HPAS Notification 2026 : Exam Date, Eligibility, Age Limit, Vacancy, Salary, Syllabus & Apply Online
HPAS Notification 2026 Out: Exam Date, Eligibility, Age Limit, Vacancy, Salary, Syllabus & Apply Online
The Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) has released the HPAS Notification 2026 for the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service Combined Competitive Examination 2026. The recruitment is being conducted for various Group-A and Group-B posts in the Himachal Pradesh Government.
According to Advertisement No. 59/8-2026 dated 25 August 2026, the online application process has started on 25 August 2026 and eligible candidates can submit their applications up to 22 September 2026, 11:59 PM IST.
This article covers the important details of the HPAS Notification 2026, including vacancies, posts, pay scales, important dates, eligibility, age limit, application details, syllabus, preparation and the online application process.
Aspirants can also check our detailed HPAS Syllabus 2026 and use our HPAS Previous Year Question Papers for preparation.
For the latest recruitment instructions and official updates, candidates should refer to the official Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) website.
HPAS Notification 2026: Table of Contents
HPAS Notification 2026: Important Dates
The HPAS 2026 application process has been opened by the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission through its online recruitment portal. Candidates should complete the application within the prescribed timeline because the application link will be disabled after the last date.
| Event | Date / Details |
|---|---|
| HPAS 2026 Notification Date | 25 August 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | 25 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 22 September 2026 |
| Last Time to Apply | 11:59 PM IST |
| HPAS 2026 Examination Date | Not mentioned in this advertisement |
Important Note
The HPPSC advertisement states that the Online Recruitment Application (ORA) link will remain available on the Commission's website up to 22 September 2026 till 11:59 PM IST. After this deadline, the application link will be disabled.
The examination date is not provided in Advertisement No. 59/8-2026. Candidates should check the official HPPSC website for subsequent examination-related updates.
HPAS 2026 Vacancy: Post-Wise & Category-Wise Details
The HPAS Notification 2026 invites Online Recruitment Applications for recruitment to various posts through the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service Combined Competitive Examination 2026.
The advertisement includes posts from five different departments of the Himachal Pradesh Government. The vacancies include H.P. Administrative Service, Block Development Officer, District Treasury Officer, District Controller and Tehsildar.
| Department | Post | Group | Pay Level | Total Posts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Department of Personnel, H.P. | H.P. Administrative Service | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-18 ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 |
04 |
| Department of Rural Development, H.P. | Block Development Officer | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-17 ₹53,600 – ₹1,70,100 |
10 |
| Department of Finance (Treasuries, Accounts & Lotteries), H.P. |
District Treasury Officer | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-16 ₹48,700 – ₹1,54,300 |
01 |
| Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, H.P. | District Controller | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-16 ₹48,700 – ₹1,54,300 |
01 |
| Department of Revenue, H.P. | Tehsildar | Group-B (Gazetted) | Level-13 ₹46,000 – ₹1,46,500 |
06 |
Total HPAS 2026 Vacancies
The five posts advertised in the notification account for a total of 22 vacancies.
HPAS 2026 Category-Wise Vacancy
The notification also provides the category-wise distribution of vacancies for each advertised post. The category details mentioned by HPPSC are given below.
| Post | Total | Category-Wise Vacancy |
|---|---|---|
| H.P. Administrative Service | 04 | UR – 01 ST of HP – 01 UR Hearing Impaired of H.P. (Backlog) – 01 SC of Ex-Servicemen of H.P. (Backlog) – 01 |
| Block Development Officer | 10 | UR – 05 UR Ex-Servicemen of H.P. – 01 ST of HP – 01 OBC of HP – 02 EWS of HP – 01 |
| District Treasury Officer | 01 | EWS of HP – 01 |
| District Controller | 01 | UR Visual Impaired of H.P. – 01 |
| Tehsildar | 06 | UR – 03 SC of HP – 01 ST of HP – 02 |
HPAS 2026 Salary & Pay Scale
The HPAS 2026 notification specifies the Pay Level and Pay Matrix range for each advertised post. The highest pay level among the advertised posts is Level-18 for the H.P. Administrative Service.
