EXAM SYLLABUS

The UPSC CAPF syllabus is divided into two papers. Paper I is objective-type (multiple choice) and tests General Ability and Intelligence. It includes topics such as General Mental Ability, General Science, Current Events, Indian Polity and Economy, Indian History, and Indian and World Geography and Paper II is descriptive and focuses on General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension. It assesses the candidate’s English language skills, including essay writing and comprehension, with an emphasis on subjects related to General Studies.

Detailed Syllabus

Paper I General Ability & Intelligence 

This paper is objective (MCQs), bilingual (English & Hindi except English-specific parts), with 1/3 negative marking for wrong answers. It tests broad knowledge, analytical ability, and awareness relevant to security forces.

Paper II General Studies, Essay & Comprehension

This is a descriptive paper in English (except Essay, which can be in English or Hindi). It tests expression, analytical skills, and command over language.

EXAM PATTERN

The UPSC CAPF (AC) Recruitment selection process is conducted in multiple stages. The first stage is the Written Examination, which consists of Paper I and Paper II. Candidates who qualify in the written examination are shortlisted for the Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests (PST/PET) and Medical Standards Tests. Candidates who qualify these stages are then called for the Interview/Personality Test. The final selection is based on the prescribed selection criteria and the candidate's performance in the various stages of the recruitment process.

1. Written Examination

2. Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests (PST/PET) & Medical Standards Tests

3. Interview/Personality Test

UPSC CAPF examination is divided into two parts, namely, Paper I & Paper II.

Paper I General Ability and Intelligence

The questions in Paper I will be of Objective (Multiple Answers) type for which the time allotted will be of 120 minutes. The total marks for this examination are 250.

Paper II General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension

Type: Descriptive (Conventional/Essay-type questions)

Total Marks: 200

Number of Questions/Components: Usually 6–7 (varies slightly year to year)

Essay (major part, often 80 marks)

Arguments (for/against)

Precis Writing

Comprehension

Report writing/grammar/other language skills

Duration: 3 hours

Negative Marking: None (evaluated subjectively by examiners)

Purpose: Assesses expression, analytical writing, comprehension, and command over language, with topics often linked to security, governance, and contemporary issues.

Key Components (marks distribution approximate based on trends):

Essay: 80 marks (write 1–2 essays on given topics)

Precis, Comprehension, Arguments, etc.: 120 marks combined

Mode of Examination

The examination will be conducted through offline mode. The examination is a pen & paper-based test containing only multiple choice type questions.

Medium of Examination

Paper I & II will be in bilingual language-Hindi & English, excluding English paper.

Negative Marking

There are four alternatives for the answer to every question. For each question for which a wrong answer has been given by the candidate, one-third (0.33) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as a penalty.

If a candidate gives more than one answer, it will be treated as a wrong answer even if one of the given answers happens to be correct and there will be the same penalty as above for that question.

Note - I

Candidates should ensure that in Paper II they write the answers only in the medium allowed by the Commission for the different Components as mentioned above. No credit will be given for answers written in a medium other than the one allowed in the Paper. Candidates will be required to indicate the medium of Essay Component in the Attendance Lists and on the Answer Book. No credit will be given for the Essay Component if the candidate indicates a medium on the Attendance List and on the Answer Book other than the one in which he/she has written the Essay.

Note - II

There will be minimum qualifying marks separately in each Paper as may be fixed by the Commission in their discretion. Paper-I will be evaluated first and evaluation of Paper-II will be done only of those candidates who obtain the minimum qualifying marks in Paper-I

Physical Efficiency Tests (PET)

Candidates who are declared qualified in the written examination will be summoned for Physical Standards Tests/Physical Efficiency Tests.

EXAM PATTERN

The UPSC CAPF (AC) Recruitment selection process is conducted in multiple stages. The first stage is the Written Examination, which consists of Paper I and Paper II. Candidates who qualify in the written examination are shortlisted for the Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests (PST/PET) and Medical Standards Tests. Candidates who qualify these stages are then called for the Interview/Personality Test. The final selection is based on the prescribed selection criteria and the candidate's performance in the various stages of the recruitment process.

1. Written Examination

2. Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests (PST/PET) & Medical Standards Tests

3. Interview/Personality Test

UPSC CAPF examination is divided into two parts, namely, Paper I & Paper II.

