The Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) conducts the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) to recruit candidates for various administrative positions in Assam. The examination follows a three-phased pattern consisting of Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Understanding the syllabus and exam format is important for you. Ask why? Because, when you know the syllabus and the question pattern, you can create your own customized study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses. It surely enhances your preparation, so do well in the examination. Read on to know the breakdown of the APSC Syllabus.
Stages of APSC CCE | APSC Syllabus
The Assam Public Service Commission conducts the Combined Competitive Examination in three stages:
- Preliminary Examination: Objective-type questions to screen candidates for Mains.
- Main Examination: descriptive-type papers to assess in-depth knowledge.
- Interview (Personality Test) – This is the verbal assessment of candidates
APSC Syllabus for General Studies Paper-I
The Preliminary exam is the first step in your journey to becoming an administrative officer in the state. The Prelims consist of two papers. The first is General Studies, which includes 100 questions to be answered in two hours. The second paper is the Civil Service Aptitude Test (CSAT), which is qualifying in nature. In this paper, you will have 80 questions to answer within two hours. To qualify for the preliminary stage, you must score at least 33% on the CSAT paper.
| Subject | Topics Covered |
| Current Affairs | National and International recent events and developments |
| History of India & National Movement | Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, including the freedom movement |
| Indian & World Geography | Physical, Social, and Economic Geography of India & the World |
| Indian Polity & Governance | Constitution, Political System, Panchayati Raj, Public Policy, Rights Issues, etc. |
| Economic & Social Development | Sustainable Development, Poverty, Demographics, and Social Sector Initiatives |
| General Science | Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (General Principles and Applications) |
| Assam-Specific Topics | Geography, Polity, Economy, History, Culture, and significant events |
APSC Syllabus for General Studies Paper-II (CSAT)
Paper II, the CSAT, evaluates candidates’ skills in logical reasoning, analytical ability, comprehension, decision-making, and problem-solving.
| Category | Topics Covered |
| General Mathematical Concepts | Number System, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability, Mensuration, Averages |
| Data Handling & Analysis | Data Interpretation, Data Sufficiency, Graphs & Charts Analysis |
| Logical & Analytical Reasoning | Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Puzzles, Decision Making, Logical Statements |
| English Comprehension | Grammar, Vocabulary, Sentence Completion, Idioms & Phrases, Synonyms & Antonyms |
| Interpersonal Skills | Communication skills, Analytical Ability, Interpersonal skills |
| Basic Numeracy | Elementary mathematics up to Class 10 level |
| Decision-Making and Problem-Solving | Analytical ability and reasoning |
Note: Paper II is qualifying in nature, and candidates need to score a minimum qualifying mark of 33%.
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APSC Syllabus for Mains | Examination Pattern
After qualifying the preliminary stage, candidates have to appear for Mains exam. The Main Examination is descriptive in nature and consists of six papers, including an essay paper, four General Studies papers, and one paper specific to Assam.
| Paper | Marks & Duration |
| Essay Paper | 250 Marks, 3 Hours |
| GS Paper I | 250 Marks, 3 Hours |
| GS Paper II | 250 Marks, 3 Hours |
| GS Paper III | 250 Marks, 3 Hours |
| GS Paper IV (Ethics) | 250 Marks, 3 Hours |
| Assam-Specific Paper | 250 Marks, 3 Hours |
| Total | 1500 Marks |
Essay Paper | APSC Syllabus
The Essay Paper in the APSC CCE Mains Exam carries 250 marks, where candidates are required to write two essays. This paper evaluates critical thinking, coherence, structure, and articulation of ideas on topics related to social, political, economic, and environmental issues. Excelling in this paper is important for showcasing your ability to engage with complex subjects thoughtfully and effectively.
