Last updated: October 2, 2026 at 3:57 PM
Got a PET 2025 scorecard and a sports background? UPSSSC has released Advertisement No. 22-Pariksha/2026 for 108 posts in the Uttar Pradesh Sports Directorate: Deputy Sports Officer, Assistant Coach in 12 sports, Groundsman and Lifeguard. PET, or Preliminary Eligibility Test, is UPSSSC’s common entry test, and only candidates who took PET 2025 can apply. Applications run online from 14.10.2026 to 04.11.2026. In the written exam, 40 of the 100 questions are about sports.
Quick Navigation
Recruitment Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Post Name | Deputy Sports Officer, Assistant Coach (12 sports), Groundsman, Lifeguard |
| Organization | Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC), Lucknow — for the Sports Directorate, Uttar Pradesh |
| Notification / Advertisement No. | Advt. No. 22-Pariksha/2026 — Khel Nideshalaya Main Examination (Pre. Elig. Test-2025)/22 |
| Location | Uttar Pradesh |
| Total Vacancies | 108 Posts (UR 46, SC 24, ST 01, OBC 29, EWS 08) |
| Qualification | 10th pass for Groundsman and Lifeguard; graduation plus a coaching diploma for Deputy Sports Officer and Assistant Coach. PET 2025 scorecard needed for all posts. |
| Age Limit | 18 to 40 years as on 01.07.2026 (varies by post — see table below) Check your age eligibility → |
| Selection Process | PET 2025 shortlisting (15x posts) → Written exam (100 questions, 2 hours) → Document scrutiny |
| Pay Scale | Pay Matrix Level-3 to Level-6 — about Rs 21,700 to Rs 35,400 a month at the start, depending on the post |
| How to Apply | Online only at upsssc.gov.in, from 14.10.2026 to 04.11.2026 |
| Official Notification | Download Notification PDF |
| Official Website / Apply Online | upsssc.gov.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Published | 30.09.2026 |
| Online Application and Fee Payment Starts | 14.10.2026 |
| Last Date to Register, Pay Fee and Submit | 04.11.2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Reconciliation and Changes in Application | 11.11.2026 |
| Written Exam Date | Not announced yet — the Commission will inform candidates in time |
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Unreserved (General) | Rs 25 (application fee nil + online processing fee Rs 25) |
| Other Backward Class (OBC) | Rs 25 (application fee nil + online processing fee Rs 25) |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | Rs 25 (application fee nil + online processing fee Rs 25) |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | Rs 25 (application fee nil + online processing fee Rs 25) |
Dependants of freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, women, disabled candidates and outstanding sportspersons pay as per their original category above. The fee for the Main (written) exam is paid separately, only by shortlisted candidates, before they download the admit card.
Vacancy Details
| Post | UR | SC | ST | OBC | EWS | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Groundsman | 01 | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 02 |
| Groundsman (Special Selection) | – | 00 | 00 | 01 | – | 01 |
| Deputy Sports Officer | 17 | 10 | 01 | 11 | 05 | 44 |
| Deputy Sports Officer (Special Selection) | – | 03 | 00 | 03 | – | 06 |
| Assistant Coach (Swimming) | 10 | 06 | 00 | 06 | 02 | 24 |
| Assistant Coach (Swimming) (Special Selection) | – | 00 | 00 | 01 | – | 01 |
| Lifeguard | 07 | 03 | 00 | 04 | 01 | 15 |
| Lifeguard (Special Selection) | – | 00 | 00 | 03 | – | 03 |
| Assistant Coach (Cricket) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Football) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Shooting) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Weightlifting) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Fencing) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Wrestling) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Hockey) | 01 | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 02 |
| Assistant Coach (Table Tennis) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Handball) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Wushu) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Assistant Coach (Lawn Tennis) | 01 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 01 |
| Total | 46 | 24 | 01 | 29 | 08 | 108 |
Rows marked Special Selection (Vishesh Chayan) are listed separately in the notification, which does not explain the term. These 11 posts are for SC and OBC candidates only.