| Post | Group | Pay Level | Pay Scale |
|---|---|---|---|
| H.P. Administrative Service | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-18 | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 |
| Block Development Officer | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-17 | ₹53,600 – ₹1,70,100 |
| District Treasury Officer | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-16 | ₹48,700 – ₹1,54,300 |
| District Controller | Group-A (Gazetted) | Level-16 | ₹48,700 – ₹1,54,300 |
| Tehsildar | Group-B (Gazetted) | Level-13 | ₹46,000 – ₹1,46,500 |
The pay levels and pay ranges above are specified directly against the respective posts in the HPAS 2026 recruitment advertisement.
HPAS 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the HPAS 2026 Combined Competitive Examination must fulfil the eligibility requirements prescribed by the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC). The eligibility criteria primarily cover educational qualification, nationality and other conditions specified in the recruitment advertisement.
Educational Qualification
The candidate must possess a Bachelor's Degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised University.
Candidates who have completed their graduation and possess the required qualification can apply for the HPAS 2026 examination, subject to fulfilling all other conditions prescribed by HPPSC.
Eligibility for Candidates Awaiting Results
Candidates who have appeared in their qualifying degree examination but are awaiting their results may also be eligible to apply, subject to the conditions prescribed by the Commission.
Candidates appearing in their final qualifying examination must ensure that they obtain the required qualification within the prescribed period and produce the necessary proof of passing the examination when required by HPPSC.
Nationality
The candidate must satisfy the nationality requirements prescribed by HPPSC for recruitment to the posts advertised through the HPAS 2026 Combined Competitive Examination.
Important Eligibility Instructions
Candidates should carefully check the official HPAS 2026 recruitment advertisement before submitting their application. Applicants must ensure that they fulfil the prescribed educational qualification and other eligibility conditions applicable to their candidature.
HPPSC may verify the candidate's eligibility and supporting documents at the relevant stage of the recruitment process. Candidates should therefore provide accurate information and keep the required educational and other certificates ready for verification.
HPAS 2026 Application Fee
Applicants are required to pay an application fee of ₹600 for the HPAS 2026 recruitment. The same fee is applicable to candidates across all categories.
The payment has to be completed online using one of the payment options permitted by HPPSC. The fee is non-refundable, and an application may not be considered if the required payment is not completed through an approved payment method.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Fee Payable | ₹600 |
| Payment Mode | Online |
| Available Payment Options | Debit Card, Credit Card, UPI and other permitted digital payment methods |
HPAS 2026 Age Limit
For the HPAS 2026 Combined Competitive Examination, candidates must have attained the age of 21 years and must not have crossed 35 years as on 01 January 2026.
HPPSC has also provided age relaxation for eligible candidates belonging to specified categories and for certain government employees and Ex-Servicemen of Himachal Pradesh, subject to the conditions mentioned in the recruitment advertisement.
| Particulars | Age Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 21 years |
| Maximum Age | 35 years |
| Age Cut-off Date | 01 January 2026 |
| Age Relaxation | Applicable as per HP Government rules and HPPSC conditions |
HPAS 2026 Age Relaxation
The upper age limit is relaxable by 5 years for eligible candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Persons with Disabilities (PwD), and Children/Grandchildren of Freedom Fighters of Himachal Pradesh, provided the relevant post is reserved for the concerned category.
Age relaxation is also available to eligible Ex-Servicemen of Himachal Pradesh and certain Himachal Pradesh Government employees as per the applicable government rules and conditions specified in the HPAS 2026 advertisement.