APSC Syllabus for CCE GS Paper I
General Studies I (250 Marks) covers Indian History, Heritage, Culture, and Society, along with the Geography of India and the World. It includes ancient to modern history, significant cultural developments, social issues, and physical, economic, as well as human geography.
| Topic | Details |
| Indian Culture | Salient aspects of art forms, literature, and architecture from ancient to modern times. |
| Modern Indian History | Freedom Struggle, significant events, personalities, and contributions from different regions of India. |
| Post-independence India | Consolidation and reorganization of India. |
| Indian Society | Role of women, population and associated issues, poverty and development issues, urbanization and related issues, and remedies. |
| Globalization and Indian Society | Effects of globalization on Indian society. |
| Social Issues | Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism, and secularism. |
| World History | Industrial Revolution, World Wars, Redrawal of National Boundaries, Political Philosophies—Capitalism, Socialism, Communism, etc. |
| Geography | Physical geography of India and the world, salient features of the world’s physical geography. |
| Economic & Industrial Geography | Factors responsible for the location of primary, secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various parts of the world, including India. |
| Geophysical Phenomena | Important geophysical phenomena such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic activity, cyclones, and related geographical features. |
| Environmental Geography | Changes in water bodies, ice caps, flora, and fauna, and the effects of such changes. |
APSC Syllabus for CCE Mains: GS Paper II
General Studies II (250 Marks) covers Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations, focusing on the Indian political system, government policies, welfare schemes, rights issues, and India’s relations with other nations.
| Topic | Details |
| Indian Constitution | Historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions, and basic structure. |
| Federal Structure & Local Governance | Evolution, significant provisions, amendments, devolution of power and finances to local levels, and challenges therein. |
| Separation of Powers | Separation of powers between various organs, dispute redressal mechanisms, and institutions. |
| Union & State Government | Functions, organization, and functioning of the Executive and Judiciary, Ministries, and Departments of Government. |
| Parliament & State Legislatures | Structure, functions, powers, privileges, and issues arising out of these. |
| Pressure Groups & Governance | Role of pressure groups, formal/informal associations in polity, functioning of NGOs, SHGs, and other stakeholders in development processes. |
| Statutory, Regulatory & Quasi-Judicial Bodies | Their structure, powers, and functions. |
| Constitutional Bodies | Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions, and responsibilities of various Constitutional bodies. |
| Governance & Accountability | Important aspects of governance, transparency, accountability, e-governance applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential with reference to Assam. |
| Social Justice | Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, performance of these schemes, and protection mechanisms for weaker sections. |
| Development & Social Issues | Development processes, role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups, associations, donors, charities, and institutional stakeholders. |
| Health, Education & Human Resources | Issues related to social sector/services, development, and management with a special focus on Assam. |
| International Relations | India and its neighborhood relations. |
| Global Partnerships | Bilateral, regional, and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. |
| Global Governance & Organizations | Important global institutions, agencies, and their structure and mandates. |
APSC Syllabus for CCE Mains GS Paper III
APSC GS Paper III (250 marks) covers Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management, focusing on scientific advancements, economic policies, environmental conservation, national security challenges, and disaster preparedness.
| Topic | Details |
| Indian Economy | Issues related to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development, and employment. |
| Inclusive Growth | Issues arising from inclusive growth. |
| Government Budgeting | Understanding the budgeting process and its implications. |
| Agriculture & Irrigation | Major crops, cropping patterns, irrigation systems, storage, transport, and marketing of agricultural produce. |
| Agricultural Policies | Direct and indirect farm subsidies, minimum support prices, Public Distribution System (PDS), buffer stocks, and food security. |
| Technology in Agriculture | E-technology for farmers, technology missions, and animal-rearing economics. |
| Food Processing & Supply Chain | Scope, significance, and requirements for food processing industries. |
| Land Reforms | Land reforms and their impact on the economy. |
| Industrial Growth & Liberalization | Effects of liberalization, changes in industrial policy, and their impact. |
| Infrastructure Development | Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways, and investment models. |
| Science & Technology | Developments, applications, and their impact on daily life. |
| Indigenization of Technology | Achievements of Indians in science & technology, new technology development. |
| Emerging Technologies | IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nanotechnology, Biotechnology, and Intellectual Property Rights. |
| Environment & Conservation | Environmental pollution, degradation, and environmental impact assessment. |
| Disaster Management | Disaster preparedness and response, with emphasis on Assam. |
| Security & Extremism | Linkages between development and extremism. |
| Internal Security Challenges | Role of external state/non-state actors, communication networks, social media, cyber security, and money laundering prevention. |
| Border Security & Terrorism | Security challenges in border areas, organized crime linkages with terrorism, with emphasis on Assam. |
| Security Forces & Agencies | Roles and mandates of various security forces. |
APSC Syllabus for CCE GS Paper IV (Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude)
APSC GS Paper IV (250 marks) covers Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude, focusing on ethical values in governance, public service integrity, emotional intelligence, moral philosophy, case studies, and accountability in administration.
