Before filling out the application form or starting serious preparation, one important factor deserves your complete attention — the apsc age limit. Eligibility is not just a technical detail; it is the foundation of your APSC journey. A clear understanding of the age criteria ensures that your effort, time, and preparation strategy are aligned with the official requirements for APSC CCE 2026.
What is APSC?
The Assam Public Service Commission (APSC), established under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution, is the constitutional body responsible for recruiting candidates into various prestigious state services. Through the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE), APSC selects officers for posts such as Assam Civil Service (ACS), Assam Police Service (APS), and several allied departments under the Government of Assam. Each year, thousands of aspirants compete for these respected administrative roles, making it essential to fully understand the apsc age limit before applying.
APSC Age Limit 2026: General Category
The APSC age limit for general category candidates is clearly defined to ensure fair opportunities for aspirants. Here are the key details:
- Minimum Age: 21 years
- Maximum Age: 38 years
- Age Calculation Date: January 1st of the examination year
Important Note: Candidates must have completed 21 years and should not have crossed 38 years as on January 1, 2026, to be eligible for APSC CCE 2026.
It is important to carefully verify your date of birth as mentioned in your official certificates, since even a small miscalculation can lead to disqualification.
APSC Age Limit Relaxation for Reserved Categories
The APSC provides age relaxation to candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government norms. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Category | Maximum Age Limit | Age Relaxation |
| General / Unreserved | 38 years | Nil |
| SC/ST | 43 years | 5 years |
| OBC/MOBC | 41 years | 3 years |
| PwD (General) | 48 years | 10 years |
| PwD (SC/ST) | 53 years | 15 years |
| PwD (OBC/MOBC) | 51 years | 13 years |
Age Relaxation for Ex-Servicemen
Ex-servicemen candidates are entitled to age relaxation based on their service duration. The age relaxation is calculated as:
Period of Military Service + 3 Years
However, the maximum age after relaxation should not exceed 48 years for general category ex-servicemen.
Number of Attempts for APSC Examination
Unlike the UPSC Civil Services Examination, APSC does not impose any limit on the number of attempts for candidates. You can appear for the APSC CCE examination as many times as you wish, provided you meet the age criteria.
This is a significant advantage for APSC aspirants, as it allows multiple opportunities to succeed without the pressure of attempt limits.
Documents Required for Age Verification
Candidates must submit the following documents during the APSC application process and verification stage:
- HSLC/Matriculation Certificate (as proof of date of birth)
- Birth Certificate issued by competent authority
- Caste Certificate (for reserved category candidates claiming age relaxation)
- Disability Certificate (for PwD candidates)
- Discharge Certificate (for ex-servicemen)
Important Points to Remember
- Age Calculation: Your age is calculated as on January 1st of the examination year, not the application date or exam date.
- No Extension: Once the maximum age limit is crossed, no further relaxation or extension is provided, except in cases of court orders.
- Certificate Validity: Ensure all certificates for age relaxation are valid and issued by competent authorities as per government norms.
- False Information: Providing false age information or forged documents will lead to disqualification and legal action.
- Official Notification: Always refer to the official APSC notification for the most accurate and updated age limit information.
APSC Age Limit for Different Recruitment Posts
While the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE) has a standard age limit, other APSC recruitment notifications may have different age criteria:
APSC CCE (Combined Competitive Examination)
For ACS, APS, and other allied services: 21-38 years (with relaxations as mentioned above)
APSC Lecturer Posts
Age limit varies between 21-38 years depending on the specific subject and qualification requirements
APSC Junior Engineer Posts
Typically 21-38 years with category-wise relaxations
Conclusion
Understanding the apsc age limit is the first and most important step in your APSC preparation journey. Before focusing on books, strategy, or coaching, make sure you clearly fall within the prescribed age criteria as on January 1, 2026. A simple verification today can save you from complications later in the application process.
Once you are confident about your eligibility, you can move ahead with clarity and confidence. Proper planning begins with knowing where you stand, and confirming the apsc age limit ensures that your efforts are directed in the right direction. Preparation becomes meaningful only when eligibility is secure — so verify, plan smartly, and then give your best attempt at APSC CCE 2026.
FAQs on APSC Age Limit
Is there any age relaxation for COVID-affected years?
This depends on government decisions and is announced through official notifications. Always check the latest APSC advertisement.
Can widows claim age relaxation?
Yes, widows, divorced women, and women judicially separated from husbands who are not remarried are eligible for age relaxation up to 35 years (for general category).
What if there is a discrepancy in my date of birth across different certificates?
Your HSLC/Matriculation certificate is considered the final proof. Any discrepancy must be corrected through proper legal channels before applying.