HPPSC HPAS Combined Competitive Exam 2026: Notification, Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Syllabus
Notification overview
The Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) has released the notification for the H.P. Administrative Service Combined Competitive Examination-2026 (Advt. No. 59/8-2026). The recruitment fills 22 posts across five departments of the Government of Himachal Pradesh. This guide covers vacancies, eligibility, selection process, exam pattern and preparation tips.
Please note: Always verify dates, fees and eligibility against the official notification. Official website: hppsc.hp.gov.in
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | HPPSC, Shimla |
| Exam | H.P. Administrative Service Combined Competitive Examination-2026 |
| Advertisement No. | 59/8-2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 22 |
| Application Mode | Online (ORA via OTR portal) |
| Application Window | 26 August 2026 to 22 September 2026 |
| Application Fee | Rs. 600 |
| Official Website | hppsc.hp.gov.in |
Post-wise vacancies
| Post | Department | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| H.P. Administrative Service | Personnel-IV | 4 |
| Block Development Officer | Rural Development | 10 |
| District Controller | Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs | 1 |
| District Treasury Officer | Treasuries, Accounts and Lotteries | 1 |
| Tehsildar | Revenue-A | 6 |
Candidates are allotted services or posts on the basis of final merit and their preferences.
Eligibility criteria
Educational qualification
- A Bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognised university.
Age limit (as on 1 January 2026)
- Minimum age: 21 years
- Maximum age: 35 years
- Relaxation is available for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates, ex-servicemen and eligible HP government servants as per the notification.
Nationality
- Candidates must be citizens of India.
Salary
| Post | Pay Level |
|---|---|
| H.P. Administrative Service | Level 18 (Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500) |
| Block Development Officer | Level 17 (Rs. 53,600 to Rs. 1,70,100) |
| District Controller | Level 16 (Rs. 48,700 to Rs. 1,54,300) |
| District Treasury Officer | Level 16 (Rs. 48,700 to Rs. 1,54,300) |
| Tehsildar | Level 13 (Rs. 46,000 to Rs. 1,46,500) |
Selection process
Selection is conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Examination: An objective-type screening test that decides who moves to the Main exam.
- Main Examination: A descriptive written examination covering General Studies and other papers.
- Personality Test (Interview): A final round to assess suitability for administrative service.
The final merit list is prepared as per the weightage given in the official notification.
Exam pattern
| Stage | Nature | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary | Objective (MCQ) | Screening |
| Main | Descriptive papers | Merit |
| Personality Test | Interview | Merit |
- The exact number of papers, marks, duration and negative marking are given in the official notification and scheme of the examination.
- Marks obtained in the Preliminary Examination are generally used only for shortlisting.
Important syllabus topics
- History: Ancient, medieval and modern Indian history, Himachal Pradesh history
- Geography: India and world geography, Himachal geography, rivers, climate and resources
- Polity and Governance: Indian Constitution, panchayati raj, administration, public policy
- Economy: Indian economy, planning, budget, Himachal economy
- Science and Technology: General science, environment, current developments
- Current Affairs: National, international and Himachal events
- Aptitude and Reasoning: Comprehension, logical reasoning, basic numeracy
- Essay and Language: Essay writing, Hindi and English
Preparation tips
- Start with the syllabus and previous years' HPPSC papers.
- Build strong basics in polity, history, geography and economy.
- Give special time to Himachal Pradesh GK, as it is a scoring area.
- Read a newspaper daily and make short current affairs notes.
- Practise answer writing early for the Main exam.
- Take regular mock tests for the Prelims and analyse your mistakes.
Prepare with free practice
Test your preparation with our free mock test: HPAS Free Mock Test
See the complete exam page here: HPPSC HPAS Exam Page
Frequently asked questions
How many vacancies are there in HPAS 2026? There are 22 vacancies across HPAS, BDO, District Controller, District Treasury Officer and Tehsildar.
What is the qualification for HPAS? A Bachelor's degree from a recognised university.
What is the age limit for HPAS 2026? 21 to 35 years as on 1 January 2026, with relaxation for eligible categories.
What are the stages of selection? Preliminary Examination, Main Examination and Personality Test.
Conclusion
HPAS is one of the most respected career paths in Himachal Pradesh. A clear strategy, strong basics, Himachal GK and regular practice can take you far. Bookmark this page for updates on the exam date and admit card.
Always confirm dates, vacancies and eligibility with the official notification of the recruiting body before applying.