KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026: Subject-Wise Topics & Exam Pattern

The KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026 - Check Subject-Wise Syllabus and Exam Pattern is the definitive roadmap for thousands of candidates targeting the 5,431 vacancies announced across First Division Assistant (FDA) and Second Division Assistant (SDA) posts in Karnataka. Conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA), the recruitment spans both the Residual Parent Cadre (RPC) and Kalyana Karnataka (KK) cadre. The competitive examination carries 200 marks split across two objective papers, while a separate 150-mark Kannada Language Test remains qualifying in nature. Understanding the complete syllabus 2026, detailed exam pattern, negative marking rules, and subject-wise topic lists is critical for structured preparation. Whether you are aiming for degree-level FDA or PUC-level SDA posts, this guide walks you through every section, every topic, and every strategic tip needed to crack the examination scheduled for January 2027.

Quick Overview - KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026

KPSC FDA SDA Selection Process 2026 - Detailed Stages

The recruitment follows a straightforward selection structure. As per the published 2026 syllabus and notification information, candidates must clear the following stages:

Stage 1 - Written Competitive Examination (Paper 1 + Paper 2)

• Paper 1: General Knowledge - 100 marks, 2 Hours duration
• Paper 2: General Kannada, General English & Computer Knowledge - 100 marks, 2 Hours duration
• Total Competitive Marks: 200 marks across both papers
• Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for every wrong answer in objective papers
• Candidates must perform well to secure a rank in the merit list

Stage 2 - Compulsory Kannada Language Test (Qualifying)

• Total Marks: 150 marks
• Nature: Qualifying only - marks are not added to the 200-mark competitive total
• Standard: SSLC first-language Kannada standard
• Applicability: Compulsory for candidates not exempted under applicable recruitment rules
• Candidates must obtain the prescribed minimum qualifying marks in this test

Stage 3 - Verification of Documents & Appointment

• Candidates clearing the competitive examination are called for document verification
• Original certificates of education, caste, domicile and experience are checked
• Final appointment letters are issued based on rank in the provisional list

KPSC FDA SDA Exam Pattern 2026 - Complete Breakdown

The published KPSC FDA SDA Exam Pattern 2026 describes two objective-type competitive examination papers and a separate qualifying Kannada Language Test. The competitive examination carries a total of 200 marks, divided equally between General Knowledge and the combined language and computer knowledge paper.

Negative Marking Rule: 0.25 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer in the objective papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2). Candidates should verify this marking rule in their particular 2026 KEA recruitment notification before attempting the examination. The Kannada Language Test is qualifying in nature and is not included in the 200-mark competitive examination total.

KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026 - Subject-Wise Detailed Topics

The FDA and SDA syllabus covers four major competitive subjects, together with the qualifying Kannada Language Test wherever applicable. Candidates should prepare the common syllabus areas while adjusting the difficulty level according to whether they are appearing for degree-level FDA posts or PUC-level SDA posts.

1. KPSC FDA SDA General Knowledge Syllabus 2026 (Paper 1)

General Knowledge is the core component of Paper 1 carrying 100 marks. Candidates must prepare Indian and Karnataka history, geography, constitution, administration, economy, general science, environment, current affairs and mental ability comprehensively.

2. KPSC FDA SDA General Kannada Syllabus 2026 (Paper 2)

The General Kannada section examines candidates' knowledge of Kannada grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, comprehension and appropriate language usage. This section is part of Paper 2.

Preparation Tip: Candidates should practise grammar-based questions and reading passages regularly. Consistent revision can help improve both accuracy and speed in the language section.

3. KPSC FDA SDA General English Syllabus 2026 (Paper 2)

The General English syllabus covers grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, sentence construction and correct English usage. Candidates should focus on fundamental language concepts and practise objective questions extensively.

4. KPSC FDA SDA Computer Knowledge Syllabus 2026 (Paper 2)

Computer Knowledge is included in Paper 2 of the referenced 2026 syllabus. Candidates should understand fundamental computer concepts, commonly used software, internet applications and digital security thoroughly.

5. KPSC FDA SDA Compulsory Kannada Language Test Syllabus 2026 (Qualifying)

The qualifying Kannada Language Test assesses candidates' ability to read, understand and use Kannada at the prescribed SSLC first-language standard. According to the examination pattern, this test carries 150 marks and is compulsory for candidates who are not exempted under the applicable recruitment rules.

Note: The Kannada Language Test is qualifying in nature. Candidates should verify the prescribed minimum qualifying marks and any applicable exemption in their official KEA recruitment notification.

Download KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026 - Check Subject-Wise Syllabus and Exam Pattern PDF

Candidates can download the official notification and syllabus documents from the links provided below. Always refer to the official KEA or KPSC website for the final examination scheme and post-specific instructions.

Difference Between KPSC FDA and SDA Syllabus 2026

The FDA and SDA examinations share several common subjects, but the General Knowledge preparation standard differs according to the educational level required for each post.

Candidates preparing for FDA posts should give additional attention to degree-level General Knowledge, while SDA candidates should prepare at the PUC-level standard. The actual examination scheme must be verified against the selected recruitment notification.

KEA FDA SDA Recruitment 2026 - Vacancy Details

The Karnataka Examinations Authority announced 5,431 vacancies through separate recruitment notifications issued on 29 October 2026 for FDA, SDA and other government posts.

