Punjab PCS New Notification, Exam Date, Eligibility, Age Limit
PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026: The Punjab Public Service Commission (PUNJAB PCS) has released the PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026. Candidates preparing for the PUNJAB PCS Recruitment 2026 can go through the detailed notification to know the age limit and educational qualification. The PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026 PDF is available for Download at official website, www.ppsc.gov.in. The PUNJAB PCS 2026 Prelims examination notification is expected to be release in October 2026.
PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026
The Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) has officially released the much-awaited notification for the Punjab State Civil Services Combined Competitive Examination (Punjab PCS 2026). This announcement is particularly significant as the last PCS exam in Punjab was conducted five years ago, in 2020.
A total of 331 vacancies were announced in 2025 across various departments. In the upcoming Punjab PCS notification, approximately 150 vacancies are expected to be released, continuing the opportunity for aspirants to join the prestigious civil services in Punjab. Aspirants can now access the detailed notification, which includes crucial information such as the exam dates, eligibility criteria, and application process, on the official website: www.ppsc.gov.in.
Table of contents
- PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026 PDF
- PUNJAB PCS 2026 Eligibility: Essential Educational Qualifications and Language Requirements
- PUNJAB PCS Age Limit
- Number of Attempts Allowed in Punjab PCS Examinations
- Number of Attempts Allowed in Punjab PCS Examinations
- PUNJAB PCS Educational Qualification
- PUNJAB PCS Application Form 2026
- Nationality Criteria for Punjab PCS 2026:
- PUNJAB PCS Selection Process 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Exam Pattern 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Admit Card 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Answer Key 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Syllabus 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Cut Off 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Result 2026
- PUNJAB PCS Salary 2026
- O2 IAS Academy Batch for Punjab PCS
PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026 Overview
The official PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026 contains all the necessary information. Reviewing the Notification is crucial for candidates to obtain accurate exam details and devise a suitable strategy for exam preparation. The notification for PUNJAB PCS 2026 also comprises of basic eligibility, educational qualification and age limit. Refer to the table below for specific information on the PUNJAB PCS Exam 2026.
Tentative Date
-
Notification Release Date: Expected october , 2026
|
Organization |
Punjab Public Service Commission (PUNJAB PCS) |
|
Post Name |
PUNJAB PCS Executive (SDM), DSP, Tehsildar, BDO, ETO, DSP Jail. EO etc |
|
Vacancies to be expected |
150 |
|
Exam Date |
PUNJAB PCS 2026 Prelims Examination: Expected october 2026 |
|
Application Mode |
Online |
|
Exam Mode |
Offline |
|
Recruitment Process |
Prelims, Mains, Interviews, Document Verification |
|
Educational Qualification |
Minimum requirement: Three-year bachelor’s degree in any field |
|
Language |
English and Punjabi |
|
Age Limit |
Usually 21 to 37 years, with age relaxations for reserved categories as per government norms |
|
Salary |
Varies by post and level typically range from INR 40,000 to INR 60,000 per month. |
|
Official Website |
PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026 PDF
The PUNJAB Public Services Commission (PPSC) has released the PUNJAB PCS Exam Notification on their Official Website . Click here to Downlaod the PDF
PUNJAB PCS 2026 Eligibility: Essential Educational Qualifications and Language Requirements
For the PUNJAB PCS exam in 2026, candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institution in any discipline. Importantly, aspirants can take the preliminary exam while still completing their degree. However, proof of degree completion is mandatory for the Main Exam.
Additionally, proficiency in Punjabi, at least up to the matriculation level, is required, with certain exceptions for defense personnel and their families. This requirement ensures candidates are well-versed with the regional language, an essential aspect of administrative roles in Punjab.
For more details on Eligibility and to apply, visit the official PUNJAB PCS website
PUNJAB PCS Age Limit
The Punjab PCS exam adheres to specific age criteria, with varying age limits and relaxations for different categories as per the Punjab State Civil Services rules and government instructions. The official minimum age requirement is 21 years, while the maximum age limit is 37 years, although certain groups may receive relaxation. The candidates can go through the PUNJAB PCS Category wise age relaxation in the table below.
