For instance, a screening test for 100 vacancies will be held only if the number of applications exceeds 20,000, and for 200 posts, if applicants cross 40,000. If these thresholds are not met, only a single-stage main examination will be conducted, thereby reducing candidate burden and expediting the recruitment process.
The APPSC clarified that both the screening and main exams, when held, will follow an objective-type OMR-based offline mode. This new structure is already being implemented in the recently announced recruitment for Forest Section Officer and Beat Officer posts under the Andhra Pradesh Forest Subordinate Service.
The decision aims to simplify selection, cut down exam stress, and speed up hiring timelines, offering a more efficient approach to public service recruitment in Andhra Pradesh.
How the Numbers Work
Old Rule: Prelims held if applications ≥ 25,000.
New Rule (Proposed): Prelims held only if applications > 200 × vacancies.
Example Scenarios:
If 100 vacancies are advertised → Prelims triggered only if > 20,000 applications.
If 150 vacancies → threshold becomes 30,000 applications; below that, recruitment proceeds with mains only or a single-stage screening test
Why This Matters
Benefits
Streamlined process: Fewer redundant prelims, especially for low-competition posts.
Faster recruitment timelines and lower administrative costs.
Reduced candidate burden—no need for dual-stage exams when unnecessary.
Considerations
For high-demand positions (Group II/III exams), prelims remain essential.
Some candidates fear that filtering through a single mains or screening exam may reduce fairness. The mains thus becomes more critical as a first
Implementation Status
The proposal is currently with the Andhra Pradesh government for approval. Once ratified, it will apply across all future APPSC recruitments unless exceptions are explicitly mentioned in job notifications. Until that time, candidates should prepare for both prelims and mains as per the existing pattern.
What Aspirants Should Know
Carefully read each recruitment notification to know the exam structure.
Be ready for both prelims and mains until the new rule is officially implemented.
Group II and III exams with high applicant volumes are still likely to involve prelims.
At a Glance
| Feature | Old Rule | Proposed Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Prelim Trigger | ≥ 25,000 applications |
|
| Exam Structure | Prelims + Mains typically | Mains only or Screening + Mains |
| Candidate Burden | Two-stage exams for all | Only if applicant volume is high |
| Recruitment Efficiency | Moderate | Higher |