BSF HC (RO RM) PET PST Result 2026
Job Description
Eligibility
How to Apply
Overview
The Border Security Force (BSF) Head Constable (Radio Operator & Radio Mechanic) recruitment is conducted by the BSF for filling technical positions in the communication and signals wing of India's border guarding force. This recruitment process includes Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Physical Standard Test (PST), followed by written examination, detailed medical examination and document verification. Selected candidates serve as Head Constables responsible for operating and maintaining wireless communication equipment along India's borders. BSF is under the Ministry of Home Affairs and operates along borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. The HC (RO/RM) position is a Group C non-gazetted post offering career growth within the paramilitary forces hierarchy. This is an All India recruitment open to eligible male and female candidates from across the country.
Important Dates
Important Dates (Typical / Indicative)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | January 2026 |
| Application Start Date | January 2026 |
| Application Last Date | February 2026 |
| Fee Payment Last Date | February 2026 |
| Admit Card Release (PET/PST) | March 2026 |
| PET/PST Dates | March-April 2026 |
| Written Exam Admit Card | May 2026 |
| Written Examination Date | June 2026 |
| Result Declaration | August-September 2026 |
Vacancy Details
Vacancy Details (Typical / Indicative)
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| UR (Unreserved) | 180-220 |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | 60-80 |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | 35-45 |
| OBC (Other Backward Classes) | 110-140 |
| EWS (Economically Weaker Section) | 40-50 |
| Total | 425-535 |
Note: Exact vacancies vary by recruitment cycle and are announced in the official notification.
Eligibility
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- For Radio Operator (RO): Matriculation (10th) or equivalent with minimum 50% marks in aggregate
- For Radio Mechanic (RM): Matriculation (10th) or equivalent with Science and Mathematics, OR ITI certificate in relevant trade (Electronics, Radio Mechanic, Wireman)
- Knowledge of Hindi/English required
- Computer literacy desirable
Age Limit
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years |
| Maximum Age | 25 years |
| Age Calculation Date | As per notification (typically closing date) |
Age Relaxation:
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC (Non-creamy layer) | 3 years |
| PwBD (UR) | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | 3 years after deduction of military service |
| BSF Personnel (Departmental) | Up to 40 years (5 years relaxation) |
Nationality
- Indian citizen, or
- Subject of Nepal, or
- Subject of Bhutan, or
- Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1st January 1962 with intention of permanent settlement, or
- Person of Indian origin migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, Vietnam) with intention of permanent settlement
How to Apply
How to Apply
- Visit the official BSF recruitment website at rectt.bsf.gov.in or main portal at bsf.gov.in
- Click on "Recruitment" section and locate the HC (RO/RM) notification link
- Read the detailed notification carefully and check eligibility criteria
- Click on "Apply Online" or "Registration" button
- Complete Part-I registration with basic details (name, father's name, date of birth, email, mobile number)
- Note down the auto-generated Registration Number and Password
- Login again using credentials and complete Part-II with educational, personal details and upload scanned documents
- Upload recent passport-size photograph (3.5 cm × 3.5 cm, JPEG, 20-50 KB) and signature (JPEG, 10-20 KB)
- Select preferred examination centres/states
- Pay the application fee through online mode (Net Banking/Credit Card/Debit Card/UPI)
- Submit the application form and save/print the confirmation page for future reference
- No need to send hard copy unless specifically mentioned in notification
Application Fees
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General/UR/OBC/EWS | ₹200 |
| SC/ST/Female/Ex-Servicemen | Nil (Exempted) |
| Payment Mode | Online (Net Banking/Debit Card/Credit Card/UPI) |
Fee once paid is non-refundable under any circumstances.
Selection Process
Selection Stages
- Physical Standard Test (PST): Measurement of height, chest, weight as per prescribed standards. This is qualifying in nature. Candidates not meeting physical standards are rejected at this stage itself.
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Candidates who qualify PST undergo running race (5 km for males in 24 minutes, 1.6 km for females in 8.5 minutes) and long jump (3.65 meters for males in 3 chances, 2.7 meters for females in 3 chances). Both events are qualifying.
- Documentation Verification: Preliminary verification of educational certificates, category certificates, and identity documents at PET/PST centres.
- Written Examination: Computer-based test (CBT) or offline OMR-based exam covering General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Knowledge & Awareness, Elementary Mathematics, Computer Awareness, and subjects related to Radio Operation/Radio Mechanics.
- Detailed Medical Examination (DME): Comprehensive medical fitness test conducted by BSF medical officers covering vision, ENT, physical deformities, X-ray, blood tests, and overall medical fitness as per BSF medical standards.
- Final Document Verification: Detailed scrutiny of all original documents including educational certificates, domicile, character certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), and other testimonials.
