UPSC CAPF AC Exam Pattern – Central Armed Police Forces
The UPSC CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) Assistant Commandant examination consists of two papers in the written examination, followed by a Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests and Medical Standards Tests, and finally, an Interview/Personality Test. Below, I’ll provide detailed information about the exam pattern:
Stage 1: Written Examination
The written examination consists of two papers:
Paper I: General Ability and Intelligence (250 Marks)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Type of Questions: Objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs)
- Total Questions: Approximately 125 questions
The paper includes questions on various topics, such as General Mental Ability, General Science, Current Events of National and International Importance, Indian Polity and Economy, Indian History, and Indian and World Geography.
Paper II: General Studies, Essay, and Comprehension (200 Marks)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Type of Questions: Descriptive-type questions
Part-A: Essay (80 Marks)
Candidates are required to write essays on topics of national and international importance.
Part-B: Comprehension, Precis Writing, and Communication Skills (120 Marks)
Candidates are assessed on their comprehension skills, precis writing ability, and communication skills.
Note: There is a negative marking of 0.33 marks for each incorrect answer in Paper I.
Stage 2: Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests and Medical Standards Tests
Candidates who qualify in the written examination are required to undergo Physical Standards/Physical Efficiency Tests and Medical Standards Tests. The details of these tests are mentioned in the official notification.
Stage 3: Interview/Personality Test (150 Marks)
Candidates who clear the previous stages are called for an Interview/Personality Test conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The interview assesses the candidate’s suitability for the role of Assistant Commandant in the CAPF. It includes questions related to general awareness, current affairs, and the candidate’s specific subject knowledge.
Stage 4: Final Selection/ Merit List
The final selection is based on the combined marks of the Written Examination, Interview/Personality Test, and Medical Examination. Candidates who clear all stages and rank high in the merit list are offered the position of Assistant Commandant in one of the CAPFs (BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, or SSB).
Please note that the exam pattern may be subject to change, and candidates should refer to the official UPSC CAPF AC notification for the specific year they plan to apply for to confirm all details. Effective preparation involves a deep understanding of the syllabus, rigorous study, and practicing previous years’ question papers to enhance your chances of success in this competitive examination.