The KAS (Gazetted Probationers) exam is conducted in three stages, similar to the UPSC Civil Services Exam:
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Preliminary Examination – Objective Type (Screening Test)
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Main Examination – Descriptive Type (Written Test)
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Personality Test / Interview
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination
Purpose: Screening test to shortlist candidates for Mains.
Mode: Offline (OMR-based)
Type: Objective (Multiple Choice Questions)
Total: 400 Marks
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
Language: English or Kannada (choose during application).
Note: Marks of the Prelims are not counted for final merit — only for qualifying to the Mains exam.
Stage 2: Main Examination
Purpose: To assess in-depth knowledge, analytical ability, and communication skills.
Type: Descriptive (Essay-type)
Papers: 7 (compulsory)
Total Marks for Mains (Counted for Merit):
250 × 5 (Papers 3–7) = 1250 Marks
Note: Kannada and English papers are only qualifying (minimum 35% each). Marks are not added to merit.
Stage 3: Personality Test / Interview
Purpose:
To evaluate candidate’s personality, decision-making ability, awareness, communication skills, and suitability for administrative service.
???? Final Merit List
Candidates are ranked based on their Mains + Interview marks.
Summary: KAS Exam Pattern at a Glance