For Himachal Pradesh Government employees holding substantive, officiating or contractual appointments, as well as eligible employees of certain government-controlled organisations, the maximum age limit for HPAS and other posts such as Tehsildar, Block Development Officer and Treasury Officer is 45 years, subject to the conditions prescribed by HPPSC.
Candidates should use the date of birth recorded in their Matriculation/Secondary Examination Certificate or equivalent certificate while completing the application form.
HPAS 2026 Syllabus
The HPAS 2026 syllabus covers the Preliminary Examination and Main Written Examination conducted for the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service Combined Competitive Examination.
The latest official HPPSC syllabus framework includes General Studies and Aptitude Test papers for the Preliminary Examination, followed by compulsory and optional papers in the Main Examination. Candidates should use the syllabus as the primary roadmap for their preparation.
For a dedicated subject-wise preparation resource, candidates can also refer to our detailed HPAS Syllabus 2026 page.
Official Syllabus Reference
The HPAS 2026 recruitment notification states that the scheme of examination and other detailed instructions are provided in the detailed advertisement and instructions issued by HPPSC. The syllabus below follows the official HPPSC syllabus framework currently available for the HPAS Combined Competitive Examination.
For the latest changes, candidates should always verify the official HPPSC website .
HPAS 2026 Preliminary Examination Syllabus
Paper-I: General Studies
Code No. 01 — The paper carries 200 marks and consists of 100 objective-type multiple-choice questions.
- History, Geography, Political, Art & Culture and Socio-Economic Development of Himachal Pradesh.
- Current events of National and International importance.
- History of India and Indian National Movement.
- Indian and World Geography – Physical, Social and Economic Geography of India and the World.
- Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights issues, etc.
- Economic and Social Development – Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector initiatives, etc.
- General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity and Climate Change that do not require subject specialization.
- General Science.
Paper-II: Aptitude Test
Code No. 02 — The paper carries 200 marks and consists of 100 objective-type multiple-choice questions.
- Comprehension.
- Interpersonal skills including communication skills.
- Logical reasoning and analytical ability.
- Decision making and problem solving.
- General mental ability.
- Basic numeracy — numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc. (Class X level).
- Data interpretation — charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, etc. (Class X level).
- English Language comprehension skills (Class X level).
HPAS 2026 Main Examination Scheme & Syllabus
The HPAS Main Examination includes compulsory subjects and one optional subject. The Preliminary Examination is conducted before the Main Examination as an objective-type examination based on multiple-choice questions.
Compulsory Papers
| Paper | Subject | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | English | 100 |
| Paper-II | Hindi | 100 |
| Paper-III | Essay | 100 |
| Paper-IV | General Studies-I | 200 |
| Paper-V | General Studies-II | 200 |
| Paper-VI | General Studies-III | 200 |
Optional Subject
| Paper | Subject | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper-VII | Paper-I of the Optional Subject | 100 |
| Paper-VIII | Paper-II of the Optional Subject | 100 |
Important Main Examination Conditions
- The candidate has to specify the optional subject in the application form.
- The candidate may intimate a change in the optional subject to the Secretary of the Commission within the prescribed period.
- The optional paper may be answered in English or Hindi as per the candidate's option.
- A candidate must obtain at least 40% marks in each of the compulsory Hindi and English papers.
- A candidate must obtain at least 45% marks in aggregate, excluding the compulsory Hindi and English papers, to qualify the written examination.
- Candidates called for the Interview / Personality Test on the basis of the written examination will ordinarily not exceed three times the number of vacancies.
- In case of a tie among candidates obtaining the equal minimum qualifying marks, all such candidates will be called for the Interview / Personality Test.
- The marks obtained in the Main Examination, including the written examination and Interview / Personality Test, determine the final ranking.
- Services/posts are allotted according to the candidate's rank and the preferences expressed for the various services and posts.
HPAS Main: General Studies-I
Unit-I
Sub Unit-1
- Historical perspective of Indian Cultural heritage.
