About APSC and CCE
The Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) is a constitutional body that recruits qualified candidates for civil service posts in Assam. Among the examinations it conducts, the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) is the most sought-after, leading to appointments in Assam Civil Service (ACS), Assam Police Service (APS), and allied services. This guide covers the complete APSC CCE syllabus, exam pattern, eligibility, and selection process as per the APSC Combined Competitive Examination (Amendment) Rules, 2019.
APSC CCE Exam Overview
The APSC CCE follows a three-stage selection process: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination (Written + Interview), and Final Merit List preparation. Each stage tests different aspects of a candidate’s ability. The Prelims is a screening test, while the Mains and Interview together determine the final ranking.
| Exam Name | Combined Competitive Examination |
| Organization | Assam Public Service Commission |
| Posts | ACS, APS, Superintendent of Taxes, etc. |
| Stages | Prelims → Mains (Written) → Interview |
| Prelims Marks | 400 (qualifying only) |
| Mains Marks | 1500 (Written) + 180 (Interview) = 1680 |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Age Limit | 21 to 38 years |
| Website | https://apsc.nic.in |
Posts Under APSC CCE
The APSC CCE covers multiple Group A and Group B posts across different government departments in Assam. The main services recruited through the CCE include Assam Civil Service (Jr. Grade), Assam Police Service (Jr. Grade), Assam Land & Revenue Service (Jr. Grade), Superintendent of Taxes, District Transport Officer, Inspector of Taxes, Labour Officer, Block Development Officer, Employment Officer, Assistant Employment Officer, District Panchayat Development Officer, Sub-Registrar, and Assistant Research Officer, among others. The exact number of vacancies varies each year and is specified in the official notification.
APSC CCE Exam Pattern
As per the APSC Combined Competitive Examination (Amendment) Rules, 2019, the examination has two successive stages: Preliminary Examination and Main Examination. The Main Examination includes both a written component and a personal interview.
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (Objective Type)
The Preliminary Examination is a screening test. Its marks are not added to the final merit list. The sole purpose of Prelims is to shortlist candidates for the Main Examination.
| Details | Paper I (General Studies I) | Paper II (General Studies II / CSAT) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Questions | 100 | 80 |
| Maximum Marks | 200 | 200 |
| Duration | 2 hours | 2 hours |
| Question Type | MCQ (Objective) | MCQ (Objective) |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 marks per wrong answer | 0.25 marks per wrong answer |
| Qualifying Criteria | Cutoff decided by APSC | Minimum 33% marks required |
| Assam-Related Questions | 30-35% of questions | Not applicable |
Note: Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying in nature. Candidates need a minimum of 33% marks in Paper II for their Paper I marks to be counted. The merit for shortlisting to Mains is based only on Paper I marks.
Answer Sheet: Candidates will be provided an OMR (Optical Mark Recognition) answer sheet. Only black or blue ball pens should be used for marking answers. Marking more than one answer for a question will attract negative marking.
Exam Centres: The Preliminary Examination is held at centres across Assam, including Amingaon, Barpeta, Bongaigaon, Biswanath Chariali, Dhemaji, Dhubri, Dibrugarh, Diphu, Goalpara, Golaghat, Guwahati, Haflong, Hailakandi, Hamren, Hatsingimari, Hojai, Jorhat, Kajalgaon, Kokrajhar, Majuli, Mangaldoi, Morigaon, Mushalpur, Nagaon, Nalbari, North Lakhimpur, Silchar, Sivasagar, Sonari, Sribhumi, Tamulpur, Tezpur, Tinsukia, and Udalguri.
Stage 2: Main Examination (Written)
Candidates who qualify the Prelims move to the Main Examination. The number of candidates selected for Mains is 11 to 12 times the total number of vacancies (category-wise). The Main Examination is descriptive in nature and directly affects the final merit ranking.
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Essay | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper 2 | General Studies I | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper 3 | General Studies II | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper 4 | General Studies III | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper 5 | General Studies IV (Ethics) | 250 | 3 hours |
| Paper 6 | General Studies V (Assam Specific) | 250 | 3 hours |
Total Written Marks: 1500 (6 papers × 250 marks each)
Medium: Candidates can write in English or Assamese.
