Start with non-negotiables: age, educational qualifications, and medical standards. Then compare work locations, promotion paths, and bond periods if mentioned in official PDFs.
Speak with people in similar roles when possible—online forums help but vary in reliability. Prefer official FAQs and previous year notices for ambiguous clauses.
Once you commit, align your study plan to that exam’s pattern rather than chasing every overlapping test. Depth usually beats scattered attempts.
Location and mobility
Some posts require frequent transfers. If family constraints matter, filter early rather than hoping for exceptions later.
Bonds and training periods
Read bond clauses in rupees and years; exit penalties can outweigh short-term salary gains.