About Level 10 — Under Secretary / Assistant Commissioner
Level 10 is the most prestigious pay grade in the country at the entry point — UPSC Civil Services exam toppers join the IAS / IPS / IFS at this level after their probation. Direct recruitment is via UPSC CSE, the Indian Forest Service exam, or SCS-to-IAS promotion.
Common posts at Level 10
- IAS Junior Time Scale
- IPS (ASP)
- IFS (Third Secretary)
- Assistant Commissioner of Income Tax
- Under Secretary (CSS)
- Audit Officer
Promotion ladder
IAS officers move to Senior Time Scale (Level 11) after 4 years; IPS to ASP-Sr Scale, IRS to Joint Commissioner. Level 10 to Level 11 promotion is automatic on completion of probation.