UPSC Central Armed Police Forces AC Exam 2026 Notification

UPSC Recruitment 2026 – Overview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the Central Armed Police Forces (Assistant Commandants) Examination 2026. Through this recruitment drive, a total of 349 vacancies will be filled in BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP and SSB. This is a prestigious Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officer post under the Ministry of Home Affairs. For candidates from Gujarat who aspire to serve the nation in uniformed services, this is a golden opportunity to secure a permanent Central Government job with leadership responsibilities. The written examination is scheduled to be held on 19 July 2026. Selected candidates will be appointed as Assistant Commandants and will undergo training as per force norms before active deployment across India.

Eligibility, Selection Process & Key Highlights

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university and must be aged between 20 to 25 years as on 1 August 2026 (born between 2 August 2001 and 1 August 2006). Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST, OBC, Ex-Servicemen and eligible Government servants as per rules. The selection process includes a Written Examination (Paper I – 250 Marks and Paper II – 200 Marks), Physical Standards Test (PST), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Interview/Personality Test (150 Marks) and Medical Examination. There is negative marking of one-third (0.33) marks for wrong answers in objective papers. The post offers attractive pay under Group ‘A’ level along with allowances, career growth, and national service exposure, making it highly rewarding for serious aspirants.

About Important Dates of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The application window for UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandants Recruitment 2026 opened on 20 February 2026 and will remain active until 12 March 2026 (6:00 PM). Candidates must complete registration and fee payment within this deadline, as no extension or correction facility is provided after final submission. The written examination is scheduled for 19 July 2026. Admit Cards will be released on the official UPSC online portal (https://upsconline.nic.in) during the last working day of the week preceding the exam. Aspirants are strongly advised not to wait for the last date due to heavy server traffic and potential transaction failures. Applying early ensures sufficient time for document verification, photo upload compliance, and successful fee confirmation.

About Application Fees of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The prescribed registration fee for General, OBC, and EWS candidates is Rs. 200/-. However, all Female candidates and candidates belonging to SC/ST categories are exempted from payment of fees. The payment must be made through approved online modes such as Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI only. No offline payment mode is accepted. The registration fee is strictly non-refundable under any circumstances and cannot be reserved for future examinations. In case of transaction failure, candidates should verify bank confirmation before attempting another payment to avoid duplicate deductions. It is highly recommended to keep a copy of the payment receipt and transaction reference number for future communication with UPSC.

About Vacancy Details of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The total seats announced for Assistant Commandants under UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026 are 349, distributed among BSF (108), CRPF (106), CISF (70), SSB (53) and ITBP (12). This is considered a moderate to high vacancy cycle compared to some previous years, especially with over 100 posts each in BSF and CRPF. Competition remains intense due to the prestige of the Group ‘A’ post and all-India eligibility. Reservation benefits for SC, ST, OBC, EWS and Ex-Servicemen categories are applicable as per Government of India rules, and 10% of the total seats are specifically reserved for Ex-Servicemen. Final allocation of force depends on merit rank and preference filled in the application form.

About Eligibility Criteria of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The Assistant Commandant qualification requires a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. “Recognized University” means an institution established by an Act of Parliament or State Legislature or declared as Deemed University under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956. Candidates in final year can apply but must submit valid proof of passing before the deadline prescribed after the written result. The age limit for UPSC CAPF is strictly calculated as on 01 August 2026, and date of birth must match the Matriculation/Secondary certificate. Any mismatch can lead to rejection. Candidates must also fulfill strict physical and medical standards, which are mandatory for final appointment.

About Category Wise Posts of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The total 349 seats under UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandants Recruitment 2026 are distributed as per Central Government reservation norms. Category-wise distribution for UR, EWS, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), SC and ST is strictly applied according to Government policy. Additionally, 10% of the total vacancies are reserved for Ex-Servicemen. Candidates must ensure that they possess valid and updated category certificates such as OBC Non-Creamy Layer certificate issued within the prescribed financial year or a valid EWS Income & Asset Certificate. Incorrect category selection in the application form may lead to cancellation of candidature, and category changes are generally not permitted after submission. Category-wise distribution directly affects cut-off marks, as each category has separate merit consideration.

