SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 323 Posts

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) recently released a highly anticipated employment update. Specifically, they reopened the application window for the SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026. Therefore, this massive sports recruitment drive is officially active again. The prestigious Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports actively invites online applications from eligible sports professionals. Consequently, they plan to fill 323 Assistant Coach vacancies across 26 different sports disciplines.

Moreover, this drive offers a fantastic central government career. You can secure a highly stable sports coaching role with an excellent Level-6 salary. Thus, eligible diploma holders and former athletes should prepare their documents immediately. Furthermore, you must submit your application directly through their official portal. You can visit the website at sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in. While you review your sports credentials, explore our other latest government job updates.

Before applying, candidates must understand the specific vacancy distribution. Consequently, here is a quick look at some of the major sports disciplines from the official notification.

Note: A 33% horizontal reservation is specifically applicable for women candidates across all categories.

SAI strictly enforces sports qualifications. Therefore, please verify your eligibility carefully before the application window closes.

Educational Requirements

• Core Coaching Qualification: First, you need a Diploma in Coaching from SAI NS-NIS Patiala. Alternatively, a similar diploma from any recognized Indian or Foreign University is acceptable.
• Athlete Qualification: Secondly, candidates who participated in the Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games, or World Championships are eligible. However, they must also complete a Certificate Course in Coaching.
• Awardees: Furthermore, prestigious Dronacharya Awardees are entirely eligible to apply.

Age Limit Rules

• Maximum Age for General Merit: 30 Years.
• Age Relaxation: The organization calculates this age strictly as of the opening date of the application. However, reserved categories receive standard age relaxations. For example, SC and ST candidates get a 5-year extension. Similarly, OBC candidates receive a 3-year extension. Consequently, departmental candidates and Ex-Servicemen get specific relaxations as per DoPT guidelines.

Salary Structure

SAI rewards its Assistant Coaches exceptionally well. Specifically, candidates join the Pay Matrix Level-6. Therefore, the starting basic pay is ₹35,400 per month, and the scale goes up to ₹1,12,400. Furthermore, coaches receive a generous Dearness Allowance. Additionally, they get House Rent Allowance, Transport Allowance, and comprehensive medical benefits. Thus, the total in-hand salary remains highly attractive right from the first month.

Application Fee Details

Candidates must pay a non-refundable examination fee online. Specifically, you can use debit cards, credit cards, or net banking.

• General / OBC / EWS Candidates: ₹2,500/-.
• SC / ST / Ex-Servicemen / Women Candidates: ₹2,000/-.

The organization uses a highly structured selection process. Consequently, this ensures they hire the best sports talent available in the country.

Written Examination Phase (40% Weightage)

First, candidates must clear a Computer Based Test (CBT). This 2-hour exam features 100 objective questions. Specifically, it covers sports-specific knowledge, sports science, general awareness, and aptitude. Furthermore, there is negative marking for wrong answers.

Coaching Ability Test Phase (60% Weightage)

Second, candidates who pass the written exam attend the Coaching Ability Test (CAT). The board shortlists candidates typically in a 1:3 ratio. This crucial test practically evaluates your on-field coaching abilities and technical skills. Furthermore, the board thoroughly verifies all original documents during this phase.

Final Merit List

Finally, the board prepares a final merit list. They combine your CBT marks and CAT scores. Ultimately, selected candidates undergo a standard medical fitness examination.

You must submit your application flawlessly. Therefore, follow these detailed steps immediately to avoid any server issues.

Registration Steps

• Step 1: First, visit the official SAI portal at sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in.
• Step 2: Second, navigate to the “Jobs” or “Latest Updates” section.
• Step 3: Third, enter your basic details like name, active email, and mobile number to generate your login credentials.

Form Submission

• Step 4: Fourth, log in and fill out your detailed sports and educational background. Moreover, ensure your name matches your 10th-grade certificate perfectly.
• Step 5: Fifth, upload your recent color photograph, signature, and category certificates. Furthermore, attach your sports achievement certificates carefully.
• Step 6: Sixth, pay the application fee securely online using a debit card, credit card, or UPI.
• Step 7: Finally, submit your form before April 21, 2026. Thus, you should print a copy for your personal records and future test use.

Q1. How many total vacancies did SAI announce?
The Sports Authority of India officially announced a total of 323 vacancies. Specifically, these are for the Assistant Coach role across 26 disciplines.

Q2. What is the start and last date to apply?
The online application process was recently reopened on March 23, 2026. Furthermore, you must complete your registration before the deadline on April 21, 2026.

Q3. What educational qualification do I need?
Applicants must possess a Diploma in Coaching from NS-NIS. Alternatively, former Olympians or international participants with a certificate course are fully eligible.

Q4. What is the age limit for this job?
The maximum age limit is 30 years for General candidates. However, standard age relaxations apply for SC, ST, OBC, and Women candidates.

Q5. What does the selection process include?
The organization uses a structured process. First, you take a Computer Based Test (CBT) carrying 40% weightage. Second, shortlisted candidates face a practical Coaching Ability Test (CAT) carrying 60% weightage.

Q6. How much is the application fee?
The fee is ₹2,500 for General, OBC, and EWS candidates. However, SC, ST, Ex-Servicemen, and Women candidates pay ₹2,000.