OPSC AAO Answer Key 2026 is one of the most awaited documents for candidates who appeared in the Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO) examination conducted by the Odisha Public Service Commission. The answer key enables candidates to match their responses with officially approved answers and estimate their scores before the declaration of results. It also offers a fair and transparent mechanism for candidates to raise objections if they find any discrepancies.This professionally written and SEO-optimized article explains everything about the OPSC AAO Answer Key 2026, including the download process, score calculation method, objection procedure, expected cut-off, and post-answer key events.
The OPSC AAO Answer Key 2026 is an official document published after the completion of the written examination for the Assistant Agriculture Officer post. It contains the correct answers to all questions asked in the examination. The answer key helps candidates analyze their performance and assess whether they are likely to qualify for the next stage of the recruitment process.The commission releases the answer key in two stages, namely provisional and final. The provisional key allows candidates to raise objections, while the final key is used for preparing the result.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Exam Conducted | 19 February 2026 |
| Provisional Answer Key Released | 23 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Raise Objection | 2 March 2026 (12:00 Noon) |
| Final Answer Key (Expected) | To be announced |
| Result Declaration (Expected) | To be announced |
Importance of OPSC AAO Answer Key
The OPSC AAO answer key plays a vital role in the selection process. It allows candidates to verify their marked responses and estimate their probable score in advance. By checking the answer key, candidates can identify any wrong or ambiguous answers in the question paper and submit objections with proper justification. It also ensures transparency and builds trust in the recruitment system by giving candidates an opportunity to participate in the evaluation process.Additionally, the answer key helps reduce uncertainty and anxiety among aspirants while waiting for the official result announcement.
Types of OPSC AAO Answer Key
The answer key is released in two different formats: provisional and final. The provisional answer key is the initial version that is made available shortly after the exam. Candidates are allowed to challenge this version if they believe any answer is incorrect. After reviewing all objections received from candidates, the commission publishes the final answer key. This final version is authoritative and cannot be challenged further.
OPSC AAO 2026 Exam Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) |
| Post Name | Assistant Agriculture Officer (AAO) |
| Total Vacancies | 118 |
| Exam Date | 19 February 2026 |
| Answer Key Status | Released (Provisional) |
| Release Date | 23 February 2026 |
| Last Date for Objection | 2 March 2026 (12:00 Noon) |
| Official Website | www.opsc.gov.in |
How to Download OPSC AAO Answer Key 2026 PDF
Candidates can download the OPSC AAO Answer Key 2026 PDF by visiting the official website of the Odisha Public Service Commission. After opening the homepage, they need to navigate to the “What’s New” or “Examination” section where the link for the AAO answer key will be published. By clicking on the relevant link, candidates can select their respective question paper set such as Set A, Set B, Set C, or Set D.Once the PDF file opens, candidates should download and save it on their device for future reference. It is advisable to keep a printed copy for easy comparison while calculating marks.
How to Calculate Your Score Using OPSC AAO Answer Key
To calculate the expected score using the OPSC AAO answer key, candidates must carefully match their responses with the official answers mentioned in the key. After identifying the number of correct and incorrect responses, they should apply the marking scheme as per the official notification.For each correct answer, the allotted marks should be added to the total score. If negative marking is applicable, marks for wrong answers must be deducted accordingly. Unattempted questions do not carry any marks. This calculation helps candidates predict their approximate score and understand their chances of qualifying.
Marking Scheme for OPSC AAO Exam 2026
The marking scheme for the OPSC AAO exam generally awards one mark for every correct answer. If negative marking is applicable, a fraction of marks is deducted for every incorrect response. There is usually no penalty for unattempted questions.However, candidates must always refer to the official notification released by the commission for the exact marking pattern applicable to the 2026 examination.
How to Raise Objection Against OPSC AAO Answer Key
If a candidate finds any incorrect or doubtful answer in the provisional answer key, they can raise an objection through the official objection submission window provided by the commission. To do so, candidates need to log in using their registration credentials and select the question they wish to challenge.After selecting the question, candidates must provide valid justification and upload supporting documents such as references from standard textbooks or government publications. In some cases, a nominal objection fee may be required to submit the challenge. Once the objection is submitted, it will be reviewed by subject experts appointed by the commission.
Important Points While Submitting Objections
Candidates should ensure that objections are submitted strictly within the time period specified by the commission. Objections submitted after the deadline are not considered. Each objection must be supported by authentic and relevant proof; unsupported claims are usually rejected.The objection fee, if charged, is generally non-refundable even if the objection is accepted. Candidates should also note that multiple objections can be submitted if required, but each objection must be clearly explained with proper evidence.
OPSC AAO Cut-Off Marks 2026 (Expected)
The cut-off marks for the OPSC AAO exam depend on several factors, including the difficulty level of the paper, the number of candidates appearing, and the total number of vacancies. Category-wise reservation also plays a significant role in determining the final cut-off.Based on previous trends, the expected cut-off for general category candidates may range between 60 to 65 percent, while for OBC candidates it may range between 55 to 60 percent. For SC candidates, the expected cut-off could be around 50 to 55 percent, and for ST candidates, it may range between 45 to 50 percent. These figures are tentative and may change when the official cut-off is published.
What Happens After the Final Answer Key is Released
Once the final answer key is published, it becomes the basis for preparing the OPSC AAO Result 2026. No further objections are accepted at this stage. The commission evaluates answer sheets according to the final key and prepares the merit list of qualified candidates.Candidates can download the final answer key for reference and comparison with their calculated scores. This stage confirms the correctness of the evaluation process.
OPSC AAO Result 2026 and Next Selection Stage
After the release of the result, candidates who qualify the written examination are shortlisted for the next stage of the selection process. The next stage generally includes document verification and may also involve an interview depending on the recruitment rules.Candidates must keep their educational certificates, caste certificates, and other required documents ready in original form. Final selection is based on performance in all stages of the recruitment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the OPSC AAO Answer Key 2026 be released?
The provisional answer key is generally released within a few days after the completion of the examination.
Can candidates challenge the OPSC AAO Answer Key?
Yes, candidates are allowed to challenge the provisional answer key by submitting objections within the prescribed time limit.
Is the OPSC AAO Answer Key available in PDF format?
Yes, the answer key is released in PDF format and can be downloaded from the official website.
Is the objection fee refundable?
No, the objection fee is usually non-refundable even if the objection is accepted.
What is the difference between provisional and final answer key?
The provisional answer key is released for candidate review and objection submission, while the final answer key is published after considering all valid objections and is used for result preparation.
Conclusion
OPSC AAO Answer Key 2026 – Download PDF & Raise Objection is an essential resource for candidates who appeared in the examination. It helps them verify their answers, calculate their expected scores, and raise objections if required. By carefully analyzing the answer key and following the correct objection process, candidates can ensure that their performance is evaluated fairly.Candidates are advised to keep checking the official website of the Odisha Public Service Commission for the latest updates regarding the answer key, result announcement, and further recruitment stages. Staying informed and proactive during this phase can significantly improve a candidate’s chances of success.
