Are you aspiring to serve your nation as a dignified officer in one of the prestigious Central Armed Police Forces? The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced the recruitment of Assistant Commandants (Group A) for the year 2026. This comprehensive job opportunity provides a pathway for talented individuals to join the ranks of BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB, earning an esteemed position in India’s security apparatus. This job description details all necessary information about the recruitment process, eligibility criteria, examination stages, application procedures, and more, ensuring candidates are well-informed and prepared to embark on this esteemed career journey.
UPSC Assistant Commandants (Group A) Recruitment 2026 Overview
The UPSC has officially released the notification for Assistant Commandants (Group A) in the Central Armed Police Forces for 2026. A total of 349 vacancies have been announced spanning various forces, with an open and competitive selection process. Here are the essential details:
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release Date | 20th February 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 20th February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 12th March 2026, till 18:00 hours |
| Examination Date | 19th July 2026 |
| Official Website | www.upsc.gov.in, upsconline.nic.in |
| Post Name | Assistant Commandants (Group A) in BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB |
| Total Vacancies | 349 (tentative, subject to change) |
| Salary | Group A pay scale (details not specified in notification), with allowances as per Government norms |
Vacancy Distribution Among Forces
The recruitment drive encompasses vacancies across five key forces, with the following distribution:
| S.No. | Force Name | Number of Vacancies | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Border Security Force (BSF) | 108 | |
| 2 | Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) | 106 | |
| 3 | Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) | 70 | |
| 4 | Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) | 53 | |
| 5 | Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) | 12 | |
| Total | 349 | ||
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality & Citizenship
Applicants must be citizens of India. With the prior written consent of the Central Government, subjects of Nepal and Bhutan may also be considered for appointment.
Gender and Age Criteria
Both male and female candidates are eligible. The age limits as on 01-08-2026 are:
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General | 20 years (born on or before 01-08-2006) | 25 years (born on or after 02-08-2001) |
| SC/ST | Relaxation of up to 5 years | |
| OBC | Relaxation of up to 3 years | |
| Civilian Central Government Servants & Ex-Servicemen | Relaxation up to 5 years (as per rules) |
Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university or deemed university in India. The education must be recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).” Candidates who have appeared for their final exams and expect results before the application deadline are also eligible. However, proof of passing (degree certificate or final mark sheet) must be submitted within the specified period.
Important Notes:
- Degree/diploma obtained via distance learning or part-time courses is not considered valid.
- Candidates with professional or technical qualifications recognized as equivalent to degrees are eligible.
- In exceptional cases, the Commission may consider candidates without the specified qualifications if they meet equivalent standards.
Compensation and Benefits
The selected candidates will serve as Assistant Commandants within the Central Armed Police Forces, remunerated as per the Government of India’s pay scales for Group A officers. Though specifics are not disclosed, they will receive various allowances and benefits in accordance with government policies, including medical, housing, and leave entitlements.
Selection Process
Stage 1: Written Examination
The first step involves a two-paper written test held on 19th July 2026.
Paper-I: General Ability and Intelligence
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Marks | 250 |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Type | Objective (Multiple Choice questions) |
| Subjects Covered | Logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, data interpretation, science, current affairs, Indian polity & economy, history, geography |
| Negative Marking | Yes, 1/3 mark deducted per wrong answer |
Paper-II: General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Marks | 200 (Long Essay: 80 marks, Language & comprehension: 120 marks) |
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Type | Conventional (Descriptive) |
| Language | Essay: Hindi or English; Comprehension: English only |
| Threshold | Minimum qualifying marks in each paper as per UPSC norms |
Stage 2: Physical Standards & Efficiency Tests
Candidates who qualify the written test are called for Physical Standards and Efficiency Tests as per the specifications below.
Physical Standards
| Gender | Height | Chest (Unexpanded / Minimum Expansion) | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men | 165 cm | 81 cm / 5 cm | 50 kg |
| Women | 157 cm | N/A | 46 kg |
Physical Efficiency Tests
| Gender | 100 m Sprint | 800 m Race | Long Jump | Shot Put (men only) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men | 16 sec | 3 min 45 sec | 3.5 meters | 4.5 meters |
| Women | 18 sec | 4 min 45 sec | 3.0 meters | N/A |
Female candidates must declare pregnancy status beforehand.
Stage 3: Interview / Personality Test
Only candidates clearing the PST/PET will be called for a comprehensive interview, carrying 150 marks. Candidates with NCC ‘B’ or ‘C’ certificates will be given consideration here.
Stage 4: Medical Standards Tests (MST)
This stage assesses health and fitness, including eyesight, hearing, dental, and general health conditions. Correction procedures like LASIK are permitted if they meet prescribed standards. Final appointment depends on medical fitness.
Application Process
Applicants must apply exclusively online through the official UPSC portal. The process involves four modules:
- Account Creation: Register your details to generate a unique login.
- Universal Registration Number (URN): Generated upon registration, used across all UPSC exams.
- Common Application Form (CAF): Fill in personal and academic details.
- Examination Specific Module: Select exam-specific options, including preferences and pay the fee.
Documentation Required
- Recent passport-size color photograph (.jpg, 20-200 KB)
- Signature (signed thrice on plain white paper, .jpg, 20-100 KB)
- Live photograph during form filling
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, Driving License)
- Birth certificate or secondary school leaving certificate
- Educational certificates and mark sheets
- Category certificates (SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
- OBC certificate based on recent income proof
- EWS certificate based on income criteria
- Certificates and Undertakings for Ex-servicemen, if applicable
Steps to Apply
- Create an account on upsconline.nic.in
- Register and generate your URN
- Fill in the CAF with accurate details
- Upload necessary documents in prescribed formats
- Pay application fee via Net Banking, credit/debit card, or UPI (if applicable)
- Choose examination centers and force preferences (first-come-first-serve basis)
- Review all details before final submission
- Save or print the confirmation for future reference
Important Dates
| Event | Date / Time |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 20th February 2026 |
| Start of Application | 20th February 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application | 12th March 2026, 18:00 hours |
| **Written Examination** | 19th July 2026 |
| Admit Card Download | Last week of June 2026 (last working day) |
| Physical and Medical Tests | Post-exam, as per schedule |
| Final Results & Merit List | To be announced after all stages |
How to Prepare for the Exam
Successful candidates should focus on comprehensive preparation covering the exam syllabus. Regular practice of mock tests, understanding current affairs, brushing up history, geography, polity, basic science, and language skills will greatly enhance performance. Additionally, physical fitness training is crucial for PST/PET stages.
Useful Resources
Candidates are encouraged to review the official notification PDF here for detailed instructions. Joining official Telegram, WhatsApp channels, and using government guidance materials will also aid in preparation.
Conclusion
The UPSC Assistant Commandants Recruitment 2026 offers a prestigious career in India’s central police services. Proper understanding of eligibility, a strategic preparation plan, and timely application submission are key to success. Stay updated with official notifications and adhere strictly to application deadlines. This opportunity not only promises a respected position but also the chance to serve and protect the nation with honor.