New Delhi: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has released the official notification for the UPSC Combined Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) Recruitment 2026 examination. This highly anticipated recruitment drive aims to fill positions for Assistant Commandants (Group 'A' Gazetted Officers) in various Central Armed Police Forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
For aspiring candidates, this represents a significant opportunity to join the ranks of India's central security establishment. The application process for the UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026 will begin shortly on the official website. Candidates can access the official notification details, eligibility criteria, and apply online through trusted platforms like Sarkari Result All at https://www.sarkariresultall.in/ once the application window opens.
The selection process for the UPSC CAPF 2026 examination is rigorous and multi-staged, evaluating candidates on their written knowledge, physical fitness, and personal suitability for leadership roles within the armed forces. Candidates must carefully review the notification to understand the detailed eligibility requirements for age, education, physical standards, and medical fitness before proceeding with their applications.
As per the typical examination schedule followed by the UPSC, the application window for the CAPF Assistant Commandants exam 2026 is expected to open in late April or early May 2026. The examination itself is traditionally conducted in August 2026. This timeline provides candidates with a substantial period for preparation, focusing on both the written test syllabus and the physical requirements.
The total number of vacancies will be specified in the official notification. Historically, the UPSC CAPF examination recruits several hundred Assistant Commandants annually across the five participating forces. Candidates are advised to download the official notification from the UPSC website or a reliable source like Sarkari Result All to confirm exact dates and vacancy distribution as soon as they are released.
Important Dates for UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026
Candidates preparing for the UPSC Combined Central Armed Police Force CAPF Recruitment 2026 should keep track of key dates to ensure they meet deadlines for application submission and examination preparation. Based on the 2026 calendar, the tentative schedule for the recruitment drive is provided below:
| Event | Expected Date for 2026 Cycle |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release Date | April 2026 (Tentative) |
| Application Start Date | April/May 2026 (Tentative) |
| Last Date to Apply Online | May 2026 (Tentative) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | May 2026 (Tentative) |
| Examination Date | August 2026 (Tentative) |
| Admit Card Release Date | July/August 2026 (Tentative) |
| Written Exam Result Date | October/November 2026 (Tentative) |
Note: The dates provided above are based on historical trends for the UPSC CAPF exam and are tentative for the 2026 cycle. Candidates must refer to the official notification for precise dates.
Application Process Overview
The application process for the UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026 is entirely online. Interested candidates must follow a specific procedure to successfully submit their application form.
Step 1: Registration and OTR (One Time Registration)
New candidates must first register on the UPSC's official portal. The UPSC requires all candidates to create an OTR profile before applying for any examination. This includes providing personal details, contact information, and educational qualifications. It is crucial to ensure all information provided during registration is accurate.
Step 2: Filling the Application Form
After registration, candidates can log in to access the application form for the CAPF Assistant Commandants examination 2026. The form consists of various sections, including personal information, educational background, and preferences for examination centers. Candidates must carefully select their choices, as changes may not be permitted later.
Step 3: Uploading Documents and Photographs
Candidates are required to upload scanned copies of their photograph and signature according to the specifications mentioned in the official notification. The image size and format must adhere strictly to the guidelines provided by UPSC to avoid rejection of the application.
Step 4: Fee Payment
The application fee for the UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026 must be paid online. The fee structure is typically Rs. 200 for General and OBC male candidates. Female candidates and candidates belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) categories are exempted from paying the application fee. Payment can be made using various online methods, including credit/debit cards, net banking, or through a challan at a designated bank.
Step 5: Final Submission and Printout
Once all sections are completed and the fee is paid, candidates must review the application form before final submission. It is advisable to take a printout of the final submitted form and the fee receipt for future reference. The confirmation page serves as proof of successful application.
Detailed Eligibility Criteria for UPSC CAPF 2026
To be eligible for the Combined Central Armed Police Force Recruitment 2026, candidates must meet specific criteria related to nationality, age, and education.
