Pune: MPSC Overhauls Objective Exam System with New Answer Sheets and Stricter Evaluation Rules

Pune, 25th December 2025: In a move aimed at tightening examination discipline and improving transparency, the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has announced sweeping changes to the format of answer sheets and the evaluation process for objective-type multiple-choice examinations.

The commission has issued a detailed circular outlining the revised procedures, marking a significant shift in how objective exams will be conducted, assessed and scrutinised. The changes form part of MPSC’s broader push to modernise recruitment processes and minimise errors during evaluation.

Under the new system, objective answer sheets will remain carbonless and issued in two copies, as per the existing practice. Candidates will be required to submit the original copy after the examination, while the duplicate copy can be retained for personal reference. However, the layout and usage of the answer sheets have been substantially modified.

The original answer sheet will now be divided into two distinct parts. Part 1 will be used strictly for marking answers, while Part 2 will carry key examination details, including the name of the examination, seat number, subject code, question paper number, and the signatures of both the candidate and the examination supervisor.

One notable change is the revision of the seat number format. The earlier eight-character alphanumeric code has been replaced with a seven-digit numeric seat number, which will remain consistent throughout the entire recruitment process related to a particular advertisement.

The commission has also introduced a fifth response option on the answer sheet, in addition to the existing four choices. Candidates who do not wish to attempt a question must now compulsorily select this fifth option. MPSC has made it mandatory to mark one of the five options for every question, failing which a penalty of 25 per cent (one-fourth) mark will be imposed for that question.

As per the updated evaluation rules, negative marking of 25 per cent will apply not only for incorrect answers but also in cases where no option is shaded, multiple options are marked, overwriting or corrections are attempted, or responses are marked improperly. The commission has further clarified that fractional marks obtained after evaluation will not be rounded off and will remain unchanged.

The circular also specifies conditions under which an answer sheet will be declared invalid. These include failure to sign the answer sheet in the designated area, use of any pen other than a black ink ballpoint pen, making unauthorised marks or symbols, omission of the question booklet number, writing any information other than answers in Part 1, or use of coded signs or symbols.

MPSC officials said the revised system is designed to ensure uniform evaluation, reduce ambiguity, and strengthen the integrity and credibility of the examination process across all objective-type competitive exams conducted by the commission.