Horizontal Reservation
Horizontal reservation means seats set aside for a group, such as women, inside the posts above. Only these four posts have any; every other post shows 00 for women, ex-servicemen, disabled candidates, dependants of freedom fighters and outstanding sportspersons.
| Post | Women | Ex-Servicemen | Low Vision (disability) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deputy Sports Officer | 08 | 02 | 01 |
| Deputy Sports Officer (Special Selection) | 01 | 00 | 00 |
| Assistant Coach (Swimming) | 04 | 01 | 00 |
| Lifeguard | 03 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 16 | 03 | 01 |
Eligibility Criteria
| Criterion | Detail |
|---|---|
| PET 2025 | Only candidates who appeared in PET 2025 and hold its scorecard can apply. Those with zero or negative marks in PET 2025 will not be shortlisted. |
| Age Limit | Groundsman and Lifeguard: 18 to 40 years. Deputy Sports Officer and Assistant Coach: 21 to 40 years. Counted as on 01.07.2026 (1 July of the year the posts were advertised). Check your age eligibility → |
| Who Can Apply | Citizens of India. Reservation benefit is only for natives of Uttar Pradesh; other candidates are treated as Unreserved. |
| Application Limit | One application only. If you submit more than one, only the last one counts. |
| Marriage Rule | A man with more than one living wife, or a woman married to such a man, is not eligible unless the Governor has given an exemption. |
Age Relaxation
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC, ST and other notified categories | Higher upper age limit by the number of years the UP Government has notified. The notification does not list the exact years. |
| Already in government service | Upper limit goes up by the length of government service (stated for Deputy Sports Officer and Assistant Coach posts). |
| Employees of UP state services | 5 years extra on the upper age limit. |
| Mukhyamantri Adhyetavritti research fellows | Relaxation as per the 2026 UP rules for these fellows. |
In short: the top age is 40 for every post, but the lowest age is 18 for Groundsman and Lifeguard and 21 for the rest. The notification does not give the exact extra years for SC, ST and other categories, so check the UP Government rules before you apply.
Qualification by Post
| Post | Must Have |
|---|---|
| Groundsman (including Special Selection) | High School pass (UP Board or equal), experience in preparing playing fields and courts, and knowledge of grasses and plants |
| Deputy Sports Officer (including Special Selection) | Graduate degree, coaching diploma in the sport, and 2 years of coaching experience |
| Assistant Coach (12 sports) | Graduate degree, coaching diploma in the sport you apply for, and 2 years of coaching experience |
| Lifeguard (including Special Selection) | High School pass (UP Board or equal) and at least 3 years of work as a lifeguard |
The coaching diploma must be from Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (Patiala, Bangalore or Kolkata), Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (Thiruvananthapuram or Gwalior), or an equal institute recognised by the Government of India. National Sports University, Imphal is also recognised now.
Preferred Qualifications
These are not compulsory. They give you an edge when everything else is equal. The Territorial Army is the part-time army reserve, and NCC is the National Cadet Corps.
| Post | Preferred |
|---|---|
| Groundsman | 2 years as a groundsman, or 2 years in the Territorial Army, or an NCC ‘B’ certificate |
| Deputy Sports Officer and Assistant Coach | 1 year running sports competitions, or a physical education diploma or certificate, or 2 years in the Territorial Army, or an NCC ‘B’ certificate |
| Lifeguard | 2 years in the Territorial Army, or an NCC ‘B’ certificate |
Selection Process
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Shortlisting on PET 2025 score | 15 times the number of posts in each category are called, ranked by PET 2025 normalised score. Ties at the last score are included. |
| 2. Written exam (Main exam) | One paper, 100 multiple-choice questions, 1 mark each, 2 hours. Each wrong answer costs 1/4 mark. The date will be announced later. |
| 3. Document scrutiny | Your certificates are checked and you give your post preference. Posts are given by merit, preference, posts available, qualification and age. |
In short: your PET 2025 score decides whether you are called for the written exam. After that, the notification says selection is based on the written exam.
