The OICL AO prelims shift timings 2025-26 are 4:35 PM to 5:35 PM. The OICL Administrative Officer Tier I exam is scheduled to be conducted on 10th Jan, 2026. Candidates who are likely to appear on the OICL AO prelims examination can check the shift timings, exam duration, reporting time, and details given here. Candidates should arrive at the exam venue at least 15 minutes before the reporting time specified on their admit card. The total time duration allotted for the exam is 60 minutes. The OICL AO prelims exam includes three sections, namely, English Language, Reasoning Ability, and Quantitative Aptitude. In the prelims exam, for each wrong answer marked, one-fourth of the marks assigned to the question will be deducted as a penalty. The total marks for the OICL AO prelims exam are 100. Check this article to know the complete details of the OICL AO exam timings.

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OICL AO Prelims Shift Timings 2025 - 26

The OICL  AO exam will be conducted in a single shift. Candidates can check the detailed exam timings here.

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OICL AO Prelims Exam Pattern

Check the complete OICL AO prelims exam pattern for both generalists and Hindi Officers from the table below.

OICL AO Prelims Exam Timings 2025-26 Section Wise

Here are some important points regarding the OICL AO prelims exam timings section wise.

• The OICL AO prelims examination will be conducted for 60 minutes (1 hour).

• Totally 3 sections are in this exam, namely, English Language, Reasoning Ability, and Quantitative Aptitude.

• The time duration of the English Language section is 20 minutes. The total number of questions is 30, and the total marks are 30.

• The time duration of the Reasoning Ability section is 20 minutes. The total number of questions is 35, and the total marks are 35.

• The time duration of the Quantitative Aptitude section is 20 minutes. The total number of questions is 35, and the total marks are 35.

Importance of Knowing the OICL AO Prelims Exam Timings

Being aware of the OICL AO Prelims 2025 shift timings (scheduled for January 10, 2026) is essential for smooth exam planning and effective performance.

• Knowing your shift helps with logistical arrangements, such as planning travel and reaching the exam centre well before the reporting time mentioned on the call letter to complete entry and security checks without hassle.

• Shift timings also support better exam-day management, allowing candidates to plan their pace across Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and English within the 60-minute duration.

• From a preparation perspective, aligning mock tests with the actual exam slot helps simulate real exam conditions, while focused revision ensures coverage of key areas like puzzles, reading comprehension, and data interpretation.

• Additionally, being familiar with the timings improves mental readiness, reduces last-minute stress, and helps verify details printed on the admit card.

• Overall, understanding shift timings anchors both exam-day logistics and final preparation, ensuring candidates remain calm, punctual, and fully focused on performing well in this qualifying examination.

FAQs

Here are some of the common FAQs listed below.

The shift timings for OICL AO prelims 2025-26 are 4:35 PM to 5:35 PM.

Q: How many shifts will the OICL AO Prelims exam be conducted in?

The OICL AO prelims exam will be conducted in a single shift.

Q: What time should candidates arrive at the exam venue as per the instructions on the admit card?

As there is only a single shift, candidates should arrive at the exam venue on or before 3:30 PM.

Q: What is the total duration for the OICL AO prelims exam?

The total duration for the OICL AO prelims exam is 60 minutes (1 hour).