The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the UPSC CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) Examination 2026 notification, inviting eligible candidates to apply online for a total of 349 Assistant Commandant (AC) vacancies in India’s premier paramilitary forces. The online application window opened on 20 February 2026 and will remain active until 12 March 2026.
🔔 Highlights at a Glance
- Recruiting Body: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Exam Name: CAPF (Assistant Commandants) Examination 2026
- Total Vacancies: 349
- Application Mode: Online at upsconline.nic.in
- Notification Release Date: 20 February 2026
- Apply Start Date: 20 February 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 12 March 2026 (up to 6:00 PM)
- Written Exam Date: 19 July 2026
- Official Notification: Available on UPSC portals
📌 Vacancies by Force
The recruitment drive fills Group A officer posts across key Central Armed Police Forces, including:
- Border Security Force (BSF) – 108 posts
- Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) – 106 posts
- Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) – 70 posts
- Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) – 53 posts
- Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) – 12 posts
- Total – 349 vacancies
👩🎓 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Final-year students awaiting results may also apply, subject to meeting the qualification criteria by the time of document verification.
Age Limit:
The age requirement is 20 to 25 years as of 1 August 2026. Relaxation in age limits will be provided as per government rules for reserved categories.
📝 Application Process
Aspiring candidates must complete the application exclusively online through upsconline.nic.in. Key steps typically include:
- Generate Universal Registration Number (URN) via One-Time Registration (if not done earlier).
- Fill Common Application Form (CAF) with accurate personal and academic details.
- Upload required documents, including passport-size photo, signature, and identity proof.
- Pay application fee (₹200 for General/OBC; fees are waived for SC/ST and all female candidates).
- Submit and save confirmation for future reference.
Important: Candidates are strongly advised to carefully read the full official notification PDF before applying to understand all terms, conditions, instructions, and reservation policies contained therein.
📅 Selection Process
The CAPF 2026 selection will be based on multiple stages:
- Written Examination (scheduled for 19 July 2026)
- Physical Standards Test (PST) & Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
- Medical Examination
- Interview / Personality Test
📌 Why CAPF 2026 Is Important
The UPSC CAPF examination is one of the most respected routes for young graduates seeking leadership roles in India’s paramilitary services. Assistant Commandants play vital roles in maintaining national security, border protection, and internal law and order across the nation.
