APPSC Forest Section Officer Recruitment 2025: Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) has released the notification for the recruitment of Forest Section Officer. A Forest Section Officer is responsible for the conservation of forests, wildlife, and natural resources. Therefore, it is a good opportunity for candidates who love nature and wildlife. There are a total of 100 vacancies. A candidate who has passed a bachelor's degree is eligible for this recruitment. Eligible and interested candidates can apply for it from 28th July. We have given all the detailed information regarding this recruitment in this article. Candidates must read all the points before applying for these posts.
APPSC Forest Section Officer Recruitment 2025
Quick Summary
| Job Title | Forest Section Officer Recruitment |
| Total Vacancy | 100 |
| Application Dates | 28/07/2025 to 17/08/2025 |
| Official Website | https://psc.ap.gov.in |
A Deeper Look at the Role
Forest Section Officers play a critical role in the management and conservation of forest resources in Andhra Pradesh. Their daily duties involve patrolling forest areas, preventing illegal activities like poaching and logging, implementing afforestation programs, managing wildlife habitats, and working with local communities on forest conservation initiatives. The role requires extensive fieldwork in diverse terrains, from dense forests to hilly regions, often in challenging weather conditions. FSOs are responsible for maintaining forest records, supervising forest guards, and assisting in the implementation of government forestry policies. This position offers the unique satisfaction of contributing directly to environmental conservation while facing the physical challenges of outdoor work in natural settings.
Career Path and Salary
Selected candidates will be placed in the pay scale of Rs. 32,670 – 1,01,970. Beyond the basic pay, Forest Section Officers receive various allowances including dearness allowance, house rent allowance, and travel allowances. The position offers job security with opportunities for promotion to higher ranks such as Deputy Range Officer, Range Officer, and eventually to higher administrative positions within the Forest Department. The role provides excellent opportunities for professional development through specialized training programs in wildlife management, forest conservation techniques, and modern forestry practices. After gaining sufficient experience, officers may qualify for deputation to national-level forestry institutions or international conservation organizations.
Important Dates for Forest Section Officer Recruitment
All the important dates have been released with the APPSC Forest Section Officer recruitment notification, such as the online application start and end dates, screening test date, etc. However, the main exam date is not declared yet; it will be declared after the screening test. We have given all the important dates in a table format for the easy understanding of the candidates.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 22 July 2025 |
| Application Start Date | 28 July 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 17 August 2025 |
| Screening Test Date | 07 September 2025 |
| Main Exam Date | To be announced |
Forest Section Officer Vacancy Details
As we mentioned earlier, there are a total of 100 vacancies in APPSC Forest Section Officer Recruitment 2025. We have given all the vacancy details below. For any doubts or confusion, candidates are instructed to read the official notification carefully.
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Total Vacancies (Including MSP) | 100 |
| Carried Forward Vacancies | 30 |
| Fresh Vacancies | 70 |
Eligibility Criteria for Forest Section Officer
Interested candidates must meet the eligibility criteria for APPSC Forest Section Officer Recruitment. Eligibility criteria can be separated on the basis of educational qualification and age limits. We have described all the details below.
Educational Qualification: Interested candidates must have a bachelor's degree in the following subjects from a recognized university. These subjects include Botany, Forestry, Horticulture, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics, Geology, Agriculture, or Engineering (Chemical/Mechanical/Civil).
Age Limit (as on 01/07/2025): Age limits of the candidates must be between 18 and 30 years. However, age relaxation will also be available for other categories.
Age relaxation: 5 years for SC/ST/BC/EWS, 10 years for SC/ST CF vacancies.
Physical Requirements
APPSC Forest Section Officer requires the prescribed physical standard as mentioned in the official notification. Therefore, interested candidates have to meet the prescribed physical standard to join this post. We have mentioned all the details given below for both men and women, such as height, chest, and walking test.
- Men: Height ≥ 143 cm, Chest ≥ 84 cm (expansion ≥ 5 cm).
- Women: Height ≥ 150 cm, Chest ≥ 79 cm (expansion ≥ 5 cm).
- Relaxation of 5 cm in height for candidates from specific communities (Gunthas, Nepalese, etc.).
- Walking Test: Men – 25 km in 4 hours; Women – 16 km in 4 hours.
Application Fee
Eligible and interested candidates have to pay application fees during the online application for this recruitment. The mode of payment is online. A candidate can pay their application fees using net banking, credit card, or debit card. However, SC/ST/BC/Ex-Servicemen/Unemployed/White Card Holder candidates are exempted from the application fees. In case of correction of the details, a candidate has to pay Rs.100 extra.
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application Processing Fee (All Candidates) | ₹250 |
| Examination Fee (General/OBC) | ₹80 |
| Examination Fee (SC/ST/BC/Ex-Servicemen/Unemployed/White Card Holders) | Exempted |
APPSC Forest Section Officer Selection Process
Eligible candidates have to go through the APPSC selection process as mentioned in the official notification. This selection process contains mainly four stages, which we have already mentioned below. Each candidate has to pass each stage to go to the next stage.
