Bihar Public Service Commission Introduces New MCQ Answer System

The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has announced significant changes to its MCQ examination format. The new system introduces a fifth option, 'E' for 'Not Attempted,' and mandates candidates to select this option if they choose not to answer a question. Additionally, failing to select any option will incur a penalty of 1/3rd of a mark. These changes aim to enhance transparency and accuracy in the evaluation process. Candidates are advised to prepare accordingly for upcoming exams to avoid potential mark deductions.

By Ambika Singh May 2, 2026, 08:53 IST

BPSC Revamps Examination Answer System

Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC): The BPSC has announced a major overhaul of its answer system for Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) examinations. A recent press release from the Commission indicates that these changes aim to enhance transparency, streamline the examination process, and promote discipline among candidates.

**Previous System with Four Options**
Previously, candidates were presented with four answer choices (A, B, C, D) for each question, and they were not required to select a specific option. This led to many candidates leaving questions unanswered, resulting in inconsistencies in grading.

**Introduction of a Fifth Option**
With the new system, candidates will now see five options (A, B, C, D, E) for each question. The fifth option, ‘E’, will indicate "Not Attempted." Candidates must choose one of the first four options to answer a question, while selecting option E is mandatory if they wish to skip a question.

**Penalty for Not Selecting an Option**
The Commission has stated that failing to select any of the five options will result in that question being marked as unanswered, incurring a penalty of 1/3rd of a mark. Thus, not selecting an option will negatively impact candidates' scores.

**Key Changes Summarized**
1. BPSC has updated the answer system for MCQ exams.
2. Each question will now include five options (A, B, C, D, E), with ‘E’ representing "Not Attempted."
3. Candidates must select option ‘E’ to skip a question.
4. Not selecting any option will lead to a deduction of 1/3rd of a mark.
5. This new system will be in effect for upcoming BPSC exams, aiming to improve the clarity and fairness of the evaluation process.

As the Commission prepares to implement this revised system in future examinations, candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes and adhere strictly to the guidelines to avoid any loss of marks.