- Literature and Art forms from ancient times to 1947, including major structural and rock-cut temple architecture, sculptural art and major schools of paintings.
- Modern Indian history from mid-18th century to 1980.
- Freedom Struggle: its various stages and the role of eminent personalities from different parts of India.
Sub Unit-2
- Industrial Revolution and the emergence of Capitalism.
- Fascist Ideology and its global implications.
- World Wars and boundary settlements after the First and Second World Wars.
- Concept of Decolonization, Nationalism and Socialism, Globalization and concept of Modernity.
Sub Unit-3 — Himachal Pradesh
- Emergence and growth of early medieval states: Kangra, Kullu and Chamba.
- Hill States and their relations with the Mughals and the Sikhs.
- Gorkha invasion – its nature and consequences, Treaty of Segauli.
- Hill States under the Colonial power: Political and Administrative History.
- Grants, Sanads and territorial aggression.
- Social and Economic conditions under colonial period with special reference to social practices of Beth, Begar and Reet.
- Establishment of British Cantonments.
- National Movement with special reference to Praja Mandal movements in Himachal Pradesh, 1848–1948.
- Five Year Plans and vision for the developed Hill State.
- Survey of artistic and cultural heritage including temples, Buddhist monasteries and paintings.
Note: The topics and subjects covered under Sub Unit-3 are relevant to the State of Himachal Pradesh.
Unit-II
Sub Unit-1
- Introduction to disasters: concepts, definitions and disaster classifications including natural and man-made disasters.
- Social and environmental impacts of disasters.
- Disaster profile of the country.
- Approaches to Disaster Risk Reduction.
How to Use the HPAS Syllabus for Preparation
Do not prepare for HPAS by studying subjects randomly. First divide the syllabus into individual topics, complete the static portions and then connect them with current affairs and Himachal Pradesh-specific issues.
After completing each topic, analyse previous questions to understand how HPPSC has tested the subject. You can practise using our HPAS Previous Year Question Papers resource.
For the complete dedicated syllabus resource, visit HPAS Syllabus 2026 .
How to Prepare for HPAS 2026?
The HPAS 2026 preparation should be planned around the official syllabus, previous year questions, Himachal Pradesh-specific topics, current affairs and regular revision. Since the examination consists of Preliminary and Main stages, candidates should prepare with both stages in mind from the beginning.
Start With the Syllabus
Before starting detailed preparation, go through the complete HPAS 2026 syllabus and divide it into individual subjects and topics. This will help you identify the areas that require more time and ensure that important topics are not missed.
You can use our detailed HPAS Syllabus 2026 page as a preparation reference.
1. Build a Strong Foundation in General Studies
Begin with the core General Studies subjects and focus on developing conceptual clarity. Instead of studying isolated facts, try to understand the connection between different subjects and current developments.
2. Give Special Attention to Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh-specific preparation should be an important part of your HPAS strategy. Focus on the state's history, geography, polity, economy, culture, art, environment and socio-economic development.
Keep separate short notes for important Himachal Pradesh facts, government initiatives, current developments and issues relevant to the state.
3. Analyse HPAS Previous Year Questions
Previous year questions can help you understand how HPPSC frames questions, which topics are repeatedly tested and the level of preparation required. Do not use PYQs only for last-minute practice; analyse them while studying each subject.
Candidates can practise and analyse HPAS Previous Year Question Papers to understand previous examination trends and improve their preparation.
4. Follow Current Affairs Regularly
Current affairs should be prepared throughout the year rather than left until the final weeks. Give particular attention to developments related to Himachal Pradesh, India, governance, economy, environment, science and technology and important national and international events.
5. Prepare for Prelims and Mains Together
Candidates should not completely separate Preliminary and Main preparation. While preparing factual and conceptual topics for Prelims, also develop the analytical understanding required for the Main Examination.
For Mains preparation, gradually develop the habit of writing structured answers, using relevant examples and connecting static subjects with current affairs.