Paper I General Ability and Intelligence

The questions in Paper I will be of Objective (Multiple Answers) type for which the time allotted will be of 120 minutes. The total marks for this examination are 250.

Paper II General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension

Type: Descriptive (Conventional/Essay-type questions)

Total Marks: 200

Number of Questions/Components: Usually 6–7 (varies slightly year to year)

Essay (major part, often 80 marks)

Arguments (for/against)

Precis Writing

Comprehension

Report writing/grammar/other language skills

Duration: 3 hours

Negative Marking: None (evaluated subjectively by examiners)

Purpose: Assesses expression, analytical writing, comprehension, and command over language, with topics often linked to security, governance, and contemporary issues.

Key Components (marks distribution approximate based on trends):

Essay: 80 marks (write 1–2 essays on given topics)

Precis, Comprehension, Arguments, etc.: 120 marks combined

Mode of Examination

The examination will be conducted through offline mode. The examination is a pen & paper-based test containing only multiple choice type questions.

Medium of Examination

Paper I & II will be in bilingual language-Hindi & English, excluding English paper.

Negative Marking

There are four alternatives for the answer to every question. For each question for which a wrong answer has been given by the candidate, one-third (0.33) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as a penalty.

If a candidate gives more than one answer, it will be treated as a wrong answer even if one of the given answers happens to be correct and there will be the same penalty as above for that question.

Note - I

Candidates should ensure that in Paper II they write the answers only in the medium allowed by the Commission for the different Components as mentioned above. No credit will be given for answers written in a medium other than the one allowed in the Paper. Candidates will be required to indicate the medium of Essay Component in the Attendance Lists and on the Answer Book. No credit will be given for the Essay Component if the candidate indicates a medium on the Attendance List and on the Answer Book other than the one in which he/she has written the Essay.

Note - II

There will be minimum qualifying marks separately in each Paper as may be fixed by the Commission in their discretion. Paper-I will be evaluated first and evaluation of Paper-II will be done only of those candidates who obtain the minimum qualifying marks in Paper-I

Physical Efficiency Tests (PET)

Candidates who are declared qualified in the written examination will be summoned for Physical Standards Tests/Physical Efficiency Tests.

Interview/Personality Test

Candidates who are declared qualified in the Physical Standards Tests (PST) /Physical Efficiency Tests (PET), will be called for Interview/Personality Test to be conducted by Union Public Service Commission. Candidates who are declared unqualified in the Physical Efficiency Test will not be called for Interview/Personality Tests. The Interview/Personality Test will carry 150 Marks

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates applying for the UPSC CAPF (AC) Recruitment 2026 were required to meet the eligibility criteria prescribed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The CAPF AC eligibility criteria included requirements related to age limit, educational qualification, nationality, and physical and medical standards. Candidates had to fulfil all the prescribed eligibility conditions to be considered for the selection process.

Nationality 

A citizen of India

A Subject of Bhutan

A subject of Nepal

A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st Jan 1962 to permanently settle in India.

A person of Indian origin who migrated from Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and East African countries to permanently settle in India.

No person who is not a citizen of India shall, except with the consent of the Central Government signified in writing be appointed or employed under these Rules. Provided that nothing contained in these rules shall debar the appointment, enrolment or employment of a subject of Nepal or Bhutan under these Rules.

Sex 

Both Male and Female candidates are eligible for appointment to the post of Assistant Commandants.

Age Limits 

A candidate must have attained the age of 20 years and must not have attained the age of 25 years.

Age Relaxation

Education Qualification

1. A candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree of 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 or possess an equivalent qualification

2. Candidates, who have appeared in the graduation examination and are waiting for their results, can also apply for UPSC CAPF Exam. But, the admission to CAPF exam would be provisional until the proof of passing the examination after qualifying the CAPF exam is not produced.

3. Candidates possessing professional and technical qualifications which are recognised by the Government as equivalent to a professional and technical degree would also be eligible for admission to the examination.

Restriction on re-appearance of candidates finally selected/ recommended earlier

A candidate who has been finally selected on the basis of an earlier examination to the post of Assistant Commandants in any of the forces participating in the Central Armed Police Forces (Assistant Commandants) Examination will not be eligible to appear at a subsequent examination for recruitment of Assistant Commandants in the participating CAPFs.

