IB ACIO 2025 Notification Out: Complete Overview

The Intelligence Bureau (IB), under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), has released the much-awaited IB ACIO 2025 Notification, inviting applications for the post of Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO) Grade-II/Executive. This recruitment offers a golden opportunity for graduates aspiring to serve the nation through a highly respected and challenging role in internal intelligence and national security.

With a total of 3,717 vacancies announced, the recruitment drive is one of the largest in recent years, sparking excitement among lakhs of aspirants. Here’s everything you need to know –from important dates and eligibility to exam pattern, syllabus, and preparation strategies.

What is IB ACIO?

The IB ACIO post is one of the most prestigious positions under the Ministry of Home Affairs. ACIOs work as frontline intelligence officers, collecting and analyzing sensitive information, monitoring security situations, and assisting in national-level operations.

The post offers not just job security and an attractive pay scale, but also an immense sense of duty and respect in the civil service ecosystem.

IB ACIO 2025: Important Dates

Total Vacancies (Category-wise)

This year, the Ministry of Home Affairs has announced 3,717 vacancies for ACIO Grade-II/Executive posts, divided as follows:

Eligibility Criteria for IB ACIO 2025

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility conditions in terms of nationality, age, and educational qualification.

1. Nationality:

• The applicant must be a citizen of India.

2. Educational Qualification:

• A Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university.

• Basic computer knowledge is desirable (though not mandatory).

3. Age Limit (As on 10 August 2025):

• Minimum: 18 years

• Maximum: 27 years

Age Relaxation:

IB ACIO Salary Structure

The IB ACIO post comes under the Pay Level-7 of the 7th Pay Commission:

• Basic Pay: ₹44,900

• Gross Salary (approx.): ₹55,000–₹70,000 (depending on location)

• Includes: Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, Special Security Allowance, Transport Allowance, etc.

Apart from monetary benefits, ACIOs enjoy job security, government-provided accommodation (in select locations), medical facilities, and career progression through promotions and deputation opportunities.

Selection Process: 3-Tier Procedure

The IB ACIO 2025 selection is a three-stage process:

Tier-I: Objective Test

• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)

• Total Questions: 100

• Duration: 1 hour

• Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answer; –0.25 for each wrong answer

Tier-II: Descriptive Test

• Mode: Offline (pen and paper)

• Duration: 1 hour

• Total Marks: 50

Tier-III: Interview

• Conducted for candidates shortlisted from Tier-II

• Tests communication skills, general awareness, intelligence, and personality

IB ACIO 2025 Syllabus

Here’s a broad overview of the key topics to cover:

General Awareness:

• Current Affairs (Last 6–8 months)

• Indian Polity

• History & Culture

• Geography (India & World)

• Science & Technology

• Awards, Schemes, Sports

Quantitative Aptitude:

• Percentages, Profit & Loss

• Time & Work

• Mensuration

• Speed, Distance & Time

• Number System

• Ratio & Proportion

• Simplification

Reasoning & Analytical Ability:

• Blood Relations

• Series (Numeric & Alphabetical)

• Coding-Decoding

• Venn Diagrams

• Statement & Conclusion

• Syllogisms

English Language:

• Reading Comprehension

• Sentence Correction

• Fill in the Blanks

• Synonyms/Antonyms

• Cloze Test

Essay Topics (Tier-II) – Expected:

• National Security

• Cybercrime

• Terrorism

• Women Empowerment

• Data Privacy & Surveillance

How to Apply for IB ACIO 2025?

Step-by-step Application Process:

1. Visit the official website: www.mha.gov.in

2. Click on IB ACIO 2025 Recruitment Link

3. Complete One-Time Registration (OTR)

4. Fill out the online form with personal and academic details

5. Upload scanned documents (photo, signature)

6. Pay the application fee

7. Submit and download the application confirmation

Application Fees:

Career Progression in IB

Once selected as ACIO-II, officers can grow to higher positions like:

• ACIO-I

• DCIO (Deputy Central Intelligence Officer)

• Assistant Director

• Joint Deputy Director

• Joint Director

Promotions are based on performance, seniority, and departmental exams, offering a fulfilling long-term career with immense national impact.

Tips to Crack IB ACIO 2025

1. Build Conceptual Clarity

Focus on strengthening your basics in Quant, Reasoning, and English. Use GK Publications' comprehensive guides and topic-wise practice books tailored for IB ACIO and SSC exams.

2. Stay Updated with Current Affairs

Reading daily newspapers (especially national & international news), watching credible news channels, and subscribing to monthly current affairs magazines can give you an edge.

3.  Master Essay Writing

Work on framing a balanced, analytical, and structured essay. Practice writing 300–400 word essays on trending and security-related issues.

4. Mock Tests are Game Changers

Take regular mock tests in exam-like conditions to improve time management and reduce anxiety. 

Final Words

The IB ACIO 2025 exam is a great opportunity to join one of India’s top intelligence agencies. It offers career stability, a good salary, and the pride of serving the nation –making it a highly sought-after role for thousands of aspirants every year.

To turn this dream into reality, begin your preparation with GKP’s ACIO 2025: Intelligence Bureau (Grade-2/Executive) Study Guide - a resource tailored to the latest exam pattern by the Intelligence Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs.

• Includes 2024 Solved Papers (Both Shifts)

• Covers All Key Sections – Quant, English, Reasoning, GS & Current Affairs

• Easy Concepts + Solved Examples

• Practice-Rich Format

• Perfect for Smart Revision & Exam Strategy

Shop Now at GK Publications

For exam tips, updates, and study materials, follow us on
Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | www.gkpublications.com