How to get into Intelligence Bureau: Age Limit, Eligibility & Selection Process
Entering the sphere of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) offers a great opportunity to contribute to the nation's safety and sovereignty. IB conducts rigorous examinations, including exams and interviews, to choose the most talented candidates.
Keep reading to learn about the different exams after 12th and graduation to become an IB officer and other relevant details.
What is the Intelligence Bureau (IB)?
The Intelligence Bureau (IB) is India's domestic intelligence organization. It is responsible for obtaining and evaluating intelligence within the country and reports to the Ministry of Home Affairs. It specializes in counterintelligence, counterterrorism, and national security.
How to Join the Intelligence Bureau After 12th Standard?
The following exams are required to join the IB:
1. IB Security Assistant Exam
Candidates who desire to join IB after the 12th should be aware that after qualifying, they will be recruited into General Central Service (Group 'C') Non-Gazetted, Non-Ministerial Security Assistant/Executive positions.
To learn more about how to join IB after the 12th grade check out the details required for the IB Security Assistant below.
| Eligibility Criteria for IB Security Assistant Exam | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Age Limit | 27 years |
| Educational Qualification | Matriculation or 10th-grade pass from a recognised board |
| Experience | Field experience in intelligence work (Preferred) |
IB Security Assistant Exam Structure
- Tier I Exam (Objective Test) is worth 100 points.
- Tier II Exam (Descriptive Test) is worth 50 points.
- Tier III Interview is worth 50 points.
Syllabus for IB Security Assistant Exam
- General Knowledge and General Studies.
- Reasoning.
- Aptitude for mathematics.
- General English.
2. IB MTS Exam
Successful candidates will handle department duties and non-clerical roles assigned by senior officers. To learn more about how to join IB after the 12th grade check out the details required for the IB Multi-tasking Staff below.
| Eligibility Criteria for IB MTS Exam | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | 18-25 years |
| Educational Qualification | Matriculation or 10th-grade pass |
| Experience | No prior experience is required |
IB MTS Exam Structure
- Tier I (Objective-type Written Exam) carries 100 points.
- Tier II (Descriptive Test) - 40 points.
Syllabus for IB MTS Exam
- General Sensitivity.
- Aptitude for numbers.
- Reasoning and Numerical/Analytical/Logical Ability.
- Language and comprehension in English.
- General Education.
How to Join the Intelligence Bureau After Graduation?
IB offers various opportunities after graduation, including IB Security Assistant and MTS roles. However, the most prestigious exam post-Graduation is IB Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO).
Here are the ACIO exam highlights to guide you on joining IB after BTech:
IB ACIO - Exam
| Eligibility Criteria for ACIO Exam | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | 18-27 years |
| Educational Qualification | GATE CS or GATE EC score with B.E or B.Tech in Electronics, Electronics & Telecommunication, M.Sc in Electronics or Physics with Electronics, Electronics & Communication, or Computer Science |
| Experience | No prior experience is required |
IB ACIO Exam Structure
- Tier I (objective type) carries 100 points.
- Tier II (descriptive type) is worth 50 points.
- Tier III consists of a personal interview.
Syllabus for IB ACIO Exam
- General Awareness.
- Aptitude for arithmetic.
- Analytical Skills.
- English is a language.
- General Studies.
- Essay Composition.
- Comprehension and precise writing.
What is the Selection Process to Become an IB Officer?
The selection process for IB officials in India is a demanding and multi-tiered approach meant to discover qualified applicants who can handle sensitive national security problems. Here are its distinct phases:
1. Written Exam
Candidates must pass a written examination that assesses their aptitude, general knowledge, reasoning, and language skills. The exam may include objective-type questions, descriptive questions, or both.
2. Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates from the written exam are invited to a personal interview with a panel of specialists. This interview assesses their communication skills, problem-solving talents, and appropriateness for intelligence-related positions.
3. Security Clearance
A thorough security clearance and verification of the candidate's character, conduct, and past activities are performed to assure their dependability and honesty.
