UPSC CAPF AC Exam 2026: Complete Guide to Exam Pattern, Eligibility, and Detailed Syllabus

The UPSC CAPF AC Exam is one of the most prestigious competitive examinations in India conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The examination recruits candidates for the post of Assistant Commandant (AC) in various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). Every year, thousands of aspirants compete to secure a leadership role in India’s paramilitary forces through this examination.

If you are preparing for the UPSC CAPF AC Exam 2026, this comprehensive guide will provide detailed information about the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, syllabus, selection process, physical standards, preparation strategy, and more.

What is the UPSC CAPF AC Exam?

The UPSC CAPF AC (Assistant Commandant) Examination is conducted annually to recruit officers in the Central Armed Police Forces. The selected candidates are appointed as Assistant Commandants (Group A Gazetted Officers) in the following forces:

• Border Security Force (BSF)
• Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
• Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
• Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
• Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)

These forces play a crucial role in maintaining internal security, border security, counter-insurgency operations, industrial security, and disaster response.

The post of Assistant Commandant is equivalent to the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in state police services. It is a highly respected and challenging position that demands physical fitness, mental strength, and leadership capabilities.

UPSC CAPF AC Exam Overview

Here is a brief overview of the examination:

• Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
• Post: Assistant Commandant (AC)
• Forces: BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB
• Exam Level: National
• Mode of Examination: Offline (Pen and Paper Based)
• Selection Process: Written Exam + Physical Tests + Interview
• Frequency: Once a year

UPSC CAPF AC Exam Eligibility Criteria

Understanding eligibility criteria is the first step before applying for the exam. The eligibility conditions include nationality, age limit, educational qualification, and physical standards.

1. Nationality

A candidate must be:

• A citizen of India, or
• A subject of Nepal, or
• A subject of Bhutan

However, certain categories may require eligibility certificates issued by the Government of India.

2. Age Limit

• Minimum Age: 20 years
• Maximum Age: 25 years

The candidate must have attained 20 years and must not have attained 25 years as of the specified date mentioned in the notification.

Age Relaxation

Age relaxation is applicable as per government rules:

• SC/ST: 5 years
• OBC: 3 years
• Civilian Central Government Servants: 5 years
• Ex-Servicemen: 5 years

3. Educational Qualification

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution. Final-year students can also apply, provided they submit proof of passing before the final selection.

There is no specific subject requirement. Graduates from any stream — Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering — are eligible to apply.

4. Physical Standards

Since CAPF is a uniformed service, physical fitness is mandatory.

Height Requirement

• Male: 165 cm
• Female: 157 cm

Height relaxations are provided for certain categories such as ST candidates.

Chest (For Male Candidates Only)

• Unexpanded: 81 cm
• Expansion: Minimum 5 cm

Weight

Proportionate to height and age as per medical standards.

UPSC CAPF AC Exam Pattern

The UPSC CAPF AC Exam is conducted in three stages:

1. Written Examination
2. Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Medical Standards Test
3. Interview/Personality Test

Let us understand each stage in detail.

Stage 1: Written Examination

The written examination consists of two papers conducted on the same day.

Paper I: General Ability and Intelligence

• Type: Objective (Multiple Choice Questions)
• Marks: 250
• Duration: 2 Hours
• Medium: English and Hindi
• Negative Marking: Yes (1/3rd deduction)

This paper tests the candidate’s general mental ability, awareness, and reasoning skills.

Paper II: General Studies, Essay and Comprehension

• Type: Descriptive
• Marks: 200
• Duration: 3 Hours
• Medium: Essay in English or Hindi; Comprehension in English only

This paper evaluates writing ability, analytical skills, and understanding of current issues.

Total Written Marks: 450

Candidates must qualify in Paper I to have Paper II evaluated.

Stage 2: Physical Efficiency Test (PET)

Candidates who clear the written examination are called for PET.

Physical Efficiency Test for Male Candidates:

• 100 meters race in 16 seconds
• 800 meters race in 3 minutes 45 seconds
• Long jump: 3.5 meters (3 chances)
• Shot put (7.26 kg): 4.5 meters

Physical Efficiency Test for Female Candidates:

• 100 meters race in 18 seconds
• 800 meters race in 4 minutes 45 seconds
• Long jump: 3.0 meters (3 chances)

Stage 3: Interview/Personality Test

• Marks: 150

Candidates who clear PET and medical standards appear for the interview conducted by UPSC.