Physical Standard

The minimum requirement of height, chest, and weight for both men and women has been tabulated-

Physical Efficiency Tests (PET)

Candidates who are declared qualified in the written examination will be summoned for Physical Standards Tests/Physical Efficiency Tests.

Medical Standards

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates applying for the UPSC CAPF (AC) Recruitment 2026 were required to meet the eligibility criteria prescribed by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The CAPF AC eligibility criteria included requirements related to age limit, educational qualification, nationality, and physical and medical standards. Candidates had to fulfil all the prescribed eligibility conditions to be considered for the selection process.

Nationality 

A citizen of India

A Subject of Bhutan

A subject of Nepal

A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st Jan 1962 to permanently settle in India.

A person of Indian origin who migrated from Myanmar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and East African countries to permanently settle in India.

No person who is not a citizen of India shall, except with the consent of the Central Government signified in writing be appointed or employed under these Rules. Provided that nothing contained in these rules shall debar the appointment, enrolment or employment of a subject of Nepal or Bhutan under these Rules.

Sex 

Both Male and Female candidates are eligible for appointment to the post of Assistant Commandants.

Age Limits 

A candidate must have attained the age of 20 years and must not have attained the age of 25 years.

Age Relaxation

Education Qualification

1. A candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree of 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 or possess an equivalent qualification

2. Candidates, who have appeared in the graduation examination and are waiting for their results, can also apply for UPSC CAPF Exam. But, the admission to CAPF exam would be provisional until the proof of passing the examination after qualifying the CAPF exam is not produced.

3. Candidates possessing professional and technical qualifications which are recognised by the Government as equivalent to a professional and technical degree would also be eligible for admission to the examination.

Restriction on re-appearance of candidates finally selected/ recommended earlier

A candidate who has been finally selected on the basis of an earlier examination to the post of Assistant Commandants in any of the forces participating in the Central Armed Police Forces (Assistant Commandants) Examination will not be eligible to appear at a subsequent examination for recruitment of Assistant Commandants in the participating CAPFs.

Physical Standard

The minimum requirement of height, chest, and weight for both men and women has been tabulated-

Physical Efficiency Tests (PET)

Candidates who are declared qualified in the written examination will be summoned for Physical Standards Tests/Physical Efficiency Tests.

Medical Standards

Carrying angle

Carrying angle should not be more than 15 degree for male and 20 degree for female.

Ear

1. Candidate should not have any degree of deafness or persistent ear discharge.
2. Candidate should not have any other condition (congenital or acquired) like atresia of the meatus, exostosis, neoplasm which is causing obstruction of ear passage and should not have history of recurrent earache, tinnitus and vertigo.

Nose

Candidates should not have DNS, atrophic rhinitis, tubercular ulceration, chronic sinusitis.

Neck 

Candidate should not have enlarged lymph nodes, thyroid or other swelling of neck, inability to extend the neck fully or any evidence of disease of spine or cervical vertebrae.

Teeth

Candidate must possess sufficient number of sound teeth for efficient mastication. Candidate should not have severe pyorrhea.

Venereal Disease

Candidate should not have active signs of clinical VD.

Chronic skin diseases

Candidate should not have chronic skin diseases like Leprosy, chronic dermatitis, extensive Pityriasis Versicolor, psoriasis, SLE etc.

GENERA STANDERED

1. Speech should be without impediment, i.e. no stammering.
2. The candidate should not have any indication of chronic disease like TB, any type of arthritis, high blood pressure, Diabetes, Bronchial Asthma, any heart disease.
3. Candidate should not have perceptible and visible glandular swelling anywhere in the body.
4. Chest should be well-formed, devoid of any abnormality like flat chest, Pigeon chest, with rickety rosary defects. Heart and lungs should be sound.
5. Limbs, hands and feet should be well-formed and fully developed and there shall be perfect motion of all joints.
6. Should not have any old/mal united fracture of bones.
7. There should be free and perfect movements of all the joints.
8. Feet and toes should be well-formed
9. Should not have congenital malformation or defects. (Candidate must have completed 06 months after LASIK surgery while considering for recruitment in CAPFs).
10. Should not bear traces of previous acute or chronic disease pointing to an impaired constitution.
11. Candidate should have no disease of the genitourinary tract.
12. Candidate should have no inguinal, scrotal swelling, any type of Hernia.
13. (Only for male) Both the testicles are in the scrotum and of normal size.
14. The candidate must not have knock knees, flat foot, varicose veins.
15. They must be in good mental and bodily health and free from any physical defect likely to interfere with the efficient performance of the duties

Candidate should not suffer from TACHYCARDIA (more than 100 pulse rate per minute) or BRADYCARDIA (Less than 50 per minute).