- Screening Test (Objective Type)
- Main Written Examination (Objective Type)
- Physical Test (Walking Test & Medical Examination)
- Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)
Exam Preparation Strategy
The APPSC Forest Section Officer (FSO) Recruitment 2025 exam is conducted by the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission. It typically includes a written examination (General Studies & Mental Ability, General Science, Mathematics, and subject-related topics like Forestry and Environmental Science), followed by Physical Test and Document Verification. A well-structured preparation plan focusing on the syllabus, mock practice, and revision will help you score high.
Syllabus Snapshot
The key sections are:
- Paper I – General Studies & Mental Ability: Current affairs, History, Polity, Economy, Geography, Science, Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Quantitative Aptitude.
- Paper II – General Science & Mathematics: Physics, Chemistry, Biology (10th to Intermediate level) and Mathematics (Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration).
- Paper III – Subject (Forestry & Environmental Science): Silviculture, Forest Mensuration, Ecology, Biodiversity, Environmental Science, Forest Policy, Wildlife, and AP-specific forest resources.
Daily Routine (12-Hour Format)
A balanced routine focusing on concept learning, practice, and revision is essential.
- 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM — Wake up, freshen up, light exercise or meditation.
- 6:30 AM – 7:30 AM — Revision of previous day’s topics, formulas, or current affairs.
- 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM — Breakfast + quick newspaper reading (The Hindu / Eenadu for state news).
- 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM — General Studies & Mental Ability — Static GK, Polity, History, Economy (concepts + MCQs).
- 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM — Short break.
- 10:15 AM – 12:15 PM — General Science & Mathematics — Focus on Physics, Chemistry, or key Maths topics (Arithmetic / Geometry).
- 12:15 PM – 1:00 PM — Lunch & rest.
- 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM — Forestry & Environmental Science — Theory + practice questions from Silviculture, Forest Policy, Biodiversity.
- 2:30 PM – 2:45 PM — Short break.
- 2:45 PM – 4:15 PM — Practice session: MCQs from previous years or topic-wise tests.
- 4:15 PM – 5:00 PM — Current affairs / Government schemes related to Environment & Forestry in Andhra Pradesh.
- 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM — Sectional mock test (rotate between GS, Science/Maths, Forestry).
- 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM — Dinner & relaxation.
- 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM — Mock analysis and error log update.
- 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM — Light revision, reading state policies/environmental articles, formula review.
- 9:00 PM – 9:30 PM — Plan next day and wind down.
Weekly Routine
- Monday–Friday: Follow the daily schedule; focus on 1–2 GS topics + 1 science/math topic + 1 forestry topic daily.
- Saturday: Full-length mock test under exam conditions (Paper I, II or III alternatively) + detailed analysis session.
- Sunday: Light day — revise error log, revise charts and static data, review weak topics and current affairs of the week.
- Every 4 weeks: Take a combined mock (all papers) to track overall progress.
Best Books & Resources (Subject-wise)
- General Studies & Mental Ability:
- APPSC Group II / Group III GS Books (Telugu Academy / Vijeta Competitions).
- Lucent’s General Knowledge for static topics.
- Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal (for arithmetic and reasoning practice).
- Daily newspaper (The Hindu / Eenadu) + monthly current affairs magazine (Vision / Vajiram / AP-specific PDFs).
- General Science & Mathematics:
- NCERT Science Books (Class 6–10) for conceptual clarity.
- Telugu Academy Intermediate Science Books for additional depth.
- R.S. Aggarwal Mathematics / NCERT Maths (Class 6–10) for Arithmetic & Geometry.
- Forestry & Environmental Science:
- IGNFA / B.Sc. Forestry reference notes (Silviculture, Forest Mensuration, Ecology).
- “Environmental Studies” by Erach Bharucha (for ecology & environment basics).
- Government of Andhra Pradesh Forest Department Reports, Acts & Policies (for state-specific forestry and wildlife policies).
- APPSC Forest Beat Officer / Section Officer previous year papers & model papers.
Mock Tests — How to Attempt & Analyse
- Frequency: Start with 2–3 sectional mocks/week. After syllabus coverage, shift to 1 full mock/week (per paper) and increase to 2–3 full mocks in the final month.
- During mocks: Simulate exam hall conditions with strict timing. Do not pause or refer to notes.
- After the test:
- Record total score, accuracy, time per section.
- Mark each wrong question: Concept error / Silly mistake / Guessing / Time pressure.
- Note weak topics and schedule focused practice sessions within the next 7 days.
- Error log: Maintain a digital or physical notebook for common mistakes, formulas, concepts, and revision dates.
Time Management Strategy
- Preparation Phase:
- Use 50–90 minute focused sessions with short breaks.
- 60% of time on weak areas, 30% on maintaining strengths, 10% on current affairs & revision.
- Prioritize high-weightage topics first (e.g., Arithmetic, Polity, Environmental Acts).
- Exam Phase:
- Start with easier questions to secure quick marks.
- Use time checkpoints: 25% / 50% / 75% progress checks to maintain pace.
- Avoid spending more than average time on any single question — skip and return later.
