Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About The Assam Public Service Commission (apsc) Examination.

Here are the top 10 FAQs about the APSC Examination that every aspirant should know before applying.

1. What is the APSC Combined Competitive Examination (CCE)?

The APSC CCE is the most prestigious competitive examination in Assam. It is conducted by the Assam Public Service Commission to select candidates for various Class-I and Class-II posts in state administration such as:

• Assam Civil Service (ACS - Junior Grade)

• Assam Police Service (APS - Junior Grade)

• Superintendent of Taxes

• Labour Officer

• Block Development Officer (BDO)
  and many others.
  The exam consists of three stages — the Preliminary Examination, the Main Examination, and the Interview (Personality Test).

2. What is the eligibility criteria for the APSC CCE?

To apply for the APSC CCE, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen and a permanent resident of Assam, with registration in any District Employment Office in the state.

• Educational Qualification: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Degrees obtained via distance mode are not accepted.

• Age Limit: Must be between 21 and 38 years as of January 1 of the examination year.
  Age relaxation applies to candidates from reserved categories as per Assam government norms.

3. Do candidates need to know the Assamese language?

Earlier, there was a compulsory Assamese language paper, but after the 2019 amendment, it was removed.
Now, candidates can write the exam entirely in English.
However, a basic working knowledge of Assamese or any other recognized language of Assam is essential for administrative duties and may be assessed during the interview.

4. What is the exam pattern for APSC CCE?

The APSC CCE has a three-tier examination system:
Preliminary Exam:

• Two papers — General Studies Paper-I and General Studies Paper-II (CSAT).

• Each carries 200 marks.

• Paper-II (CSAT) is qualifying, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.

Main Exam:

• Descriptive papers including Essay, General English, General Studies (I, II, III, IV, V, VI), and two optional subject papers.

Interview/Personality Test:

• Conducted for candidates who clear the mains.

• Evaluates personality, communication skills, and administrative aptitude.

5. What is the syllabus for the APSC CCE?

The APSC syllabus is comprehensive and focuses heavily on Assam-specific topics.
Key areas include:

• General Studies: Current Affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Economy, and Science & Technology — both Indian and Assam-specific.

• CSAT: Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, Decision Making, and Basic Numeracy.

• Assam-Specific Section: Around 30–35% of questions in prelims are from Assam’s history, culture, economy, and geography.

6. Can candidates prepare for APSC without coaching?

Yes, many successful candidates clear the APSC exam without coaching.
A self-study approach works if it includes:

• Understanding the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly.

• Using reliable study materials such as NCERT books and standard reference texts.

• Practicing previous years’ question papers and taking mock tests regularly.
  Consistency and self-discipline are the keys to success.

7. What is the best strategy to crack the APSC exam?

A solid preparation strategy should include:

• Analyze the syllabus and focus on high-weight topics.

• Create a daily study schedule and follow it strictly.

• Focus deeply on Assam-related GK, current affairs, and state-specific reports.

• Take mock tests and revise regularly.

• Keep track of Assam government schemes, policies, and budget updates.

• Stay updated on national and international current affairs.

8. Is there any qualifying language paper in the APSC mains exam?

The earlier language paper in Assamese, Bengali, or Bodo has been removed.
However, a qualifying English paper remains in the APSC Mains Examination.
Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks set by the commission to pass this paper.

9. What is the APSC interview process like?

The interview (personality test) is the final stage of the examination.
It evaluates the candidate’s personality, presence of mind, and suitability for civil services.
The interview panel may ask:

• Questions related to your academic background and optional subjects.

• Current affairs and recent developments in Assam and India.

• Your opinions on social and administrative issues.

• Details from your Detailed Application Form (DAF).
  Preparing mock interviews and staying confident are essential to score well.

10. How is the final merit list of APSC prepared?

The final merit list is prepared based on the marks obtained in the Main Exam and Interview.
The Preliminary Exam serves only as a screening test, and its marks are not counted in the final merit ranking.
Minimum qualifying marks (cut-off) are released by the commission separately for each category.

Conclusion

The APSC Combined Competitive Examination is not just a test of knowledge but of determination and strategy.
Understanding the exam process, syllabus, and preparation techniques will give you a strong foundation to succeed.
With the right mindset, consistency, and focus on Assam-specific content, any aspirant can achieve success in the APSC CCE and serve the state as an Assam Civil Service (ACS) or Assam Police Service (APS) officer.