6. Revise Regularly
Regular revision is essential because the HPAS syllabus covers a wide range of subjects. Divide your preparation into manageable targets and keep dedicated revision time in your weekly schedule.
7. Practise Mock Tests and Answer Writing
Once the basic syllabus has been covered, candidates should regularly attempt objective questions and mock tests for Preliminary preparation. For Mains, practise answer writing within the prescribed time so that speed, structure and content can improve together.
HPAS 2026 Preparation Strategy at a Glance
- Step 1: Understand the complete HPAS syllabus.
- Step 2: Divide the syllabus into subject-wise targets.
- Step 3: Build strong General Studies fundamentals.
- Step 4: Give dedicated attention to Himachal Pradesh-specific topics.
- Step 5: Follow current affairs consistently.
- Step 6: Analyse HPAS previous year questions.
- Step 7: Practise Prelims MCQs and Mains answer writing.
- Step 8: Revise regularly and track your progress.
Preparing for HPAS 2026?
Not sure how to start your HPAS 2026 preparation, how to cover the syllabus or how to plan your Prelims and Mains preparation?
Get access to HPAS Previous Year Question Papers for practice and speak with an O2 IAS Academy teacher for guidance on your HPAS 2026 preparation strategy.
How to Apply Online for HPAS 2026?
Candidates interested in the HPAS Combined Competitive Examination 2026 have to submit their Online Recruitment Application (ORA) through the official website of the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC).
The online application link is available from 25 August 2026 and will remain available up to 22 September 2026 till 11:59 PM IST. After the prescribed deadline, the application link will be disabled.
Steps to Apply for HPAS 2026
- Visit the official HPPSC website .
- Open the relevant online recruitment/application section for the HPAS Combined Competitive Examination 2026.
- Read the detailed advertisement and instructions for filling the Online Recruitment Application carefully.
- Check the applicable eligibility conditions, essential qualification, examination fee and other requirements before submitting the application.
- Complete the Online Recruitment Application with the required details and documents as instructed by HPPSC.
- Submit the application through the prescribed online process before 22 September 2026, 11:59 PM IST.
Important Instructions for HPAS 2026 Applicants
- The application must be submitted online through the official HPPSC website.
- Applications received through any other mode will not be accepted.
- Applications received through any other mode will be rejected straightaway.
- The Online Recruitment Application link will be disabled after 22 September 2026, 11:59 PM IST.
- Candidates should carefully read the detailed advertisement and online application instructions before submitting the application.
- The detailed advertisement contains information regarding essential qualifications, eligibility conditions, examination fees and scheme of examination.
Apply for HPAS 2026
Visit the official HPPSC website for the latest application link and detailed recruitment instructions.
Visit Official HPPSC WebsiteHPAS 2026 Important Links
Candidates preparing for the HPAS 2026 Examination can use the following important resources and official links for notification, syllabus, previous year papers and application-related information.
HPAS Syllabus 2026
Check the detailed HPAS syllabus and examination preparation requirements.
HPAS Previous Year Question Papers
Practise previous year HPAS papers and understand the question pattern.
Official HPPSC Website
Check the latest notification, detailed advertisement and official recruitment instructions.
HPAS 2026 Selection Process
The recruitment for the posts advertised under HPAS Notification 2026 will be carried out on the basis of the Himachal Pradesh Administrative Service Combined Competitive Examination.
The detailed scheme of examination is provided by HPPSC through its detailed advertisement and examination instructions. Candidates should refer to the latest official instructions for the applicable examination scheme.
HPAS Examination Stages
The HPAS Combined Competitive Examination is conducted through the following broad stages:
- Preliminary Examination
- Main Written Examination
- Interview / Personality Test
1. HPAS Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is the screening stage of the HPAS Combined Competitive Examination. The official HPAS syllabus framework includes General Studies and an Aptitude Test.
