The Haryana Civil Services (HCS) Review Officer (RO) and Assistant Review Officer (ARO) examination is one of the most sought-after competitive exams conducted by the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC). This exam recruits Group-B level administrative officers for various departments in Haryana. With a large number of aspirants competing, a clear understanding of the HCS RO/ARO Syllabus 2025 and exam pattern is crucial for success.
Also Read: HCS Syllabus
HCS RO/ARO Syllabus 2025 Highlights
The Haryana Civil Services (HCS) Review Officer (RO) and Assistant Review Officer (ARO) examination is conducted by the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC) to recruit eligible candidates for Group-B level administrative posts. The selection process is held in three stages—Prelims, Mains, and Interview. To help aspirants get a quick overview, here are the key highlights of the HCS RO/ARO Syllabus 2025, including exam structure, mode, marking scheme, and other essential details.
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | HCS Review Officer / Assistant Review Officer (RO/ARO) |
| Conducting Body | Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC) |
| Exam Stages | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
| Prelims Exam Type | Objective (MCQ) – General Studies & General Hindi |
| Mains Exam Type | Descriptive – English, Hindi, General Studies & Optional Subject |
| Interview/Personality Test | 75–100 Marks (Approx.) |
| Optional Subjects | 29+ subjects including History, Pub Ad, Geography, Literature, Engineering |
Also Read: HCS Exam 2025 Dates
HCS RO/ARO Exam Pattern 2025
The Haryana Civil Services (HCS) Review Officer/Assistant Review Officer (RO/ARO) examination is conducted by the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC). The recruitment process is carried out in three distinct stages.
HCS RO/ARO Exam Pattern 2025 Prelims Exam
The HCS RO/ARO Exam Pattern 2025 Prelims Exam is the first stage of the HCS RO/ARO selection process. It is designed as a screening test to shortlist candidates for the Main Examination. This stage assesses the candidate’s general awareness and basic knowledge of Hindi.
- Nature of Exam: Objective Type (Multiple Choice Questions)
- Purpose: Screening only; marks obtained will not be counted in the final merit.
- Mode of Examination: Offline (OMR-based)
- Compulsory Papers: Both General Studies and General Hindi are mandatory.
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Type |
| Paper I | General Studies | 100 | Objective MCQs |
| Paper II | General Hindi | 100 | Objective MCQs |
HCS RO/ARO Exam Pattern 2025 Mains Exam
The HCS RO/ARO Exam Pattern 2025 Mains is the second stage of the selection process for HCS Review Officer (RO) / Assistant Review Officer (ARO). Unlike the Preliminary stage, the Mains is descriptive in nature and the marks obtained are counted for the final merit list.
- Nature of Exam: Descriptive / Conventional Type
- Medium of Exam: Bilingual (Hindi/English – as applicable to the subject)
- Purpose: This stage evaluates the candidate’s comprehension, analytical abilities, and depth of knowledge in various subjects.
- Total Marks: 600
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Type |
| Paper I | English (including Essay) | 100 | Descriptive |
| Paper II | Hindi (including Essay) | 100 | Descriptive |
| Paper III | General Studies | 200 | Descriptive |
| Paper IV | Optional Subject | 200 | Descriptive |
HCS RO/ARO Optional Subjects Mains Exam
In Paper IV of the Main Examination, candidates must choose one optional subject from the list provided by the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC). This paper carries 200 marks and is descriptive in nature. The subject selected should ideally align with the candidate’s academic background or area of strong interest and understanding.
Below is the tentative list of optional subjects:
- History
- Public Administration
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Geography
- Economics
- Law
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Commerce and Accountancy
- Agriculture
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Botany
- Zoology
- Geology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Medical Science
- Anthropology
- Statistics
- Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
- Management
- Literature of any one of the following languages:
- Hindi
- English
- Urdu
- Sanskrit
- Punjabi
HCS RO/ARO Personality Test / Interview
The Personality Test / Interview is the final stage of the HCS RO/ARO selection process. It plays a crucial role in determining a candidate’s overall suitability for administrative responsibilities. This stage is conducted after the candidate qualifies in the Main Examination.
- Component: Interview / Viva-Voce
- Purpose: To assess the candidate’s personality traits, clarity of thought, mental alertness, communication skills, subject knowledge, and overall fitness for a public service role.
- Marks: Approximately 75–100 marks
| Component | Purpose | Marks |
| Interview / Viva | Evaluation of overall personality, communication skills, mental alertness, subject knowledge, and suitability for the role | 75 – 100 (Approx.) |
Also Read: HCS Exam Pattern 2025
HCS RO/ARO Syllabus Subject-wise 2025
The HCS RO/ARO syllabus 2025 is structured to assess a candidate’s comprehensive understanding of general studies, language proficiency, current affairs, mental ability, and Haryana-specific knowledge.
History
Covers the broad historical spectrum of India including major events, movements, and personalities.
- Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History
- Key dynasties, empires, and their administration
- Indian Freedom Movement: major milestones, leaders, and ideologies
- Social and religious reform movements in the 19th and 20th centuries
Geography
Includes both physical and human geography of India and the world.
