The RAS Prelims Exam 2026 is a statewide competitive test conducted by RPSC to select candidates for Rajasthan’s civil services. It evaluates General Knowledge, Rajasthan-specific subjects, and current affairs. The exam includes 150 objective questions for 200 marks and serves as the gateway to the Mains and Interview stages.

RAS Prelims Exam 2026 Preparation

RAS Preliminary Exam 2026 is a test that appeals to most of the aspiring civil servants since it is a significant and difficult test in Rajasthan. This is where the applicants of Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) and Rajasthan Police Service (RPS) start. The RAS examination is a collaborative effort with the RPSC to allow candidates to be awarded significant roles in the Rajasthan administration. Such RAS Preliminary Exam is to be taken in order to examine the general knowledge and the knowledge of the current events, as well as, knowledge of the rich cultural, historical, and geographical landscape of Rajasthan.

Exam preliminary 2026 RAS will consist of multiple subjects and the test will include general studies, science and technology, and the subjects specific to the state of Rajasthan that require the subject like history, culture, economics, and geography. This test will determine the success of the individual who is aspiring to go to the next phases of the recruitment process.

RAS Prelims Exam 2026 Details

Key Aspect

Details

Exam Name

RAS Prelims Exam 2026

Conducting Authority

Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC)

Exam Frequency

Annually

Mode of Examination

Offline (Pen and Paper-based Test)

Total Marks

200 Marks (Objective Type)

Number of Papers

1 (General Knowledge)

Duration of Exam

3 Hours

Number of Questions

150 Questions (Multiple Choice Questions)

Subjects Covered

General Knowledge (including Rajasthan-specific topics such as history, culture, geography, etc.)

Eligibility Criteria

Indian citizen - Minimum Age: 21 years - Maximum Age: 40 years (Relaxations for reserved categories)

Educational Qualification

Graduation from a recognized university in any discipline

Negative Marking

1/3rd mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer

Application Process

Online via the RPSC official website

Application Fee

  • General/OBC: ₹350
  • SC/ST: ₹150

Exam Date

Expected in mid-2026 (exact date to be announced)

Admit Card Release

10–15 days before the exam date

Result Declaration

Expected 2-3 months after the exam

Main Exam

Candidates who qualify for the Prelims can appear for the RAS Mains Exam

Interview/Personality Test

After the successful completion of the Mains Exam

RAS Prelims Exam 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility Aspect

Details

Nationality

Indian Citizen

Age Limit

21 to 40 years (Age relaxations for reserved categories)

Age Relaxation

SC/ST/OBC: 5 years

PwD: 10 years

Ex-Servicemen: 5 years (subject to category norms)

Educational Qualification

  • Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from any recognized university or institution.
  • The educational qualification is a mandatory requirement for RAS Prelims Exam 2026.

Number of Attempts

General: 4 attempts

OBC: 7 attempts

SC/ST: No limit until the age limit is reached

Physical Standards

As per the Rajasthan government rules (if applicable)

Other Requirements:

  • Candidates must be medically fit and meet the physical standards specified by RPSC.
  • The eligibility criteria may be subject to updates, so always check the latest RPSC RAS 2026 notification for any changes.

Important Dates for RAS Prelims 2026

For now, RPSC has not yet declared the exact dates for the RAS Prelims Exam Date 2026. Nevertheless, using data from previous years, we expect that the schedule will most likely be as follows:

RAS Prelims Exam 2026 - Important Dates

Event

Tentative Date (Expected)

Official Notification

March 2026

Application Start Date

March 2026

Application End Date

April 2026

Admit Card Release

May 2026

Exam Date

June 2026

Result Declaration

July 2026

Step-by-Step Strategy for RAS Prelims Exam Preparation 2026

1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus:

The first step in preparing the RAS Prelims Exam 2026 would be to be aware of the pattern and the syllabus of the exam. The test consists of various questions of multiple choices in a variety of topics. The subjects of the RAS Prelims Exam Syllabus 2026 include:

  • General Knowledge
  • Rajasthan-specific topics (history, culture, geography)
  • Science & Technology

Preliminary Exam:

  • Objective Type Questions (MCQs)
  • Subjects: General Studies, General Science, Current Affairs, Rajasthan GK, Mental Ability
  • Marks: Generally around 200-300 marks
  • Purpose: To shortlist candidates for the Main Written Exam

2. Systematic Study Plan Creation

A well-structured study plan is crucial for efficient preparation.

Steps to Develop a study Tips:

  • Assess Time Left: Calculate the time remaining until the exam.
  • Prioritize Subjects: Give more time to General Studies, Rajasthan GK, and Optional Subject.
  • Routine of the study: Equilibrium of technical courses, Rajasthan-related courses and general courses.
  • Weekly Revisions: Retention Schedule Weekly revisions.
  • Mock Tests: Incorporate regular mock tests to improve exam temperament.