Nationality: A candidate must be either a citizen of India, a subject of Nepal, or a subject of Bhutan.
Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's degree from a university incorporated by an Act of the Central or State Legislature in India or other educational institutions established by an Act of Parliament or declared to be deemed as a University under Section 3 of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956.
Age Limit (as of 1st August 2026): The candidate must have attained the age of 20 years and must not have attained the age of 25 years. This means the candidate must have been born not earlier than 2nd August 2001 and not later than 1st August 2006.
Age Relaxation: The upper age limit is relaxable for candidates belonging to specific categories as follows:
- SC/ST candidates: Up to 5 years (i.e., maximum 30 years).
- OBC candidates: Up to 3 years (i.e., maximum 28 years).
- Ex-servicemen: Up to 5 years.
- Central Government servants: Up to 5 years for those who have rendered at least 3 years continuous service.
UPSC CAPF Selection Process 2026: Stages of Examination
The selection process for UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandants Recruitment 2026 involves three distinct stages. Candidates must qualify in each stage to proceed to the next.
Stage 1: Written Examination
The written examination consists of two papers, Paper I and Paper II, conducted on the same day in two separate sessions. Paper I is an objective-type multiple-choice question paper, while Paper II is descriptive in nature. Candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying marks in both papers as determined by the UPSC.
Stage 2: Physical Standards Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Candidates who qualify in the written examination are called for the PST and PET. This stage assesses the physical fitness and standards of the candidate as required for a demanding role in the central armed forces. Only those meeting the physical standards are allowed to participate in the PET events.
Stage 3: Interview/Personality Test and Medical Examination
Candidates who successfully clear the PST and PET stages are eligible for the medical examination. The medical test determines the candidate's physical fitness in terms of vision, hearing, and overall health. Following this, qualified candidates appear for the Interview/Personality Test, which assesses their leadership potential and suitability for the role of an Assistant Commandant.
Syllabus and Exam Pattern for UPSC CAPF 2026
Understanding the syllabus is paramount for successful preparation. The UPSC CAPF Written Examination is designed to test general knowledge, intellectual ability, and communication skills.
Paper I: General Ability and Intelligence (250 Marks)
This paper contains 125 multiple-choice questions, covering a broad range of subjects. The questions are designed to test the candidate's general awareness, analytical thinking, and reasoning skills. Key areas covered include:
- General Mental Ability: Reasoning ability, quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, and numerical skills.
- General Science: Basic scientific principles, everyday science, and technological developments.
- Current Events of National and International Importance: Knowledge of recent events in politics, economics, science, technology, sports, and culture.
- Indian Polity and Economy: Understanding of the Indian constitution, political system, public administration, and economic development of India.
- History of India: Indian freedom struggle, ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history.
- Indian and World Geography: Physical, social, and economic geography of India and the world.
Paper II: General Studies, Essay and Comprehension (200 Marks)
This paper is descriptive and requires candidates to demonstrate their writing and analytical skills. It consists of two parts:
- Part A: Essay Writing (80 Marks): Candidates are required to write essays on topics related to security, social issues, human rights, internal security challenges, and current affairs.
- Part B: Comprehension, Précis Writing, and other communication skills (120 Marks): This section evaluates the candidate's ability to comprehend passages, summarize information (précis writing), and use language accurately (grammar and vocabulary).
Physical Standards Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Details
Physical fitness is a critical component for recruitment as an Assistant Commandant. Candidates must meet the minimum physical standards before being allowed to attempt the physical efficiency tests.
Physical Standards (Minimum Requirements):
| Measurement | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height (Minimum) | 165 cm | 157 cm |
| Chest (Unexpanded) | 81 cm | Not Applicable |
| Chest (Expanded) | 86 cm (Minimum expansion of 5 cm) | Not Applicable |
Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Events:
| Event | 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 attempts) | 3.0 meters (3 attempts) |
| Shot Put (7.26 Kgs) | 4.5 meters (3 attempts) | Not Applicable |
Medical Standards for UPSC CAPF 2026
Candidates must ensure they meet the medical standards set by the UPSC for UPSC CAPF 2026 recruitment. The medical examination will test for distant vision, near vision, color perception, hearing, and overall physical and mental health.
