How to Apply Online for a Government Job: Complete Checklist

Read the full notification first

The official notification is the only source that is always right. Read the eligibility, the age limit and the cut-off date, the required qualification, the number of vacancies, the important dates, the fee and the selection process before you start the form.

Keep your documents ready

• A recent photograph and your signature, scanned to the size and format the notice asks for.
• A photo ID such as Aadhaar, and an active email address and mobile number.
• Mark sheets and certificates for the qualification you are claiming.
• Category, disability or other certificates, if you are claiming any benefit.

Steps to apply

1. Complete the one-time registration on the official portal. Note down your registration number and password.
2. Log in and fill in your personal, educational and category details exactly as they appear on your certificates.
3. Upload the photograph, signature and documents in the required size and format.
4. Use the preview option and read every field again.
5. Pay the application fee through the payment options given on the official portal only.
6. Submit the form, then download and print the confirmation page and fee receipt.

Common mistakes to avoid

• A name or date of birth that does not match the certificates.
• Choosing the wrong category or post.
• Uploading files in the wrong size or an unreadable scan.
• Waiting until the last day, when websites are slow and payments fail.
• Ignoring the correction window, if one is announced.

About the application fee

The fee is paid only on the official portal. It is usually not refunded, even if you later decide not to appear, so confirm that you are eligible before paying. Genuine recruitment never asks you to send money to a personal account.

After you apply

Keep a copy of the confirmation, your login details and the notification. Then watch for the admit card date and the exam schedule on the official website.