- Final Merit List: Prepared based on marks obtained in written examination, subject to qualifying PET/PST and medical fitness. Merit list is category-wise and state/region-wise as per reservation policy.
Exam Pattern
Written Examination Pattern (Typical / Indicative)
Note: BSF HC (RO/RM) typically has single-stage written examination (no separate Prelims/Mains). Pattern may vary; refer to official notification.
Written Examination
| Section/Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| General Awareness & GK | 25 | 25 | |
| Elementary Mathematics | 25 | 25 | |
| Computer Awareness | 15 | 15 | |
| Technical Subject (Radio related) | 10 | 10 | |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 3 hours |
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer (1/4th negative marking)
Exam Mode: Computer-based Test (CBT) or OMR-based offline test
Qualifying Marks: Minimum 35% for General/EWS, 33% for OBC, 30% for SC/ST categories
Syllabus
Detailed Syllabus
General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Analogies and similarities
- Differences and classifications
- Space visualization
- Problem solving and analysis
- Judgment and decision making
- Visual memory, discrimination and observation
- Relationship concepts
- Arithmetical reasoning and number series
- Non-verbal reasoning (figure classification, embedded figures, pattern completion)
- Syllogism and statement conclusions
General Knowledge & Awareness
- Current Affairs: National and International events of last 6-12 months
- Indian History: Ancient, Medieval, Modern India and Freedom Struggle
- Indian Geography: Physical, Economic, Social geography of India
- Indian Polity and Constitution: Fundamental rights, directive principles, constitutional bodies
- Indian Economy: Basic economic concepts, budget, five-year plans
- General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology up to 10th standard
- Sports and achievements
- Awards and honours
- Books and authors
- Important days and dates
- Personalities in news
Elementary Mathematics (up to Class 10th level)
- Number systems: HCF, LCM, integers, fractions, decimals
- Arithmetic: Percentage, profit and loss, simple and compound interest
- Time and work, time and distance
- Ratio and proportion
- Averages and mixtures
- Algebra: Linear equations, polynomials, factorization
- Geometry: Lines, angles, triangles, circles, mensuration
- Trigonometry: Basic ratios and identities
- Statistics: Mean, median, mode, bar graphs, pie charts
- Data interpretation
Computer Awareness
- Basics of Computer: Hardware, software, input-output devices
- Operating Systems: Windows, Linux basics
- MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint fundamentals
- Internet and Email: Browsing, search engines, email basics
- Computer Networks: LAN, WAN, internet basics
- Computer Security: Virus, antivirus, firewall, cyber crimes
- Digital India initiatives and e-governance
- Contemporary technologies: Cloud computing, IoT, AI (basics)
Technical Subject (Radio Operation/Radio Mechanic)
- Basics of Electronics: Resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, transistors
- Radio Communication: Amplitude modulation, frequency modulation
- Wireless Communication: Radio waves, propagation, antennas
- Radio Equipment: Transceivers, receivers, transmitters
- Circuit diagrams and basic troubleshooting
- Battery systems and power supply
- Communication protocols and procedures
- Maintenance and repair of radio equipment
- Safety precautions in electronic workshops
Salary
Salary & Benefits (Typical / Indicative - 7th Pay Commission)
| Component | Amount (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| Starting Basic Pay | ₹25,500 |
| Pay Scale/Level | Level-4 (₹25,500 - ₹81,100) |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) @ 50% | ₹12,750 |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) (X-class cities) | ₹6,120 - ₹7,650 |
| Transport Allowance | ₹3,600 |
| Ration Money Allowance | ₹3,500 - ₹4,000 |
| Kit Maintenance Allowance | ₹1,200 |
| Other Allowances (Insurance, Uniform, Risk) | ₹2,000 - ₹3,000 |
| Gross Monthly Salary (Approx.) | ₹54,000 - ₹58,000 |
| In-Hand Salary (Approx.) | ₹45,000 - ₹50,000 |
Additional Benefits:
- Free ration or ration money allowance
- Free accommodation or HRA
- Free uniform and kit
- Medical facilities for self and dependents
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
- Pension and Gratuity benefits
- Canteen facilities at subsidized rates
- Group Insurance Scheme
- Annual increments as per 7th CPC norms
Career Growth
BSF Head Constables (RO/RM) have structured career progression opportunities within the force. After serving in the rank of Head Constable for minimum prescribed years with good service record, promotion to Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) is available through departmental promotion quota (DPQ) or limited departmental competitive examination (LDCE). Further promotions to Sub-Inspector, Inspector, and gazetted ranks (up to Commandant level) are possible through LDCE and internal assessments. Specialized training courses, technical advancements, and exemplary service records accelerate career growth in BSF.