- Physical features: mountains, plateaus, rivers, climate zones
- Indian and World Geography basics
- Resources: soil, minerals, water, vegetation
- Agriculture patterns and types, irrigation, crop distribution
- Indian rivers, climate zones, monsoons
Indian Polity
Focuses on the structure and functions of the Indian political and legal system.
- Constitution: Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, DPSPs
- Union and State Government structure
- Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies
- Public policy, central and state administration
- Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Courts, judicial review and activism
- Election Commission, constitutional and statutory bodies
Indian Economy
Introduces economic development, planning, and policy.
- Indian economy overview and recent reforms
- Economic Planning in India – Five Year Plans, NITI Aayog
- Sectors: Agriculture, Industry, Services
- Banking system, RBI, Budget, Fiscal Policy
- Financial institutions and instruments
- Trade and commerce policies
General Science
Aims to test basic understanding of scientific principles and applications.
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- Basic concepts in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
- Developments in Science and Technology
- Environmental studies and sustainability
- Recent innovations and scientific breakthroughs
- Ecology, biodiversity, pollution, and conservation
Culture
Covers India’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.
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- Indian art, architecture, sculpture, painting
- Literature and languages
- Religions, customs, rituals, and festivals
- Special focus on Haryana’s cultural practices and heritage
Current Affairs
Covers recent events of national and international importance.
- Important news from government, science, economy, and society
- Government schemes and initiatives (central and state)
- Summits, sports, awards, defence, international relations
- Reports, indices, and statistics relevant to governance and development
General Mental Ability
Tests reasoning and numerical aptitude.
- Logical and analytical reasoning
- Problem-solving and decision-making ability
- Number systems, ratios, percentages
- Interpretation of charts, graphs, and data
Language Proficiency
Checks understanding of grammar and writing skills in both Hindi and English.
English
- Grammar and Sentence Structure
- Essay writing and comprehension
- Vocabulary, Synonyms, Antonyms
- Precis and letter writing
Hindi
- Essay and translation
- Grammar: Sandhi, Samas, Tatsam-Tadbhav, Muhavare
- Sentence correction and comprehension
Haryana Specific Knowledge
Dedicated section for testing knowledge about the state of Haryana.
- Geography of Haryana: rivers, climate, topography
- History of Haryana and key events
- Economy: agriculture, industries, development indicators
- Languages, dialects, and social structure
- Culture, festivals, customs, and art forms
- Political developments and administration of Haryana
Also Read: How to Prepare HPSC HCS Exam
Preparation Tips for HCS RO/ARO 2025
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Know the structure of Prelims (objective), Mains (descriptive), and Interview stages.
- Master the Syllabus: Make a subject-wise study plan with a strong focus on Haryana-specific content.
- Study Standard Books: Refer to NCERTs (Class 6–12), Laxmikanth for Polity, Spectrum for History, and Ramesh Singh for Economy.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read daily newspapers and monthly magazines; focus on national, international, and Haryana-related news.
- Practice Mock Tests & PYQs: Improve time management, accuracy, and understanding of exam trends through regular practice.
- Revise Regularly: Make short notes and revise frequently, especially for factual topics.
- Polish Language Skills: Practice essay writing and grammar for both Hindi and English papers.
- Start Interview Prep Early: Work on personality development, current affairs awareness, and communication skills.
Also Read: “HCS RO ARO Eligibility Criteria
Conclusion
The HCS RO/ARO syllabus 2025 examination offers a valuable opportunity for candidates aspiring to join Haryana’s administrative services at the Group-B level. With a comprehensive three-stage selection process—Prelims, Mains, and Interview—success demands a clear understanding of the exam pattern, detailed knowledge of the syllabus, and consistent, strategic preparation. Focusing on Haryana-specific topics alongside general studies, practicing previous years’ papers, and staying updated with current affairs will enhance your chances of clearing this competitive exam. Early planning, disciplined study, and effective revision are key to securing a rewarding career through the HCS RO/ARO Exam 2025.
Ready to boost your HPSC HCS preparation? Join UPSC Akhada online Foundation Courses today!
HCS RO/ARO syllabus 2025 FAQs
Where can I find the detailed HCS RO/ARO syllabus PDF for all stages of the exam?
The detailed HCS RO/ARO syllabus PDF for Prelims, Mains, and Interview stages can be downloaded from the official Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC) website or trusted educational portals.
How important is Haryana-specific knowledge in the HCS RO/ARO syllabus?
Haryana-specific knowledge is a crucial part of the HCS RO/ARO syllabus, especially in General Studies, covering the state’s history, geography, economy, culture, and political developments.
What topics are covered under the optional subjects in the HCS RO/ARO syllabus mains?
The optional subjects in the HCS RO/ARO syllabus mains cover a wide range including History, Public Administration, Political Science, Economics, Law, Agriculture, Engineering, Literature, and more, allowing candidates to choose based on their background.
How can I effectively prepare for the HCS RO/ARO syllabus 2025?
To prepare effectively, focus on understanding the exam pattern, follow the subject-wise syllabus thoroughly, revise Haryana-specific topics, practice previous year question papers, and stay updated with current affairs.