The Preliminary syllabus includes areas such as Himachal Pradesh history, geography, political and cultural aspects, socio-economic development, current affairs, Indian history, geography, polity and governance, economic and social development, environment, biodiversity, climate change and general science.
The Aptitude component includes comprehension, communication skills, logical reasoning, analytical ability, decision making, problem solving, general mental ability, basic numeracy and data interpretation.
2. HPAS Main Written Examination
Candidates qualifying the Preliminary Examination proceed to the Main Written Examination as per the applicable HPPSC rules and examination instructions.
The official HPAS examination framework includes compulsory papers covering English, Hindi, Essay and General Studies, along with papers relating to the candidate's selected optional subject.
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | English | 100 |
| Paper-II | Hindi | 100 |
| Paper-III | Essay | 100 |
| Paper-IV | General Studies-I | 200 |
| Paper-V | General Studies-II | 200 |
| Paper-VI | General Studies-III | 200 |
| Paper-VII | Optional Subject – Paper-I | 100 |
| Paper-VIII | Optional Subject – Paper-II | 100 |
3. Interview / Personality Test
Candidates qualifying the written examination are considered for the Interview / Personality Test in accordance with the applicable HPPSC rules and examination instructions.
The final selection and service allocation are made according to the applicable rules, the candidate's performance and the preferences and other conditions prescribed by the Commission.
Important Note
The HPAS 2026 notification dated 25 August 2026 does not provide separate examination dates or reproduce the complete examination scheme. It specifically directs candidates to the detailed advertisement and instructions available on the official HPPSC website.
Candidates should therefore check the latest official HPPSC website before relying on any examination schedule or detailed recruitment condition.
Your HPAS Preparation Starts With the Right Strategy
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Talk to our team and get guidance on your HPAS preparation strategy, resources and study approach.
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Get guidance for your HPAS 2026 preparation.
HPAS 2026 FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about the HPAS 2026 recruitment, including eligibility, vacancies, application dates, fee, examination pattern and selection process.
When was the HPAS Notification 2026 released?
The HPAS Notification 2026 was released by the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission on 25 August 2026 under Advertisement No. 59/8-2026.
How many vacancies are available under HPAS 2026?
HPPSC has announced a total of 22 vacancies through the HPAS 2026 Combined Competitive Examination across the advertised posts.
What is the last date to apply for HPAS 2026?
The last date to submit the HPAS 2026 online application is 22 September 2026. The application window will remain open until 11:59 PM IST on the closing date.
What is the age limit for HPAS 2026?
Candidates must be between 21 and 35 years of age as on 01 January 2026. Age relaxation is available to eligible candidates as per the applicable Himachal Pradesh Government rules and HPPSC conditions.
What is the educational qualification for HPAS 2026?
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised University. Candidates awaiting their qualifying examination results may apply subject to the conditions prescribed by HPPSC.
What is the HPAS 2026 application fee?
The application fee for HPAS 2026 is ₹600 for candidates across all categories. The fee is non-refundable and has to be paid through the prescribed online payment method.
Has the HPAS 2026 examination date been announced?
No. The HPAS 2026 examination date has not been mentioned in Advertisement No. 59/8-2026. Candidates should check HPPSC's official website for further updates regarding the examination schedule.
What is the selection process for HPAS 2026?
The HPAS Combined Competitive Examination is conducted in three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Written Examination and Interview/Personality Test.
How can I apply for HPAS 2026?
Candidates have to submit their applications online through the HPPSC recruitment portal within the prescribed application period.
What papers are included in the HPAS Main Examination?
The Main Examination includes compulsory papers in English, Hindi, Essay and General Studies, along with two papers based on the candidate's selected optional subject.
Where can I check the HPAS 2026 syllabus?
The HPAS 2026 syllabus covers both the Preliminary and Main Examination stages. Candidates can refer to the detailed HPAS Syllabus 2026 for subject-wise topics and preparation guidance.
