The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has announced a significant hiring drive for the post of Assistant Coach for the year 2026. This recruitment offers a premier career path for sports professionals, including those with coaching diplomas or a history of international sports participation, to join a leading government sports organization.
According to the official SAI Recruitment 2026 notification, successful candidates will be stationed at various SAI regional centers and training facilities across India, contributing to the nation’s sporting excellence.
SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Organization | Sports Authority of India (SAI) |
| Post Name | Assistant Coach |
| Total Vacancies | 323 |
| Job Type | Regular (Group B) |
| Pay Level | Level 6 (₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400) |
| Job Location | All India |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Date | 16 January 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 23 March 2026 (10:00 AM) |
| Last Date to Apply | 21 April 2026 (05:00 PM) |
Application Fees
| Category | Fees |
|---|---|
| UR / OBC / EWS | ₹2500 |
| SC / ST / Women / Ex-Servicemen | ₹2000 |
| Payment Mode | Online |
Age Limit, Vacancy Details, and Qualification
Age Limit: The age limit to apply for the SAI Assistant Coach Vacancy 2026 is a maximum of 30 Years. The cutoff date for the calculation of the age limit is 16.01.2026. The age relaxation will be given as per the rules.
| Post | Vacancies | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Coach | 323 | Diploma in Coaching from SAI NS-NIS or recognized institute OR Participation in Olympics/ Asian Games/ World Championship with coaching certificate, OR Dronacharya Awardee |
The vacancies are distributed across multiple sports disciplines such as Athletics, Swimming, Wrestling, Boxing, Football, Hockey, Kabaddi, and more.
Selection Process and Exam Pattern
The selection process will be conducted in two stages. First, candidates will appear for a Computer Based Test (CBT) followed by a Coaching Ability Test (CAT).
| Stage | Weightage |
|---|---|
| CBT (Written Exam) | 40% |
| Coaching Ability Test | 60% |
The CBT will consist of 100 MCQs for 2 hours, covering sports knowledge, sports science, reasoning, and general awareness. Negative marking of 1/4 marks will be applied.
Additional Important Updates (Corrigendum)
As per the latest corrigendum, several important updates have been introduced. PwBD candidates are now eligible with horizontal reservation and additional age relaxation. Post Graduate Diploma in Sports Coaching from a recognized State University will also be considered a valid qualification. The syllabus is clarified as indicative, and tie-breaking rules have been added.
How to Apply For SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026
Candidates must apply online through the official SAI website sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in. No offline applications will be accepted. Applicants need to upload a photograph, signature, ID proof, qualification certificates, and other required documents during the application process.
Important Links
| SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 Corrigendum Notice | Corrigendum |
| SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 Notification PDF | Notification |
| SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 Online Form | Apply Online |
| Sports Authority of India (SAI) Official Website | SAI |
