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SSC CPO Exam 2025: Apply Online, Vacancy, Syllabus, PET/PST
The SSC CPO (Central Police Organization) 2025 recruitment opens pathways into Delhi Police & CAPF sub-inspector posts. This expanded guide covers application steps, vacancies, exact syllabus, exam pattern, PET/PST standards, medicals, salary & promotion, previous cutoffs and exam-day strategies.
Last updated: Nov 13, 2025
SSC CPO 2025
Complete SSC CPO 2025 guide — apply online, vacancy, syllabus, PET/PST, preparation and FAQs for aspirants.
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Exam Name
SSC CPO 2025 — Sub Inspector in Delhi Police & CAPF (SI/ASI posts as per notification).
Vacancies (est.)
Expected 4,000+ combined vacancies (exact numbers in official SSC notification).
Selection Stages
Paper I (CBT) → Physical Endurance & Measurement Test (PE & PMT) → Paper II (CBT) → Medical & DV
Latest Updates
Important SSC CPO 2025 notifications and dates — always cross-check with SSC's official release.
Apply Window
Apply online at SSC website — ensure scanned photograph/signature meet file-size requirements.
Exam Dates (Tentative)
Paper I expected in Feb–Mar 2026; Paper II and PET/PST scheduled thereafter as per SSC calendar.
All About SSC CPO 2025
SSC CPO (Central Police Organization) Examination is a national recruitment exam conducted by the Staff Selection Commission for the posts of Sub Inspector (SI) in Delhi Police, Sub Inspector in CAPFs and Assistant Sub-Inspector in various Central Police Organizations. Being a crucial gateway to secure a uniformed officer role, SSC CPO attracts thousands of aspirants each cycle. The role requires commitment, physical endurance, mental agility, and a strong sense of public duty.
The SSC CPO selection pipeline evaluates candidates across cognitive domains (through CBT papers), physical efficiency (through PE & PMT), and medical fitness. This page provides a detailed roadmap — from applying online to clearing physical tests and joining the force — and is optimized to answer the most searched questions aspirants ask about the SSC CPO 2025 cycle.
Use the sections below for quick navigation: exam pattern & syllabus, vacancy & category distribution, PE/PST standards, medical standards, salary & allowances, multi-week preparation plans, previous cutoffs and a deep FAQ that covers common doubts and procedural clarifications.
Important Dates
Apply Online: 13 Nov 2025 – 04 Dec 2025 (example). Paper I expected in Feb–Mar 2026. Check official notice for exact dates.
How to Apply
Register on SSC portal → Fill application with accurate details → Upload photo & signature → Pay fees (if applicable) → Submit & print confirmation.
Minimum Qualification
Graduation (Bachelor’s degree) is required for Sub-Inspector posts in many CAPFs and in Delhi Police; check specific post requirements inside the notification.
Vacancy & Category-wise Distribution (Est.)
Below is an illustrative breakdown for planning. Official vacancies and category-wise seats are declared in the SSC notification.
| Post / Force | Total (est.) | UR | OBC | SC | ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi Police SI (Male & Female) | 1,200 | 600 | 300 | 180 | 120 |
| CAPF SI / ASI Vacancies | 3,000 | 1,500 | 900 | 360 | 240 |
| Others (State Quotas via SSC) | 500+ | — | — | — | — |
Numbers are indicative. Use official PDF for exact vacancies, post-wise eligibility and reservation breakdown.
Eligibility & Age Relaxation
Educational Qualification
Post-specific. Typically, Sub Inspector posts require a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Check the notification for SI (GD) vs SI (Other) variations.
Nationality
Candidates must be Indian citizens or meet the nationality criteria specified (e.g., subjects of Nepal/Bhutan in some cases). Verify the exact clause in the notification.
Age Limit
Generally 20–25 years for SI posts (varies by post). Age calculation is based on cut-off date mentioned in the notification. Age relaxations apply for reserved categories as per government norms.
