IB ACIO Answer Key 2025 Released: Powerful Update for Candidates with Objection Window Details

Introduction

The IB ACIO Answer Key 2025 has finally been released by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for the recently conducted Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO) Grade-II/Executive Examination. Aspirants who appeared in the exam between 16 to 18 September 2025 can now download the provisional answer key, match their responses, and raise objections if necessary. This development marks an important step in one of the most sought-after recruitment drives under the Intelligence Bureau, which attracts lakhs of candidates each year due to its prestige, job security, and role in national security.

In this article, we break down the latest updates about the IB ACIO Answer Key 2025, the objection process, implications for candidates, and what lies ahead in the recruitment journey.

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IB ACIO Exam 2025: Background and Importance

The Intelligence Bureau (IB) is India’s oldest intelligence agency, functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The post of ACIO (Assistant Central Intelligence Officer) is considered both prestigious and challenging, as it involves responsibilities ranging from intelligence gathering to operational security support.

Every recruitment cycle draws immense competition, with thousands of aspirants aiming for limited vacancies. The Tier-1 exam, which was recently held, acts as the first filter in the selection process. The release of the IB ACIO Answer Key 2025 allows candidates to evaluate their performance, get an idea of their probable scores, and understand their chances of advancing to the next stage.

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Key Highlights of IB ACIO Answer Key 2025

• Release Date: 22 September 2025
• Exam Dates: 16, 17, and 18 September 2025
• Availability: Official MHA website (mha.gov.in)
• Mode of Access: Candidate login using registration ID and password/date of birth
• Objection Window: 22 September 2025 – 25 September 2025
• Result Declaration: Expected after the final answer key publication

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How to Download the IB ACIO Answer Key 2025

Candidates can follow these steps to access their answer key and response sheet:

1. Visit the official website – mha.gov.in
2. Navigate to the “Recruitment” or “What’s New” section
3. Click on the link for IB ACIO Answer Key 2025
4. Log in with registration credentials (User ID & Password/Date of Birth)
5. Download the provisional answer key and individual response sheet
6. Save and take a printout for comparison

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Raising Objections Against IB ACIO Answer Key 2025

Since the released answer key is provisional, candidates have the right to challenge any question or answer they find incorrect.

Steps to Raise Objections:

• Log in to the candidate portal on the MHA website.
• Select the question(s) you want to challenge.
• Submit valid documentary proof or references to support your objection.
• Pay the objection fee (if applicable).

The MHA will review all objections, make necessary corrections, and release the final answer key before declaring the results.

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Why the Answer Key Matters

The release of the IB ACIO Answer Key 2025 is not just a formality—it has several critical roles:

• Transparency in Recruitment: It reassures candidates that the evaluation process is fair.
• Performance Analysis: Candidates can gauge their accuracy and estimate scores.
• Strategic Preparation: Those confident of clearing Tier-1 can start preparing for Tier-2 without delay.
• Dispute Resolution: Provides an opportunity to rectify errors before final evaluation.

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Expert Opinions and Analysis

Education experts suggest that the IB ACIO Tier-1 exam 2025 maintained a moderate difficulty level, with reasoning and general awareness sections being slightly tricky. The release of the answer key will help aspirants understand cut-off trends and prepare accordingly.

From a government perspective, releasing provisional keys followed by an objection process has become a standard practice in competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, and IBPS. This ensures fairness and boosts credibility in the recruitment process.

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What’s Next After IB ACIO Answer Key 2025?

Once the objection window closes, the following steps will take place:

1. Final Answer Key Release: Corrections will be made (if required).
2. Tier-1 Results: Candidates shortlisted for Tier-2 will be announced.
3. Tier-2 Exam: A descriptive test evaluating analytical and essay writing skills.
4. Interview & Document Verification: For final merit list preparation.

The IB ACIO recruitment process is expected to conclude by early 2026, with successful candidates beginning their training thereafter.

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Future Impact and Candidate Strategy

The release of the answer key also signals the start of cut-off speculation. Based on past trends, cut-offs may vary depending on:

• Number of vacancies announced
• Candidate participation volume
• Difficulty level of the paper

Candidates should use this time wisely by:

• Analyzing their probable score
• Beginning Tier-2 preparation immediately
• Keeping track of official announcements on the MHA portal

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Conclusion

The IB ACIO Answer Key 2025 release is a significant step in the recruitment process, offering clarity and fairness to candidates who appeared for the exam. With the objection window now open, aspirants should carefully evaluate their responses and raise valid challenges where necessary. The next few weeks will be crucial as the final answer key and results will shape the journey of thousands of candidates aspiring to serve the Intelligence Bureau.