SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2026 – Complete Detailed Guide
Overview
The Staff Selection Commission Central Police Organization (SSC CPO) Examination is conducted to recruit candidates for the posts of Sub-Inspector (SI) in Delhi Police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
SSC CPO is a national-level competitive examination and consists of multiple stages including written examinations and physical tests. Understanding the SSC CPO 2026 exam pattern is crucial for candidates preparing for the Sub-Inspector posts.
The selection process includes Paper 1, Physical Endurance Test (PET), Paper 2, and Medical Examination.
This article explains the SSC CPO 2026 exam pattern in detail to help candidates understand each stage clearly.
Important Dates
The SSC CPO 2026 notification is expected to be released between July and September 2026.
Tentative schedule:
Notification Release: July–September 2026
Online Application Start Date: July–September 2026
Last Date to Apply: Approximately 30 days after notification
Paper 1 Exam Date: October–November 2026 (Expected)
Physical Test (PET/PST): After Paper 1 results
Paper 2 Exam Date: To be announced
Final Result: After completion of all stages
Candidates must regularly check the official SSC website for confirmed dates and updates.
Eligibility
To apply for SSC CPO 2026, candidates must fulfill the following eligibility conditions.
The minimum educational qualification required is a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
For the post of Sub-Inspector in Delhi Police (Male candidates only), possession of a valid driving license for LMV (Light Motor Vehicle) is mandatory.
The minimum age limit is 20 years.
The maximum age limit is generally 25 years.
Age relaxation is provided as per government rules.
OBC candidates receive 3 years upper age relaxation.
SC and ST candidates receive 5 years upper age relaxation.
Ex-Servicemen and other eligible categories receive additional relaxation as per norms.
Candidates must produce valid certificates during document verification to claim relaxation benefits.
Application Process
The SSC CPO 2026 application process will be conducted online through the official SSC website.
Candidates must complete the One-Time Registration process if not already registered. After logging in, they must fill out the application form carefully and select the preferred examination center.
Applicants need to upload a recent passport-size photograph and signature according to SSC guidelines.
Application fees are generally applicable to General and OBC male candidates. SC, ST, Ex-Servicemen, and female candidates are usually exempted from paying the application fee.
After submitting the form, candidates should download and keep a copy of the confirmation page.
Selection Process
The SSC CPO selection process consists of multiple stages.
Paper 1 is a computer-based objective examination. It includes four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Knowledge and General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Each section carries equal marks. Paper 1 is conducted for a total of 200 marks.
Candidates who qualify in Paper 1 are shortlisted for the Physical Endurance Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST).
In the Physical Endurance Test, male candidates are required to complete a 100-meter race in 16 seconds and a 1.6-kilometer race in 6.5 minutes. Female candidates must complete a 100-meter race in 18 seconds and an 800-meter race in 4 minutes. Additional events such as long jump and high jump are also part of the PET.
The Physical Standard Test checks height, chest measurement (for male candidates), and other physical requirements as per SSC norms.
Candidates who qualify in PET/PST are eligible to appear for Paper 2.
Paper 2 is also a computer-based examination and tests English Language and Comprehension. It is conducted for 200 marks.
After clearing Paper 2, candidates undergo a Detailed Medical Examination to ensure they meet medical fitness standards required for police services.
Final selection is based on performance in Paper 1 and Paper 2, subject to qualifying physical and medical tests.
Salary
SSC CPO Sub-Inspector posts fall under Pay Level 6 of the 7th Pay Commission.
The starting basic pay is approximately ₹35,400 per month.
In addition to basic pay, employees receive Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, Transport Allowance, and other benefits.
The approximate in-hand salary ranges between ₹45,000 to ₹55,000 per month depending on the posting location and allowances.
Sub-Inspectors also receive risk allowance and other service benefits as per government norms.
Direct Official Link
Candidates must refer only to the official website of the Staff Selection Commission for accurate and updated information regarding SSC CPO 2026 exam pattern:
Always verify exam pattern and eligibility details from the official notification before applying.