Sample Study Plan Template:

Time

Subject

Activity

6:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Rajasthan GK

State History, Geography, Culture, Economy

8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

General Studies

Indian History, Polity, Economy, Geography

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Current Affairs

National & International Events

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

Optional Subject

Study in-depth as per choice

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Essay Writing

Practice writing essays on governance, development, and social issues

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Revision & Mock Tests

Solve previous years’ papers and take full-length mocks

3. Recommended Study Materials

Using updated and authoritative resources is key for solid preparation.

Subject/Category

Recommended Material

General Studies

  • Lucent’s General Knowledge
  • NCERT Books (Class 6–12) for History, Geography, Civics, and Economics
  • Indian Polity by M. Laxmikant
  • Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh

Rajasthan GK

  • Arihant’s Rajasthan General Knowledge Book
  • NCERT Rajasthan State Textbooks
  • Government Publications related to Rajasthan

Current Affairs

  • Pratiyogita Darpan
  • Arihant Current Affairs Yearbook
  • Daily newspapers: The Hindu, Indian Express, Dainik Bhaskar

Essay Writing

  • Arihant Essay Writing Preparation Books
  • Sample essays focusing on Rajasthan Development, Governance, Economy

Optional Subjects

Standard reference books depending on the subject chosen

Use Quality Study Material:

Make sure to refer to standard books and resources for the RAS Prelims Exam 2026:

  • History: "India's Ancient History" by R.S. Sharma
  • Geography: "Physical Geography" by G.C. Leong
  • Polity: "Indian Polity" by M. Laxmikanth
  • Rajasthan-Specific Syllabus: "Rajasthan ki Sanskritik Virasat" by Dr. S. R. Rathi

4. Rajasthan General Knowledge Preparation Strategy

Rajasthan GK holds significant weight in both prelims and mains.

Key Areas:

  • Rajasthan history (Ancient, Medieval, modern)
  • Rajasthan (Geography, Deserts, Rivers, Minerals)
  • Rajasthan Economy (Agriculture, Industry, Services)
  • Rajasthan Politics.
  • Rajasthan Culture and Heritage.
  • Existing Government Programs in Rajasthan.

Study Tips:

  • Apply Arihant Rajasthan GK Book.
  • Write down important facts in hand written notes to be revised easily.
  • Do GK quizzes about Rajasthan on a regular basis.

5. Current Affairs Preparation Strategy

The preparation of current affairs needs daily dedication.

  • Read The Hindu, Indian Express, Dainik Bhaskar daily.
  • Monthly current affairs books (Pratiyogita Darpan, Arihant Yearbook).
  • The for daily quiz practice.
  • Keep handwritten records of significant events in the country and state of Rajasthan.

6. Optional Subject Preparation Strategy

Choose the optional subject wisely based on personal interest and background.

Popular Optional Subjects:

  • Public Administration
  • History
  • Geography
  • Political Science

Study Tips:

  • Refer to standard books and previous years’ question papers.
  • Make concise handwritten notes of key points.
  • Practice writing long descriptive answers.
  • If needed, join coaching classes for guidance.

7. Essay Writing Preparation Strategy

Essay writing is important in the main exam.

Tips:

  • Practice essays on Governance, Rajasthan Economy, Social Issues, Environment.
  • Structure: Introduction, Body, Conclusion.
  • Support with data, government schemes, and examples.
  • Refer to model essays in Arihant Essay Writing book.

8. Time Management Strategy

Efficient time management helps cover the syllabus systematically.

Time of Day

Subjects

Morning

Rajasthan GK & Essay Writing

Afternoon

General Studies & Current Affairs

Evening

Optional Subject & Practice Tests

Night

Revision & Mock Tests

9. Effective Study Techniques

Adopt smart study techniques for better retention and understanding.

  • Active Recall: Regularly quiz yourself on key concepts without looking at your notes.
  • Spaced Repetition: Revisit topics at increasing intervals to move information to long-term memory.
  • Mind Mapping: Create visual diagrams to understand connections between different concepts.
  • Practice Papers: Solve past papers under timed conditions to simulate the exam environment.

10. Tackling Difficult Subjects

Tackle difficult topics wisely in order to deal with obstacles.

  • divide difficult issues into smaller manageable units.
  • Video lectures are better to understand concepts.
  • Enroll in coaching or virtual classes in case of a need to get expert instructions.
  • Talk about uncertainties in study group to obtain alternative views.

11. Mock Examination and Self Assessment

Mock tests are important in exam preparation and result analysis.

  • Complete full-length mock tests once a week in order to develop stamina and familiarity.
  • Break down your performance to a detailed level and examine the time per question and error.
  • Training on areas of weakness noted in the mock test.

12. Motivation and Stress Management

Be emotionally and mentally healthy during the process of preparation.