Candidate should not suffer from Hernia, hemorrhoids, condylomata prolapse rectum.

Tattoo Clause

1. Content : Being a secular country, the religious sentiments of our countrymen are to be respected and thus, tattoos depicting religious symbol or figures and the name, as followed in Indian Army are to be permitted.
2. Location : Tattoos marked on traditional sites of the body like inner aspect of forearm but only left forearm, being non saluting limb or dorsum of the hands are to be allowed.
3. Size : Size must be less than 1/4th of the particular part (Elbow or Hand) of the body.

CAPF NCC ‘B’ or ‘C’ Certificates

Another desirable qualification is the possession of NCC ‘B’ or ‘C’ Certificate. However, it must be noted that these qualifications will be considered at the time of the Interview or Personality Test only. They will have no effect at the time of application.

IMPORTANT DATES

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) released the UPSC Exam Calendar 2026 on its official website. According to the official schedule, the last date to submit the UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 application form was March 12, 2026, while the UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 examination was conducted on July 19, 2026. The UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 admit card was released on July 10, 2026 and the UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 written result was released on August 25, 2026, on the official UPSC website.

EXAM ANALYSIS

The UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 written examination was conducted on July 19, 2026. The examination consisted of two papers: Paper 1 – General Ability & Intelligence and Paper 2 – General Studies, Essay & Comprehension. Based on the overall feedback, Paper 1 was Moderate to Moderate-Difficult, while Paper 2 was around the Moderate level. The paper tested candidates on conceptual knowledge, current affairs, analytical ability and descriptive writing skills.

UPSC CAPF (AC) Exam Date and Shift 2026

The UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 examination was conducted on July 19, 2026, in two shifts.

Paper 1 – General Ability & Intelligence: The examination was conducted from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with a duration of 2 hours.

Paper 2 – General Studies, Essay & Comprehension: The examination was conducted from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, with a duration of 3 hours.

UPSC CAPF (AC) Exam Pattern 2026

Paper 1 – General Ability & Intelligence was an objective-type paper carrying 250 marks. It consisted of multiple-choice questions and covered areas such as General Mental Ability, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, General Science, History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Current Affairs, Environment and Internal Security.

Paper 2 – General Studies, Essay & Comprehension was a descriptive paper carrying 200 marks. It assessed candidates through Essay Writing, Comprehension, Precis Writing, Counter Arguments and other language and analytical skills.

Section-Wise Analysis 2026

Current Affairs: The difficulty level was Moderate. Questions covered important national and international developments and contemporary issues. Candidates with consistent current-affairs preparation were at an advantage.

Indian Polity: The section was Moderate to Difficult. Several questions required conceptual understanding of constitutional provisions and governance-related topics rather than simple factual recall.

History: The difficulty level was Moderate. Questions covered important areas of Indian history, with a mix of factual and conceptual questions.

Geography: The section was Moderate. Questions tested basic concepts as well as the practical application of geographical knowledge.

Economy: The difficulty level was Moderate to Difficult. Candidates needed a good understanding of economic concepts, government policies and current economic developments.

Environment & Ecology: The section was Moderate. Questions were based on important environmental concepts as well as contemporary environmental issues.

General Science: The difficulty level was Moderate. Questions covered basic concepts from Physics, Chemistry and Biology and required general scientific awareness.

Reasoning & Mental Ability: This section was comparatively Easy to Moderate. Candidates with regular practice of reasoning questions could attempt this section comfortably.

Internal Security: The difficulty level was Moderate. Questions focused on security-related issues and contemporary developments relevant to India's internal security.

Difficulty Level 2026

Overall, the UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 Paper 1 was Moderate to Moderate-Difficult, while Paper 2 was approximately Moderate. The examination required a combination of factual knowledge, conceptual clarity and analytical thinking. Current Affairs, Polity and Economy were relatively challenging areas, whereas Reasoning was comparatively easier.

