The Border Security Force (BSF) recruits Head Constables (Radio Operator / Radio Mechanic) to maintain its communication network across India’s borders.
These positions are highly technical, involving radio transmission, signal management, and electronic repair work.
To qualify, aspirants must clear a written examination, physical tests, and a medical check.
Understanding the complete BSF Head Constable (RO/RM) syllabus and exam pattern is the first step toward success.
This article provides a permanent, year-independent guide to the subjects, topics, and structure of the BSF RO/RM exam.
📋 BSF Head Constable (RO/RM) Exam Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Border Security Force (BSF) |
| Post Name | Head Constable (Radio Operator / Radio Mechanic) |
| Exam Type | Computer-Based Written Test (CBT) |
| Mode of Exam | Online |
| Level of Exam | 10 + 2 (Science) |
| Total Marks | 200 Marks |
| Duration | 2 Hours (120 Minutes) |
| Negative Marking | Yes (–0.25 mark per wrong answer) |
| Selection Process | Written Exam → PST/PET → Documentation → Medical Examination |
🧭 Selection Process
The BSF Head Constable (RO/RM) selection process consists of five main stages:
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Written Examination (CBT)
-
Physical Standard Test (PST)
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Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
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Document Verification
-
Medical Examination
Candidates must clear each stage to be finally selected for appointment.
🧠 Exam Pattern
| Part | Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Physics | 25 | 50 |
| II | Mathematics | 25 | 50 |
| III | Chemistry | 25 | 50 |
| IV | English & General Knowledge | 25 | 50 |
| Total | — | 100 | 200 |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
✅ Each question carries 2 marks
❌ 0.25 mark is deducted for every wrong answer
📚 Detailed BSF Head Constable (RO/RM) Syllabus
The syllabus is based on 10 + 2 level (Science stream) knowledge — designed to test technical understanding and general awareness.
⚛️ 1️⃣ Physics
Physics is the most crucial part of the exam, especially for the Radio Operator and Mechanic roles.
| Main Topics | Key Subtopics & Concepts |
|---|---|
| Units & Measurements | SI units, Dimensions, Accuracy, Errors |
| Motion & Laws | Speed, Velocity, Newton’s Laws, Friction |
| Work, Energy & Power | Work done, Kinetic & Potential energy |
| Gravitation | Laws of Gravitation, Acceleration due to gravity |
| Properties of Matter | Elasticity, Surface tension, Pressure, Density |
| Thermodynamics | Heat transfer, Laws of thermodynamics, Temperature |
| Waves & Sound | Simple harmonic motion, Wave motion, Doppler effect |
| Optics | Reflection, Refraction, Mirrors, Lenses, Human eye |
| Electricity | Ohm’s law, Circuits, Resistance, Power |
| Magnetism & EM Induction | Magnetic fields, Electromagnetic induction, Transformers |
| Modern Physics | Radioactivity, Semiconductors, X-rays, Communication systems |
🧩 Tip: Revise circuit theory, Ohm’s law, and semiconductors — most questions are direct from these.
🔢 2️⃣ Mathematics
Math tests logical ability and numerical accuracy — both critical for signal and frequency calculations.
| Main Topics | Key Subtopics & Concepts |
|---|---|
| Algebra | Linear & Quadratic Equations, Identities |
| Trigonometry | Trigonometric ratios, Heights & Distances, Identities |
| Geometry | Lines, Angles, Triangles, Circles |
| Mensuration | Area, Volume, Surface area of solids |
| Arithmetic | Percentages, Averages, Ratios, Profit & Loss |
| Statistics | Mean, Median, Mode, Graphs |
| Coordinate Geometry | Distance formula, Section formula, Equation of line |
| Calculus (Basics) | Differentiation, Integration (simple applications) |
🧮 Pro Tip: Use short formulas and practice time-based questions to improve speed.
🧪 3️⃣ Chemistry
Chemistry focuses on general chemical behavior, materials, and applications in electronics.
| Main Topics | Key Subtopics & Concepts |
|---|---|
| Matter & Its Composition | Elements, Compounds, Mixtures |
| Atomic Structure | Electrons, Protons, Neutrons, Atomic models |
| Periodic Classification | Modern Periodic Table, Trends, Groups |
| Chemical Bonding | Ionic, Covalent, Metallic bonds |
| Chemical Reactions | Types, Balancing, Catalysts |
| Acids, Bases & Salts | pH scale, Neutralization |
| Electrochemistry | Electrolysis, Corrosion, Batteries |
| Carbon & Compounds | Hydrocarbons, Alcohols, Organic reactions |
| Metals & Non-Metals | Properties, Uses, Alloys |
| Environmental Chemistry | Pollution, Green Chemistry basics |
⚗️ Preparation Tip: Focus on Periodic Table, Acids & Bases, and Organic basics — high question frequency.
