SSC CPO Eligibility 2026
Age limit, relaxation, qualification and physical standards.
Updated 22 October 2026
SSC CPO eligibility criteria
SSC CPO eligibility depends on nationality, age, educational qualification and physical standards. For SSC CPO 2026, SI (Executive) and SI (GD) need a graduate aged 20–25 years, while SI (Fire) in CISF has its own 18–30 years age band and a science or diploma requirement.
Nationality
You must be a citizen of India, or a subject of Nepal or Bhutan holding a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India.
Age limit (as on 01-08-2026)
| Post | Age limit | Born between |
|---|---|---|
| SI (Exe.) Delhi Police and SI (GD) in CAPFs | 20 to 25 years | 02-08-2001 and 01-08-2006 |
| SI (Fire) in CISF | 18 to 30 years | 02-08-1996 and 01-08-2008 |
Age relaxation
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | 3 years after deducting military service from actual age |
| Defence personnel disabled in operations during hostilities (and released as a result) | 3 years (OBC: 6 years; SC/ST: 8 years) |
| Widowed / divorced / judicially separated women (Delhi Police posts) | Up to 35 years |
| Same, SC / ST (Delhi Police posts) | Up to 40 years |
| Delhi Police departmental candidates with 3 years' service – UR / EWS | Up to 30 years |
| Delhi Police departmental candidates with 3 years' service – OBC | Up to 33 years |
| Delhi Police departmental candidates with 3 years' service – SC / ST | Up to 35 years |
As in previous cycles, these combatant posts are not open to PwBD candidates – confirm this in the 2026 notice.
Educational qualification (by the closing date)
| Post | Qualification |
|---|---|
| SI (Exe.) Delhi Police and SI (GD) in CAPFs | Bachelor's degree from a recognised university, or equivalent |
| SI (Fire) in CISF | B.Sc. with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, or Matriculation plus a 3-year diploma in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical or a related engineering trade |
- Final-year students may apply, but they must hold the qualification by the closing date of the application.
- Delhi Police (male candidates): a valid Light Motor Vehicle (motorcycle and car) driving licence is required and must be shown at the PET/PST, unless exempted as stated in the notice.
Physical Standard Test (PST)
| Category | Male height | Female height | Male chest (unexpanded – expanded) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | 170 cm | 157 cm | 80 cm – 85 cm |
| Hill areas | 165 cm | 155 cm | 80 cm – 85 cm |
| Scheduled Tribes | 162.5 cm | 154 cm | 77 cm – 82 cm |
Women are not measured for chest. Weight must be in proportion to height as per the medical standards.
Physical Endurance Test (PET)
| Event | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 100 m race | 16 seconds | 18 seconds |
| Distance run | 1.6 km in 6.5 minutes | 800 m in 4 minutes |
| Long jump | 3.65 m in 3 chances | 2.7 m in 3 chances |
| High jump | 1.2 m in 3 chances | 0.9 m in 3 chances |
| Shot put (16 lbs / 7.26 kg) | 4.5 m in 3 chances | Not applicable |
The PET is qualifying only. Ex-Servicemen are exempt from it but must clear the PST and the medical. Training advice is on SSC CPO preparation tips.
Medical standards
- Near vision N6 (better eye) and N9 (worse eye); distant vision 6/6 and 6/9, without correction.
- Knock knees, flat feet, varicose veins and squint are disqualifying; high colour vision is required.
- Tattoos only at permitted places (such as the inner forearm) and only of the kinds the notice allows.
- A review medical exam is available if you dispute the first result.
Number of attempts
There is no cap on attempts for SSC CPO – you can apply every year while you are within the age limit. Check the SSC CPO notification for this year's dates and the SSC CPO exam pattern for the written stages.
Frequently asked questions
What is the age limit for SSC CPO 2026?
For SI (Exe.) in Delhi Police and SI (GD) in the CAPFs, it is 20 to 25 years as on 1 August 2026. For SI (Fire) in CISF it is 18 to 30 years, with category relaxations on top.
What qualification is needed for SSC CPO?
A bachelor's degree from a recognised university for SI (Exe.) and SI (GD). SI (Fire) in CISF needs a B.Sc. with Physics, Chemistry and Maths, or Class 10 plus a three-year engineering diploma.
Can final-year students apply for SSC CPO?
Yes, but they must hold the required degree or diploma by the closing date of the application.
What is the minimum height for SSC CPO?
For general-category candidates it is 170 cm for men and 157 cm for women. Candidates from hill areas and Scheduled Tribes get lower limits.
Is a driving licence compulsory for SSC CPO?
Male candidates who choose SI (Exe.) in Delhi Police need a valid LMV licence for motorcycle and car, which they must carry to the PET/PST.
Always check the latest official notification on ssc.gov.in before applying.