CAPF Examination Overview:
The CAPF (Assistant Commandant) Examination is conducted every year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to recruit officers into India’s leading paramilitary forces – BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB. This exam provides young graduates an opportunity to serve the nation in a leadership role, ensuring internal security and border management. The selection process involves a written test, physical efficiency test, medical examination, and finally a personal interview/Personality Test conducted by UPSC.
Eligibility Criteria for CAPF Examination
Aspirants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Only Indian citizens are eligible.
- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 20 and 25 years (relaxation applies for reserved categories).
- Educational Qualification: A graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university is mandatory. Final-year students can also apply, provided they produce proof of passing before the final selection.
- Gender: Both male and female candidates are eligible.
- Physical Standards: Candidates must meet prescribed height, chest, weight, and eyesight standards, as the role demands physical fitness.
CAPF Syllabus
The CAPF exam has two written papers, followed by physical and personality assessments.
- Paper I – General Ability & Intelligence (250 Marks):
Covers General Studies, Current Events, Indian Polity, History, Geography, Economy, Mental Ability, and Logical Reasoning.
- Paper II – General Studies, Essay & Comprehension (200 Marks):
Divided into two parts:
- Part A: Essay questions on national security, polity, economy, or other defense-related topics.
- Part B: Comprehension, report writing, grammar, and precise writing skills.
Candidates who clear the written exam undergo a Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Medical Test, and then appear for the Interview/Personality Test (150 Marks)
Important Dates & Notifications:
The CAPF exam is conducted once a year, and the timeline usually follows this pattern:
- Notification Release: Around April every year.
- Application Window: Stays open for about a month.
- Written Examination: Conducted in August.
- Result Declaration: Usually by October/November.
- PET & Medical Examination: Held after written results.
- Interview/Personality Test: Conducted in early next year.
- Final Merit List: Released a few months before training begins.
All updates are available only on the official UPSC website (www.upsc.gov.in)
Top Coaching Institutes for CAPF Preparation:
Since CAPF requires preparation for both academics and physical tests, the right coaching can make a big difference.
- Tathastu Defence Academy: A leading institute offering integrated training for CAPF aspirants – covering written exams, physical efficiency training, and SSB-like personality development. Its result-driven approach and defense-oriented mentorship make it a top choice for candidates.
- Cavalier India: Popular for comprehensive preparation programs, including PET guidance and interview training.
- Major Kalshi Classes: Offers specialized modules for CAPF written exams along with fitness and personality development sessions.
- Olive Greens Institute: Known for its defense-focused preparation and high-quality study materials.