SSC CPO Recruitment 2026: A Comprehensive Guide

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the exam for the recruitment of Sub-Inspectors (SI) in Delhi Police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) like BSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, and SSB. This is a significant opportunity for graduates seeking a challenging and respectable career in the government sector. Below is a detailed breakdown for the 2026 recruitment cycle.

Key Highlights: SSC CPO 2026

Job Profile & Responsibilities

Sub-Inspectors in Delhi Police and CAPFs play a vital role in maintaining law and order, national security, and internal security. Their duties include:

• Supervising constabulary and policing operations.
• Investigating crimes and gathering evidence (Delhi Police).
• Leading paramilitary forces on the ground during operations (CAPFs).
• Maintaining discipline and ensuring smooth functioning of assigned units.
• Conducting patrols, checking posts, and responding to emergencies.
• Managing manpower and resources effectively.

Eligibility Criteria (Detailed for 2026)

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor's Degree from a recognized University or equivalent. For the post of SI in Delhi Police, candidates must have a valid Driving License for LMV (Motorcycle or Car) issued on the date of the Physical Endurance Test (PET).
• Age Limit: Generally, between 20 to 25 years as of a specified cut-off date (candidates born between X date 1998 and Y date 2003 for 2026 cycle, to be confirmed in notification). Age relaxations apply for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/Ex-Servicemen) as per government rules.
• Nationality: Indian citizen.

Selection Process & Exam Pattern

The SSC CPO selection process is typically conducted in multiple phases:

1. Paper-I (Computer Based Examination): A screening test to assess general awareness, reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and English comprehension.
2. Physical Endurance Test (PET) & Physical Standard Test (PST): To assess physical fitness and standards required for the post.
3. Paper-II (Computer Based Examination): Assesses English Language and Comprehension.
4. Medical Examination: To ensure candidates meet the prescribed medical standards.
5. Document Verification: To verify all submitted certificates and documents.

Likely Exam Syllabus Topics:

• Paper-I: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Knowledge & Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude (Simple), English Comprehension.
• Paper-II: English Language and Comprehension.

Salary Structure & Allowances

Selected candidates for Sub-Inspector posts will be appointed in Group 'B' (Non-Gazetted, Non-Ministerial) posts. The salary is as per the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC):

• Basic Pay: Rs. 35,400/- per month.
• Pay Level: Level-6.
• In-hand Salary: With allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance (TA), the total monthly in-hand salary can range from approximately Rs. 45,000 to Rs. 60,000, depending on the place of posting and other factors.
• Other Benefits: Job security, medical facilities, pension, leave travel concession (LTC), etc.

How to Apply for SSC CPO 2026

The application process for SSC CPO recruitment is conducted online exclusively through the official website of the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), i.e., ssc.gov.in. Candidates are advised to regularly check the official SSC website for the official notification release, which will contain detailed instructions regarding application dates, eligibility, syllabus, and the online application link. Payment of application fees is also typically made through the online portal.