The Sports Authority of India (SAI) under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has released the SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 Notification for 323 vacancies across 26 sports disciplines. This is a significant opportunity for aspirants across India, including candidates from Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and other states, aiming to build a career in sports coaching and government service. The online application process has been reopened from March 23, 2026, and will remain active until April 21, 2026 (5:00 PM) on the official website sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in.
SAI Assistant Coach Vacancy 2026 Details
The recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 323 posts, distributed as follows:
- UR: 187
- OBC: 73
- SC: 32
- ST: 9
- EWS: 22
Additionally, 33% horizontal reservation for women candidates is applicable as per government norms.
SAI Assistant Coach 2026 Important Dates
- Initial Application Start: February 1, 2026
- Initial Last Date: February 15, 2026
- Reopening Date: March 23, 2026 (10:00 AM)
- Final Last Date: April 21, 2026 (5:00 PM)
- CBT Exam Date: To be announced
- Coaching Ability Test (CAT): To be announced
Eligibility Criteria for SAI Assistant Coach 2026
Candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification: Diploma or equivalent in coaching from SAI NS-NIS Patiala or any recognized Indian/foreign university.
- Age Limit: Maximum 30 years (as on application opening date).
- Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC: 3 years
- Ex-Servicemen, SAI employees, departmental candidates as per government norms
SAI Assistant Coach Salary 2026
Selected candidates will receive an attractive Level-6 pay scale:
- Salary Range: ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400
- Allowances:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance
- Medical and leave benefits
- Additional Benefits:
- Sports kit as per SAI rules
- Career growth to Coach, Senior Coach, Chief Coach, High Performance Coach
Application Fee
- UR/EWS/OBC: ₹2,500
- SC/ST/Ex-Servicemen/Women: ₹2,000
Payment must be made online only.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of two stages:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT): 40% weightage
- Coaching Ability Test (CAT): 60% weightage
Candidates will be shortlisted in a 1:3 ratio category-wise for the CAT stage.
How to Apply for SAI Assistant Coach 2026
Follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit the official website: sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in
- Click on SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 link
- Register and fill out the application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee
- Submit the form and download confirmation
Quick Reference Summary
| Particulars | Details |
| Organization | Sports Authority of India (SAI) |
| Post Name | Assistant Coach |
| Total Vacancies | 323 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Last Date to Apply | April 21, 2026 |
| Salary | ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400 |
| Selection Process | CBT + CAT |
| Official Website | sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in |
Posting & Job Location
Selected candidates will be posted across various SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence, and Training Centres across India. Candidates must be ready for all-India service liability.
Why Apply for SAI Assistant Coach 2026?
- Opportunity to work with India’s top sports authority
- Attractive salary and government benefits
- Long-term career growth in sports coaching
- Chance to contribute to national-level athlete development
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is the last date to apply for SAI Assistant Coach 2026? |
| The last date is April 21, 2026 (5:00 PM). |
| How many vacancies are announced in SAI Recruitment 2026? |
| A total of 323 Assistant Coach posts are available. |
| What is the required qualification for Assistant Coach? |
| A Diploma in coaching from SAI NS-NIS Patiala or a recognized university. |
| What is the salary for SAI Assistant Coach 2026? |
| ₹35,400 to ₹1,12,400 with allowances. |
| What is the selection process for SAI Assistant Coach? |
| CBT (40%) followed by Coaching Ability Test (60%). |
| Is there any age relaxation? |
| Yes, relaxation is provided as per government norms. |
| Where can I apply for SAI Assistant Coach 2026? |
| On the official website sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in. |
| Can women candidates apply for SAI Assistant Coach posts? |
| Yes, 33% horizontal reservation is available for women candidates. |
The SAI Assistant Coach Recruitment 2026 is a golden opportunity for qualified candidates passionate about sports and coaching careers. With 323 vacancies, competitive salary, and nationwide postings, aspirants should not miss this chance. Apply before April 21, 2026, through the official website sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in, and bookmark this page for the latest updates on exam dates and results.
MORE INFO
| Notification | CLICK HERE |
| Apply | CLICK HERE |
