The Intelligence Bureau Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (IB ACIO) exam is a sought-after opportunity for individuals aiming to serve in India’s intelligence sector. Understanding the exam pattern, including the marking scheme, negative marking, and question distribution, is crucial for effective preparation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the IB ACIO Exam Pattern 2025 to guide aspirants through each stage.
Key Highlights
- Organization Name: Intelligence Bureau (IB)
- Exam Name: Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO) 2025
- Selection Process: Three tiers – Tier I (Objective Test), Tier II (Descriptive Test), and Tier III (Interview)
- Total Marks: Tier I – 100 marks; Tier II – 50 marks; Tier III – 100 marks
- Negative Marking: Yes, applicable in Tier I
- Exam Duration: Each tier – 1 hour
- Subjects Covered: General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, Analytical Ability, English Language, General Studies
- Official Website: mha.gov.in
Tier I: Objective Test 📝
The first phase, Tier I, is an online objective test designed to assess candidates’ proficiency across various subjects.
Structure and Question Distribution
The exam comprises 100 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 1 mark, divided into five sections:
- General Awareness: 20 questions
- Quantitative Aptitude: 20 questions
- Analytical Ability: 20 questions
- English Language: 20 questions
- General Studies: 20 questions
Candidates are allotted 60 minutes to complete this tier.
Marking Scheme and Negative Marking
Each correct answer awards 1 mark. However, for every incorrect response, 0.25 marks are deducted, implementing a negative marking system. It’s essential to answer carefully to avoid unnecessary penalties.
Tier II: Descriptive Test 🖋️
Upon qualifying Tier I, candidates advance to Tier II, which evaluates their written communication skills through a descriptive format.
Components of Tier II
This tier consists of two main components:
- Essay Writing: Candidates must compose an essay on a given topic, testing their ability to articulate thoughts coherently.
- English Comprehension and Précis Writing: This section assesses comprehension skills and the ability to summarize content concisely.
The total marks for Tier II are 50, with a duration of 1 hour.
Tier III: Interview 💼
The final phase, Tier III, is an interview process aimed at evaluating the candidate’s personality, intelligence, and suitability for the role.
Interview Details
- Total Marks: 100
- Focus Areas: Communication skills, logical reasoning, and overall demeanor.
Performance in this tier significantly influences the final selection.
Preparation Tips 📚
To excel in the IB ACIO exam, consider the following strategies:
- Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with each subject area to prioritize your study plan effectively.
- Practice Regularly: Engage in mock tests and previous years’ papers to build confidence and identify areas for improvement.
- Time Management: Develop the ability to allocate appropriate time to each section, ensuring all questions are addressed within the given timeframe.
- Enhance Writing Skills: For Tier II, practice essay writing and précis to improve clarity and conciseness.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of current affairs and general knowledge topics, as they are integral to the exam.
By adhering to this structured approach and understanding the detailed exam pattern, candidates can enhance their chances of success in the IB ACIO 2025 examination.
Ananya Joshi is a creative writer focusing on admit cards and exam notifications. With a degree in English Literature and 4+ years of experience, Ananya loves crafting engaging content for students. She enjoys painting and exploring art galleries.