Good Attempts 2026

UPSC did not officially specify any Good Attempt benchmark for the examination. Based on available exam analysis and candidate feedback, around 125–135 attempts in Paper 1 may be considered a reasonable attempt range for a Moderate to Moderate-Difficult paper. However, the number of attempts alone does not determine performance, as accuracy is particularly important because of negative marking.

Overall Analysis 2026

Overall, the UPSC CAPF (AC) 2026 examination was Moderate to Moderate-Difficult. Paper 1 included a balanced combination of Static GK, Current Affairs, Polity, Economy, History, Geography, Science, Environment and Reasoning. The paper required candidates to apply concepts rather than rely entirely on memorised facts. Paper 2 tested writing ability, comprehension, analytical thinking and the ability to present arguments effectively.

What to Expect in UPSC CAPF (AC) 2027

The UPSC CAPF (AC) 2027 examination is expected to follow the existing two-paper structure, subject to any changes announced by UPSC in the official notification. Candidates can expect continued emphasis on Current Affairs, Polity, Economy, History, Geography, Environment, General Science, Internal Security and Reasoning.

Based on the 2026 trend, candidates should not depend only on factual preparation. Conceptual clarity, current-affairs awareness and analytical ability are likely to remain important. Questions related to government policies, national security, economy and contemporary issues may require candidates to connect static concepts with current developments.

Preparation Strategy for UPSC CAPF (AC) 2027

Candidates should begin by building a strong foundation in Polity, History, Geography, Economy, Environment and General Science using standard study material and NCERTs where required.

Regular preparation of Current Affairs is essential, particularly topics related to national security, defence, government schemes, international relations, internal security and important national developments.

Candidates should solve previous-year question papers regularly to understand the question pattern and identify important topics. Mock tests should be used to improve speed, accuracy and time management.

For Paper 2, candidates should regularly practise Essay Writing, Precis Writing, Comprehension and analytical answers. They should focus on presenting their ideas clearly, logically and within the prescribed word limit.

Along with written preparation, candidates should maintain their physical fitness because qualifying the written examination is followed by the Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests and Medical Standards Tests.

Overall, preparation for CAPF 2027 should focus on strong concepts + current affairs + regular practice + writing skills + physical fitness.

STUDY TIPS

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Smart Study Tips for Both Papers

Paper 1: General Ability & Intelligence (250 marks, ~125 MCQs)

High-weightage areas (based on recent trends like 2025): General Science (often 30–40% weightage, especially basic physics/chemistry/biology + tech/current developments), History (modern India heavy), Geography (physical + Indian), Polity & Economy, Current Affairs (last 18 months, defence/security focus), Reasoning & Quant (moderate, but time-consuming).

Daily practice: Solve 80–120 MCQs (mix subjects). Focus on accuracy > attempts — target < 40 seconds per question in mocks.

Current Affairs: Read The Hindu/Indian Express (editorials + defence pages) 30–45 min daily. Use monthly compilations (Vision IAS/PT 365) or apps like Inshorts for quick revision.

Basics first: Finish NCERTs (Class 6–12) for History, Geo, Polity, Science, Economy — read 2–3 times.

Standard resources

Polity: M. Laxmikanth (full 2–3 reads).

Modern History: Spectrum (Modern India).

Geography: NCERT + GC Leong (physical concepts).

Science: Lucent General Science + NCERT 6–10.

Economy: NCERT + Ramesh Singh (selective) or Economic Survey summary.

Reasoning/Quant: RS Aggarwal (Verbal & Non-Verbal + Quantitative Aptitude) — solve topic-wise.

Current Affairs: Pratiyogita Darpan / monthly magazines + Yojana/Kurukshetra (security themes).

Mocks & PYQs: Solve last 10 years' CAPF + CDS/IES papers (similar pattern). Take 1 full Paper 1 mock every 3–4 days in later phases.

Edge: Defence/internal security questions appear — read about CAPFs, border issues, Naxalism, cyber threats.

Paper 2: General Studies, Essay & Comprehension (200 marks)

Structure: Essay (80 marks, English/Hindi), Arguments (for/against), Precis (English), Comprehension, Report writing/grammar.

