UPSC CAPF AC Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Limit, Qualification, and Physical Standards

UPSC CAPF AC Eligibility Criteria 2026: A Comprehensive Guide

Aspiring to become a Gazetted Officer in India's paramilitary forces? The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Central Armed Police Forces (Assistant Commandants) Examination to recruit Group A officers for BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB. Understanding the UPSC CAPF AC Eligibility Criteria 2026 is the first crucial step in your preparation journey.

UPSC CAPF AC 2026 Overview

UPSC CAPF AC Age Limit 2026

Candidates wishing to apply must meet the following age requirements as of 1st August 2026:

• Minimum Age: 20 Years
• Maximum Age: 25 Years
• Birth Date Range: Candidates must have been born between 2nd August 2001 and 1st August 2006 (both dates inclusive).

Age Relaxation Policy

The upper age limit is relaxable for specific categories as per Government of India norms:

Educational Qualification

To be eligible for the UPSC CAPF AC 2026 exam, a candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a university recognized by the UGC or an equivalent qualification. Final-year students who are awaiting their results are also eligible to apply provisionally, provided they produce proof of passing at the time of the interview.

Physical Standards Test (PST)

Candidates must meet the following minimum physical measurements to qualify for the Assistant Commandant position:

Medical Standards and Vision

Candidates must be in good mental and bodily health. Key medical criteria include:

• Distant Vision: Better Eye 6/6 or 6/9; Worse Eye 6/12 or 6/9.
• Near Vision: N6 (Better), N9 (Worse).
• Refractive Error: Within the limit of -4.00 D to +4.00 D (including cylinder).
• Candidates should not have any physical defects like knock-knees, flat feet, or varicose veins that could hinder duty performance.

Number of Attempts

Unlike the Civil Services Examination, there is no restriction on the number of attempts for the UPSC CAPF AC exam. Candidates can appear as many times as they wish until they reach the maximum age limit applicable to their category.

How to Apply for UPSC CAPF AC 2026

1. Visit the official UPSC website: upsconline.nic.in.
2. Complete the One-Time Registration (OTR) if not already done.
3. Fill out the Application Form for CAPF (AC) in two parts (Part I and Part II).
4. Upload the required documents, photograph, and signature.
5. Pay the application fee (exempt for females/SC/ST candidates).
6. Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.