CHO Exams, Check Application, Preparation, and Key Details
This article provides a comprehensive guide to the CHO exams, covering eligibility, exam patterns, preparation tips, and important details for aspiring candidates in 2025.
Priyanka Agarwal19 Mar, 2025
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Community Health Officer (CHO) exams serve as a gateway for healthcare professionals with a passion for transforming lives at the grassroots level. These exams, championed by the National Health Mission (NHM) and other medical organizations, seek to identify and empower skilled individuals dedicated to strengthening primary healthcare services across the nation. As the backbone of community health programs, CHOs play a critical role in delivering impactful healthcare solutions. If you’re dreaming of a meaningful career in this field, here’s a comprehensive guide to the CHO exams for 2025, covering tentative schedules, application procedures, eligibility criteria, and preparation tips to help you succeed.
What is CHO Exams?
The CHO role is designed to bridge the gap in healthcare services at the community level. Selected candidates are posted at Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs), where they are responsible for preventive, promotive, and curative healthcare delivery. With the increasing demand for CHOs across India, states regularly organize recruitment exams.
States Conducting CHO Exams
Nearly all states in India conduct CHO exams under NHM or their respective health departments. Here’s a list of major states that typically conduct CHO recruitment:
Although the exact dates for CHO exams in 2025 are yet to be released, the recruitment processes generally follow a similar timeline each year. Based on previous trends, here’s a tentative schedule:
State
Tentative Application Start Date
Tentative Exam Date
Uttar Pradesh
February 2025
April 2025
Maharashtra
March 2025
May 2025
Rajasthan
02 April - 1 May 2025
2 June - 13 June, 2025
Gujarat
February 2025
April 2025
Bihar
January 2025
March 2025
Madhya Pradesh
March 2025
May 2025
Punjab
February 2025
April 2025
Haryana
April 2025
June 2025
Chhattisgarh
January 2025
March 2025
Odisha
February 2025
April 2025
Note: These dates are tentative and subject to change. Always refer to official state health department websites for the most accurate information.
CHO Exams Eligibility Criteria
Candidates aiming to appear for CHO exams must meet specific eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications, age limits, and other essential requirements. The table below summarizes these key prerequisites for aspiring applicants.
Eligibility Criteria
Details
Educational Qualification
- BSc Nursing/Post Basic BSc Nursing degree from a recognized institution
- Registered with the State Nursing Council
- GNM candidates may be eligible in some states with a bridge course certification
Age Limit
- 21 to 40 years
- Relaxation for reserved categories as per government norms
Additional Requirements
- Proficiency in the state’s local language may be mandatory in some regions
How to Apply for Community Health Officer
The application process for CHO exams is conducted online through the official websites of the respective state health missions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Visit the Official Website :
For NHM exams, the state-specific NHM portal is the key platform. For example:
Create an account using a valid email ID and phone number.
Ensure all personal details are accurate.
Fill the Application Form :
Enter educational qualifications, experience (if any), and other details.
Upload necessary documents such as:
Scanned passport-size photograph
Signature
Nursing registration certificate
Pay the Application Fee :
The fee varies by state and category. Online payment modes include net banking, credit/debit cards, or UPI.
Submit and Print :
Review the application form carefully before submitting.
Take a printout of the application form for future reference.
