of members has changed, especially after the bifurcation of Bihar and Jharkhand in 2000.

Structure of BPSC

BPSC is an autonomous constitutional body. It functions under the Governor of Bihar.

• Chairman: Heads the commission and is appointed by the Governor.
• Members: Assist in decision-making and exam-related work.
• Secretary and Staff: Handle administration and daily functions.

The commission has different wings such as:

• Examination Wing – Manages exams.
• Recruitment Wing – Handles notifications and result processing.
• Administration Wing – Looks after internal work.

This structure ensures smooth functioning and transparency in recruitment.

Functions of BPSC

BPSC has been given powers under Articles 320 and 321 of the Constitution. Its main duties are:

1. Conducting Examinations – Competitive exams for civil services and departmental posts.
2. Advising the Government – On promotions, transfers, and disciplinary matters.
3. Framing Recruitment Rules – Suggesting and updating service rules.
4. Handling Grievances – Listening to candidate complaints and resolving issues.

BPSC also ensures that reservation policies for SC, ST, OBC, and EWS categories are followed. It advises on pensions and service-related queries for government employees.

Exams Conducted by BPSC

The most popular exam conducted by the commission is the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE). Apart from this, BPSC conducts recruitment for different posts such as:

• Assistant Engineer (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
• District Statistical Officer
• Assistant Director
• Mineral Development Officer
• Vice Principal (Industrial Training Institutes)
• Lower Division Clerk (LDC)
• Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Assistant Professor (Medical colleges)
• Pollution Control Board posts like Law Officer, Laboratory Assistant

For example, the 71st CCE in 2025 is being held for 1,298 posts, with prelims scheduled for September 13, 2025.

Table: Major BPSC Exams

Exam Name	Purpose	Example Posts
CCE (Combined Competitive Exam)	Main exam for civil services	SDM, DSP, Revenue Officer
Assistant Engineer	Engineering services	Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineers
District Statistical Officer	Data and planning roles	Statistical Officer, Assistant Director
Mineral Development Officer	Mining-related services	MDO
Lecturer/Professor Exams	Higher education posts	Professors, Associate Professors
Clerical Exams	Support services	LDC, ASO

BPSC Exam Pattern and Syllabus

BPSC exams are held in three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Interview.

Prelims Exam

• Duration: 2 hours
• Questions: 150 objective type
• Subjects: General Studies (Current Affairs, Science, History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Bihar-specific topics)
• Marks: 150 (1 mark per question, negative marking depends on notification)
• Purpose: Screening for Mains

Mains Exam

• Papers: Four (General Hindi, GS Paper 1, GS Paper 2, Optional Subject)
• Total Marks: 900 (excluding Hindi qualifying paper)
• Details:
  • General Hindi (100 marks, qualifying only)
  • GS Paper 1 (300 marks): History, culture, current affairs, statistics
  • GS Paper 2 (300 marks): Polity, economy, geography, science, Bihar topics
  • Optional Subject (300 marks): Choice from 34 subjects like History, Sociology, Geography

Interview

• Marks: 120
• Focus: Personality, awareness, problem-solving ability, knowledge of Bihar issues

Eligibility Criteria for BPSC

• Age Limit:
  • 20–37 years for General male candidates
  • 40 years for OBC and female candidates
  • 42 years for SC/ST candidates
• Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
• Attempts: No fixed number of attempts (depends on category).
• Physical Standards: For posts like DSP, height and chest measurements apply.

Application Process for BPSC

Candidates can only apply online through the official website – bpsc.bih.nic.in or onlinebpsc.bihar.gov.in.

Steps include:

1. One-time registration (OTR).
2. Filling the application form and uploading documents.
3. Payment of fees: ₹600 for General, ₹150 for SC/ST/female candidates.
4. Downloading admit card 7–10 days before exam.

For example, applications for Associate Professor posts in 2025 are open till September 12, 2025.

Selection Process

The selection process involves:

1. Prelims Screening
2. Mains Exam (1:10 ratio from Prelims)
3. Interview
4. Final Merit List based on Mains + Interview marks

Preparation Tips for BPSC

Preparing for BPSC requires both general knowledge and Bihar-specific awareness. Here are some tips:

• Understand the syllabus: Focus on Bihar’s history, culture, and geography.
• Books and resources: Start with NCERT books, Bihar Board books, and standard reference materials.
• Current affairs: Read newspapers and note Bihar-related news.
• Practice writing: Mains answers need clarity, with examples from Bihar.
• Mock tests: Solve previous year papers and attempt online mock tests.
• Daily routine: Keep a fixed schedule with 6–8 hours of study.

Controversies Around BPSC

Like other exam bodies, BPSC has also faced challenges.

• Paper leaks: In 2022, there were reports of paper leaks in the Teacher Recruitment Exam (TRE).
• Administrative delays: Results sometimes take longer than expected.
• Fake coaching claims: In 2025, BPSC issued warnings against misleading advertisements by private institutes.

To tackle these, BPSC has started digital reforms, including grievance redressal systems and stricter measures against malpractice.

Recent Updates on BPSC (2025)

• 71st CCE Prelims: Scheduled for September 13, 2025.
• Assistant Engineer Exam: To be conducted in September 2025.
• New Vacancies: Announced for Principals in engineering colleges.
• Supreme Court: Recently upheld the appointment of the current Chairman.
• Grievance facility: Now available online for candidates.

FAQs on BPSC

What is BPSC?

BPSC stands for Bihar Public Service Commission, which conducts exams for state government jobs.

How many stages are there in the BPSC CCE?

There are three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Interview.

What is the minimum qualification for BPSC?

Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.

Is there negative marking in BPSC Prelims?

Yes, in some exams, 1/3rd mark is deducted for wrong answers. Check the official notification.

How can I apply for BPSC?

You can apply online at bpsc.bih.nic.in or onlinebpsc.bihar.gov.in.

What is the age limit for BPSC exams?

20–37 years for general male candidates, with relaxations for women and reserved categories.

BPSC is one of the most important recruitment bodies in Bihar. It provides opportunities for administrative, technical, and academic posts. For aspirants, preparing with the right strategy, focusing on Bihar-specific topics, and keeping track of official notifications are key to success.

With regular reforms and new vacancies, BPSC continues to play a major role in shaping the future of Bihar’s administration. For anyone aiming at a career in civil services within Bihar, understanding BPSC exams and preparing systematically is the first step toward success.

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