Normalised score is the PET score adjusted so that different shifts and days are fair to everyone. Candidates whose PET result is marked Under Investigation or Provisional can apply for now, but their selection depends on the Commission’s final decision. The Commission’s decision on post allotment is final.
Written Exam Pattern
| Part | Subject | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | History of India and the national movement | 4 |
| Part 1 | Geography of India and the world | 4 |
| Part 1 | Economic and social development of India | 3 |
| Part 1 | Indian polity and Constitution | 3 |
| Part 1 | General science and technology | 3 |
| Part 1 | Environment, ecology and disaster management | 3 |
| Part 1 | Current events of national and international importance | 5 |
| Part 1 | Sports-related information | 40 |
| Part 2 | Computer and information technology | 15 |
| Part 3 | General information about Uttar Pradesh | 20 |
| Total | 100 |
Syllabus at a Glance
| Topic | What Is Covered |
|---|---|
| Exercise Physiology | How the body makes energy, effects of exercise, recovery and fatigue |
| Sports Psychology | Motivation, personality, handling fear, anger, anxiety and stress |
| Sports Training | Training principles, speed, strength, endurance, planning cycles, finding talent |
| Sports Biomechanics | Motion, force, levers, Newton’s laws in sport, preventing injuries |
| Sports Nutrition and Yoga | Nutrients, hydration, diet planning for athletes, yoga in sport |
| Sports Medicine | Common injuries, first aid, massage and rehabilitation |
| Sports Organisation and Administration | Event planning, budgeting, facilities and equipment, leadership |
| Testing and Evaluation | Fitness tests, skill tests, body types |
| Digital Learning and AI in Sports | Video analysis, AI for performance, data and statistics |
| Sports Bodies and Rules | National and international federations, major competitions, sports awards in India, rules |
| Computer and IT (Part 2) | Hardware and software, internet, IP address, email, MS Word and Excel, e-governance, cyber security, AI and machine learning |
| Uttar Pradesh (Part 3) | History, culture, festivals, geography, economy, polity and current events of UP |
Salary and Benefits
| Post | Pay Level | Pay Range (per month) | Type of Post |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groundsman | Level-4 | Rs 25,500 – 81,100 | Permanent and temporary |
| Deputy Sports Officer | Level-6 | Rs 35,400 – 1,12,400 | Permanent and temporary |
| Assistant Coach (Swimming) | Level-5 | Rs 29,200 – 92,300 | Temporary |
| Assistant Coach (other 11 sports) | Level-5 | Rs 29,200 – 92,300 | Permanent |
| Lifeguard | Level-3 | Rs 21,700 – 69,100 | Permanent and temporary |
In plain terms: a Lifeguard starts at the lowest of these four grades and a Deputy Sports Officer at the highest. Pay Level is a grade in the government pay chart (the Pay Matrix). The first figure in each range is the starting pay, and the second is the top of that grade. The notification does not list any allowances or other benefits.
Note: The Special Selection posts of Deputy Sports Officer and Lifeguard are listed in the notification as temporary.
How to Apply
- Go to upsssc.gov.in and open this advertisement from the Live Advertisement section on the home page.
- Log in with your PET 2025 registration number. A One Time Password (OTP, a short code) will come to your registered mobile number or email.
- Check the details that appear on their own from your PET 2025 form, such as name, category and date of birth. Your photo and signature also come from PET 2025 and cannot be changed here.
- Select every post you want to apply for. Then say Yes or No for the qualification, and fill in the board or university, year of passing, roll number and marks.
- Type the verification code, click Submit, and pay Rs 25 by credit card, debit card, net banking or UPI. You can also pay with an SBI e-challan (a bank payment slip) at any SBI branch.
- Once the fee is confirmed, the form is submitted. Download and print it, and keep it safe because the Commission can ask for it.
Note: Applications by any other route are not accepted.
