MPSC Exam 2026: New OMR Rules Explained (5th Option & Negative Marking)
The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has overhauled its OMR guidelines for 2026. Key updates include the introduction of a mandatory 5th option and a revised negative marking policy. Review all essential rule changes here.
The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has officially implemented the MPSC New OMR Rules 2026 for all upcoming examinations. Under these updated guidelines, candidates must provide a response for every question; failure to shade an option—leaving it blank—may now result in negative marking. These strategic changes are designed to boost assessment transparency and minimize the impact of random guessing.
MPSC New OMR Rules 2026
To streamline the evaluation process, MPSC has introduced a 5th option (E) on the OMR sheet, specifically intended for unattempted questions. Candidates are now required to commit to one option per question, utilizing the fifth option if they choose not to attempt a specific query. Furthermore, a 25% (1/4th) negative marking penalty will apply to incorrect responses under these new protocols.
MPSC New OMR Rules 2026 Overview
The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has implemented these modifications to ensure a more standardized and rigorous evaluation process for the 2026 examination cycle. Candidates are encouraged to review the key highlights of the updated OMR system summarized in the table below.
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Key Exam Guidelines
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Updated OMR Rules
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Introduction of the 5th Option (Option ‘E’)
MPSC has officially added a 5th option (E) to the OMR sheet, expanding the selection pool from A-D to A-E. This option is specifically designed for candidates who choose not to answer a question. By selecting ‘E’, you effectively mark a question as unattempted, avoiding the potential penalties associated with leaving a row entirely blank.
Mandatory Shading & Negative Marking
- Compulsory Action: It is now mandatory to shade one of the five circles for every single question on the paper.
- Penalty for Blank Questions: If a candidate leaves all five circles blank for any question, it will be treated as an incorrect attempt.
- Negative Marking: A penalty of 25% (1/4th of the marks) will be deducted for any question left completely unshaded.
Important: Under the new 2026 rules, you must shade exactly one option for every single question. Leaving any question blank is now treated as an incorrect response.
Changes to Seat Numbers
The commission has transitioned from the previous 8-character alphanumeric seat numbering system to a new 7-digit numerical format. This standardized seat number will remain consistent across all stages of the recruitment process, from the initial preliminary examination through to the final interview.
New OMR Sheet Format
- Two Parts: The OMR sheet is divided into two sections. Part-1 is for answers, and Part-2 is for the candidate’s personal details (Name, Seat Number, Subject Code, etc.).
- Carbonless Copy: The OMR sheets will be carbonless. Candidates can take the bottom carbon copy with them after the exam to verify their answers later.
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Pen Type: Only a Black Ballpoint Pen is allowed for shading.
- QR Code: Candidates must ensure the QR code on the OMR sheet is not scratched or damaged, as this may lead to the sheet not being evaluated.
- Signature: Forgetting to sign the OMR sheet in the designated area can lead to disqualification.
Effective Date: These new OMR protocols are mandatory for all MPSC competitive exams held from March 1, 2026, including the Rajyaseva (State Services) Preliminary Exam scheduled for May 31, 2026.
MPSC New OMR Rules 2026 FAQs
Q1. What is the purpose of the 5th option on the 2026 MPSC OMR sheet?
Answer: The 5th option (E) allows candidates to formally register that they are choosing not to attempt a question, preventing the penalties associated with leaving a bubble blank.
Q2. Is it mandatory to select an option for every question?
Answer: Yes. Candidates must shade one of the five options for every single question on the paper.
Q3. How is negative marking applied under the new MPSC rules?
Answer: A penalty of 25% (1/4th of the assigned marks) is applied for each incorrect answer or for failing to follow the mandatory OMR response guidelines.
Q4. Are there penalties for leaving a question blank?
Answer: Yes, leaving a question blank is treated as an incorrect attempt, which will incur negative marking.
Q5. Can I mark multiple options for a single question?
Answer: No. Selecting more than one option will be considered an incorrect response and will result in a deduction of marks.