The UPSC CAPF 2026 Recruitment notification has been officially released, offering a prestigious opportunity for candidates who aspire to serve the nation in uniform. The Combined Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) Examination 2026 conducted by the Union Public Service Commission aims to fill 349 Assistant Commandant (AC) posts in various paramilitary forces.
If you are preparing for defence and paramilitary jobs in 2026, this is one of the most respected and high-paying government opportunities in India. Let’s explore complete details including eligibility, selection process, salary, important dates, and the official application procedure.
About UPSC CAPF 2026
The CAPF exam is conducted annually by UPSC to recruit Assistant Commandants (Group A Gazetted Officers) in India’s Central Armed Police Forces. Selected officers lead battalions and play a crucial role in internal security, border management, and anti-terror operations.
Forces Covered Under CAPF:
- Border Security Force (BSF)
- Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
- Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
- Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
- Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
This recruitment offers a leadership role with high prestige and responsibility.
UPSC CAPF 2026 Vacancy Details
- Total Posts: 349
- Post Name: Assistant Commandant (AC)
- Job Type: Permanent
- Service Category: Group A Gazetted Officer
The distribution of vacancies among forces will be mentioned in the official notification.
Educational Qualification
To apply for UPSC CAPF 2026, candidates must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.
- Final-year students can apply, provided they submit proof of passing before the final selection stage.
Age Limit (As Per Notification)
- Minimum Age: 20 Years
- Maximum Age: 25 Years
Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST: 5 Years
- OBC: 3 Years
- Ex-Servicemen: As per Government rules
Age will be calculated as per the cut-off date mentioned in the official notification.
Salary & Benefits
Selected candidates will receive salary under Pay Level 10 of the 7th CPC.
💼 Salary Structure:
- Basic Pay: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500
- Plus:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance
- Medical Facilities
- Risk & Hardship Allowance
Being an Assistant Commandant offers not just financial stability but immense respect and authority.
Selection Process
The UPSC CAPF selection process consists of multiple rigorous stages:
1️⃣ Written Examination
The written exam has two papers:
- Paper I (Objective Type):
General Ability & Intelligence (250 Marks) - Paper II (Descriptive Type):
General Studies, Essay & Comprehension (200 Marks)
2️⃣ Physical Standards & PET
Candidates who qualify in the written exam must undergo:
- Physical Standard Test (Height, Chest, Weight)
- Physical Efficiency Test (Running, Long Jump, Shot Put etc.)
3️⃣ Medical Examination
Candidates must meet medical fitness standards prescribed by CAPF.
4️⃣ Interview / Personality Test
Final shortlisted candidates will appear before UPSC interview board.
Final merit list will be prepared based on written exam + interview performance.
Application Fee
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹200
- SC/ST/Female Candidates: Exempted (No Fee)
Payment can be made through online mode via debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI.
Important Dates (Tentative)
- Application Start Date: 20/02/2026
- Last Date to Apply: 12/03/2026
- Written Exam Date: 19/07/2026
Candidates must apply through the official website of the Union Public Service Commission:
Why Choose UPSC CAPF Career?
✔ Prestigious Group A Officer Rank
✔ Attractive Salary & Perks
✔ Leadership Role
✔ Nation Service Opportunity
✔ High Promotion Prospects
✔ Job Security
Serving in CAPF gives you a chance to protect borders, maintain internal security, and lead forces in critical operations.
Preparation Tips for UPSC CAPF 2026
To clear the exam:
📖 Focus Areas:
- Current Affairs
- Indian Polity & Constitution
- History & Geography
- General Science
- Internal Security
- Essay Writing Practice
🏃 Physical Preparation:
- Daily Running
- Strength Training
- Improve Stamina
Consistency, discipline, and strategic study plan are essential.
How to Apply Online for UPSC CAPF 2026?
Follow these steps:
- Visit official website: https://upsc.gov.in
- Click on “CAPF 2026 Notification”
- Register through One Time Registration (OTR)
- Fill application form carefully
- Upload photograph & signature
- Pay application fee
- Submit and download confirmation
Make sure to apply before the last date to avoid last-minute server issues.
Career Growth
Promotions in CAPF follow this hierarchy:
- Assistant Commandant
- Deputy Commandant
- Commandant
- Deputy Inspector General (DIG)
- Inspector General (IG)
This career path ensures long-term growth and authority.
Final Words
The UPSC Combined Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) 2026 Recruitment for 349 Posts is a golden opportunity for graduates who dream of serving the nation as officers. With attractive pay scale, leadership authority, and unmatched respect, this recruitment is expected to receive a massive number of applications.
Interested candidates should start preparation early and apply only through the official UPSC website once applications open.