About Exam Pattern of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The UPSC CAPF selection process is multi-stage and requires both academic preparation and physical fitness. Stage I is a merit-based Written Examination consisting of Objective and Descriptive papers. Paper I carries negative marking, so candidates must focus on accuracy. Only those who qualify Paper I will have Paper II evaluated. Stage II and III include Physical Standards Test and Physical Efficiency Test, which are qualifying in nature but mandatory. The Interview/Personality Test carries 150 marks and significantly influences final ranking. The final merit list is prepared based on Written + Interview marks. Candidates should prepare strategically, balancing current affairs, analytical writing, and physical endurance training.

About Physical Eligibility Criteria of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The Assistant Commandant post is a field and leadership-based position in Central Armed Police Forces; therefore, strict physical and medical standards are mandatory. Candidates must carefully measure their height and chest (for males) before applying. Height is recorded up to one decimal point, and even 0.1 cm below the prescribed limit can lead to disqualification. The Physical Efficiency Test (PET) includes running events, long jump and shot put, which require advance preparation and endurance training. Female candidates must submit a self-declaration regarding pregnancy status before PST/PET. After qualifying written examination, candidates undergo Physical Standards Test, Physical Efficiency Test, and later Medical Examination where eyesight and overall fitness are examined as per prescribed standards.

About Salary of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The salary for Assistant Commandants falls under Pay Matrix Level 10 of the 7th Central Pay Commission with a basic pay of Rs. 56,100. With allowances such as DA, HRA, Transport Allowance, and Risk/Hardship Allowance, the gross monthly salary becomes significantly higher depending on posting location. The “in-hand” salary may vary after deductions like Provident Fund and income tax. Apart from monthly pay, officers receive medical facilities, pension benefits under NPS, leave encashment, and promotional opportunities. With time-bound increments and promotions to Deputy Commandant and higher ranks, this career offers long-term financial stability and leadership growth under Central Government service.

About Syllabus of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The UPSC CAPF syllabus is comprehensive and designed to test both intellectual ability and leadership potential. Paper I is objective and includes negative marking, so accuracy is extremely important. Sections like Current Affairs, Polity and History are high-scoring if prepared consistently through newspapers and standard books. Quantitative Aptitude and Logical Reasoning require regular practice to improve speed. Paper II is descriptive and tests analytical writing skills, especially Essay and Precis. Many candidates underestimate Paper II, but it plays a crucial role in final merit. Regular answer writing practice and strong command over English grammar can significantly improve performance in the comprehension and language section.

About How to Fill Application Form for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The application process for UPSC CAPF 2026 is completely online and divided into modules. Candidates must first generate a Universal Registration Number (URN), which remains valid for future exams. A common mistake many applicants make is uploading unclear photographs or signatures that do not meet the size guidelines. Ensure your email ID and mobile number are active, as all communication including e-Admit Card updates is sent electronically. Carefully select your examination centre and service preferences before final submission because corrections are not allowed later. Always keep a printout and payment receipt, as these may be required during Physical Tests, Interview, or document verification stages.

About Mode of Selection for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

The selection process for UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandants 2026 is multi-layered and highly competitive. The written examination carries 450 marks and acts as the primary merit-determining stage. Only candidates who qualify Paper I will have Paper II evaluated. After clearing the written stage, candidates must pass Physical Standards and Physical Efficiency Tests, which are qualifying but mandatory. The Interview/Personality Test carries 150 marks and plays a crucial role in final ranking. The final merit list is prepared based on total marks of Written Examination and Interview. Medical examination is mandatory before appointment. Candidates must stay mentally prepared for each stage and maintain consistent preparation throughout the process.

