Getting to be an AFS Officer is a dignified and rewarding career path. If you are asking yourself how to become AFS Officer in Assam, this guide is here to help you. AFS Officers play a significant role in directing the state finances, including budgeting and other forms of financial planning. This blog contains eligibility criteria, job responsibilities, salary details as well as preparation tips for APSC AFS Recruitment Examination. Whether it’s understanding the position better or preparing for the exam day, you will find all the important information you need to kick-start this motivating career path. Let us explore what it takes to achieve your goal of becoming an AFS Officer in Assam.
What is AFS?
AFS full form is “The Assam Finance Service”. This is a key division within the Govt. of Assam Finance Department. AFS Officers handle budgeting, auditing, and financial planning. They ensure effective use of state resources, compliance with financial regulations, and contribute to the state’s financial stability and growth.
Eligibility Criteria for Assam Finance Services (AFS) Officer
To know how to become an AFS officer in Assam, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria as outlined by the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC). Below are the essential requirements:
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under 50 years old as of January 1, 2024.
- Educational Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is required.
- Applicants must have at least five years of service in their current cadre.
- Nationality: Only Indian citizens who are originally from Assam are eligible.
- Experience: No prior experience is needed.
- Number of Attempts: There is no restriction on the number of attempts for the APSC AFS Recruitment Exam.
Note: Candidates who do not meet any of the AFS eligibility criteria will be deemed ineligible, and their applications will be rejected.
Job Profile of an Assam Finance Services (AFS) Officer
Assam Finance Services officers play a key role in managing the financial rules and regulations of the state government. Their primary duties include:
- Policy Formulation: Creating rules that govern pay, leave, and pensions for state government employees. They also develop regulations for other financial aspects of state administration.
- Financial Oversight: Enforcing internal controls and ensuring proper financial management in government departments. Financial Advisors (FAs) assist officers in ensuring compliance and providing financial guidance.
- Credit and Financial Management: Directing bank credit to various sectors to promote economic development, ensuring funds are allocated efficiently to support state initiatives.
- Treasury and Audit Responsibilities: Serving as Chief Accounts Officers, overseeing financial operations, and auditing financial accounts to maintain accuracy and accountability in the state’s financial systems.
- Additional Roles: Acting as members of the Assam Treasury and advising on budgetary allocations and expenditures to support the state’s financial strategy.
Assam Finance Services (AFS) Officer Salary Details
The salary structure for an Assam Finance Services (AFS) Officer is competitive and follows a clear pay scale. Below are the key components of the salary package:
| Parameter | Details |
| Pay Scale | Pay Band – 4 |
| Expected Salary Range | Rs. 30,000/- to Rs. 1,10,000/- |
| Grade Pay | Rs. 12,700/- |
| Additional Allowances | Usual allowances and benefits as per government rules |
AFS Recruitment Exam Syllabus & Pattern
Exam Syllabus
| Paper | Subject |
| Paper I | General Accounts |
| Paper II | The Fundamental Rules and Subsidiary Rules, Financial Rules, and Treasury Rules |
| Paper III | Commercial Book Keeping (Charter’s Advanced Accounts, 4th Edition, Reprint 1955 or Latest) |
| Paper IV | Constitution of India and Public Finance |
Exam Pattern
The APSC Assam Finance Service Recruitment 2024 consists of two main stages. Candidates who clear both stages and make it to the final merit list will be selected for the position. The stages are as follows:
Stage I – Written Exam
- The written exam has multiple papers to test candidates on various subjects relevant to Assam Finance Service Junior Grade-II.
- Each paper lasts for 3 hours.
- To pass, candidates must score at least 70 out of 150 marks.
| Subject | Time | Maximum Marks | Minimum Passing Marks |
| Paper I: General Accounts | 3 hours | 150 | 70 |
| Paper II: The Fundamental Rules and Subsidiary Rules, Financial Rules, and Treasury Rules | 3 hours | 150 | 70 |
| Paper III: Commercial Book Keeping (Charter’s Advanced Accounts, 4th Edition, Reprint 1955 or Latest) | 3 hours | 150 | 70 |
| Paper IV: Indian Constitution and Public Finance | 3 hours | 150 | 70 |
Stage II – Document Verification
- Candidates who clear the written exam move on to the document verification stage.
- In this stage, candidates must present original certificates and documents to verify their educational qualifications, age, and other details provided in the application.
- Any discrepancies can lead to disqualification.
Best Books for Assam Finance Services (AFS) Exam Preparation
To prepare effectively for the APSC AFS Written Examination, refer to the following recommended books:
| Subject/Topic | Books/Authors and Publications |
| General English | – High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin- Objective General English by S. P. Bakshi- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis |
| General Knowledge | – General Knowledge by Lucent’s Publication- General Knowledge by Arihant Publication- Testbook App’s Daily Current Affairs Blogs and Static GK Articles |
| Financial Rules and Accounts | – An Introduction to Indian Government Accounts and Audit by Muthuswamy, Brinda, and Sanjeev- Introduction to Indian Government Accounts and Audit by Abhishek Singla, published by Singla Law Agency- Introduction to Accountancy by S. Chand- Account Code Volume 1 & 2 by Government of India- Assam Financial Rules by J. P. Bhatnagar- Swamy’s Compilation of Fundamental Rules and Supplementary Rules: Part – 1 and 2 |
Preparation Tips for the AFS Exam
- Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Start by thoroughly reviewing the APSC AFS syllabus and exam pattern. Make sure that you’re familiar with all the topics covered.
- Comprehensive Study: Aim to study all the topics in the syllabus. Avoid leaving any topic out.
- Create Self-Notes: Write down key points as you study. These notes will be invaluable for quick revisions before the exam.
- Review Previous Year Papers: Go through past question papers to understand the types of questions asked and the exam’s difficulty level.
- Practice with Mock Tests: Take practice tests that mimic the real exam. Review your results to find out what you’re good at and where you need to improve.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Dedicate extra time to improving areas where you are weak. Regular practice will strengthen your understanding.
- Consistent Revision: Regularly revisit and revise all the material you’ve studied to keep it fresh in your memory.
FAQs
- What are the eligibility criteria for becoming an AFS Officer in Assam?
To become an AFS Officer in Assam, you must be an Indian citizen, a resident of Assam, and under 50 years old as of January 1, 2024. You also need a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university and at least five years of service in your current cadre.
- What are the stages of the AFS selection process?
The selection process has two main stages: a written exam and document verification. You need to pass the written exam to move on to the document verification stage.
- What is the exam pattern for the AFS written exam?
The written exam consists of four papers, each lasting three hours, with a maximum score of 150 marks per paper. You must score at least 70 marks in each paper to qualify.
- What is the expected salary range for AFS Officers?
AFS Officers usually earn between Rs. 30,000/- and Rs. 1,10,000/- per month, along with a grade pay of Rs. 12,700/- and additional allowances according to government rules.
- Can I attempt the AFS exam multiple times?
Yes, you can attempt the AFS exam as many times as you like, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion
In Assam, becoming an AFS officer presents you with an opportunity of great worth in developing the economy of the state. To learn how to become AFS officer in Assam, familiarize yourself with their eligibility requirements, study well for the exam, and know about what is expected of you with this job. You can easily build your dream career through hard work and commitment not only in Assam Financial Corporation but also in other related jobs.
Start by reviewing the exam syllabus and collecting important reading materials. This marks the beginning of your significant part in changing Assam’s financial future. Don’t miss this chance to leave behind a positive mark!