Relaxation Table
- SC/ST: +5 years
- OBC (NCL): +3 years
- Ex-Servicemen: As per rules
- PwBD: +10 years (with other relaxations if applicable)
Exam Pattern & Syllabus — SSC CPO 2025
Paper I — Computer Based Test (Objective)
Paper I tests general ability/knowledge, quantitative aptitude and reasoning/general intelligence and English comprehension. It is a qualifying and scoring stage; high importance for shortlisting for PET/PST.
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 50 |
| General Knowledge & General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 |
| English Comprehension | 50 | 50 |
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer (as per past practice; confirm with current notification).
Paper II (Descriptive) — Essay & Comprehension
For candidates shortlisted after PET/PST, Paper II assesses writing skills — essay writing & précis/letter — typically 100 marks. This is crucial for final selection.
Detailed Syllabus (Topic-wise)
General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Analogies, Similarities & Differences
- Series, Coding-Decoding, Syllogism
- Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Direction Sense
- Non-Verbal Reasoning, Blood Relations & Input-Output
General Knowledge & Awareness
- Current Affairs (last 12 months)
- History, Indian Polity, Geography
- Economic basics, Important National & International Events
- Science & Technology, Sports, Awards & Books
Quantitative Aptitude
- Arithmetic: Number Systems, Percentages, Ratio & Proportion
- Mensuration, Time & Work, Time & Distance
- Simplification, Algebra, Basic Geometry
- Data Interpretation at basic to moderate levels
English Comprehension
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar: Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks, Cloze Test, Para Jumbles
- Vocabulary: Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word substitution
Physical Standards & PET/PST — SSC CPO
Physical criteria differ slightly for Delhi Police and CAPFs. Below are common standards historically used; use official notification for exact norms.
Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
| Category | Height (Male) | Chest (Male) | Height (Female) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (Plain) | 170 cm | 80–85 cm (with expansion) | 157 cm |
| Hilly / Tribal Areas | 165 cm | 79–84 cm | 152 cm |
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
- Male: 1.6 km run in approx. 6 minutes 30 seconds (time varies by force; also long jump and high jump may be included)
- Female: 800 m / 1.0 km run as per force criteria; long jump/high jump events as applicable
- Additional endurance tests & flexibility assessments are used by some forces
Allowances for regional and ethnic/tribal candidates may apply. Always check the official notification for precise timing and distances for PET.
Medical Standards & Disqualifying Conditions
Medical fitness is assessed after clearing PET/PST stages. Typical medical checks include eyesight, ENT, orthopaedic and general physical health. Conditions such as severe myopia, certain cardiac disorders, uncontrolled epilepsy, and major orthopaedic deformities are commonly disqualifying.
Eyesight Standards
- Normal vision: 6/6 or 6/9 in one eye and 6/9 or 6/6 in the other. Some allowances for correction exist — check force-specific rules.
- Colour blindness and night blindness are disqualifying for many operational roles.
Declare all prior surgeries or medical conditions in the application and during DV; suppression may lead to disqualification later.
Salary, Allowances & Career Progression
Sub Inspectors in CAPFs & Delhi Police are placed in pay scales as per 7th CPC — typically starting at Level 6/7 depending on the post and state. In-hand salary varies with DA, HRA, field allowance and additional benefits for remote postings.
- Approximate starting salary (CTC): ₹35,000 – ₹55,000 per month — depends on posting & allowances.
- Additional field allowances, risk allowances, and accommodation are provided for certain postings.
- Promotion path: SI → Inspector → DSP (after departmental exams & experience) — long-term career growth with structured promotional exams and seniority.
Preparation Strategy — 16-week Plan & Resources
To crack SSC CPO, combine methodical preparation for CBT papers with a disciplined physical training routine. The plan below balances concept building, practice and fitness.
16-Week Study Plan (High-level)
- Weeks 1–4: Core concept strengthening — reasoning, quant basics & grammar.
- Weeks 5–8: Topic-wise practice, start sectional mocks, GK compendium creation.
- Weeks 9–12: Full-length CBT mocks, timed practice and error analysis.
- Weeks 13–14: Intensive revision, high-yield GK updates, mock essays for Paper II.