Essay tips: Practice 1–2 essays weekly on predictable themes: Internal Security Challenges, Role of CAPFs, Technology in Policing, Disaster Management, Women in Forces, Border Management, Climate Change & Security, Cyber Warfare.

Structure: Intro (hook + definition) ? 3–4 balanced points (facts/data/CAPF examples) ? Conclusion (way forward).

Use current examples + constitutional provisions.

Precis & Comprehension: Daily 1 precis (reduce 300-word editorial to 1/3) + 1–2 passages. Maintain tone, no personal views.

Grammar & Language: Wren & Martin (High School English Grammar) for basics. Read editorials to improve vocabulary/flow.

Resources: "151 Essays" by Arihant / Kiran Prakashan for practice. Previous years' topics repeat concepts.

Handwriting & structure: Neat, underlined headings, bullet points where allowed. Time: 90 min Essay + 60 min Precis/Comprehension + rest for arguments/grammar.

General Tips for Success

Consistency beats long hours — 6–8 focused hours daily.

Make short notes: 1-page summaries per topic (especially current affairs + law/security acts like UAPA).

Weekly full mock (Paper 1 + Paper 2) + analysis (note mistakes, time per section).

Physical fitness parallel: Run 5 km, practice long jump/shots for PET (qualifying).

Revise repeatedly: 3–4 full cycles of notes before exam.

Track progress: Aim score improvement in mocks (from 100 ? 130+ in Paper 1).

STUDY PLANS

6-Month Study Plan

Phase 1: Foundation (Month 1–2, Feb–Mar 2026)

Complete NCERTs (6–12) for all GS subjects.

Read Laxmikanth (Polity) + Spectrum (History) once.

Basics of Quant/Reasoning (RS Aggarwal) — 50 questions daily.

Start daily newspaper + note current affairs.

Paper 2: Read grammar rules + write 1 essay outline weekly.

Weekly: 1 sectional test.

Phase 2: Core Coverage & Practice (Month 3–4, Apr–May 2026)

Finish advanced books: GC Leong, Lucent Science, Ramesh Singh (selective).

Deep dive current affairs (last 18 months compilation).

Daily: 100 MCQs + 1 precis + 1 full essay.

Solve topic-wise PYQs (CAPF + similar exams).

Weekly: 2 Paper 1 mocks + 1 Paper 2 set.

Phase 3: Intensive Revision & Mocks (Month 5–6, Jun–Jul 2026)

3rd/4th reading of short notes.

Daily: 150 MCQs + full Paper 1 mock (alternate days) + Paper 2 practice.

Revise weak areas + last 12 months current affairs.

Last 20 days: Only revision, previous papers, light physical training.

Daily timetable example: Morning Quant/Reasoning, Afternoon GS/Current, Evening Paper 2 + mocks.

1-Year Study Plan 

Phase 1: Basics & Build Foundation (Month 1–4, Feb–May 2026)

Slow, detailed reading of NCERTs + Laxmikanth + Spectrum.

Build habit: Newspaper daily + 30–50 MCQs.

Start grammar + basic essay writing (1 per week).

Cover Quant/Reasoning basics fully.

Phase 2: Advanced Coverage & Integration (Month 5–8, Jun–Sep 2026)

Complete all standard books + second reading of NCERTs.

Monthly current affairs backlog clearance.

Daily: 80–100 MCQs + 1 precis/comprehension.

Start full syllabus mocks (1 per week).

Essay: 2 per week on security themes.

Phase 3: Mastery & Peak Performance (Month 9–12, Oct 2026–Jul 2026)

Intensive mocks: 3 Paper 1 + 2 Paper 2 weekly.

Revise notes 4–5 times.

Focus high-weightage: Science, Polity, Current, Modern History.

Simulate exam day: Full tests on Sundays at 10 AM.

Last 2 months: Revision only + error log analysis.

Include PET practice from Month 6 onward.

Final Advice

Paper 1 decides qualification — prioritize it (aim 52–55%+ raw).

Paper 2 differentiates ranks — strong essays/precis can add 30–40 marks.

Use test series (Vision IAS/StudyIQ/Insights) for mocks.