4. Medical Exam
Candidates must pass a medical exam to confirm they are physically fit for the job.
5. Final Decisions
The final list of candidates is created based on their total performance throughout all rounds.
What are the Eligibility Criteria to Join the Intelligence Bureau?
Candidates for positions like Security Assistant/Executive, ACIO, and MTS should familiarize themselves in depth with the diverse eligibility criteria of IB recruitment before commencing the application process.
| S.No | Eligibility Criteria | Details |
| 1. | IB Recruitment Age Limit | 18 to 27 years |
| 2. | Relaxation of Upper Age Limit | SC/ST: Up to 5 years |
| OBC: Up to 3 years | ||
| Ex-Servicemen: Up to 5 years | ||
| Departmental Candidates (in-service): Up to 40 years | ||
| 3. | Educational Qualification | Graduation from a recognised university/institution |
| Specific qualifications may vary for different posts | ||
| 4. | Nationality | Indian |
| 5. | Experience | Requirements vary for different posts |
| Freshmen are also eligible for certain positions |
What is the Salary Structure of the Intelligence Bureau?
The salary levels in IB recruitment can vary based on the candidate's level of responsibility, education, and years of experience. Here is a breakdown of the salary offered:
| S.No | Post | Pay Scale | Grade Pay | Gross Salary (approx.) |
| 1. | Assistant Central | Rs. 44,900 - Rs. 1,42,400 | Rs. 4,600 | Rs. 56,100 - Rs. 1,77,500 |
| 2. | Security Assistant (SA) | Rs. 21,700 - Rs. 69,100 | Rs. 2,000 | Rs. 25,000 - Rs. 75,000 |
| 3. | Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) | Rs. 18,000 - Rs. 56,900 | Rs. 1,800 | Rs. 22,000 - Rs. 60,000 |
What is the Probation Period After Intelligence Bureau’s Recruitment?
The probation period for IB recruiting typically lasts a set amount of time, usually about two years. During this time, newly hired applicants are trained and evaluated to determine their performance, adaptability, and suitability for the job.
The probation phase allows the business to observe and groom candidates while ensuring their talents match the requirements of intelligence and security roles. Completing the probation period results in employment confirmation, which grants candidates permanent status within the Intelligence Bureau.
What are the Recruitment Perks and Additional Benefits in the Intelligence Bureau?
Following their probationary period, qualified candidates will be eligible for various bonuses and extra incentives. Among the anticipated advantages are:
- Basic pay increases
- Health coverage
- Accommodation from the government
- Pension medical services
- Assurance of employment
- Paid vacation
Candidates hired for IB positions can make use of these benefits, assuring a rewarding and secure career with the agency.
What is the Scope of Growth and Promotion in the Intelligence Bureau?
IB recruiting provides its staff with numerous prospects for advancement and advancement. The Intelligence Bureau has a clear career path based on performance, experience, and skill.
Employees can advance via several levels and classifications, increasing their duties and assuming leadership roles. Individuals can improve their capabilities through regular performance reviews and skill development programs, paving the road for advancement.
Thus, the eligibility requirements, probation period, and benefits are all designed to ensure a skilled and dedicated worker. Individuals can progress in their careers while contributing significantly to national security thanks to IB's dedication to employee growth and promotion.
FAQs about How to Join Intelligence Bureau
Are BTech candidates eligible for the IB ACIO Exam?
Candidates with a BTech degree in Electronics, Electronics & Telecommunication, or M.Sc in Electronics or Physics with Electronics, Electronics & Communication, or Computer Science are eligible for the IB ACIO test.
What type of training do recruits at IB receive?
Intelligence Bureau trainees receive specific training in intelligence analysis, data interpretation, and managing sensitive material.
Is the identity of the Intelligence Bureau employees protected?
Yes, the identities of Intelligence Bureau’s personnel are typically kept secret to ensure their safety and the efficacy of their intelligence-gathering activities.