Exam Centre: The Main Examination is held only at Guwahati.
Note: There are no optional subjects in the APSC CCE. All candidates appear for the same six papers.
Stage 3: Interview / Personality Test
Candidates who perform well in the written Mains are called for an interview in a ratio of 1:3 against the number of advertised vacancies. The interview carries 180 marks.
Maximum Marks: 180
Venue: APSC Office, Guwahati
Format: The interview is a purposive conversation, not a cross-examination. The board assesses personal suitability for a career in public service. Qualities evaluated include mental alertness, critical thinking, logical exposition, balance of judgement, depth and variety of interest, social cohesion, leadership, and intellectual integrity.
There are no separate qualifying marks for the interview. The interview score is added to the written examination marks to determine the final ranking.
APSC CCE Prelims Syllabus
The Preliminary Examination papers are set at the level of knowledge expected from a graduate of any recognised university. Below is the topic-wise breakdown of both papers.
General Studies I (Paper I): 200 Marks, 100 Questions
This paper tests general awareness across a broad range of subjects. Around 30-35% of questions are related to Assam, covering Assam History, Geography, Polity, Culture, and Current Affairs.
| Topic | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Current Events | National and international events of significance |
| History of India | Indian History and Indian National Movement |
| Geography | Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India and the World |
| Indian Polity & Governance | Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues |
| Economic & Social Development | Sustainable Development, Poverty, Inclusion, Demographics, Social Sector Initiatives |
| Environment | General issues on Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change (does not require subject specialisation) |
| General Science | Basic Science questions at graduation level |
| Assam-Related Topics | Assam History, Geography, Polity, Culture, Current Affairs (30-35% of total questions) |
General Studies II / CSAT (Paper II): 200 Marks, 80 Questions
This paper tests aptitude and reasoning skills. It is qualifying in nature, and candidates need at least 33% marks (66 out of 200) to qualify. The marks of this paper are not counted towards the Prelims merit.
| Topic | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Comprehension | Reading comprehension passages |
| Interpersonal Skills | Communication skills |
| Logical Reasoning | Logical reasoning and analytical ability |
| Decision Making | Decision making and problem solving |
| General Mental Ability | Mental ability questions |
| Basic Numeracy | Numbers and their relations, orders of magnitude, etc. (Class X level) |
| Data Interpretation | Charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency (Class X level) |
APSC CCE Prelims Syllabus (Download)
| General Studies I Syllabus | Download PDF |
| General Studies II Syllabus | Download PDF |
APSC CCE Mains Syllabus
The Main Examination tests in-depth knowledge and analytical skills. It consists of six descriptive papers. Each paper carries 250 marks and has a 3-hour duration. Below is a detailed breakdown of each paper’s syllabus.
Paper 1: Essay – 250 Marks
Candidates write an essay on a topic of general interest. The essay can be written in the medium or language of the candidate’s choice. The Commission evaluates clarity of thought, logical structure, quality of argumentation, and language skills. A choice of topics is given.
Paper 2: General Studies I – 250 Marks
Theme: Indian Heritage and Culture, History, and Geography of the World and Society.
| Indian culture — Art forms, Literature, and Architecture from ancient to modern times |
| Modern Indian History from the mid-18th century — significant events, personalities, and issues |
| The Freedom Struggle — various stages and contributions from different parts of the country |
| Post-independence consolidation and reorganisation within the country |
| History of the world — 18th century events such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawing of national boundaries, colonisation, decolonisation |
| Salient features of Indian society, diversity of India, role of women, population and related issues, poverty, urbanisation |
| Effects of globalisation on Indian society, social empowerment, communalism, regionalism, and secularism |
| World physical geography — key features, critical changes in geographical features including water bodies and ice caps |
| Distribution of natural resources across the world, factors responsible for location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries |
| Important geophysical phenomena — earthquakes, tsunami, volcanic activity, cyclones |
Paper 3: General Studies II – 250 Marks
Theme: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations.