STUDY TIPS

UPSC CAPF AC ??????? ?? ?????? ???? ???? ?? ???? ??????????? ?? ???? ???? ???? ?????????, ??????? ?????? ?? ??? ????????? ?? ??? ???? ?????? ???????? ???? ?? ??? ???????? ??? ????????? ???? ??? ?? ?????? ?????? ?? ????? ???? ?? ????? ??? ?? ????????? ?????? ???-????? ????? ???? ?????? ??????????? ?? ???? ??? ????????? ?? ????? ???? ?? ????? ???? ????? ?? ???? ??? ????-???? ????? ?????? ?? ???????????? ?? ??? ????? ?? ?? ????? ?????? ?????? CAPF AC ?????? ?? ??? ?????? ??? ?? ???????? ?????? ?? ??????, ????? ????? ?? ?????? ?? ??????? ?????? ?? ????????? ?? ?????????? ??????????

Smart Study Tips for Both Papers

Paper 1: General Ability & Intelligence (250 marks, ~125 MCQs)

High-weightage areas (based on recent trends like 2025): General Science (often 30–40% weightage, especially basic physics/chemistry/biology + tech/current developments), History (modern India heavy), Geography (physical + Indian), Polity & Economy, Current Affairs (last 18 months, defence/security focus), Reasoning & Quant (moderate, but time-consuming).

Daily practice: Solve 80–120 MCQs (mix subjects). Focus on accuracy > attempts — target < 40 seconds per question in mocks.

Current Affairs: Read The Hindu/Indian Express (editorials + defence pages) 30–45 min daily. Use monthly compilations (Vision IAS/PT 365) or apps like Inshorts for quick revision.

Basics first: Finish NCERTs (Class 6–12) for History, Geo, Polity, Science, Economy — read 2–3 times.

Standard resources

Polity: M. Laxmikanth (full 2–3 reads).

Modern History: Spectrum (Modern India).

Geography: NCERT + GC Leong (physical concepts).

Science: Lucent General Science + NCERT 6–10.

Economy: NCERT + Ramesh Singh (selective) or Economic Survey summary.

Reasoning/Quant: RS Aggarwal (Verbal & Non-Verbal + Quantitative Aptitude) — solve topic-wise.

Current Affairs: Pratiyogita Darpan / monthly magazines + Yojana/Kurukshetra (security themes).

Mocks & PYQs: Solve last 10 years' CAPF + CDS/IES papers (similar pattern). Take 1 full Paper 1 mock every 3–4 days in later phases.

Edge: Defence/internal security questions appear — read about CAPFs, border issues, Naxalism, cyber threats.

Paper 2: General Studies, Essay & Comprehension (200 marks)

Structure: Essay (80 marks, English/Hindi), Arguments (for/against), Precis (English), Comprehension, Report writing/grammar.

Essay tips: Practice 1–2 essays weekly on predictable themes: Internal Security Challenges, Role of CAPFs, Technology in Policing, Disaster Management, Women in Forces, Border Management, Climate Change & Security, Cyber Warfare.

Structure: Intro (hook + definition) ? 3–4 balanced points (facts/data/CAPF examples) ? Conclusion (way forward).

Use current examples + constitutional provisions.

Precis & Comprehension: Daily 1 precis (reduce 300-word editorial to 1/3) + 1–2 passages. Maintain tone, no personal views.

Grammar & Language: Wren & Martin (High School English Grammar) for basics. Read editorials to improve vocabulary/flow.

Resources: "151 Essays" by Arihant / Kiran Prakashan for practice. Previous years' topics repeat concepts.

Handwriting & structure: Neat, underlined headings, bullet points where allowed. Time: 90 min Essay + 60 min Precis/Comprehension + rest for arguments/grammar.

General Tips for Success

Consistency beats long hours — 6–8 focused hours daily.

Make short notes: 1-page summaries per topic (especially current affairs + law/security acts like UAPA).

Weekly full mock (Paper 1 + Paper 2) + analysis (note mistakes, time per section).

Physical fitness parallel: Run 5 km, practice long jump/shots for PET (qualifying).

Revise repeatedly: 3–4 full cycles of notes before exam.

Track progress: Aim score improvement in mocks (from 100 ? 130+ in Paper 1).

STUDY PLANS

6-Month Study Plan

Phase 1: Foundation (Month 1–2, Feb–Mar 2026)

Complete NCERTs (6–12) for all GS subjects.

