The main role of surface sizing of linerboard is to improve surface and strength properties. Since surface sizing solution is applied on once dried web, substantial amount of drying energy is required. Saving of the drying energy associated with surface sizing can be made by increasing the solids content of the starch solution in size press. Therefore, it is highly desirable to develop low viscosity starches for surface sizing. A low viscosity oxidized starch was prepared and compared its effect of surface sizing with a conventional oxidised starch. Results showed increase in solids content of the starch solution decreased evaporation energy and drying time. Low viscosity starch penetrated deeper into paper and this improve various mechanical properties of linerboard.