Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) State Services Exam 2026

The MPSC Rajyaseva or State Services Examination is held annually to recruit Group A and Group B officers in the Maharashtra state administration, including posts like Deputy Collector, DSP, and Tahsildar. The 2026 notification has announced 79 major vacancies.

1. Important Dates

• Application Window: Expected Feb 1 - Mar 5, 2026.
• MPSC Gazetted Civil Services Combined Preliminary Exam: May 31, 2026 (Sunday).
• MPSC State Services Main Exam: October 2026.

2. Selection Process & Exam Structure

1. Stage I: Preliminary Examination: Two papers (General Studies 1 and CSAT). Objective type. 400 marks. CSAT is qualifying in nature (33%).
2. Stage II: Main Examination: Nine descriptive papers. Contains Language Papers (Marathi and English - qualifying), Essay, General Studies (I-IV), and Optional Subjects (Paper I & II). 1750 marks.
3. Stage III: Interview: 275 marks assessing the candidate's personality, mental caliber, and suitability for an administrative career.

3. Important Eligibility: Language & Domicile

• Language: Essential knowledge of reading, writing, and speaking the Marathi language is mandatory.
• Domicile: Candidates from other states can apply but will be considered under the Open (General) category, regardless of their native reservation status.

4. Official Direct Links

5. Preparation Strategy

• Prelims: Focus extensively on Maharashtra History, Geography of Maharashtra, and Indian Polity. Practice standard CSAT questions regularly to ensure the qualifying mark.
• Mains: Since 2023, the MPSC changed its Mains pattern to descriptive, aligning with the UPSC CSE. Candidates should practice answer writing extensively.
• Current Affairs: Read local Marathi newspapers like Loksatta or Maharashtra Times along with a national English daily.