Table of Contents
2. Overview of IB ACIO Recruitment 2025
Organization: Intelligence Bureau (IB), under MHA
Post: Assistant Central Intelligence Officer, Grade II / Executive
Vacancies: 3,717 in total
Application Mode: Online
Exam Mode: Tiered selection via written exams and interview
3. Important Dates & Application Window
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | Mid–July 2025 |
| Online Application Begins | 19 July 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 10 August 2025 |
The short notification was released in mid-July, with the official detailed notification expected on 19 July 2025. Applications opened the same day and closed on 10 August 2025.
4. Expected Exam Schedule
Tier I – Objective Test
Expected to be held from 16 September 2025 onwards, based on previous trends and expert forecasts.
Tier II – Descriptive Paper
Likely scheduled for December 2025, as per tentative timelines.
Tier III – Interview
Expected to follow in January–February 2026
5. Eligibility Criteria & Vacancy Distribution
Educational Qualification: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
Age Limit: 18 to 27 years as of 10 August 2025
Upper age relaxation applicable as per standard government norms.
Vacancy Breakdown (Category-wise):
UR: 1,537
EWS: 442
OBC (NCL): 946
SC: 566
ST: 226
Total: 3,717
6. Selection Process Breakdown
The selection process consists of three stages:
Tier I – Objective test (Multiple-Choice Questions)
Tier II – Descriptive exam (English comprehension, essay, etc.)
Tier III – Interview
7. Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme
Tier I: Objective test; questions typically cover areas such as General Awareness, Aptitude, General English, etc.
Tier II: Descriptive paper focusing on written communication skills.
Tier III is an in-person interview.
Salary/Pay Scale: Level 7, ₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400, with additional allowances.
8. Preparation Strategy for IB ACIO 2025
Tier I: Focus on speed and accuracy in GA, logical reasoning, numerical ability, and English. Use mock tests and previous question papers.
Tier II: Practice essay writing, comprehension, and descriptive prompts under time constraints.
Tier III: Prepare for the personal interview by brushing up on current affairs, situational judgement, and communication skills.
Maintain revision schedules aligned with expected timelines.
9. Exam-Day Guidelines & Admit Card Details
Admit Card Release: Tentatively expected 7–10 days before Tier I exam.
Exam Day Tips:
Carry the admit card, valid photo ID, and extra passport-size photos.
Arrive early; rules prohibit carrying electronics.
Read instructions carefully before answering.
For Tier II, plan your essay and descriptive answers wisely.
10. FAQs
Q1. What is the expected date for IB ACIO Tier I exam?
Tentatively from 16 September 2025 onwards.
Q2. When will Tier II and interviews happen?
Tier II: Expected December 2025
Interview: Likely January–February 2026
Q3. How many vacancies are there in IB ACIO 2025?
A total of 3,717 vacancies have been announced.
Q4. What is the selection procedure?
Written Test (Tier I), Descriptive Paper (Tier II), and Interview (Tier III).
Q5. What is the pay scale for ACIO Grade II?
₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400 (Level 7), plus allowances.
Q6. What is the age limit for applying?
18–27 years, as of 10 August 2025, with applicable relaxation.
Q7. Where can I apply?
The application process was conducted online on mha.gov.in from 19 July to 10 August 2025.
11. Conclusion
The IB ACIO 2025 recruitment offers an exceptional opportunity to serve in India’s Intelligence Bureau with 3,717 Grade II vacancies. With applications closed, the focus is now on preparing strategically for Tier I (expected mid-September), Tier II (December), and the interviews in early 2026. Aspiring candidates should align their study plans with the tentative schedule, utilize previous-year insights, and stay calm and focused while preparing.