Exam Pattern of UPSC CAPF Exam 2024
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) exam annually to recruit officers in the following forces:
- Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
- Border Security Force (BSF)
- Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
- Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
- Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
The exam is conducted in two stages:
- Computer Based Examination (CBE)
- Physical Standards Test (PST) and Medical Standards Test (MST)
Computer Based Examination (CBE)
The CBE is a written exam consisting of two papers:
- Paper 1: General Ability and Intelligence
- Paper 2: General Studies
Paper 1: General Ability and Intelligence
This paper is designed to assess the candidate’s reasoning ability, comprehension, and analytical skills. It covers the following topics:
| Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Reasoning and Comprehension | 120 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 80 |
| General Awareness | 100 |
| Total | 300 |
Paper 2: General Studies
This paper is designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge of current affairs, history, geography, economics, and general science. It covers the following topics:
| Topic | Marks |
|---|---|
| Current Events of National and International Importance | 100 |
| History of India and Indian National Movement | 100 |
| Indian Polity and Governance – Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. | 100 |
| Geography of India | 100 |
| Indian Economy and Social Development | 100 |
| General Science | 100 |
| Total | 600 |
Important Points:
- The duration of each paper is 2 hours.
- The exam is conducted in both Hindi and English languages.
- Candidates must secure a minimum qualifying score in both papers to be eligible for the PST/MST.
Physical Standards Test (PST) and Medical Standards Test (MST)
Candidates who qualify the CBE are eligible to appear for the PST and MST. The PST is conducted to assess the candidate’s physical fitness, while the MST is conducted to assess their medical fitness.
Physical Standards Test (PST)
The PST consists of the following tests:
| Test | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Race (1600 meters) | 6 minutes 30 seconds | 8 minutes 30 seconds |
| High Jump | 1.2 meters | 1 meter |
| Long Jump | 4.5 meters | 3.5 meters |
| Shot Put (7.26 kg) | 4.5 meters | 3.5 meters |
Medical Standards Test (MST)
The MST is conducted by a board of medical officers. The candidates are examined for their physical and mental fitness. The medical standards are as per the guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Important Points:
- Candidates must clear the PST and MST to be eligible for the final merit list.
- The PST and MST are conducted at various centers across the country.
Selection Process
The final selection of candidates is based on the following factors:
- Marks obtained in the CBE
- Performance in the PST and MST
- Medical Fitness
The candidates are shortlisted based on their overall merit and are allocated to the different CAPF based on their preferences and availability of vacancies.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CAPF exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of India.
- Age: Must be between 20 and 25 years of age as on the 1st August of the year of the exam.
- Educational Qualification: Must have a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- Physical Standards: Must meet the physical standards prescribed by the UPSC.
- Medical Standards: Must meet the medical standards prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
How to Apply
Candidates can apply for the CAPF exam online through the UPSC website. The application process involves filling out an online application form, uploading scanned copies of required documents, and paying the application fee.
Exam Preparation Tips
- Start early: Begin your preparation well in advance of the exam.
- Understand the syllabus: Go through the detailed syllabus and identify the important topics.
- Refer to good study material: Use standard textbooks, reference books, and online resources for your preparation.
- Practice mock tests: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Stay updated with current affairs: Read newspapers, magazines, and online news portals to stay updated with current events.
- Focus on your physical fitness: Start preparing for the PST well in advance.
- Stay motivated: Maintain a positive attitude and stay motivated throughout your preparation.
Important Dates
The important dates for the CAPF exam are announced by the UPSC on its website. The exam is usually conducted in the month of August or September.
Conclusion
The UPSC CAPF exam is a challenging but rewarding exam. With proper preparation and dedication, candidates can crack the exam and secure a prestigious career in the Central Armed Police Forces.
Table 1: Important Dates for CAPF Exam 2024
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | |
| Online Application Starts | |
| Online Application Ends | |
| Admit Card Release | |
| Computer Based Examination (CBE) | |
| Declaration of CBE Result | |
| Physical Standards Test (PST) | |
| Medical Standards Test (MST) | |
| Final Merit List Declaration |
Table 2: CAPF Exam Syllabus
| Paper | Topic | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1: General Ability and Intelligence | Reasoning and Comprehension | 120 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 80 | |
| General Awareness | 100 | |
| Paper 2: General Studies | Current Events of National and International Importance | 100 |
| History of India and Indian National Movement | 100 | |
| Indian Polity and Governance | 100 | |
| Geography of India | 100 | |
| Indian Economy and Social Development | 100 | |
| General Science | 100 | |
| Total | ** | 1000** |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the exam?
You must be a citizen of India, aged between 20 and 25 years as on 1st August of the exam year, and possess a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
2. What is the exam pattern?
The exam is conducted in two stages: a Computer Based Examination (CBE) and a Physical Standards Test (PST) and Medical Standards Test (MST).
3. What are the topics covered in the CBE?
The CBE consists of two papers: General Ability and Intelligence, and General Studies. The topics include reasoning, comprehension, quantitative aptitude, general awareness, current events, history, geography, economics, and general science.
4. What is the duration of the CBE?
Each paper of the CBE is 2 hours long.
5. What is the selection process?
Candidates are selected based on their performance in the CBE, PST, and MST, and their medical fitness.
6. How can I apply for the exam?
You can apply online through the UPSC website.
7. What are some important preparation tips?
Start early, understand the syllabus, refer to good study material, practice mock tests, stay updated with current affairs, focus on physical fitness, and stay motivated.
8. When is the exam usually conducted?
The exam is usually conducted in August or September.
9. Where can I find the exam syllabus?
The detailed syllabus is available on the UPSC website.
10. What are the minimum qualifying marks for the CBE?
The minimum qualifying marks are announced by the UPSC in the notification.
11. What are the physical standards for the PST?
The physical standards are different for males and females and are specified in the notification.
12. What are the medical standards for the MST?
The medical standards are as per the guidelines prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
13. How many attempts are allowed for the exam?
The number of attempts allowed is specified in the notification.
14. What are the job profiles offered after clearing the exam?
The exam leads to recruitment as officers in the Central Armed Police Forces (CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB).
15. What is the salary and benefits for CAPF officers?
The salary and benefits are as per the government pay scales and are subject to change.
16. What are the career progression opportunities for CAPF officers?
CAPF officers have opportunities for promotion to higher ranks and specialized roles within the force.
17. What are the challenges of working in the CAPF?
Working in the CAPF involves challenging and demanding duties, including deployment in difficult terrains and situations.
18. What are the advantages of working in the CAPF?
Working in the CAPF offers a sense of purpose, job security, and the opportunity to serve the nation.
19. What are the training programs for CAPF officers?
CAPF officers undergo rigorous training programs at the respective training academies.
20. What are the career opportunities after leaving the CAPF?
CAPF officers can pursue careers in various government and private sectors after completing their service.