- Weeks 15–16: Light mocks, strategy refinement, physical conditioning & rest.
Fitness & PET Plan
- Daily running with interval sprints (start 3km and progress to faster 5km runs).
- Alternate day strength training: bodyweight exercises, squats, lunges, core workouts.
- Practice long jump and high jump techniques weekly; practice simulated PET under humidity/heat conditions if possible.
Recommended Books & Online Resources
- R.S. Aggarwal — Quantitative Aptitude & Reasoning
- Objective General English — S.P. Bakshi or Wren & Martin for grammar
- Lucent's GK, monthly current affairs capsules, and PIB/PRS updates
- High-quality online mock series — essential for time management
Study & Training Gallery
Real aspirant training snippets and study sessions (representative images).
Strength training session for PET.
Group revision and mock analysis.
Current affairs preparation and notes.
Online mock test practice — time-bound sessions.
Previous Year Cut-offs — SSC CPO (Sample)
Use these for target-setting. Real cutoffs differ by year and number of vacancies.
| Category | 2024 (Paper I) | 2023 (Paper I) | 2022 (Paper I) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UR | 108.50 | 106.00 | 101.25 |
| OBC | 102.00 | 99.50 | 95.00 |
| SC | 92.50 | 90.00 | 86.75 |
| ST | 85.00 | 82.00 | 80.00 |
How to Apply & Document Checklist
How to Apply — Step-by-step
- Visit the official SSC portal: ssc.nic.in.
- Register (if new) and log in using credentials.
- Fill application form carefully, choose post preferences (Delhi Police / CAPFs).
- Upload scanned photograph & signature as per prescribed format.
- Pay fees online (if applicable) and submit the form. Print confirmation page for records.
Document Checklist
- Graduation certificate / mark sheet
- Birth certificate / 10th class certificate for DOB proof
- Category / caste certificate (if applicable)
- Ex-servicemen certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs & scanned signature
Make sure file sizes and dimensions match SSC specifications. Keep originals ready for document verification (DV).
Job Profile — What to Expect After Joining
Delhi Police SI
Law & order duties in urban areas, crime prevention tasks, community policing, traffic management, and investigations as assigned. Duties vary by posting and department.
CAPF SI / ASI
Border & internal security tasks, counter-insurgency, VIP protection, critical infrastructure protection, training of constable cadres and leading small units in operations.
Posting & Transfers
Initial postings often in field units or city divisions. Transfers occur per force policies; postings can be in remote, border, or urban zones depending on force needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible to apply for SSC CPO 2025?
Eligibility varies by post. Typically, candidates hold a Bachelor's degree and satisfy age limits. Check the official notification for exact requirements.
What are the exam stages of SSC CPO?
Paper I (CBT) → Physical Endurance & Measurement Test (PE & PMT) → Paper II (Descriptive) → Medical Examination & Document Verification.
Is there negative marking in SSC CPO?
Yes. Historically, 0.25 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer in CBT papers. Verify with the official notice for the 2025 cycle.
How should I prepare for Paper II?
Practice essay writing, comprehension and precis exercises. Improve handwriting clarity, time management and structuring skills. Review sample essays on social issues, governance, law & order topics.
What is the PET standard for male candidates?
PET standards vary; example: 1.6 km run in ~6.5 minutes for males (force-dependent). Check the official notification for precise timing.
Can final selection be cancelled if I fail medical tests?
Yes. Medical fitness is mandatory. Failing medicals can lead to disqualification even after clearing CBT & PET/PST.
What documents required during DV?
Original educational certificates, DOB proof, caste certificate (if applicable), discharge certificate (ex-servicemen), ID proof, and other documents listed on the SSC notification.
How important are mock tests?
Mock tests are crucial — they help with time management, reveal weak areas, and build exam temperament. Use sectional & full-length mocks regularly.
Can I apply for both Delhi Police and CAPF vacancies?
Yes. The SSC application typically allows options; allocation depends on preferences, merit ranking and vacancies.
When will the admit card be released?
Admit cards are usually released 10–20 days before the exam. Download from SSC login portal and verify exam centre details carefully.
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