UPSC CAPF AC Recruitment 2026: Notification, Eligibility, and Application Process
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the UPSC CAPF AC Recruitment 2026. This is a prestigious opportunity for graduates across India to join the Central Armed Police Forces as Assistant Commandants (Group A officers). If you aspire to serve the nation in forces like BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB, this recruitment drive is your gateway to a rewarding career.
The 2026 recruitment cycle aims to fill 349 vacancies. In this comprehensive guide, we provide everything you need to know, including important dates, eligibility criteria, the selection process, and the detailed exam pattern.
UPSC CAPF AC 2026 Overview
The Assistant Commandant (AC) position is a permanent job with an All-India service liability. Below are the key highlights of the recruitment:
- Organization: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Post Name: Assistant Commandant (AC)
- Total Vacancies: 349
- Monthly Salary: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 (As per 7th CPC)
- Job Location: Anywhere in India
- Application Mode: Online
Important Dates for UPSC CAPF AC 2026
Staying updated with the timeline is crucial for a successful application. Ensure you complete your registration before the deadline.
- Notification Release: To be announced (2026)
- Start Date for Online Application: To be announced (2026)
- Last Date to Apply: To be announced (2026) by 06:00 PM
- Exam Date: To be announced (2026)
- Admit Card Availability: Usually 2-3 weeks before the exam
Application Fees
Candidates can pay the examination fee through online modes such as Net Banking, Debit/Credit Cards, or UPI.
- General / OBC / EWS: ₹200/-
- SC / ST / Female (All Categories): Exempted (₹0/-)
Vacancy Distribution by Department
The 349 vacancies are distributed among the various wings of the Central Armed Police Forces as follows:
| Force Name | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Border Security Force (BSF) | 108 |
| Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) | 106 |
| Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) | 70 |
| Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) | 12 |
| Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) | 53 |
| Total | 349 |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institution. Candidates appearing in their final year may also apply, provided they produce proof of passing at the time of the interview.
Age Limit (As of 2026)
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 25 Years
- Age Relaxation: Standard relaxation applies to SC/ST (5 years) and OBC (3 years) candidates as per government norms.
UPSC CAPF AC Selection Process
The selection process is rigorous and designed to test both the mental and physical capabilities of the candidates. It consists of four main stages:
- Written Examination: Two papers (Paper I and Paper II).
- Physical Standards & Physical Efficiency Test (PET/PST): Qualifying in nature.
- Interview / Personality Test: Conducted for 150 marks.
- Medical Examination: To ensure the candidate meets the required health standards.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Paper I: General Ability and Intelligence
- Type: Objective (Multiple Choice Questions)
- Marks: 250
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd of the marks assigned to the question.
- Topics: General Science, Current Affairs, Indian Polity, Economy, History of India, and World Geography.
Paper II: General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension
- Type: Subjective (Descriptive)
- Marks: 200
- Duration: 3 Hours
- Structure: Part A (Essay in English or Hindi – 80 Marks) and Part B (Comprehension, Précis, and Counter Argument in English only – 120 Marks).
Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Standards
Candidates who clear the written exam must meet the following physical requirements:
| Activity | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| 100 Meters Race | 16 Seconds | 18 Seconds |
| 800 Meters Race | 3 Minutes 45 Seconds | 4 Minutes 45 Seconds |
| Long Jump | 3.5 Meters (3 chances) | 3.0 Meters (3 chances) |
| Shot Put (7.26 Kg) | 4.5 Meters | Not Applicable |
Important Links
| Link Name | Access |
|---|---|
| Apply Online for UPSC CAPF AC 2026 | Open Registration Portal |
| Download Official Notification PDF | Download PDF |
| Visit UPSC Official Website | Visit Website |
| Read Official Disclaimer | View Disclaimer |
Conclusion
The UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandant Recruitment 2026 is a golden opportunity for those who dream of a career in the uniformed services. With 349 vacancies across various forces, the competition will be high. Candidates are advised to start their preparation early, focusing on both the written syllabus and physical fitness. Always refer to the official notification for the most accurate and updated details before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the qualification for UPSC CAPF AC 2026?
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.
2. Is there any negative marking in the CAPF AC exam?
Yes, Paper I has a negative marking of 1/3rd for every wrong answer. Paper II is descriptive and does not have negative marking.
3. Can females apply for the Assistant Commandant post?
Yes, female candidates are eligible to apply for the UPSC CAPF AC recruitment and are exempt from paying the application fee.
4. What is the age limit for General category candidates?
The age limit is 20 to 25 years. However, age relaxation is provided to reserved categories as per government rules.