Last 30 / 15 / 7 Days Plan
- Last 30 Days: Complete syllabus coverage, give 2 full mocks/week, start intensive revision of Forestry topics and current affairs.
- Last 15 Days: Increase mock frequency to 3/week, focus on error log and high-yield revision (formulas, Acts, policies).
- Last 7 Days: Light study, 2 full mocks, complete error log revision, stay mentally fresh for exam day.
Exam Day Checklist
- Carry hall ticket, ID proof, and other required documents.
- Reach the centre early to avoid stress.
- Read instructions carefully; allocate time wisely between sections.
- Do easy questions first, then medium, and tackle tougher ones last.
- Stay calm — deep breathing can help manage stress during tricky questions.
Motivation & Consistency
- Study daily — consistency beats cramming.
- Take small breaks, sleep 7–8 hours, and stay healthy.
- Celebrate small achievements — topic completed, mock score improved.
Quick Start Checklist
- Download APPSC FSO official notification and syllabus PDF.
- Collect 1 core book per subject and previous year papers.
- Set up an error log and mock schedule (weekly).
- Make a 12-week calendar with daily and weekly targets.
Forest Section Officer Exam Pattern
If we talk about the exam pattern of these recruitments, we can see different patterns for each stage. For the screening stage, there are a total of 150 marks; for the main exam, there are 450 marks; and for the Computer Proficiency Test, there are 100 marks. We have given all the exam patterns in table format in this article. A candidate must check it for better preparation.
Screening Test
For the screening test, a candidate will get 150 minutes to answer 150 questions. There is negative marking for wrong answers. Therefore, candidates must be aware of the wrong answers.
| Part | Subject | No. of Questions | Duration (Minutes) | Max Marks | Negative Marking* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | General Studies & Mental Ability + Mathematics (SSC Standard) | 75 | 150 | 75 | 1/3rd penalty per wrong answer (G.O.Ms.No.235) |
| B | General Forestry | 75 | 75 | ||
| Total | 150 | 150 | 150 | ||
Main Examination
The main examination includes multiple papers, such as the qualifying paper, Paper I, Paper II, and Paper III. The total marks of the main examination are 450 marks. There is also negative marking. For more detailed information, candidates must check the table given below.
| Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Duration (Minutes) | Max Marks | Negative Marking* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qualifying Test | General English (50) + General Telugu (50) (SSC Standard) | 100 | 100 | 100 | 1/3rd penalty per wrong answer (G.O.Ms.No.235) |
| Paper-I | General Studies & Mental Ability | 150 | 150 | 150 | |
| Paper-II | Mathematics (SSC Standard) | 150 | 150 | 150 | |
| Paper-III | General Forestry | 150 | 150 | 150 | |
| Total (Written) | 450 | ||||
Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)
For the Computer Proficiency Test, a candidate will get 60 minutes for this exam. The total marks for this examination are 100 marks. For more detailed information, candidates must check the table
| Test | Duration (Minutes) | Max Marks | Qualifying Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Office Automation (MS Office/LibreOffice) | 60 | 100 | OC: 40% | BC: 35% | SC/ST: 30% |
APPSC Forest Section Officer Syllabus
If we talk about the syllabus of APPSC Forest Section Officer, candidates are advised to read the official notification carefully. The detailed syllabus of this recruitment has been given in this notification. We have provided the download link of the official notification below. A candidate can download it from that link. Few important topics are -
Topics Covered: General Studies, Mental Ability, Mathematics, General Forestry, Computer Proficiency (Office Automation, Word Processing, Spreadsheets, Presentations).
How to Apply for APPSC Forest Section Officer
How to apply for APPSC Forest Section Officer? It is a big question. For this, we have provided all the steps on how to apply for it below. A candidate must follow them to apply for this recruitment. It is advised for all candidates to enter all the correct details while applying for this recruitment. Candidates are also advised to collect all the important documents before applying. A candidate must keep the printout of the application form for future reference.
- Visit the official website: https://psc.ap.gov.in.
- Register for One Time Profile Registration (OTPR) if not already registered.
- Login using OTPR ID and fill the online application form.
- Upload required documents (photo, signature, etc.).
- Pay the application fee online and submit the form.
- Take a printout of the submitted application for future reference.
Forest Section Officer Important Links
All the important links of Forest Section Officer recruitment are given below. A candidate can use these links to download the official notification, visit the official website, or directly apply for this recruitment.
Additional Details
- Candidates must produce original certificates during verification.
- No reservation for Persons with Benchmark Disability (PBD) for this post.
- Local reservation rules apply as per Andhra Pradesh Public Employment Order, 1975.
- Meritorious Sportspersons (MSP) have a 3% horizontal reservation.
FAQs – APPS. Forest Section Officer Recruitment 2025
What is the last date to apply?
The last date to apply online is 17/08/2025.
How many vacancies are there?
A total of 100 vacancies have been announced (30 Carried Forward + 70 Fresh).
Is there a physical test?
Yes, candidates must qualify in a walking test (25 km for men, 16 km for women in 4 hours) and medical examination.
