IB ACIO Syllabus 2025: Complete Subject-Wise Breakdown & Preparation Guide
Aiming for a career in intelligence services with the Intelligence Bureau? The Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (IB ACIO) Grade-II/Executive exam is the gateway to one of India’s most respected security roles. To secure your place, a thorough understanding of the IB ACIO syllabus is essential. This blog dives deep into the updated IB ACIO 2025 syllabus, exam pattern, and smart preparation strategies, giving you a decisive edge in your journey.
Overview of the IB ACIO Exam Structure
The IB ACIO selection process comprises three phases:
- Tier 1: Objective-type (MCQs)
- Tier 2: Descriptive Written Test
- Tier 3: Interview
Each stage assesses diverse skills – from factual recall to analytical writing and personality traits. Success begins with a clear vision of what to study for each round.
IB ACIO Exam Pattern at a Glance
| Tier | Description | Subjects | Marks | Duration |
| Tier 1 | Objective (MCQ) | Current Affairs, General Studies, Numerical Aptitude, Reasoning, English | 100 | 1 hour |
| Tier 2 | Descriptive | Essay, English Comprehension, Long Answer Questions | 50 | 1 hour |
| Tier 3 | Interview | Personality Test | 100 | — |
- Negative Marking: Tier 1 carries a penalty of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer
- Qualifying Marks: Minimum qualifying scores vary by category (UR/EWS: 35, OBC: 34, SC/ST: 33).
IB ACIO Tier 1 Syllabus: Detailed Section-wise Topics
- Current Affairs
Stay at the forefront of national and international news. This section tests your awareness of recent events, government schemes, awards, appointments, and important trends.
Key Topics:
- National & International News
- New Government Schemes & Policies
- Sports & Awards
- Summits & Conferences
- Appointments & Resignations
- Science & Technology Developments
- General Studies
Build a strong base in static and dynamic general knowledge. The focus is on core concepts and facts across major subjects.
Key Topics:
- Indian Polity & Constitution
- History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern India)
- Geography (Indian and World)
- Economy & Finance
- Science & Technology
- Biology, Physics, Chemistry
- Static GK (Books, Capitals, Dams, Monuments)
- Numerical/Quantitative Aptitude
Sharpen your logic, calculation speed, and conceptual understanding of mathematics. Regular practice is essential.
Key Topics:
- Number Systems
- Simplification & Approximation
- Percentage, Profit & Loss, Discount
- Ratio & Proportion, Averages
- Time & Work, Time & Distance
- Mensuration (Area, Volume)
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs)
- LCM & HCF
- Algebra, Geometry, Statistics
- Reasoning & Analytical Ability
Develop a problem-solving mindset to decode patterns, relationships, and logical puzzles.
Key Topics:
- Analogy, Series Completion
- Blood Relations
- Coding-Decoding
- Direction Sense Test
- Syllogism, Statement & Assumptions
- Data Sufficiency
- Odd One Out, Classification
- Order & Ranking, Puzzles
- Input-Output, Seating Arrangement
- English Language
Test your grasp of English grammar, usage, and comprehension. Both accuracy and clarity are expected.
Key Topics:
- Grammar (Error Detection, Sentence Improvement)
- Synonyms & Antonyms
- Idioms & Phrases
- Fill in the Blanks
- Cloze Test, Para-Jumble
- Spelling Correction
- One-Word Substitution
- Reading Comprehension Passages
IB ACIO Tier 2 Syllabus: Mastering the Descriptive Round
Tier 2 evaluates your written communication, analytical, and organizational skills. Practice structured writing for impactful, clear, and concise answers.
- Essay Writing (20 Marks)
- One essay (400-500 words)
- Topics related to national/international current affairs, security, socio-political or economic issues.
- Focus: Logical flow, arguments, grammar, conclusion
- English Comprehension (10 Marks)
- Short passage for reading and answering questions.
- May include precis writing, title suggestion, or summary.
- Long Answer Questions (20 Marks: 2 Questions, 10 each)
- Related to current affairs, economics, socio-political scenarios.
- Expect critical analysis, clarity, and depth in responses.
Preparation Tips:
- Read editorials, government documents, and reports regularly.
- Practice writing essays within the time limit.
- Focus on structuring arguments logically and factually
IB ACIO Interview (Tier 3) – Face the Panel
Shortlisted candidates from Tier 2 appear for the interview. This round tests:
- General awareness
- Personality and communication
- Analytical skills
- Integrity and suitability for intelligence operations
No specific syllabus; focus on personal background, current affairs, and security-related issues.
Subject-wise Table: IB ACIO Syllabus 2025
| Subject | Sample Topics |
| Current Affairs | Schemes, Summits, Economy, Awards, Defence, Science, Govt. Policies |
| General Studies | Indian Polity, History, Sci-Tech, Geography, Indian Economy |
| Quantitative Apt. | Percentages, Averages, Profit-Loss, SI & CI, Time & Work, Numbers, Graphs |
| Reasoning Ability | Analogy, Coding-Decoding, Syllogisms, Puzzles, Order & Ranking, Input-Output |
| English Language | Error Spotting, Synonyms, Antonyms, Fill in the Blanks, Comprehension |
How to Prepare: Pro Tips for the IB ACIO Syllabus
- Know the Weightage: Prioritize high-yield topics and practice accordingly.
- Make Notes: Create concise notes especially for static GK and current affairs for quick revision.
- Practice Mock Tests: Attempt sectional and full-length mock tests to build speed and accuracy.
- Read Newspapers Daily: National dailies and trusted periodicals keep you updated for both MCQ and essay topics.
- Revise Regularly: Consistency triumphs over last-minute cramming.
- Improve Writing: For Descriptive Paper, practice timed essays and long answers – emphasize clarity over verbosity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is the IB ACIO syllabus same every year?
The core syllabus stays consistent, but current affairs always cover the latest national and international developments. - Can I prepare for IB ACIO along with a full-time job?
Absolutely. With a well-planned strategy, disciplined schedule, and focused resources, successful preparation alongside a job is possible. - How important is the descriptive paper?
Extremely. Tier 2 can make or break your final merit, so develop strong analytical writing and comprehension skills.
Final Thoughts
Clearing the IB ACIO exam requires both hard work and smart strategy. A clear grasp of the syllabus allows aspirants to channel their energy efficiently—it’s not just about hard work but about working right. Start your preparation with clarity and consistency, and keep your goal in sharp focus.
If you are aiming to serve the nation with one of India’s most prestigious government agencies, let this IB ACIO syllabus be your guidepost. Wishing you Good Luck!
Stay tuned for more preparation tips, latest notifications, and resources to ace the IB ACIO recruitment!