|
Category |
Age Limit |
|
General |
21 - 37 years |
|
DSP and DS Jail/District Probation Officer |
21 - 28 years ( 33 for SC’s & BC’s of Punjab) |
|
Punjab Government/Other State Government/Government of India Employee |
Up to 45 years |
|
Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes (SC/BC) of Punjab |
Up to 42 years |
|
Ex-servicemen of Punjab Domicile |
Deduction of service period from actual age, not exceeding 40 years (37 + 3) |
|
Widows, Divorced Women and Certain Other Categories of Women of Punjab |
Up to 42 years |
|
Physically Handicapped (PH) of Punjab |
Up to 47 years |
Physical Standards
|
Gender |
Minimum Height for DSP |
Chest Measurement (Men Only) for DSP |
|
Men |
5 feet 7 inches |
33 inches (Unexpanded), 34.5 inches (Expanded) |
|
Women |
5 feet 3 inches |
N/A |
Physical Test Requirements:
Candidates must successfully complete the following physical tests:
- Primary Test (Mandatory for All)
- Men: 1600 meters race in 07 minutes 30 seconds (one attempt)
- Women: 800 meters race in 04 minutes 45 seconds (one attempt)
- Additional Tests (Choose Any Two)
- Long Jump
- Men: Minimum 3.60 meters (three attempts)
- Women: Minimum 3.00 meters (three attempts)
- High Jump
- Men: Minimum 1.15 meters (three attempts)
- Women: Minimum 1.00 meter (three attempts)
- Men: Vertical Rope - 2.0 Meters climb from the ground (three attempts)
- Women: Shuttle - Running between two parallel lines 10 meters apart, five times in 20 seconds (one attempt only)
- Long Jump
These physical requirements are in accordance with the Punjab Police Service Rules-1959 and are crucial for the roles of Deputy Superintendent Police and Deputy Superintendent of Jails. Candidates should prepare accordingly to meet these standards.
Number of Attempts Allowed in Punjab PCS Examinations
The Punjab PCS examination has specific guidelines regarding the number of attempts a candidate can make. These rules are essential for candidates to plan their preparation and application strategy effectively.
Physical Standards
|
Gender |
Minimum Height for DSP |
Chest Measurement (Men Only) for DSP |
|
Men |
5 feet 7 inches |
33 inches (Unexpanded), 34.5 inches (Expanded) |
|
Women |
5 feet 3 inches |
N/A |
Physical Test Requirements:
Candidates must successfully complete the following physical tests:
- Primary Test (Mandatory for All)
- Men: 1600 meters race in 07 minutes 30 seconds (one attempt)
- Women: 800 meters race in 04 minutes 45 seconds (one attempt)
- Additional Tests (Choose Any Two)
- Long Jump
- Men: Minimum 3.60 meters (three attempts)
- Women: Minimum 3.00 meters (three attempts)
- High Jump
- Men: Minimum 1.15 meters (three attempts)
- Women: Minimum 1.00 meter (three attempts)
- Men: Vertical Rope - 2.0 Meters climb from the ground (three attempts)
- Women: Shuttle - Running between two parallel lines 10 meters apart, five times in 20 seconds (one attempt only)
- Long Jump
These physical requirements are in accordance with the Punjab Police Service Rules-1959 and are crucial for the roles of Deputy Superintendent Police and Deputy Superintendent of Jails. Candidates should prepare accordingly to meet these standards.
Number of Attempts Allowed in Punjab PCS Examinations
The Punjab PCS examination has specific guidelines regarding the number of attempts a candidate can make. These rules are essential for candidates to plan their preparation and application strategy effectively.
|
Sr.No. |
Category |
Maximum Number of Attempts |
|
1 |
General Category |
Six |
|
2 |
Backward Classes |
Nine |
|
3 |
Scheduled Castes |
Unlimited |
|
- |
Ex-Servicemen |
Four |
6Key Points to Remember:
- Inclusion of Preliminary Examination: It's important to note that an 'attempt' includes appearing in the preliminary examination. Even if a candidate only appears in the prelims, it counts as one attempt.
- Special Provision for Ex-Servicemen: Candidates from the ex-servicemen category are limited to four attempts at the examination.
PUNJAB PCS Educational Qualification
For PUNJAB PCS 2026, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university meeting UGC standards. During the document verification stage, applicants must present their degree certificate and mark sheet for PUNJAB PCS educational qualification confirmation. Meeting these criteria is essential:
- The candidate should have completed their graduation at the time of application.
- The bachelor’s degree duration should be at least three years.
- For specific technical roles, the degree should align with the discipline mentioned in the PUNJAB PCS notification.
- Certain departmental positions may require a two-year post-graduation degree, as specified in the PUNJAB PCS notification.