Read Laxmikanth (Polity) + Spectrum (History) once.

Basics of Quant/Reasoning (RS Aggarwal) — 50 questions daily.

Start daily newspaper + note current affairs.

Paper 2: Read grammar rules + write 1 essay outline weekly.

Weekly: 1 sectional test.

Phase 2: Core Coverage & Practice (Month 3–4, Apr–May 2026)

Finish advanced books: GC Leong, Lucent Science, Ramesh Singh (selective).

Deep dive current affairs (last 18 months compilation).

Daily: 100 MCQs + 1 precis + 1 full essay.

Solve topic-wise PYQs (CAPF + similar exams).

Weekly: 2 Paper 1 mocks + 1 Paper 2 set.

Phase 3: Intensive Revision & Mocks (Month 5–6, Jun–Jul 2026)

3rd/4th reading of short notes.

Daily: 150 MCQs + full Paper 1 mock (alternate days) + Paper 2 practice.

Revise weak areas + last 12 months current affairs.

Last 20 days: Only revision, previous papers, light physical training.

Daily timetable example: Morning Quant/Reasoning, Afternoon GS/Current, Evening Paper 2 + mocks.

1-Year Study Plan 

Phase 1: Basics & Build Foundation (Month 1–4, Feb–May 2026)

Slow, detailed reading of NCERTs + Laxmikanth + Spectrum.

Build habit: Newspaper daily + 30–50 MCQs.

Start grammar + basic essay writing (1 per week).

Cover Quant/Reasoning basics fully.

Phase 2: Advanced Coverage & Integration (Month 5–8, Jun–Sep 2026)

Complete all standard books + second reading of NCERTs.

Monthly current affairs backlog clearance.

Daily: 80–100 MCQs + 1 precis/comprehension.

Start full syllabus mocks (1 per week).

Essay: 2 per week on security themes.

Phase 3: Mastery & Peak Performance (Month 9–12, Oct 2026–Jul 2026)

Intensive mocks: 3 Paper 1 + 2 Paper 2 weekly.

Revise notes 4–5 times.

Focus high-weightage: Science, Polity, Current, Modern History.

Simulate exam day: Full tests on Sundays at 10 AM.

Last 2 months: Revision only + error log analysis.

Include PET practice from Month 6 onward.

Final Advice

Paper 1 decides qualification — prioritize it (aim 52–55%+ raw).

Paper 2 differentiates ranks — strong essays/precis can add 30–40 marks.

Use test series (Vision IAS/StudyIQ/Insights) for mocks.

Stay updated via UPSC site for any minor changes.

OVERVIEW

The recruitment for the Assitant Commandant (AC) in CAPF is conducted on a yearly basis by the Union Public Service Commission to recruit candidates in several forces under Central Armed Police Forces. The following are the special forces that will recruit candidates through the CAPF exam.

1. Border Security Force (BSF)
2. Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
3. Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
4. Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
5. Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB

SELECTION PROCESS

The UPSC CAPF Recruitment selection process involves three stages. The first stage is a written examination comprising two papers – Paper I and Paper II. Candidates who clear the written exam and are found physically and medically fit will proceed to the final stage, which is the Personal Interview/Personality Test.

Written Examination

The first stage of the UPSC CAPF selection process is the written examination. This exam consists of two papers:

Paper I covers General Ability and Intelligence, is of objective type (multiple-choice questions), and carries a total of 250 marks.

Paper II includes General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension, and is a descriptive paper worth 200 marks.

Physical Test 

Candidates who qualify the written examination will be shortlisted for the second stage of the selection process, which includes the Physical Standards Test (PST), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), and the Medical Standards Test.

Interview

Candidates who are declared qualified in the Physical Standards Tests (PST) /Physical Efficiency Tests (PET), will be called for Interview/Personality Test to be conducted by Union Public Service Commission. Candidates who are declared unqualified in the Physical Efficiency Test will not be called for Interview/Personality Tests. The Interview/Personality Test will carry 150 Marks.

Final Selection / Merit 

The merit list will be drawn on the basis of marks obtained by the candidates in the Written Examination and Interview/Personality Test. Further, any candidate who after Medical Standard Tests (MST) is found not to satisfy the requirements as per prescribed standards will not be appointed.