The Karnataka Administrative Service Examination (KAS) is a state-level civil service exam conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) to recruit officers for administrative positions in the Government of Karnataka.
It is considered one of the most prestigious state government exams in Karnataka, similar to UPSC Civil Services Examination but limited to state administration.
What KAS Officers Do
After clearing the exam, candidates become administrative officers responsible for implementing government policies and managing district-level administration.
Some common posts include:
Tahsildar
Deputy Superintendent of Police
Assistant Commissioner
Commercial Tax Officer
Taluk Development Officer
They work in departments like revenue, police, rural development, taxation, and administration.
Stages of the KAS Exam
The exam has three main stages:
1. Preliminary Exam (Screening Test)
Objective type (MCQs)
2 papers
General Studies Paper-1
General Studies Paper-2
Used only to shortlist candidates for the mains.
2. Mains Exam
Descriptive (written answers)
9 papers including:
Essay
General Studies
Optional subject
Language papers (Kannada & English)
3. Interview (Personality Test)
Conducted by KPSC
Tests communication, personality, decision-making, and knowledge of Karnataka.
Basic Eligibility
To apply for KAS:
Education: Any Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
Age:
General: 21–35 years
OBC: up to 38 years
SC/ST: up to 40 years
