JKPSC KAS Exam Structure : A Comprehensive Guide
The Jammu & Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) conducts the Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS) exam, a prestigious three-stage process designed to select the region's top administrative talent. Below is a detailed breakdown of the 2024 exam structure.
Stage 1: Prelims Exam (Screening Test)
The Preliminary stage serves as a gatekeeper. While mandatory, the marks obtained here are not counted toward the final merit list. It consists of two objective-type papers:
-
Paper A: General Studies (GS)
- Format: 100 Questions | 200 Marks.
- Subjects: History (India & J&K), Polity, Geography, Economy, Environment, Science & Tech, and Current Affairs.
- Note: J&K General Knowledge is highlighted as a critical subject area.
- Negative Marking: Applicable.
-
Paper B: CSAT (Qualifying)
- Format: ~80 Questions | 200 Marks.
- Subjects: Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and Comprehension.
- Passing Criteria: This is a qualifying paper; candidates must score at least 33% (66/200 marks) to proceed.
Stage 2: Mains Exam (Merit Making Stage)
The Mains exam is the most rigorous phase, consisting of descriptive papers totaling 1750 marks. Your performance here determines your eligibility for the interview.
|
Paper |
Subject |
Marks |
|---|---|---|
|
Paper 1 |
Essay |
250 |
|
Paper 2 |
General Studies I (History, Geography, Society) |
250 |
|
Paper 3 |
General Studies II (Polity, Governance, International Relations) |
250 |
|
Paper 4 |
General Studies III (Economy, Environment, Science & Tech, Security) |
250 |
|
Paper 5 |
General Studies IV (Ethics, Integrity, Aptitude) |
250 |
|
Optional |
Paper I & Paper II (Candidate's Choice) |
500 (250 each) |
|
Language |
English & Any Indian Language |
Qualifying Only |
Stage 3: Interview / Personality Test
Candidates who clear the Mains are invited for a one-on-one interaction worth 250 marks.
- Focus: This stage assesses your personality, decision-making abilities, administrative thinking, and general awareness. It is not just a test of knowledge, but of character and suitability for public service.
Final Selection
The final merit list is calculated based on a grand total of 2000 marks.
Mains Marks 1750+ Interview Marks 250= Final Total 2000