The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has released the official answer key for the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) Preliminary Examination 2024. This is an essential step in the recruitment process, enabling candidates who appeared for the exam to assess their performance and gauge their chances of qualifying for the next stage of the selection process. The examination was conducted successfully on October 12, 2025, with a total of 200 vacancies targeted through this recruitment drive. Candidates are encouraged to carefully review the provisional answer key and submit any objections if they believe there are discrepancies. It is important to note that objections must be submitted within the stipulated timeframe; after the deadline, no further challenges will be entertained.
Overview of OPSC OCS Prelims 2024 Answer Key
The answer key provides correct responses to all questions asked in the examination, serving as a vital tool for candidates to assess their performance. Below is a detailed overview of the important dates, examination details, and the process to access and challenge the answer key.
Key Details at a Glance
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Odisha Civil Services (OCS) Preliminary Examination 2024 |
| Conducting Body | Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) |
| Exam Date | October 12, 2025 |
| Papers | General Studies Paper-I & Paper-II (CSAT) |
| Provisional Answer Key Release Date | October 16, 2025 |
| Objection Submission Deadline | October 22, 2025 |
| Official Website | opsc.gov.in |
How to Download the OPSC OCS Prelims 2024 Answer Key
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Navigate to the official OPSC website by clicking on this link: opsc.gov.in. This is the primary portal for all official notifications, answer keys, and updates related to the examination.
Step 2: Find the Relevant Notification
On the homepage, look for the notification titled “OPSC OCS Preliminary Examination 2024 – Answer Key.” It is typically highlighted or listed under recent announcements.
Step 3: Select Your Paper
Once you click on the notification, you will be directed to a page where you can choose your respective paper—either Paper I (General Studies) or Paper II (CSAT). Choose the appropriate link based on the paper you appeared for.
Step 4: Download the PDF
The answer key PDF will open in a new tab. Save this file to your device for further reference. You can also take a printout for easier comparison while reviewing your responses.
Step 5: Review Your Responses
Use the answer key to match your answers with the correct responses provided. Keep your admit card handy to cross-check your roll number and subject codes for accurate verification.
Challenging the Answer Key: Process and Guidelines
Understanding the Objection Procedure
If candidates identify discrepancies or believe certain answers in the provisional key are incorrect, they can submit objections to ensure accuracy. The process is designed to be transparent and systematic to uphold fairness in evaluation.
Steps to Submit Objections
- Visit the Official Objection Portal: Access the link provided on the official website labeled “Objection/Suggestion for OCS 2024.”
- Login: Enter your PPSAN (Permanent Public Service Account Number) and date of birth to authenticate your identity.
- Select Questions to Challenge: Identify and select the specific questions you contest, providing detailed reasoning or referencing textbooks and authoritative sources to substantiate your claim.
- Pay the Objection Fee: Generally, the fee is ₹100 per question. Payment can typically be made through online payment gateways integrated into the portal.
- Submit the Challenge: Complete and submit your objection form before the deadline, October 22, 2025.
Supporting Evidence and Validations
Each objection must be accompanied by valid proof, such as textbook references, official guidelines, or authoritative sources, to substantiate the correction request. The OPSC reserve the right to verify claims before considering adjustments.
Post-Objection Process
Once all objections are submitted, a committee of experts reviews each challenge carefully. Valid objections may lead to corrections in the final answer key. If an objection is upheld, the fee paid for that question may be refunded according to OPSC policies. The final answer key will be published after all objections are addressed, and it will serve as the basis for the declaration of results.
Next Steps After Final Answer Key Publication
Result Declaration Timeline
Following the finalization of the answer key, OPSC typically announces the preliminary exam results within 2 to 3 weeks. Candidates who qualify according to the cutoff marks in Paper I and Paper II will be eligible to appear for the Main Examination.
Qualifying Criteria:
- Minimum of 33% marks in Paper II (CSAT)
- Meeting the cutoff score in Paper I (General Studies)
Advancement in Selection Process
Successful candidates will be invited to participate in the subsequent stages of the recruitment process, including the Main Examination and Interview, as per the schedule released by OPSC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is there any fee for raising objections?
Yes, generally ₹100 per question. If the objection is found to be valid after review, the fee may be refunded to the candidate.
2. Can multiple objections be raised?
Yes, candidates can raise multiple objections, but each must be supported by separate valid justification or reference documentation.
3. When will the final answer key be released?
The final answer key is usually published within a week after the last date of objections, anticipated by late October 2025. This document finalizes the correct answers that will be used for result calculations.
Conclusion
The release of the OPSC OCS Prelims 2024 answer key marks a significant milestone for aspirants aiming for Odisha Civil Services. Carefully review the provisional answer key, and if necessary, utilize the objection facility to ensure accuracy. Staying updated with official notifications and adhering to deadlines will help navigate the process smoothly. Check the official website regularly for future updates on result declarations and subsequent stages in the recruitment process.