The interview assesses:

• Leadership qualities
• Mental alertness
• Decision-making ability
• Moral integrity
• Communication skills

Final Merit

Final merit is prepared based on:

• Written Exam (450 marks)
• Interview (150 marks)

Total = 600 marks

Detailed UPSC CAPF AC Syllabus

The syllabus of UPSC CAPF AC is vast and requires strategic preparation.

Paper I Syllabus: General Ability and Intelligence

1. General Mental Ability

• Logical reasoning
• Quantitative aptitude
• Numerical ability
• Data interpretation
• Analytical ability

2. General Science

• General awareness
• Scientific temper
• Everyday science
• Basic Physics, Chemistry, Biology

3. Current Events of National and International Importance

• National security
• Defence exercises
• Government policies
• International relations

4. Indian Polity and Economy

• Constitution of India
• Political system
• Panchayati Raj
• Economic development
• Planning
• Social systems

5. History of India

• Ancient India
• Medieval India
• Modern India
• Indian freedom struggle

6. Indian and World Geography

• Physical geography
• Economic geography
• Social geography
• Environmental issues

Paper II Syllabus: General Studies, Essay & Comprehension

1. Essay Writing

Candidates must write essays on topics related to:

• Modern Indian history
• Polity and governance
• Security issues
• Human rights
• Social issues
• International relations

2. Comprehension and Communication Skills

• Reading comprehension
• Precis writing
• Developing counter-arguments
• Grammar and vocabulary

Selection Process Explained in Detail

The selection process ensures that only capable and physically fit candidates become Assistant Commandants.

Written Exam

The written exam filters candidates based on academic and analytical skills.

Physical & Medical Tests

The Physical Efficiency Test ensures stamina and strength. The Medical Standards Test checks:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Overall physical health
• Absence of deformities

Interview Stage

The personality test assesses leadership and suitability for paramilitary service.

Salary and Career Growth of Assistant Commandant

The Assistant Commandant position comes under Pay Level 10.

• Basic Pay: ₹56,100 per month
• Allowances: DA, HRA, Transport Allowance, Risk Allowance
• Gross Salary: ₹70,000–₹90,000 (approx.)

Promotions

• Deputy Commandant
• Second-in-Command
• Commandant
• DIG
• IG
• Additional DG
• DG

Preparation Strategy for UPSC CAPF AC Exam

To crack the UPSC CAPF AC exam, a disciplined and structured approach is required.

1. Understand the Syllabus

Go through the official notification carefully and align preparation accordingly.

2. Strengthen Basics

Focus on NCERT books for History, Geography, Polity, and Science.

3. Practice Previous Year Papers

Solve at least 10 years of previous papers to understand patterns and difficulty levels.

4. Improve Physical Fitness

Start running, strength training, and endurance exercises early.

5. Work on Writing Skills

Practice essays and precis regularly to score high in Paper II.

Important Books for UPSC CAPF AC Preparation

Some recommended books include:

• Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth
• Spectrum Modern History
• NCERT Books (Class 6–12)
• Lucent’s General Knowledge

Why Choose UPSC CAPF AC?

The UPSC CAPF AC exam offers:

• Prestigious Group A officer post
• Leadership role in national security
• Attractive salary and allowances
• Job stability
• Opportunities for deputation and international assignments

Conclusion

The UPSC CAPF AC Exam is an excellent opportunity for young graduates who aspire to serve the nation in a uniformed leadership role. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, the exam demands a strong academic foundation, physical fitness, mental toughness, and leadership potential.

With a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and detailed syllabus, candidates can build an effective preparation strategy. Consistent study, regular physical training, and mock practice are key to success.

If you aim to wear the uniform of BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, or SSB as an Assistant Commandant, start your preparation early and stay committed to your goal. Success in the UPSC CAPF AC Exam is not just about clearing a test. It is about preparing yourself for a life of responsibility, courage, and service to the nation.