PUNJAB PCS Application Form 2026
The details of the PUNJAB PCS Notification 2026 for prelims and mains exams application forms are provided on the official website. The PUNJAB PCS Application form will be available online on the official PUNJAB PCS website. Below are the steps to apply on the official website:
How to Apply for Punjab PCS 2026
Applying for the Punjab PCS 2026 is a straightforward online process. Candidates should familiarize themselves with the guidelines and then proceed to fill out the application form available at the official website: www.ppsc.gov.in.
Step-by-Step Guide to Application:
- Access the Online Application: Navigate to the PPSC's official website and locate the PSCSCCE-2020 Online Application Form link.
- Application Fee: The fee structure varies by category:
- SC & BC of Punjab: ₹750 (₹500 application charges + ₹250 examination fee)
- Ex-Servicemen of Punjab: ₹500 (Examination Fee)
- All Other Categories: ₹1500 (₹500 application charges + ₹1000 examination fee)
- Physically Handicapped of Punjab: ₹500 (₹500 application charges )
- Payment Method: The application fee must be paid via a challan at any branch of the State Bank of India.
- Submit the Application: After filling in the details, verify all information before submitting the application. Once submitted, no changes or edits can be made.
- Print Challan: Take a printout of the system-generated fee payment challan.
Nationality Criteria for Punjab PCS 2026:
Eligible candidates include:
- Citizens of India
- Citizens of Nepal or Bhutan
- Tibetan refugees who settled in India before January 1, 1962
- People of Indian origin who have migrated from specified countries intending to permanently settle in India.
Note: The dates for the application process are yet to be announced. Stay tuned to the official website for the latest updates.
PUNJAB PCS Selection Process 2026
The selection process for candidates involves three key stages:
Stage 1: Preliminary Exams – The first stage of the PSC exam in Punjab comprises two papers: General Studies and an Aptitude Test. Successful candidates proceed to the next stage, the main exam.
Stage 2: Mains Exam – The second phase involves seven papers in the PSC exam. Candidates are evaluated based on the cutoff marks set by the board. The top performers move forward to the interview stage.
Stage 3: Interview – Those who clear the preceding stages qualify for interviews conducted by the board, carrying a weightage of 200 marks. Selection is based on merit. Candidates who pass the interview undergo several months of training before commencing full-term employment.
PUNJAB PCS Exam Pattern 2026
The PUNJAB PCS follows a two-tier examination process. As per the exam pattern, candidates must pass the Prelims and Mains exams for the ultimate selection. Those who clear the Preliminary exam proceed to the Mains exam. Upon qualifying the Mains, candidates undergo an interview and, if selected, proceed to training.
PUNJAB PCS Preliminary Exam Pattern 2026
The PUNJAB PCS Preliminary Exam serves as a screening stage for candidates aspiring to qualify for the Mains. It comprises two objective-type papers, each focusing on different subject areas. Both papers are crucial for candidates to advance to the next stage of the selection process. Notably, there's no negative marking for incorrect answers in the Prelims, and the exam is bilingual, catering to both English and Punjabi (Gurumukhi script) speakers. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Preliminary Examination Scheme:
|
Paper |
Subject |
Number of Questions |
Marks per Question |
Total Marks |
|
Paper-I |
General Studies |
100 |
2 |
200 |
|
Paper-II |
Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) |
80 |
2.5 |
200 |
Note: The duration for each paper is two hours, with an additional 40 minutes provided for candidates with disabilities.
PUNJAB PCS Mains Exam Pattern 2026
Following the Preliminary stage, successful candidates proceed to the Mains Exam, which is significantly more comprehensive. The Mains consists of written papers covering a broad range of subjects, from language proficiency to specific areas like History, Geography, Economy, and more. The Mains Exam not only tests candidates’ knowledge but also their ability to articulate and present information effectively. An interview also forms a part of this stage, assessing candidates' overall suitability for civil service.
Main Examination Scheme:
|
Paper |
Subject |
Maximum Marks |
|
Paper 1 |
Punjabi (Compulsory, 10+2 Standard) |
100 |
|
Paper 2 |
English (Compulsory, 10+2 Standard) |
100 |
|
Paper 3 |
Essay |
150 |
|
Paper 4 |
General Studies Paper-I (History, Geography, Society) |
250 |
|
Paper 5 |
General Studies Paper-II (Indian Constitution & Polity, Governance, International Relations) |
250 |
|
Paper 6 |
General Studies Paper-III (Economy, Statistics, Security issues) |
250 |
|
Paper 7 |
General Studies Paper-IV (Science & Technology, Environment, Problem Solving, Decision Making) |
250 |
|
Interview |
- |
150 |
Note: The total marks for the Mains Examination sum up to 1500.