| Indian Constitution — historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure |
| Functions and responsibilities of the Union and States, issues pertaining to federal structure, devolution of powers |
| Separation of powers among various organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions |
| Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries |
| Parliament and State Legislatures — structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers and privileges |
| Structure, organisation, and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary, including Tribunals |
| Ministries and departments of the Government, pressure groups and formal/informal associations |
| Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act |
| Constitutional posts and bodies — Election Commission, UPSC, State Public Service Commissions, CAG, etc. |
| Government policies and interventions in various sectors, and issues arising from their design and implementation |
| Development processes and the development industry — the role of NGOs, SHGs, and various groups |
| Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections — their performance, mechanisms, laws, and institutions |
| Issues relating to governance, transparency, and accountability, e-governance, citizens’ charters |
| India’s role in international organisations, bilateral and regional groupings, effect of foreign policies on India’s interests |
| Important international institutions, agencies, and fora — their structure and mandate |
Paper 4: General Studies III – 250 Marks
Theme: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management.
| Indian economy — resource mobilisation, growth, development, planning, employment |
| Government budgeting, major crops, cropping patterns, different types of irrigation, storage and marketing of agricultural produce |
| Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies, MSP, public distribution system, food security |
| Effects of liberalisation on the economy, changes in industrial policy, infrastructure including energy, ports, roads, airports, railways |
| Investment models, Science and Technology — developments, applications, everyday life |
| Achievements of Indians in science and technology, indigenisation of technology, new technology development |
| Awareness in IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nanotechnology, Biotechnology |
| Issues relating to intellectual property rights |
| Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment |
| Disaster and disaster management, linkages between development and spread of extremism |
| Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security |
| Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites, cyber security |
| Money laundering and its prevention, various security forces and agencies and their mandate |
Paper 5: General Studies IV (Ethics) – 250 Marks
Theme: Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude.
| Ethics and human interface — essence, determinants, consequences of ethics in human actions |
| Dimensions of ethics, ethics in private and public relationships |
| Human values — lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers, and administrators |
| Role of family, society, and educational institutions in inculcating values |
| Attitude — content, structure, function; influence and relation with thought and behaviour |
| Aptitude and foundational values for civil service — integrity, impartiality, non-partisanship, objectivity |
| Emotional intelligence — concepts and their utility and application in administration and governance |
| Contributions of moral thinkers and philosophers from India and the world |
| Public/Civil Service values and ethics in public administration — status and problems |
| Ethical issues in international relations, public funding, corporate governance |
| Probity in governance — concept of public service, philosophical basis of governance and probity |
| Information sharing and transparency in government, Right to Information, codes of ethics and conduct |
| Case studies on the above issues |
Paper 6: General Studies V (Assam Specific) – 250 Marks
This paper was introduced in 2020 and focuses entirely on Assam-related topics. It tests a candidate’s understanding of Assam’s history, culture, geography, polity, economy, environment, and disaster management.
| Section | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| History, Art, Culture & Heritage | Major dynasties of Assam, their administration and revenue systems, Ahom rule, socio-cultural developments, freedom movement in Assam, political awakening and integration, architecture, literature, festivals, important personalities |
| Geography of Assam | Physiographic divisions, natural resources, climate, vegetation, forests, wildlife and biodiversity, mines and minerals, population, major industries |
| Polity & Administration | Governor, Chief Minister, State Assembly, High Court, APSC, District Administration, State Human Rights Commission, State Election Commission, State Information Commission, Public Policy, Legal Rights, Citizen Charter |
| Economy of Assam | Macro overview, agriculture, industry, service sector issues, growth, development, planning, infrastructure, resources, major development projects, government welfare schemes for SC/ST/Backward Class/Minorities/Disabled/Women/Children/Farmers |
| Environment & Biodiversity | Environmental challenges in Assam, biodiversity, climate change impact, conservation efforts |
| Security & Disaster Management | Common disasters in Assam (floods, earthquakes), disaster management approaches, internal security issues including insurgency and terrorism, role of security organisations |
APSC CCE Mains Syllabus (Download)
| Essay | Sample Paper |
| General Studies I Syllabus | Download PDF |
| General Studies II Syllabus | Download PDF |
| General Studies III Syllabus | Download PDF |
| General Studies IV Syllabus | Download PDF |
| General Studies V (Assam) Syllabus | Download PDF |
APSC CCE Marks Distribution Summary
Here is a quick summary of marks across all stages of the APSC CCE examination.
| Stage | Total Marks | Counted in Final Merit? |
|---|---|---|
| Preliminary Examination | 400 | No (qualifying only) |
| Main Examination (Written) | 1500 | Yes |
| Interview / Personality Test | 180 | Yes |
| Total (Mains + Interview) | 1680 | Yes — determines final rank |
Final Selection and Merit Ranking
After the written examination and interview are complete, the Commission calculates each candidate’s aggregate score by adding the marks from all six written papers (1500 marks) and the interview (180 marks). The combined total of 1680 marks forms the basis of the final merit ranking.
