KPSC Gazetted Probationers (GP) examination is Karnataka's equivalent of the IAS exam at the state level, recruiting candidates for Group A and B gazetted posts. Posts include Deputy Superintendent of Police, Tahsildar, Assistant Director, and other senior administrative positions. It is considered one of the most prestigious state civil service examinations in South India. The selection involves Prelims, Mains written examination, and a Personality Test (interview).

General Kannada is a compulsory section in the Prelims testing grammar, comprehension, and Kannada literature. In Mains, Kannada language papers carry significant weightage and candidates must demonstrate proficiency in written Kannada. Knowledge of Kannada literature including works of Kuvempu, D.R. Bendre, and Shivaram Karanth is tested. Candidates must also be familiar with Kannada administrative terminology as the language is used in official government communication in Karnataka.

Karnataka-specific topics include the history of the Mysore kingdom, Haider Ali, Tipu Sultan, and the unification of Karnataka (Ekikarana movement). Socio-religious reformers like Basavanna, Kanakadasa, and Purandaradasa and the Veerashaiva/Lingayat tradition are regularly tested. Karnataka geography — Western Ghats, Deccan plateau, major rivers like Krishna and Kaveri — is important. State government schemes, Karnataka budget, and socio-economic indicators feature prominently in current affairs questions.

KPSC GP Prelims is a 100-question objective screening test to shortlist candidates for Mains. The Mains consists of multiple descriptive papers including General Studies, an optional subject from a list of disciplines, Kannada language, and English. The optional subject is chosen by candidates based on their academic background and allows deeper testing of subject expertise. Mains tests essay writing, analytical skills, and policy understanding in addition to factual knowledge.

General category candidates can attempt KPSC GP up to 6 times within the age limit of 35 years. OBC candidates get age relaxation to 38 years with unlimited attempts. SC and ST candidates can appear up to 40 years of age with no attempt restriction. Category-2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B OBC sub-groups in Karnataka have their own specific relaxations as per the Karnataka reservation policy. Candidates should verify the current notification for any revisions.