Detailed Insights into PUNJAB PCS Mains Exam Pattern 2026
The PUNJAB PCS Mains Exam, a critical phase of the selection process, comprises seven descriptive papers, each spanning three hours. Visually impaired candidates are granted an additional 60 minutes per paper. Candidates have the flexibility to attempt these papers, excluding language papers, in either Punjabi or English. For those opting for Punjabi, technical terms may be explained in English within brackets.
Key aspects of the Mains Exam include:
- Medium and Nature of Papers: All papers are descriptive. Non-language papers are set in English but can be attempted in Punjabi, with question papers printed accordingly.
- Marking and Minimum Qualification Criteria: To qualify for the interview, candidates must achieve 45% aggregate in all papers (40% for SC/ST candidates), with at least 25% in each paper. The Commission reserves the right to modify these percentages under certain circumstances.
- Interview Eligibility: Only those who perform well in the Mains and meet eligibility criteria are invited for the interview.
- Ranking and Merit: Final merit is based on aggregate marks in the Mains and interview. In case of tie, higher marks in the written Mains, particularly in General Studies papers, or older age determine higher ranking.
This comprehensive pattern ensures a thorough evaluation of candidates' abilities, preparing them for the diverse and challenging roles in Punjab civil services.
For more details on syllabi and updates, visit the official PUNJAB PCS website.
PUNJAB PCS Admit Card 2026
The PUNJAB PCS 2026 will soon be released it PUNJAB PCS Admit Card. Candidates can anticipate its availability shortly after the examination take place. To download the PUNJAB PCS Admit Card 2026 once it is released, visit the official website and follow the instructions. Stay updated on the latest announcements and ensure you get all important information regarding the PUNJAB PCS Admit Card by regularly checking the official website.
PUNJAB PCS Answer Key 2026
The PUNJAB PCS Answer Key 2026 will be released for the candidates on online mode. The answer key will be available in PDF format and it comprises correct answers for each question asked in the exam. The authorities will release the final answer key for the exam after the objections are made for the answers marked wrong. Candidates have to use the answer key to calculate the marks secured in the PUNJAB PCS 2026.
PUNJAB PCS Syllabus 2026
The PUNJAB PCS Syllabus 2026 is divided into Prelims and Mains, aligning with the exam’s selection process. The initial phase, PUNJAB PCS Prelims, serves as a qualifying round. Only successful candidates from the PUNJAB PCS PCS Preliminary exam proceed to the Mains. Subsequently, candidates who clear the Mains appear for the interview.
The components of the Punjab PCS syllabus have:
- PUNJAB PCS Preliminary Examination (Click here to Check the Syllabus)
- PUNJAB PCS Mains Examination (Click here to check the syllabus)
- PUNJAB PCS Interview
The PUNJAB PCS Prelims syllabus includes General Studies and General Aptitude papers. Conversely, the PUNJAB PCS Mains syllabus covers an extensive range of subjects, necessitating a comprehensive grasp of each listed subject for candidates.
PUNJAB PCS Cut Off 2026
The commission releases the PUNJAB PCS cutoff, result, and candidates who score equal to or above the cutoff marks are considered to have passed. Typically, those with the highest scores proceed to the interview stage. Hence, students should aim for the highest possible marks. However, simply passing the exam doesn’t ensure eligibility for the subsequent round. Candidates must achieve the minimum cutoff marks to progress to the next stage.
PUNJAB PCS Result 2026
The upcoming PUNJAB PCS Notitifaction will announce the Preliminary and Main Results on their official website. The commission will display candidates’ scores along with the passing criteria across various categories. Once released, candidates can view their PUNJAB PCS results on the official website at Punjab PCS.gov.in.
PUNJAB PCS Salary 2026
Candidates who pass the PSC exams typically earn an average income of Rs. 4.5 LPA. They also receive various privileges and additional benefits while on the job. These include:
- Housing rent allowance,
- Dearness allowance,
- Medical bonus benefits,
- Overtime allowance
- Pension benefits
O2 IAS Academy Batch for Punjab PCS
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Batch Link –
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Other Related Links of PUNJAB PCS Exam 2026 |
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PUNJAB PCS Notification |
PUNJAB PCS Salary |
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PUNJAB PCS Result |
PUNJAB PCS Syllabus |
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PUNJAB PCS Answer Key |
PUNJAB PCS Eligibility Criteria |
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PUNJAB PCS Admit Card |
PUNJAB PCS Apply Online |
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PUNJAB PCS Vacancy |
PUNJAB PCS Selection Process |
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PUNJAB PCS Cut Off |
PUNJAB PCS Previous Year Question Paper
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