Check IB ACIO 2026 eligibility criteria including age limit, educational qualification, nationality, and category-based relaxations. Ensure you meet requirements before applying for IB ACIO recruitment.
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The IB ACIO Eligibility Criteria 2026 is a crucial aspect for those planning to appear for the Intelligence Bureau Assistant Central Intelligence Officer exam. You must carefully check the official eligibility guidelines before applying to avoid disqualification at later stages. The eligibility parameters include nationality, age limit, educational qualification, and category-based relaxations as per government rules.
Only Indian citizens who meet the prescribed requirements will be considered for recruitment. Generally, a graduation degree from a recognized university is mandatory, while the age limit falls between 18 and 27 years with relaxations for reserved categories. Meeting these criteria ensures that you can proceed smoothly through the application and selection process.
IB ACIO Eligibility Criteria 2026 Overview
Having a clear idea concerning the IB ACIO eligibility criteria 2026 is essential for interested ones. Then, you can find out if you are fit for the post or not. Further, this will help you while applying.
| Particulars | Eligibility Criteria |
| Nationality | Must be an Indian citizen |
| Educational Qualification | The minimum qualification is graduation from any UGC-recognized university or equivalent. |
| Additionally, computer knowledge can boost the candidature. | |
| Age Limitation | General candidates—18-27 years. |
| SC/ST candidates - 27+5 years | |
| OBC candidates - 27+3 years | |
| Age Limitation (in case of exception) | Candidates already working in any of the departmental services for 3 years or more, up to 40 years. |
| In the case of widows, divorced women, and women judicially separated from their husbands and not remarried, the upper age limit is 40 years. | |
| For sportspersons and meritorious candidates, the age limit is 27+5 years. |
IB ACIO Physical Eligibility Criteria 2026 Key Highlights
The IB ACIO physical eligibility criteria 2026 are crucial for deciding if the candidate is fit for the post and if they can carry out the given responsibilities. In addition, the IB ACIO examination is carried out in a process involving a three-tier examination process.
The aspiring ones must qualify for all three tiers. Listed below are some of the criteria that are essential to satisfy:
- Your height and weight should be proportionate.
- There should be no genetic disorders such as gynecomastia, knock knees, color blindness, or night blindness.
- Your elbows must not turn more than 15 degrees to the outer end.
- Besides, the joints and knees should function properly without any pain or physical barrier.
- Further, any serious accident in the past that still has its effect can lead to rejection of the candidature.
IB ACIO Height Criteria
The height criteria for the males and females vary. Additionally, there is some relaxation in the height parameters for candidates from the Northeast and other hilly regions.
- Male - 165 cm
- Female - 157 cm
- There is a relaxation in height for candidates belonging to hill areas and tribals by 5 cm.
IB ACIO Weight Criteria
The weight must be in proportion to the height. You must not be overweight or underweight. The examination is going to be crucial, and you are expected to present proper candidature.
Moreover, your chest must fully expand with a minimum expansion of 5 cm.
IB ACIO Physical Test
Here are the minimum requirements for the IB ACIO physical fitness test. You are advised to stay fit and keep their bodily movements active to showcase the best performance.
| Gender | Qualifying Criteria |
| Male Candidates | Walking: 1,600 Meters in 15 minutes |
| Cycling: 8 Kms in 30 minutes | |
| Female Candidates | Walking: 1 Km in 15 minutes |
| Cycling: 5 Km in 30 minutes |
Additional IB ACIO Physical Eligibility
There are two more binding factors, and candidates must not forget to check these while applying:
Eyesight: Distant vision should be 6/6 and 6/9 in two eyes with or without wearing glasses.
You must not have:
- Knock knees
- Flat foot
- Bowlegs
- Varicose vein
- Squint in eye
- Any loss of part of the body
- No high colour vision for the post of Intelligence Officer.
IB ACIO 2026 Educational Qualification
The minimum educational requirement is:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Those awaiting their final year results cannot apply unless they produce proof of graduation before the final selection.
- Knowledge of computers, basic IT skills, and general awareness are considered essential for this role, though not mandatory in the eligibility criteria.
IB ACIO Related Articles:
| IB ACIO Selection Process 2026 | IB ACIO Physical Eligibility Limit 2026 |
| Top 10 IB ACIO Interview Questions and Answers | Best IB ACIO Coaching Center in India |
IB ACIO 2026 Nationality Criteria
To be eligible for IB ACIO 2026, candidates must be:
- A citizen of India.
- Candidates holding OCI/PIO cards or foreign nationals are not eligible for this recruitment.
- Proof of nationality, such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, or passport, may be required during document verification.
IB ACIO 2026 Age Limit
The minimum age to apply is 18 years, while the maximum age limit is 27 years as of the closing date of the application form.
Age Relaxations
Certain category-based relaxations are applicable as per government norms:
| Category | Age Relaxation Permitted |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 years (up to 32 years) |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 years (up to 30 years) |
| Departmental Candidates | Up to 40 years |
| Widows/Divorced Women (UR) | Up to 35 years |
| Widows/Divorced Women (SC/ST) | Up to 40 years |
Documents Required to Prove IB ACIO Eligibility
At the time of document verification, candidates must provide:
- Graduation degree/mark sheets.
- Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar, passport, or voter ID).
- Date of birth proof (Class 10 certificate or birth certificate).
- Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) in prescribed format.
- Disability certificate (if applicable).
- No Objection Certificate (for departmental candidates).
Must Read: Essay Topics for IB ACIO Exam 2025
IB ACIO Selection Method
IB ACIO selection method is based on three steps. Therefore, to suit the exam, candidates are required to qualify for the three tiers. Tier I and Tier II are 60-minute exams separately. Furthermore, there is a negative marking for incorrect answers. The IB ACIO selection method is explained in detail below:
IB ACIO Selection Method - Tier I
IB ACIO tier I exam is classified into five sections. Each section bears MCQ-type questions, set for 20 marks each. 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer. However, there is no marking for unanswered questions. The minimum cutoff is 33%, and candidates must qualify for this round to advance to tier II.
| Subjects | Sections | Marks |
| General Awareness | 20 | 20 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 20 | 20 |
| General Studies | 20 | 20 |
| Reasoning & Logical Ability | 20 | 20 |
| English Language | 20 | 20 |
IB ACIO Selection Method - Tier II
The conducting authority releases the usual exam details, such as date, timings, and schedule, just before the examination. The candidates who successfully clear Tier I will be allowed to appear for Tier II.
Besides, the IB ACIO selection process for tier II is carried out according to the examination's performance. Tier II consists of questions that are descriptive, such as essays, comprehension questions, or précis. It is to test candidates' English writing skills and knowledge.
| Syllabus | Marking Scheme |
| Essays | 60 |
| English Comprehension and Precis Writing |
IB ACIO Selection Method - Tier III
IB ACIO selection method for tier III is thoroughly based on the accomplishments of the candidates in tier I and tier II. Tier III is an interview round wherein the candidates are interviewed concerning their educational background, current events, and the geopolitical situation. Besides, the candidates are assessed on their personality and intelligence.
In addition, the interview round is worth 100 marks. Candidates who qualify for these rounds can proceed to the character and antecedent verification followed by a medical examination.
Conclusion
The IB ACIO Eligibility Criteria 2026 is the first filter in the recruitment process. You must meet the requirements related to nationality, age, and education while keeping the necessary documents ready. Since the competition for IB ACIO is very high, aspirants should focus not only on meeting eligibility but also on preparing strategically for the exam. Ensuring compliance with eligibility norms will help avoid last-minute disqualification and keep the path clear toward a prestigious career in the Intelligence Bureau.
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