The Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) has announced the recruitment of 100 Forest Section Officers (FSOs) under the A.P. Forest Subordinate Service through its official notification dated 22nd July 2025. This opportunity is ideal for science and engineering graduates with a passion for working in the state’s forest department. The online application window will remain open from 26th July to 14th August 2025, providing interested candidates with ample time to register and submit their applications.
Before jumping into the application, it’s essential for aspirants to understand the job role, eligibility requirements, and physical standards expected for the post of Forest Section Officer. This recruitment offers a stable career, field responsibility, and the chance to work closely with nature and conservation projects in Andhra Pradesh.
APPSC Forest Section Officer 2025: Vacancy, Dates & Eligibility
APPSC has released this recruitment under Notification No. 04/2025 and is looking to fill 100 Group-IIB Forest Section Officer posts. These positions require candidates who not only have the academic qualifications but also meet the physical fitness standards necessary for forest duties.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) |
| Post Name | Forest Section Officer (FSO) |
| Total Vacancies | 100 |
| Notification No. | 04/2025 |
| Job Location | Andhra Pradesh |
| Application Start Date | 26th July 2025 |
| Application End Date | 14th August 2025 |
| Official Website | psc.ap.gov.in |
The FSO post falls under the Forest Department of Andhra Pradesh, offering both administrative and field-based responsibilities. A candidate should possess a degree in Forestry, Science, Agriculture, Horticulture, or Engineering. Those meeting the educational requirement should also ensure they meet the physical fitness criteria. Candidates must be between 18 and 30 years of age as of 01.07.2025, with age relaxations applicable as per AP Government rules.
The selection process comprises a Written Exam, Physical Measurement Test, Walking Test, and Document Verification. The physical requirements are rigorous – including height and chest measurements and a walking endurance test – making this role both mentally and physically demanding.
APPSC FSO Recruitment 2025: Physical & Educational Criteria, Exam Pattern
Candidates must pay close attention to the eligibility conditions before applying. Educationally, applicants need a degree in disciplines like Forestry, Botany, Zoology, Agriculture, Engineering (Mechanical/Civil/Chemical), etc. However, just holding a degree is not enough for this job. You must meet strict physical criteria, especially since FSOs are frontline forest field officers.
Physically, male candidates must have a height of 163 cm with chest expansion of at least 5 cm, while female candidates should be at least 150 cm tall. Additionally, applicants must pass a walking test — 25 km in 4 hours for men and 16 km in 4 hours for women. Those preparing for this exam should begin their fitness regimen well in advance.
The written exam includes two papers — General Studies and Mental Ability (Paper I), and General Forestry (Paper II) — each of 150 marks and 150 minutes duration. These are objective-type papers, and the syllabus is framed to test both general aptitude and forestry-related technical knowledge. Candidates who clear the exam must appear for the physical tests and document verification rounds.
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APPSC FSO Application Fee Structure
Understanding the application fee is critical. APPSC charges a nominal fee which varies depending on the category:
| Category | Fee Details |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / Other State | ₹250 + ₹120 = ₹370 |
| SC / ST / BC / Ex-Servicemen / PwBD | ₹250 (Exam Fee Exempted) |
The payment must be made online using debit/credit cards, UPI, or net banking. It’s recommended that candidates retain a screenshot or printed receipt after successful payment for future reference.
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APPSC FSO 2025 Recruitment: Key Dates
To avoid missing important deadlines, mark these dates on your calendar:
- Notification Release: 22nd July 2025
- Application Start Date: 26th July 2025
- Application Deadline: 14th August 2025
Always read the official advertisement thoroughly to avoid mistakes. Keep documents like photo ID, academic certificates, and physical measurement records ready before starting your application.
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Important Links: APPSC FSO Recruitment 2025
| Link Description | URL |
|---|---|
| Official Notification (PDF) | Click Here |
| Online Application Portal | Click Here |
| APPSC Homepage | psc.ap.gov.in |
FAQs on APPSC Forest Section Officer Recruitment 2025
Candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Botany, Zoology, Engineering (Mechanical/Civil/Chemical), or other listed disciplines, and meeting physical standards, are eligible.
The last date to submit the online application is 14th August 2025.
Male candidates must walk 25 km in 4 hours, and female candidates must walk 16 km in 4 hours. Chest expansion and height requirements must also be met.
As a Group-IIB post under the AP Forest Department, FSOs receive a competitive salary, allowances, and benefits in line with APPSC norms.
The official notification does not confirm negative marking. Candidates are advised to refer to the exam instructions during the admit card release phase.
