Allahabad High Court PS Grade-I Recruitment 2026 – Complete Overview

The Allahabad High Court Private Secretary Grade-I Recruitment 2026 has been officially announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the Hon’ble High Court of Judicature at Allahabad. This is a golden opportunity for graduates proficient in English shorthand and typing to secure a prestigious position within the Uttar Pradesh judiciary. A total of 195 vacancies have been notified, offering pay scale Level 10 (7th Pay Commission) with salary ranging from Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500. The advertisement was released on 12th March 2026, and the online application window opens from 12th March to 1st April 2026. Given the limited seats and the high profile of the employer, competition is expected to be intense. This detailed guide breaks down every aspect — eligibility, selection stages, application process — to help you apply with confidence and prepare strategically.

Recruitment Overview at a Glance

The High Court of Judicature at Allahabad is one of the oldest and most prestigious High Courts in India. Working here offers immense job security, a respected position in society, and clear career progression. The selection is being conducted by NTA, ensuring a transparent and technology-driven examination process.

Important Dates (Tentative & Official)

Application Fee & Payment Mode

Important: Candidates from reserved categories outside Uttar Pradesh must pay the General/OBC fee. Horizontal reservation candidates (women, ex-servicemen, PwBD) pay as per their original vertical category. Payment is made through the SBI payment gateway; keep the transaction proof safe. A common mistake is entering the wrong reference number — always double-check before final submit.

Age Limit & Relaxation (as on 01.07.2026)

How to calculate your age? You must be born not before 2nd July 1991 and not after 1st July 2005 (for General category). Example: if you were born on 15th Dec 1993, your age on 1st July 2026 will be 32 years 6 months — eligible for General. Always use your Class 10 certificate as proof.

Educational Qualification & Skills

The biggest eligibility mistake candidates make is assuming any graduation is enough — yes, but you MUST have the shorthand and typing skills. The notification clearly states these are essential, not preferential. Also, note that there is no provision for a scribe, and visually handicapped candidates can only use magnifying glasses — the test is mandatory for all.

Vacancy Breakdown: Category-wise & Horizontal

Expert Insight: The unreserved category has the highest number of seats (81), but also attracts the most applicants. If you belong to OBC/SC/ST, do not miss the certificate requirement — you must be a domicile of UP to claim reservation. PwBD seats are further rotated among locomotor, visual, and hearing impairment. There’s also a 1% sportsperson quota for those with national/international representation.

Selection Process: Three Rigorous Stages

Stage I — Computer Based Test (CBT)

• Part A: 100 MCQs (General Studies, Aptitude, General English/Hindi, Computer basics) — 200 marks, 90 minutes. No negative marking. No minimum qualifying marks.
• Part B: Computer Knowledge Test (typing a 500-word passage) — 100 marks, 15 minutes. Minimum 50 marks required.
• Part C: Subjective Translation Test (approx. 250 words) — marking scheme based on errors (0.400 mark per error). Minimum 50 marks required.

Stage II — Shorthand Dictation Test

• English dictation at 100 wpm for 5 minutes (approx. 500 words). Transcription on computer. Minimum qualifying marks: 160 out of 200. Each error deducts 0.400 marks.

Stage III — Interview

• Only candidates who qualify Stage II (based on merit of Stage I + II) are called. Final merit = aggregate of Stage I + II + III.

Prep Tip: For Part B and C, practice typing accuracy, not just speed. One spelling mistake = full error. For shorthand, daily practice of 5-minute dictations at 100 wpm is non-negotiable.

Exam Syllabus & Pattern — Stage I (Part A)

Part B & C are practical tests (no separate syllabus besides typing/translation skills).

For translation, brush up on Hindi to English & English to Hindi official terminology — especially court/law related terms, as the context is the High Court.

Salary & Pay Scale (7th Pay Commission)

This pay scale is comparable to a Under Secretary in State Secretariat. Career progression: after promotion, you can become Additional Private Secretary and above.

How to Apply Online – Step-by-Step

Important Instructions for Candidates

Expert Tips to Crack Allahabad High Court PS Grade-I 2026

1. Apply in the First Week

Early application helps you avoid last-minute server rush and gives you peace of mind to focus on preparation. It also leaves time for correction window if any mistake is detected.

2. Read the Full Notification Before Filling the Form

The 68-page PDF contains intricate details about horizontal reservation, disability rotation, and category-specific conditions. Being aware prevents rejection at the document verification stage.

3. Prepare All Documents Before Starting the Application

Keep scanned copies ready: photo (10-200 KB), signature (10-100 KB), Class X certificate, category certificate. Use a scanner, not a mobile phone camera, to avoid blurry images.

4. Begin Shorthand & Typing Practice from Day One

Stage II requires 100 wpm shorthand and 40 wpm typing with high accuracy. Even one error per line can cost you marks. Practice with old High Court dictation tapes or legal dictation apps.

5. Avoid the Most Common Rejection Reasons

Incorrect category certificate (not from UP domicile), mismatch in name spelling, invalid age proof — cross-check everything with your Class X mark sheet.

6. Stay Updated on Admit Card and Result Dates

Bookmark the official website. The admit card and result dates are announced via public notice only — no individual emails. Visit exams.nta.nic.in/allhcre/ every 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many total vacancies are there for PS Grade-I?

A total of 195 vacancies have been notified, which may increase or decrease at the discretion of the High Court.

2. What is the minimum educational qualification?

Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university, along with English shorthand (100 wpm) and typing (40 wpm) skills, plus computer knowledge.

3. What is the age limit for OBC candidates?

OBC candidates of Uttar Pradesh get 5 years relaxation — the upper age limit is 40 years (born after 2nd July 1986).

4. Can final year students apply?

The notification requires possessing the Bachelor’s Degree on or before the closing date (1st April 2026). Final year students awaiting results are not eligible.

5. Is there negative marking in the exam?

No negative marking in Part A (MCQ) of Stage I. However, Part B, C, and Stage II have error-based deductions.

6. What is the application fee for SC candidates from other states?

SC candidates not domiciled in UP must pay the General/OBC fee of Rs. 1900/-.

7. What documents are needed during verification?

Class X certificate (age proof), graduation mark sheets, category/domicile certificate, shorthand/typing qualification proof, and NOC (if employed).

8. Is there any exemption from typing test for PwBD candidates?

No. All candidates, including PwBD, must qualify in all stages. No scribe or extra time is provided.

9. When will the admit card be released?

Admit card download date will be announced later through a public notice on the official website.

10. Where can I see the final result?

Result will be published on https://exams.nta.nic.in/allhcre/ and allahabadhighcourt.in. No scorecard will be sent by post.