🇮🇳 4️⃣ English & General Knowledge
This section evaluates general awareness and English language skills.
📖 English Topics
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Grammar (Tenses, Prepositions, Articles)
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Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms)
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Comprehension passages
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Sentence correction
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Error spotting
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One-word substitutions
🌏 General Knowledge Topics
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Indian History & Geography
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Indian Polity & Constitution
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Indian Economy & Culture
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Current Affairs – National & International
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Science & Technology (Defence, Space, Communication)
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Sports, Awards, and Important Days
📚 Tip: Reading daily newspapers improves both GK and English simultaneously.
🏋️♂️ Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standards
| Test | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 168 cm (minimum) | 157 cm (minimum) |
| Chest | 80 cm (with 5 cm expansion) | Not applicable |
| Race | 1.6 km in 6.5 minutes | 800 m in 4 minutes |
| Long Jump | 11 feet (3 chances) | 8 feet (3 chances) |
| High Jump | 3.5 feet (3 chances) | 2.5 feet (3 chances) |
Candidates who meet physical standards proceed to documentation and medical examination.
📖 Recommended Study Material
| Subject | Books / Sources |
|---|---|
| Physics | NCERT Class XI & XII, Objective Physics by D.C. Pandey |
| Mathematics | RD Sharma, Quantitative Aptitude by RS Aggarwal |
| Chemistry | NCERT Class XI & XII, Pradeep’s Chemistry |
| English & GK | Lucent’s General Knowledge, Wren & Martin Grammar |
🧩 Preparation Strategy
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Understand the Syllabus – Know every topic before starting.
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Study NCERTs – Class 11–12 NCERT books form 80% of the questions.
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Daily Practice – Solve previous year question papers and mock tests.
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Focus on Weak Areas – Spend extra time on challenging topics.
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Stay Physically Fit – Regular running and exercise for PET.
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Stay Updated – Read defence news, science updates, and current affairs.
💡 Key Topics to Prioritize
| Subject | High-Weight Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Electricity, Modern Physics, Optics |
| Mathematics | Algebra, Trigonometry, Arithmetic |
| Chemistry | Periodic Table, Electrochemistry, Acids/Bases |
| English & GK | Grammar, Current Affairs, Indian Polity |
🪔 Conclusion
The BSF Head Constable (Radio Operator / Radio Mechanic) exam tests your scientific understanding, logical ability, and awareness.
This role demands both technical excellence and physical strength.
Candidates who plan their preparation using the complete syllabus, practice regularly, and maintain physical discipline can secure a stable and prestigious career in India’s Border Security Force.
Consistency and focus are the real keys to success.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the educational qualification for BSF Head Constable (RO/RM)?
Candidates must have passed 10 + 2 (Intermediate) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, or hold a recognized technical qualification in radio or electronics.
Q2. Is the BSF Head Constable syllabus same every year?
Yes. The syllabus remains mostly unchanged, focusing on 10 + 2 level science subjects — Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, English, and GK.
Q3. What is the total time of the BSF Head Constable written exam?
The written exam is of 2 hours (120 minutes) .
Q4. Is there negative marking in the BSF RO/RM exam?
Yes, 0.25 mark is deducted for every wrong answer.
Q5. What are the main sections in the BSF RO/RM exam?
Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, and English & General Knowledge.
Q6. What is the salary of BSF Head Constable (RO/RM)?
Pay Level 4: ₹25,500 – ₹81,100 per month plus allowances.
Q7. How can I prepare for the BSF RO/RM exam?
Focus on NCERT-based preparation, regular revision, mock tests, and physical training for PET.
Q8. Are female candidates eligible?
Yes, female candidates can apply if they meet physical standards.
Q9. What is the passing mark for the BSF exam?
Minimum 38% for UR/OBC/EWS and 33% for SC/ST candidates.
Q10. Is the exam conducted online or offline?
The written exam is conducted online (CBT).