Admit Card
BSF releases admit cards for PET/PST and written examination separately on its official recruitment portal at rectt.bsf.gov.in approximately 7-15 days before the scheduled exam/test dates. Candidates must login using their registration number/application number and date of birth or password to download the admit card. The admit card contains candidate details, photograph, exam centre address, reporting time, and important instructions. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must carry printed admit card along with valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Driving License/Voter ID) to the examination centre.
Result
PET/PST results are typically declared within 2-3 days at the test venue itself through display of roll numbers of qualified candidates. Written examination results are published on the official BSF recruitment website within 4-6 weeks of exam conduct. Candidates can check results by entering registration/roll number. Category-wise merit lists are prepared, and shortlisted candidates are called for medical examination. Final selection list is published after completion of all stages including document verification and medical fitness. Selected candidates receive joining instructions through registered post and email.
Expected Cutoff
BSF HC (RO/RM) cutoff marks vary by category, state/region quota, and difficulty level of examination. Typically, General category cutoff ranges between 60-70 marks out of 100, OBC cutoff is 55-65 marks, SC cutoff is 50-60 marks, and ST cutoff is 45-55 marks. Female candidates and candidates from northeastern states may have slightly lower cutoffs within their respective categories. Cutoffs are determined based on number of vacancies, number of candidates appeared, and overall performance. Past year cutoffs serve as indicative benchmarks only.
Exam Centres
Examination Centres
BSF conducts HC (RO/RM) PET/PST and written examination across India at multiple centres:
North: Delhi NCR, Chandigarh, Jammu, Srinagar, Lucknow, Dehradun, Jaipur, Patiala, Jodhpur
South: Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada, Mysuru
East: Kolkata, Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Siliguri, Guwahati, Raipur, Durgapur
West: Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Surat, Nagpur, Indore, Bhopal, Nashik
Northeast: Guwahati, Shillong, Agartala, Imphal, Aizawl, Itanagar, Dimapur, Gangtok
Candidates can select preferred centres during online application. Final allotment depends on availability and administrative convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum educational qualification for BSF HC Radio Operator and Radio Mechanic posts?
For Radio Operator, candidates need Matriculation (10th pass) with minimum 50% marks in aggregate. For Radio Mechanic, candidates require Matriculation with Science and Mathematics, or ITI certificate in relevant electronics/radio trades. Both positions require knowledge of Hindi or English and basic computer literacy.
What is the application fee for BSF HC (RO/RM) recruitment?
The application fee is ₹200 for General, OBC, and EWS category candidates. SC, ST, female candidates, and ex-servicemen are exempted from paying any application fee. Fee payment is done online through Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI during the online application process.
How many vacancies are typically announced for BSF Head Constable RO/RM posts?
BSF typically announces 400-550 vacancies for HC (RO/RM) posts per recruitment cycle, distributed among UR, SC, ST, OBC, and EWS categories as per government reservation policy. Exact vacancy numbers vary each year and are specified in the official recruitment notification released by BSF headquarters.
What is the starting salary and in-hand pay for BSF Head Constable?
BSF Head Constable basic pay starts at ₹25,500 per month in Level-4 pay matrix as per 7th Pay Commission. With allowances including DA (50%), HRA, transport allowance, ration money, and other benefits, the gross monthly salary is approximately ₹54,000-58,000, and in-hand salary ranges from ₹45,000-50,000 after deductions.
How many attempts are allowed for BSF HC RO/RM examination?
There is no restriction on number of attempts for BSF Head Constable examination. Candidates can apply multiple times as long as they meet the age eligibility criteria (18-25 years for general category with relaxation for reserved categories). Age is the only limiting factor for attempts.
Is there negative marking in BSF HC RO/RM written examination?
Yes, there is negative marking in the written examination. For each wrong answer, 0.25 marks (one-fourth of marks allotted to the question) are deducted from the total score. Unanswered questions do not attract negative marking. Candidates should attempt questions carefully to avoid losing marks unnecessarily.
Can I apply for BSF HC RO/RM recruitment offline through post?
No, BSF accepts only online applications through its official recruitment website rectt.bsf.gov.in. There is no provision for offline or postal application submission. Candidates must have valid email ID and mobile number for online registration, and must pay fees online. Hard copy submission is not required.
What are the main selection stages after applying for BSF Head Constable RO/RM?
The selection process includes: (1) Physical Standard Test (PST) - height, chest, weight measurement, (2) Physical Efficiency Test (PET) - running and long jump, (3) Written Examination - 100 marks CBT covering reasoning, GK, mathematics, computer, and technical subjects, (4) Detailed Medical Examination, (5) Document Verification, and (6) Final Merit List preparation. All stages are mandatory.