Based on this merit list, candidates are allocated to different services according to three factors: their overall rank, the service preferences they indicated in their application form, and the applicable reservation rules. APSC recommends exactly the number of candidates matching the vacancies notified in the official advertisement. No candidate is recommended for a service they have not opted for.
Books for APSC CCE Preparation
A good set of reference books can make a real difference in your preparation. Here are some widely recommended books for the APSC CCE, arranged by subject.
| Subject | Recommended Book |
|---|---|
| APSC Previous Year Papers | APSC CCE Prelims Solved Papers |
| Assam History | Assam: From Yandabo To Partition |
| Assam-Related Topics | Assam Year Book (English), Assam Year Book (Assamese) |
| Computer Awareness | Objective Computer Awareness |
| Current Affairs | Manorama Year Book 2025 |
| General English | Objective General English by SP Bakshi |
| General Knowledge | Lucent’s General Knowledge |
| Geography | Indian and World Geography |
| Indian Economy | Pratiyogita Darpan: Indian Economy |
| Indian Polity | Indian Polity by M Laxmikanth |
| Modern Indian History | Modern India by Rajiv Ahir |
| Numerical Ability | Fast Track Objective Arithmetic |
| Reasoning | Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by RS Aggarwal |
These books should supplement your core preparation, not replace it. NCERT textbooks (especially for History, Geography, Polity, and Science) remain the foundation for building concepts. Regular newspaper reading, particularly The Assam Tribune and a national daily, is essential for current affairs.
Related APSC CCE Pages
We have separate pages for different stages of the APSC CCE process on JobAssam. Visit the relevant page based on what you need:
| APSC CCE Notification | Click Here |
| APSC CCE Admit Card | Click Here |
| APSC CCE Result | Click Here |
Important Links of APSC CCE Syllabus
| APSC CCE Prelims Syllabus (Official) | Click Here |
| APSC CCE Mains Syllabus (Official) | Click Here |
| CCE Amendment Rules, 2019 | Click Here |
| APSC CCE PYQs | Click Here |
| WhatsApp Channel | Click Here |
| Install Android App | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many papers are there in the APSC CCE Mains Examination?
The APSC CCE Mains has six written papers: one Essay paper, four General Studies papers (GS I to GS IV), and one Assam-specific paper (GS V). Each paper carries 250 marks, totalling 1500 marks.
Is CSAT (Paper II) qualifying in the APSC CCE Prelims?
Yes. General Studies Paper II (CSAT) is qualifying in nature. Candidates need at least 33% marks in this paper for their Paper I score to be considered for Prelims merit.
Are there optional subjects in the APSC CCE exam?
No. The APSC CCE does not have any optional subjects. All candidates appear for the same set of papers in both Prelims and Mains.
What percentage of Prelims questions are related to Assam?
Around 30-35% of questions in General Studies Paper I of the Preliminary Examination are compulsorily related to Assam, covering topics like Assam History, Geography, Polity, Culture, and Current Affairs.
What is the total marks in the APSC CCE final merit?
The final merit is based on a total of 1680 marks, 1500 marks from the six written papers of the Main Examination, and 180 marks from the Interview/Personality Test. Prelims marks are not counted.
Can I write the APSC CCE Mains in Assamese?
Yes. Candidates have the option to write their Main Examination papers in either English or Assamese.
Is there a limit on the number of attempts for APSC CCE?
No. There is no restriction on the number of attempts. Candidates can appear for the exam as long as they meet the age criteria (21 to 38 years for General category, with relaxation for reserved categories).
Keep checking the official APSC website for the latest notifications, syllabus changes, and exam dates. For more Assam government job updates, join our WhatsApp Channel or install the JobAssam Android App.