KEA FDA SDA Exam Date 2026-27

The KEA FDA SDA recruitment examination is scheduled for January 2027. The examination dates reported across the separate recruitment notifications are:

• 8 January 2027
• 9 January 2027
• 10 January 2027
• 16 January 2027
• 17 January 2027

Candidates should confirm the examination date applicable to their particular FDA or SDA notification and cadre, as different post groups may have different schedules.

Summary of Minimum Qualifying Marks

Candidates should verify the specific minimum qualifying marks and any applicable exemptions (such as Kannada PUC/SSLC first-language holders) in their official KEA recruitment notification for the 2026 cycle.

KPSC FDA SDA Preparation Master Tips 2026

• Review the Complete Syllabus First: Before starting preparation, map out every subject and topic from the KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026 - Check Subject-Wise Syllabus and Exam Pattern. Create a topic checklist and mark difficulty levels to prioritise weak areas.
• Dominate Karnataka-Specific General Knowledge: Unlike national exams, KPSC FDA SDA emphasises Karnataka history, geography, polity, economy and current affairs heavily. Allocate at least 40% of GK preparation time exclusively to Karnataka-specific content.
• Master Kannada Grammar Fundamentals: Sandhi, Samasa, synonyms, antonyms, spelling and comprehension form the backbone of the General Kannada section. Daily grammar practice with previous year questions will yield maximum score improvement.
• Build a Strong English Foundation: Focus on tenses, sentence correction, voice, speech, vocabulary and reading comprehension. Dedicate time to one-word substitutions and idioms, which are high-scoring areas.
• Prepare Computer Knowledge Strategically: MS Office, operating systems, networking, cybersecurity and e-governance are directly tested. Use free online tutorials for MS Excel shortcuts and PowerPoint commands to score quickly.
• Solve Previous Year Papers & Mock Tests: Attempt timed mock tests to build exam stamina. Review every incorrect answer to avoid repeating mistakes, especially given the 0.25-mark negative marking rule.
• Follow a Structured 30-Day Revision Plan: Use the week-by-week plan below to cover all subjects systematically and ensure adequate revision before the January 2027 exam dates.

KPSC FDA SDA 30-Day Preparation Plan

The following suggested study schedule can help candidates organise preparation across all major subjects. This is a study recommendation, not an official KEA timetable.

Competitive Advantage FAQs - KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026

Q1. What is the total marks for the KPSC FDA SDA competitive examination 2026?

The competitive examination carries 200 marks total, divided equally between Paper 1 (General Knowledge - 100 marks) and Paper 2 (General Kannada, General English & Computer Knowledge - 100 marks). A separate Kannada Language Test carries 150 marks but is qualifying in nature and not included in the 200-mark total.

Q2. Is there negative marking in the KPSC FDA SDA exam 2026?

Yes. 0.25 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer in the objective papers (Paper 1 and Paper 2). Candidates should verify this rule in their specific KEA recruitment notification before the examination.

Q3. How many papers are there in the KPSC FDA SDA exam pattern 2026?

There are two objective competitive papers: Paper 1 on General Knowledge and Paper 2 covering General Kannada, General English and Computer Knowledge. Additionally, a separate qualifying Kannada Language Test carries 150 marks.

Q4. What is the duration of each paper in the KPSC FDA SDA exam?

Paper 1 (General Knowledge) has a duration of 2 hours. Paper 2 (General Kannada, General English & Computer Knowledge) also has a duration of 2 hours. The total competitive examination duration is 4 hours. The Kannada Language Test duration is as prescribed in the notification.

Q5. What is the difference between KPSC FDA and SDA syllabus 2026?

The subjects remain the same - General Knowledge, General Kannada, General English and Computer Knowledge. The key difference is the difficulty level: FDA requires degree-level preparation for General Knowledge while SDA requires PUC-level standard. The Kannada Language Test applies to both where applicable.

Q6. How many vacancies are available in the KEA FDA SDA recruitment 2026?

A total of 5,431 vacancies are announced across FDA, SDA and other notified posts under the Residual Parent Cadre (2,163 Degree-Level + 2,070 PUC-Level) and Kalyana Karnataka cadre (563 FDA + 635 SDA).

Q7. When will the KPSC FDA SDA examination be held?

The examination is scheduled for 8, 9, 10, 16 and 17 January 2027 as per the published 2026 recruitment notifications. Candidates should confirm the exact date for their specific post group and cadre.

Q8. Is the Kannada Language Test compulsory for all candidates?

The Kannada Language Test (150 marks) is compulsory for candidates who are not exempted under the applicable recruitment rules. Candidates holding Kannada PUC or SSLC first-language may be exempted - verify exemption criteria in the official notification.

Q9. Where can I download the KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026 PDF?

You can download the official notification and syllabus from the KEA official website at cetonline.karnataka.gov.in/kea or the KPSC website at kpsc.kar.nic.in. The direct notification PDF link for FDA Degree-Level RPC is also provided above.

Q10. Which authority is conducting the FDA SDA recruitment 2026?

The current FDA SDA recruitment for 5,431 vacancies is being conducted by the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA). Although commonly searched as "KPSC FDA SDA Syllabus 2026", the recruiting authority for this cycle is KEA.