| Topic | Details |
| Ethics and Human Interface | Essence, determinants, and consequences of ethics in human actions; ethics in private and public relationships. |
| Human Values | Lessons from leaders, reformers, administrators; role of family, society, and education in inculcating values. |
| Attitude | Structure, function, influence on thought & behavior; moral and political attitudes; social influence and persuasion. |
| Aptitude & Civil Service Values | Integrity, impartiality, objectivity, dedication to public service, empathy, tolerance, and compassion for weaker sections. |
| Emotional Intelligence | Concepts, utility, and application in administration and governance. |
| Moral Thinkers & Philosophers | Contributions from Indian and global moral thinkers. |
| Ethics in Public Administration | Ethical concerns, dilemmas in governance, rules, conscience, accountability, corporate governance, and ethics in international relations. |
| Probity in Governance | Public service ethics, transparency, RTI, codes of ethics, Citizens’ Charters, corruption challenges, and service delivery. |
| Case Studies | Practical case studies on ethics, integrity, and governance. |
APSC Syllabus for GS Paper V
The General Subject Paper on Assam (250 Marks) covers topics related to Assam’s history, culture, geography, economy, polity, society, biodiversity, environment, and current affairs, with a focus on state-specific governance, developmental issues, and socio-economic challenges.
| Topic | Details |
| History, Art, Culture, Literature, Tradition & Heritage | – Major historical landmarks of Assam- Major dynasties & their administration- Socio-cultural issues- Freedom movement & political integration- Architecture & Monuments- Arts, paintings, and handicrafts- Important literary works- Fairs, festivals, folk music & dances- Cultural & religious movements- Leading personalities |
| Geography of Assam | – Broad physical features- Major physiographic divisions- Natural resources- Climate, natural vegetation, forests, wildlife, biodiversity- Mines and minerals- Population & major industries |
| Political & Administrative System | -Governor, CM, 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 of Assam’s economy- Major issues in agriculture, industries & services- Growth, development & planning- Infrastructure & resources- Major development projects & schemes- Welfare schemes for SC/ST/OBC/Minorities, women, children, elderly, farmers, laborers, disabled, and destitute |
| Bio-diversity, Environment, Security & Disaster Management | – Focus on Assam’s biodiversity, environmental issues, security challenges, and disaster management policies |
Personality Test (Interview)
The Personal Interview is conducted after the declaration of the Mains Exam results and carries 180 marks. This verbal assessment round evaluates decision-making, awareness of national and regional issues, and communication skills. The total marks for Mains + Interview are 1680.
Role of Coaching Institutes Like Borthakur’s IAS Academy
The APSC CCE is a prestigious examination that demands a well-planned strategy. A thorough understanding of the syllabus, effective time management, and practice are important in all three stages.
In your preparation to be in the administrative position of your state and devot your life to the welfare of your people, Borthakur’s IAS Academy can play a significant role. The Academy has been a leading institution in civil service preparation since 2014, consistently producing top-ranking candidates. Here, you can access in-depth offline and online classes, ensuring comprehensive and strategic APSC Syllabus and subject coverage. Additionally, the motivational seminars attended by esteemed IAS, ACS, and IPS officers inspire aspirants, while personalized mentorship under the expert faculties is provided. But, at the same time, you also need to focus on self-discipline and continuous learning. With the right approach, success is achievable.
Many successful candidates attribute their success to structured coaching, combined with self-study and consistent practice.