CHO Exam Pattern
The exam pattern for Community Health Officer (CHO) recruitment varies slightly across states, but the core focus remains on nursing and public health. Below is a detailed breakdown of CHO exam patterns for key states in India:
State
Exam Mode
Sections
Total Questions
Marks
Duration
Negative Marking
Uttar Pradesh
Online (CBT)
- Nursing Subjects (80%) - General Aptitude & Reasoning (20%)
100
100
2 hours
No
Maharashtra
Online (CBT)
- Nursing (70%) - Public Health (20%) - General Aptitude (10%)
100
100
2 hours
No
Rajasthan
Offline (OMR)
- Nursing (80%) - Current Affairs (10%) - General Knowledge (10%)
150
150
2.5 hours
Yes
Gujarat
Online (CBT)
- Nursing and Midwifery (75%) - General Knowledge (15%) - Computer Basics (10%)
100
100
2 hours
Yes
Bihar
Offline (OMR)
- Nursing (50%) - Public Health (30%) - Local Knowledge (10%) - General Aptitude (10%)
100
100
2 hours
No
Madhya Pradesh
Online (CBT)
- Nursing (65%) - Public Health and Programs (20%) - Reasoning & GK (15%)
100
100
2 hours
Yes
Punjab
Online (CBT)
- Nursing and Community Health (80%) - English (10%) - General Awareness (10%)
100
100
2 hours
No
Haryana
Offline (OMR)
- Nursing and Public Health (75%) - General Knowledge (15%) - State-Specific GK (10%)
120
120
2 hours
Yes
Chhattisgarh
Offline (OMR)
- Nursing (50%) - State Health Schemes (30%) - Logical Reasoning (10%) - GK (10%)
100
100
2 hours
No
Odisha
Online (CBT)
- Nursing (70%) - Public Health (20%) - General Aptitude (10%)
Most exams focus heavily on Nursing Subjects , with additional emphasis on Public Health , General Knowledge , and Reasoning .
Exam Duration is typically 2 hours, and the Total Marks range from 100 to 150.
Negative Marking is present in some states (e.g., Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh) but absent in others.
Candidates should prioritize state-specific schemes and programs for states like Bihar, Haryana, and Chhattisgarh.
CHO Salary Structure
The salary of a Community Health Officer (CHO) varies across states but generally falls within an attractive range, offering both a steady income and performance-based incentives. Here’s a breakdown of CHO salary details:
Base Salary : ₹25,000 to ₹40,000 per month (varies by state and experience).
Incentives : Performance-based incentives of up to ₹15,000 per month in some states.
Additional Benefits :
Job security as a government employee.
Opportunities for promotions and increments with tenure and performance.
Provident fund, health insurance, and other government perks depending on the state policies.
Documents Required for CHO Exams
Before applying for CHO exams, make sure you gather all the necessary documents to avoid any last-minute hassle. These documents are crucial for verifying your eligibility and completing the application process smoothly. Below is the list of essential documents you’ll need:
Preparing for CHO exams requires a strategic approach and consistent effort. Follow these quick tips to enhance your chances of success.
Understand the Syllabus : Focus on nursing, community health, and key public health programs.
Use Reliable Study Material : Refer to standard textbooks, previous papers, or join online courses.
Time Management : Develop a study plan with dedicated hours for each topic.
Mock Tests : Take mock exams to get familiar with the pattern and improve speed.
Stay Updated : Regularly visit state NHM websites for the latest updates.
Why Choose a Career as a CHO?
A CHO career combines professional stability with the opportunity to make a meaningful social impact. Here are the top reasons to pursue this rewarding role:
Stability and Growth : Enjoy financial security, job stability, and ample career development opportunities.
Contribute to Society : Make a difference by enhancing healthcare at the community level.
Attractive Remuneration : Earn ₹25,000 to ₹40,000 per month, plus performance-based incentives.
CHO exams are a gateway to a fulfilling career in community health. With the right preparation and timely application, aspiring candidates can secure this vital role. Keep track of announcements from NHM and other health authorities, and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. A systematic approach to studying and staying informed will help you succeed in the 2025 CHO exams.
CHO Exams FAQs
What is the CHO exam?
The CHO exam recruits Community Health Officers responsible for providing primary healthcare services at grassroots levels, focusing on preventive and curative healthcare delivery.
Which states conduct the CHO exam?
Nearly all states in India conduct CHO exams, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.
What is the eligibility for the CHO exam?
Candidates must have a BSc Nursing/Post Basic BSc Nursing degree, be registered with the State Nursing Council, and meet age requirements (21-40 years), with some states offering GNM candidates eligibility with a bridge course.
What is the salary of a CHO?
The average salary of a CHO ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹40,000 per month, with performance-based incentives and government benefits like job security and promotions.
How should I prepare for the CHO exam?
Focus on core nursing subjects, community health, and public health programs, use reliable study material, practice mock tests, and manage your time efficiently to increase your chances of success.
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Priyanka Agarwal19 Mar, 2025
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