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Written by Mumtaj Khan

Oct 28, 2025

IB ACIO Exam– Complete Guide to Eligibility, Syllabus, Preparation & Career Growth in Intelligence Bureau

IB ACIO Exam

The IB ACIO Exam is conducted by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for the recruitment of Assistant Central Intelligence Officers (Grade-II/Executive) in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) — India’s internal intelligence agency. It’s a highly prestigious post offering a challenging and rewarding career in national security and intelligence operations. Every year, thousands of students aspire to join this elite organization, making the IB ACIO exam one of the most competitive in India.

About the Intelligence Bureau (IB)

The Intelligence Bureau (IB) is India’s oldest and most reputed intelligence agency. It plays a crucial role in maintaining internal security, gathering intelligence on potential threats, and assisting in counter-terrorism operations. Working with IB means contributing directly to the safety and stability of the nation while engaging in high-level intelligence work.

About the IB ACIO Post

The Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO) is a Group ‘C’, non-gazetted, non-ministerial post under the Government of India. An ACIO is responsible for intelligence gathering, data analysis, surveillance, and coordination between different law enforcement agencies. It’s a role that demands analytical skills, dedication, and confidentiality.

Eligibility Criteria for IB ACIO Exam

Educational Qualification

Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

Basic computer knowledge is desirable.

Age Limit

Minimum Age: 18 years

Maximum Age: 27 years

Age relaxation: OBC (3 years), SC/ST (5 years), and departmental candidates (up to 40 years).

IB ACIO Selection Process

The recruitment process for IB ACIO includes three stages:

Tier I – Objective Written Exam (Online CBT)

Tier II – Descriptive Exam (Offline, Pen-paper based)

Tier III – Personal Interview

Final selection is based on cumulative performance in all stages and document verification.

IB ACIO Exam Pattern

Tier I (Objective Test)

Mode: Online

Duration: 1 hour

Total Marks: 100

Negative Marking: ¼ mark for each wrong answer

Tier II (Descriptive Test)

Mode: Offline (Pen and Paper)

Marks: 50

Essay Writing (30 marks) + English Comprehension & Precis Writing (20 marks)

Tier III (Interview)

Personality test and verification of intelligence aptitude, worth 100 marks.

Detailed Syllabus for IB ACIO Exam

General Awareness

Current events, history, geography, Indian polity, economics, science & technology, defense, and international relations.

Quantitative Aptitude

Simplification, profit & loss, percentage, average, ratio, time & work, time-speed-distance, and data interpretation.

Logical & Analytical Ability

Series, coding-decoding, analogy, puzzles, syllogism, blood relations, direction test, and seating arrangement.

English Language

Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, synonyms, antonyms, and sentence correction.

Descriptive Paper

Essay writing on national/international topics, comprehension, and précis writing.

How to Prepare for IB ACIO Exam

1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly

Start by analyzing the syllabus and focusing on high-scoring sections like General Awareness and Reasoning.

2. Make a Study Plan

Divide your preparation time efficiently for Tier I and Tier II. Allocate separate slots for reading newspapers and writing practice for the descriptive exam.

3. Read Daily Current Affairs

Follow national and international news related to security, defence, and foreign policies. Magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan and Yojana are helpful.

4. Practice Mock Tests

Take online mock tests regularly to improve accuracy and speed. Analyze your weak areas and work on them.

5. Focus on English Writing Skills

For Tier II, practice essays on current topics and précis writing daily. This can help score well in the descriptive paper.

Recommended Books for IB ACIO Exam

Lucent’s General Knowledge – Dr. Binay Karna

Quantitative Aptitude – R.S. Aggarwal

A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal

Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis

Current Affairs Yearly – Arihant

Job Profile of IB ACIO Officers

IB ACIO officers perform duties such as:

Gathering and analyzing intelligence information

Monitoring national security threats

Coordinating with other security agencies

Conducting background checks and surveillance

Preparing intelligence reports for higher authorities

The role demands confidentiality, critical thinking, and patriotism.

Career Growth in Intelligence Bureau

Career progression in IB is both structured and performance-based:

Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO)
→ Deputy Central Intelligence Officer (DCIO)
→ Assistant Director
→ Joint Deputy Director
→ Deputy Director
→ Joint Director

With experience, officers can also be deputed to international intelligence missions or higher government roles.

Why Choose IB ACIO as a Career?

Direct contribution to national security

Excellent career stability and government perks

Opportunity to work on classified operations

Respect and recognition in the public service domain

Chance to grow into senior intelligence positions

Tips for Students to Crack IB ACIO Exam

Read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express daily.

Revise basic GK and current affairs regularly.

Practice logical reasoning and quantitative aptitude daily.

Stay mentally and physically fit for interview rounds.

Maintain discipline and dedication throughout preparation.

Conclusion

The IB ACIO Exam is a gateway to a prestigious career in India’s Intelligence Bureau, allowing students to serve the nation with pride and dedication. With structured preparation, strong analytical ability, and consistent effort, aspirants can achieve success and build a fulfilling career in intelligence services.

Frequently Asked Questions

IB ACIO stands for Intelligence Bureau Assistant Central Intelligence Officer.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) conducts the IB ACIO recruitment exam.

A candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.

Yes, the final stage of selection includes a personal interview after Tier I and Tier II exams.

The salary ranges between ₹75,000 to ₹85,000 per month including allowances.

Yes, it’s an ideal government career option for students who have completed graduation and wish to work in intelligence and national security.

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