CAPF (AC) 2026
The Central Armed Police Forces Assistant Commandant (CAPF AC) Examination 2026 is one of the most prestigious competitive examinations conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). According to the official schedule, UPSC will release the CAPF (AC) 2026 notification on 24 April 2026. This examination offers young graduates an opportunity to serve the nation as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers in India’s paramilitary forces.
The CAPF Assistant Commandant role combines leadership, discipline, and administrative responsibility. Selected candidates are appointed in forces such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB, where they play a vital role in internal security, border management, and national safety.
Overview of CAPF (Assistant Commandant) Examination 2026
The CAPF (AC) exam is conducted annually by UPSC to recruit officers at the rank of Assistant Commandant. It is a multi-stage examination involving a written test, physical standards test, physical efficiency test, medical examination, and interview/personality test.
This examination is highly competitive and demands a balanced preparation strategy that includes academic knowledge, physical fitness, and mental resilience.
Key Highlights of CAPF (AC) 2026
- Exam Name: CAPF (Assistant Commandant) Examination 2026
- Conducting Authority: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Post Name: Assistant Commandant (Group ‘A’)
- Notification Release Date: 24 April 2026
- Exam Mode: Offline (Written Exam)
- Job Location: Across India
- Selection Process: Written Exam, Physical Tests, Medical Test, Interview
- Salary Level: Level 10 (7th Pay Commission)
CAPF (AC) 2026 Important Dates
The following table provides the expected timeline for the CAPF Assistant Commandant 2026 recruitment process.
CAPF (AC) 2026 Important Dates Table
| Event | Important Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | 24 April 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | April 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | May 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | July 2026 |
| Written Examination Date | August 2026 |
| Physical & Medical Tests | September–October 2026 |
| Interview / Personality Test | November 2026 |
| Final Result Declaration | December 2026 |
Candidates should regularly check updates and complete the application process well before the deadline.
Forces Under CAPF (AC) Recruitment
Selected candidates may be appointed as Assistant Commandants 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)
Each force has a distinct operational role, but the rank, salary, and service conditions remain largely similar.
Eligibility Criteria for CAPF (AC) 2026
Candidates must fulfill educational qualification, age limit, and nationality requirements to apply for CAPF Assistant Commandant 2026.
CAPF (AC) Eligibility Criteria Table
| Eligibility Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Graduation in any discipline |
| Minimum Age | 20 years |
| Maximum Age | 25 years |
| Age Relaxation | Applicable as per rules |
| Nationality | Indian citizen |
| Physical Standards | Mandatory |
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- Final-year students can apply, provided they produce proof of qualification during document verification
Age Limit and Relaxation
The age is calculated as per the cut-off date mentioned in the official notification.
Age Relaxation Details
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| Civilian Central Govt. Servants | Up to 5 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per UPSC norms |
Nationality Criteria
- Candidate must be a citizen of India
Physical Standards for CAPF (AC) 2026
Physical fitness is a crucial requirement for CAPF Assistant Commandant posts.
Height Requirements
| Category | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| General | 165 cm | 157 cm |
| ST | 162.5 cm | 155 cm |
Chest Measurement (Male Only)
- Unexpanded: 81 cm
- Minimum Expansion: 5 cm
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Candidates who qualify the written examination are called for PET.
PET Events
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
For Female Candidates
- 100 meters race in 18 seconds
- 800 meters race in 4 minutes 45 seconds
- Long jump: 3 meters (3 chances)
- Shot put (4 kg): 3 meters
CAPF (AC) 2026 Selection Process
The selection process consists of multiple stages to evaluate academic knowledge, physical fitness, and personality traits.
Stages of Selection
- Written Examination
- Physical Standards Test (PST)
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
- Medical Examination
- Interview / Personality Test
CAPF (AC) 2026 Exam Pattern
Written Examination Structure
Paper I
- General Ability and Intelligence
- Objective type
- 250 marks
- Duration: 2 hours
Paper II
- General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension
- Descriptive type
- 200 marks
- Duration: 3 hours
CAPF (AC) Syllabus Overview
Paper I Topics
- General Mental Ability
- Logical Reasoning
- Numerical Ability
- Current Affairs
- Indian Polity
- History and Geography
- Economy
- Science and Technology
Paper II Topics
- Essay Writing (Security, Society, Economy, Polity)
- Comprehension and Precis Writing
- Grammar and Vocabulary
Salary and Allowances
CAPF Assistant Commandants are placed under Pay Level 10.
- Basic Pay: ₹56,100 per month
- DA, HRA, TA applicable
- Field and risk allowances as per posting
- Free accommodation or HRA
Career Growth in CAPF
- Assistant Commandant
- Deputy Commandant
- Commandant
- DIG, IG, ADG (with service and promotions)
The career offers leadership roles, challenging field postings, and long-term job security.
Preparation Strategy for CAPF (AC) 2026
- Start preparation at least one year in advance
- Focus equally on static subjects and current affairs
- Practice answer writing for Paper II
- Maintain daily physical training
- Attempt mock tests regularly
Conclusion
The CAPF (AC) 2026 examination, with its notification scheduled on 24 April 2026, is a golden opportunity for graduates aspiring to serve the nation in a uniformed leadership role. With disciplined preparation, physical fitness, and conceptual clarity, candidates can successfully crack this prestigious UPSC examination and build a respected career in India’s Central Armed Police Forces.
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