  • Breaks Every 15 minutes should be taken to prevent burnout.
  • Meditate or do breathing exercises to remain calm and focused.
  • Make small, attainable objectives to gain momentum and confidence.
  • Keep in touch with inspirant groups to be motivated and learn together.

13. Last 30 Days Strategy (Final Revision)

Pay attention to work on your preparation during the last month. The trick to the RAS Preliminary Exam 2026 is to revise successfully. Test yourself by taking practice exams and reviewing the subject matter so far on a regular basis. Work on your weaknesses and keep on perfecting them.

  • Rewrite Rajasthan GK, General Studies, Optional Subjects and Current Affairs.
  • Take several full-length mock exams to perfect your strategy.
  • Read question papers of all the past years to know trends.
  • Last revision of weak points.

14. Day Before Examination Preparations

Get ready to the actual day of the exam.

  • Take a good sleep of 7 or 8 hours the previous night.
  • Have a healthy and light breakfast.
  • Bring in all important papers (Admit Card, ID Proof).
  • Arrive at the exam center early enough to avoid the last minute stress.
  • Don't panic, save time when taking the exam.

RAS Prelims Exam 2026: Preparation Tips and Strategy

To succeed in the RAS Prelims Exam 2026, one should use a detailed strategy and adhere to a plan. A lot of subjects are tested and students are particularly expected to be attentive towards facts relating to Rajasthan. Make a timetable that will allow you to concentrate on the ongoing affairs, general knowledge and the particular subjects you should learn during every class. Cubicle in a session or so a week and go through past papers of examinations to get a rough idea of the areas you require corrections on and on the other hand work smarter. Stay true to your practice, revise what you have read a couple of times, and keep track with the current events in Rajasthan and India to have a greater opportunity of passing the exam.

  • Establish a Timetable: Designate specific time on each subject with more emphasis on Rajasthan-specific themes and topical issues.
  • Study Material: Standard books and internet sources, particularly on the history and geography of Rajasthan and general current affairs of the state are the sources of information.
  • Daily Current Affairs: Attend to newspapers and magazines on a daily basis to be informed of events happening in the country and at the state level.
  • Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers: Train and practice on a regular routine to enhance the speed and accuracy; review your performance at the end of every test.
  • Revision: Periodically update key subjects to make sure that they are remembered, particularly with Rajasthan centric subjects.
  • Concentrate on Weak Areas: Find out the topics or subjects that you are weak in and devote more time on them.

Conclusion

The RAS Prelims Exam 2026 offers a major opportunity for candidates who want to be part of the Rajasthan Administrative Services. Being aware of the criteria, format of the test, topics covered, and how to apply, candidates are ready to prepare properly. Preparing well for the RAS Prelims Exam requires you to keep studying, organize your work, and remain updated about topics related to your state. Applying proper strategies and concentrating on the main topics will help you improve your chances at the next RAS recruitment phases.

FAQs

To be eligible for the RAS Prelims Exam 2026, candidates must be Indian citizens, aged between 21 and 40 years, and hold a graduation degree from a recognized university. Age relaxations are available for reserved categories.

Candidates must apply online through the RPSC SSO Portal. The process includes registration, filling out the application form, uploading required documents, paying the application fee, and submitting the form.

The RAS Prelims Exam consists of one paper on General Knowledge and General Science with 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam duration is 3 hours, and there is a negative marking of 1/3rd for each wrong answer.

The syllabus includes topics like Rajasthan's history, culture, geography, economy, Indian polity, general science, current affairs, and reasoning ability. Special emphasis is placed on Rajasthan-specific subjects.

The exact date for the RAS Prelims Exam 2026 will be announced by the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC). Based on previous years, the exam is expected to be held in mid-2026. Keep checking the official RPSC website for updates.

RASonly Interview Guidance Program

Mr. Ashok Jain

Ex-Chief Secretary Govt of Rajasthan

  • IAS officer of the 1981 batch, Rajasthan cadre.
  • Passionate about mentoring the next generation of RAS officers with real-world insights.
  • Got retired in Dec 2017 from the post of Chief Secretary of the state of Rajasthan.

Mr. Guru Charan Rai

Ex-ASP / SP in Jaisalmer

  • Guru Charan Rai, IPS (Retd), retired as Inspector General of Police (Security), Rajasthan, Jaipur in 2017.
  • Served as ASP and SP in Jaisalmer, Nagaur, Sri Ganganagar, Sawai Madhopur, Dausa, Sikar, and Karauli.
  • He also held key positions as DIGP and IGP in the Law and Order division.

Mr. Rakesh Verma

Ex-IAS Officer, B.Tech, MBA, and M.A. (Economics)

  • IAS officer of the 1981 batch and retired in Chief Secretary Rank.
  • Civil servant of high repute and vast experience.
  • Has been teaching UPSC CSE subjects for the last six years.
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