About Documents Required for Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Recruitment 2026

Document verification is a critical stage where many candidates face rejection due to minor errors. Candidates must produce original certificates along with self-attested photocopies. The date of birth mentioned in the Matriculation certificate must match the details filled in the application form. Any mismatch in name between Aadhaar and educational certificates should be corrected before verification. OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) and EWS certificates must be valid for the prescribed financial year and issued within the notified date range; otherwise, reservation benefits will not be granted. Candidates should keep multiple photocopies and safely preserve the application printout and fee receipt for future stages.

Beyond the standard recruitment details, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) notification contains several crucial points that candidates must thoroughly understand before proceeding with their application:

Career Implications and Nature of Appointment

The post of Assistant Commandant under the Central Armed Police Forces is a permanent Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officer position under the Government of India. This is not a contractual or fixed-pay role. Once selected and successfully completing training and probation, candidates become regular officers in forces such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP or SSB. The pay structure follows the 7th Central Pay Commission, which ensures structured annual increments, dearness allowance revisions, and promotional avenues. Over time, officers can rise to higher ranks such as Deputy Commandant, Commandant and beyond, depending on service record and departmental promotions. This career provides pension benefits under the National Pension System (NPS), job security, housing facilities and medical coverage. However, candidates must understand that the role involves operational responsibility, field postings and leadership under challenging conditions. It is not a desk-based job. Those applying should be mentally prepared for disciplined service life, command responsibilities and long-term commitment to national security.

Specific Physical, Medical and Qualification Requirements

The authority has clearly prescribed minimum physical and medical standards because the role demands operational readiness. Height, chest expansion (for males), weight proportion and vision standards are strictly measured. Even a minor shortfall in height or chest measurement can lead to disqualification during Physical Standards Test. Vision standards such as 6/6 or 6/9 corrected eyesight and permissible refractive limits are checked during Medical Examination. These requirements exist because Assistant Commandants lead armed personnel in sensitive border, internal security and industrial protection duties. Educational qualification must be a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university as defined under UGC rules. Candidates appearing in final year can apply, but they must produce proof of passing within the prescribed timeline after the written result. The commission also verifies date of birth strictly based on Matriculation certificate only. Candidates should cross-check their eligibility well in advance and not assume relaxation beyond what is officially permitted.

Operational Realities, Posting and Service Conditions

Assistant Commandants are liable to serve anywhere in India depending on force requirements. Postings can include border areas, conflict-prone regions, industrial installations, airports or remote terrains. Transfers are part of service conditions and are governed by internal force policies. Officers may initially undergo rigorous training at designated academies before being posted to battalions or units. The job involves field inspections, operational planning, supervision of personnel and sometimes participation in active operations. Working hours may not follow a standard office schedule. Emergency deployment and all-weather duty are part of the role. Candidates should also note that service allocation is based on merit position and preferences filled during application. Therefore, higher rank improves chances of getting preferred force. Understanding the operational nature helps candidates prepare mentally for disciplined lifestyle, hierarchical structure and public accountability that comes with holding a commissioned officer rank.

Documentation Nuances and Common Application Mistakes

Many candidates lose opportunities due to avoidable documentation errors. All category certificates such as OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) and EWS must be issued within the specified financial year and in the prescribed format. Old certificates or state-format certificates not aligned with central government guidelines may be rejected. Names in Aadhaar, degree certificate and application form must match exactly. Even minor spelling differences can create complications during verification. Candidates should keep both original documents and multiple self-attested photocopies ready. Photograph and signature uploads must follow exact size and clarity instructions. Blurred images or incorrect live photo capture may result in rejection. It is also important to retain the Universal Registration Number (URN) and Application Number for future communication. During physical and interview stages, candidates may again be required to present original documents. A careful review of every detail before final submission can prevent last-minute disqualification and unnecessary stress.