BPSC Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) Guide 2026
Overview
The BPSC Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) is one of the most prestigious exams in Bihar, conducted by the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC). It is the gateway to various administrative, police, and other state-level civil services in Bihar.
Exam Pattern
The BPSC CCE consists of three sequential stages:
1. Preliminary Examination (Objective)
- Format: Single paper of General Studies.
- Questions: 150 MCQs.
- Marks: 150.
- Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes).
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd (0.33) of the marks assigned to each question.
2. Main Examination (Descriptive)
Consists of:
- General Hindi: Qualifying (30% marks required).
- General Studies Paper I: 300 marks.
- General Studies Paper II: 300 marks.
- Essay: 300 marks.
- Optional Subject: Qualifying (MCQ based).
3. Interview (Personality Test)
Consists of 120 marks. Final merit is based on Mains + Interview marks.
Detailed Syllabus (Prelims)
- General Science: General understanding of science, including everyday observation.
- Current Affairs: National and International events of importance.
- History of India: Focus on ancient, medieval, and modern history, with special reference to Bihar.
- Geography: General geography and geographical division of Bihar and its major river systems.
- Indian Polity: Indian Constitution, Political system, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc.
- Indian Economy: Major changes in the economy of Bihar in the post-independence period.
- Indian National Movement: Nature and character of the 19th-century resurgence, growth of nationalism, and attainment of Independence, with special reference to Bihar.
- General Mental Ability: Basic numeracy and logical reasoning.
Marking Scheme
- Correct Answer: +1 Mark
- Negative Marking: -0.33 Marks for each wrong answer.
- Unanswered: 0 Marks.
Preparation Strategy
- Bihar Special: Dedicate significant time to Bihar-specific History, Geography, Economy, and Current Affairs.
- NCERTs: Build a strong foundation using NCERT books (Class 6-12).
- Current Affairs: Follow Bihar-specific news along with national news (The Hindu/Indian Express).
- Previous Year Papers: Solve BPSC PYQs to understand the evolving trend and focus areas.
- Answer Writing: Start practicing descriptive answer writing for Mains early on.
Serve the people of Bihar. Prepare with YourMockTest!