Documents Required
| Document | Format / Notes |
|---|---|
| PET 2025 registration number | Needed to log in. Photo and signature are taken from your PET 2025 form, so you do not upload them again. |
| High School certificate | Only the date of birth on this certificate is accepted as proof of age. |
| Degree, diploma and experience certificates | Keep self-attested copies of mark sheets, degree, coaching diploma and experience certificates. They are asked for when the Commission needs them. |
| Caste certificate (SC, ST, OBC) | In the format given in the notification, issued by a competent officer on or before the last date. UP women candidates need the certificate issued in their father’s name. |
| EWS certificate | Issued between 01.04.2026 and 04.11.2026, based on 2025-26 income and valid for 2026-27, in the prescribed format. |
| Disability certificate | In the prescribed format, showing the type and percentage of disability. |
| Freedom fighter dependant certificate | In the prescribed format, signed by the District Magistrate. |
| Ex-servicemen and outstanding sportsperson proof | Certificate in the format set by the competent authority, if you claim these benefits. |
| No Objection Certificate (NOC) | Needed from your employer if you already work in central or state government service. |
Important Links
| Item | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | Download Official Notification (PDF) |
| Apply Online / Official Website | Apply Online at upsssc.gov.in |
| Telegram Channel | Join Telegram Channel |
| WhatsApp Channel | Join WhatsApp Channel |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submit only one application. If you send more than one, only the last one counts and the rest are cancelled.
- Select every post you want on the form. A post you do not select is not counted.
- Pay the fee by 04.11.2026. No fee is taken after that date, and the form is not final until the fee is confirmed. If your form does not appear after paying, use Update Your Transaction ID by Double Verification on the UPSSSC website.
- Check everything before the final submit. Later you can only change your address, EWS and horizontal reservation details, qualification details and marital status, and only until 11.11.2026.
- Disabled candidates must update their disability category and sub-category in the form, because the government has re-marked the posts for disabled candidates.
- Get your EWS certificate on time. It must be issued between 01.04.2026 and 04.11.2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last date to apply for UPSSSC Sports Directorate Recruitment 2026?
You can apply online from 14.10.2026 to 04.11.2026, and you can pay the fee and change some details until 11.11.2026.
How many posts are there?
There are 108 posts in total: 50 Deputy Sports Officer, 37 Assistant Coach across 12 sports, 18 Lifeguard and 3 Groundsman.
Can I apply without a PET 2025 score?
No, only candidates who appeared in PET 2025, UPSSSC’s common entry test, and hold its scorecard can apply.
What is the application fee?
The fee is Rs 25 for every category, and it is only the online processing fee because the application fee itself is nil.
What is the age limit?
It is 18 to 40 years for Groundsman and Lifeguard, and 21 to 40 years for Deputy Sports Officer and Assistant Coach, as on 01.07.2026.
How will I be selected?
The Commission shortlists candidates on their PET 2025 score, then holds a 100-question written exam of 2 hours with 1/4 negative marking, followed by document scrutiny; the exam date is not announced yet.
What is the salary for these posts?
Pay runs from Level-3 (Rs 21,700 at the start, Lifeguard) to Level-6 (up to Rs 1,12,400, Deputy Sports Officer).
How many questions are about sports?
40 of the 100 questions are on sports, while 15 are on computers, 20 on Uttar Pradesh and 25 on general studies.
Disclaimer: The information above has been compiled from the official notification for the convenience of job seekers. Candidates are advised to verify all details from the official website before applying.
- UPSSSC Yuva Kalyan Adhikari Recruitment 2026 – 412 Posts, Apply by 06.11.202630.09.2026
- UPSSSC Van Rakshak / Forest Guard Answer Key 2026 Out – Mains Exam Held 27.09.202629.09.2026
- UPSSSC Junior Assistant 2026 Personal Hearing Notice Out – 17.10.202623.09.2026
- UPSSSC X-Ray Technician Personal Hearing Notice Out – Report on 17.10.202623.09.2026
- UPSSSC Forest Guard Mains Admit Card 2026 Out – Exam on 27.09.202623.09.2026
- UPSSSC Jyeshtha Anudeshak Recruitment 2026 – 132 Posts, Apply by 05.10.202612.09.2026