Distant Vision Standard:
- Better Eye: 6/6 or 6/9
- Worse Eye: 6/12 or 6/9
Near Vision Standard:
- Better Eye: N6 (N8 for worse eye)
Candidates with specific conditions like knock knees, flat feet, squint eyes, or color blindness are generally considered medically unfit. The detailed medical standards are outlined in the official notification, and candidates are encouraged to verify their eligibility carefully before applying.
Preparation Strategy for UPSC CAPF 2026
A structured approach to preparation is essential to crack the UPSC CAPF 2026 examination. Candidates should devise a strategy that covers all aspects of the selection process. This involves creating a study plan for Paper I and Paper II, practicing mock tests, and maintaining a regular exercise routine to prepare for the physical tests.
Focus on current affairs, as they form a significant part of both Paper I and Paper II. Reading newspapers and magazines regularly will not only help in the objective paper but also provide valuable insights for essay writing. For Paper II, practicing essay writing on diverse topics and improving grammar and comprehension skills is key.
Given the highly competitive nature of the CAPF recruitment drive, candidates should start their preparation well in advance. The official notification and previous year question papers are invaluable resources for understanding the exam pattern and standard of questions asked by the UPSC.
Candidates seeking detailed information and updates regarding the UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026 are encouraged to regularly visit the official UPSC website and reliable job portals like Sarkari Result All at https://www.sarkariresultall.in/.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about UPSC CAPF 2026
1. What is the UPSC CAPF exam and what posts does it fill?
The UPSC CAPF exam (Combined Central Armed Police Force) is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit candidates for the post of Assistant Commandant (AC) in five different Central Armed Police Forces: BSF (Border Security Force), CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force), CISF (Central Industrial Security Force), ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police), and SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal).
2. What is the age limit for the UPSC CAPF 2026 recruitment?
The age limit for candidates applying for UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026 is between 20 and 25 years as of 1st August 2026. Age relaxation is applicable for candidates belonging to specific reserved categories (SC/ST, OBC) and ex-servicemen, as per government rules.
3. Is there negative marking in the UPSC CAPF written examination?
Yes, there is negative marking in Paper I of the UPSC CAPF written exam. For every incorrect answer marked by the candidate, one-third (1/3) of the marks allocated to that question will be deducted. Paper II, being descriptive, does not have negative marking.
4. What is the role of Sarkari Result All regarding this recruitment?
Sarkari Result All provides comprehensive information about government job notifications like the UPSC Combined Central Armed Police Force CAPF Recruitment 2026. It consolidates important dates, eligibility criteria, and links to the official application portal, making it easier for candidates to stay informed and apply on time.
5. What are the key stages of the selection process after the written exam?
After successfully clearing the written exam, candidates must qualify in the Physical Standards Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET), followed by the Medical Examination and finally the Interview/Personality Test. Only candidates who clear all stages are considered for the final merit list.
6. Can female candidates apply for the UPSC CAPF exam?
Yes, both male and female candidates are eligible to apply for the UPSC CAPF Recruitment 2026. The physical standards and physical efficiency tests differ slightly for male and female candidates, as specified in the official notification. Female candidates are exempt from the application fee.
7. Is a bachelor's degree required to apply for the UPSC CAPF exam?
Yes, a bachelor's degree from a recognized university or institution is the minimum educational qualification required to apply for the UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandants examination. Final year students are often allowed to apply, provided they submit proof of passing before the specified date in the notification.
8. What is the typical salary structure for an Assistant Commandant?
An Assistant Commandant (AC) typically starts at Pay Level 10 of the Pay Matrix as per the 7th Pay Commission. The basic pay starts around Rs. 56,100, plus various allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and other benefits applicable to government employees in Group 'A' posts, resulting in a significantly higher gross monthly income.