SSC CPO 2026 Recruitment Rules, Exam Pattern and Physical Test Details

The Staff Selection Commission has released the SSC CPO 2026 notification for Sub-Inspector posts in Delhi Police and the Central Armed Police Forces. The recruitment drive offers more than 1,800 posts. The online application process has started, so candidates should check the rules before filling in the form.

This year, SSC has changed parts of the exam pattern. Sectional timing and new negative marking rules may affect how you plan the paper. A calm look at the notice now can save you from a stressful surprise on exam day.

SSC CPO 2026 vacancies

The recruitment covers Sub-Inspector posts in Delhi Police and CAPF units such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP and SSB.

• Delhi Police SI, male: 205 posts
• Delhi Police SI, female: 112 posts
• CAPF SI: 1,320 posts
• BSF has the highest number of CAPF vacancies, with 457 posts listed in the notification

The final number of vacancies can change based on government requirements. Candidates should read the official notice at ssc.gov.in for the latest vacancy list and reservation details.

Who can apply for SSC CPO?

Educational qualification

For most posts, candidates need a graduation degree from a recognised university. The degree can be in any stream.

For the Sub-Inspector Fire post, candidates need a BSc with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, or a three-year diploma in Mechanical, Civil or Electrical Engineering. Check the post-wise rules before selecting your preference.

Age limit

The usual age limit is 20 to 25 years. The commission provides age relaxation as per government rules. SC and ST candidates get five years of relaxation, while OBC candidates get three years.

Driving licence rule

Male candidates applying for the Delhi Police SI post must hold a valid LMV driving licence. This rule matters during the selection process, so do not leave it for the last day.

SSC CPO 2026 exam pattern changes

The new pattern brings three key changes that candidates should note.

1. Sectional timing

SSC has introduced sectional timing in CPO, similar to the system used in exams such as CGL and CHSL. You may get a fixed time for each section. This means you cannot spend too long on one difficult question and return to it later at your own pace.

2. Paper 1 duration is shorter

Paper 1 will have 100 questions from four sections:

• Reasoning: 25 questions
• General Knowledge and General Awareness: 25 questions
• Quantitative Aptitude: 25 questions
• English Comprehension: 25 questions

The total duration has been reduced from two hours to one hour. Candidates must work on speed as well as accuracy. Paper 2 will also have 100 questions carrying 200 marks.

3. Negative marking

Paper 1 will have a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer. In Paper 2, 0.50 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer. Guessing every question is not a strategy. It is a small donation to the marking scheme.

Selection process

The SSC CPO selection process includes computer-based examinations, the Physical Standard Test and Physical Endurance Test, Paper 2, and medical and document checks. Candidates must clear each stage to move forward.

Paper 1 tests reasoning, general awareness, mathematics and English. The physical stage checks height, running and jumps. Paper 2 focuses on English language and comprehension. Candidates should prepare for written tests and physical events at the same time.

SSC CPO salary

Sub-Inspectors in Delhi Police and CAPF are placed under Level 6 of the pay matrix. The pay is commonly listed from ₹35,400 to ₹1,12,400, along with allowances as per government rules. The final salary depends on the department, posting, allowances and deductions.

Do not compare only the basic pay. City allowance, transport allowance and other benefits can change the amount received each month. The official notification gives the final service conditions.

Physical standards for SSC CPO

Male candidates generally need a minimum height of 170 cm. Relaxation is available for candidates from certain hill areas and for ST candidates. Female candidates need a minimum height of 157 cm.

For the physical test, male candidates must complete a 100-metre race in 16 seconds. Female candidates must complete it in 18 seconds. Long jump and high jump are also part of the test. The notice provides the full event rules and any category-based relaxation.

Application checklist

1. Read the official SSC CPO 2026 notification.
2. Check your age, degree and category documents.
3. Keep a valid LMV licence ready if applying for Delhi Police SI as a male candidate.
4. Use a working mobile number and email address.
5. Upload the photograph, signature and documents in the required format.
6. Review the form before payment and save the confirmation page.

Start physical practice early. A written exam can be improved with mock tests, but running and jumps also need time. Keep checking the SSC website for correction dates, admit cards, exam notices and changes in vacancies.