The SSC CPO 2026 exam is an important opportunity for graduates who want to join the Delhi Police or Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) as a Sub-Inspector (SI).
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Sub-Inspector in Delhi Police and Central Armed Police Forces Examination every year. Through this examination, eligible candidates are selected for Sub-Inspector posts in Delhi Police and the notified CAPFs.
As per the SSC 2026-27 examination calendar, Paper-I of SSC CPO 2026 is scheduled to be held in October-November 2026. The calendar had originally placed the notification and application period in May-June 2026. However, candidates should wait for the latest official notification for the confirmed application dates and examination schedule.
The SSC CPO 2026 recruitment will include several stages such as Paper-I, Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), Paper-II, and Medical Examination.
SSC CPO 2026 Highlights
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Sub-Inspector in Delhi Police and CAPFs Examination 2026 |
| Short Name | SSC CPO 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission |
| Post | Sub-Inspector |
| Departments/Forces | Delhi Police and CAPFs |
| Qualification | Graduation |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Examination |
| Selection Process | Paper-I, PET/PST, Paper-II and Medical Examination |
| Paper-I | October-November 2026 (as per tentative calendar) |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
SSC CPO 2026 Notification
The SSC CPO 2026 notification will provide complete information about the recruitment. Candidates will be able to check the number of vacancies, application dates, eligibility, age limit, application fee, exam pattern, syllabus, physical requirements, and selection process through the notification.
According to the SSC 2026-27 calendar, the CPO notification was scheduled for May 2026, and the application process was expected to close in June 2026. Since the detailed notification has not been available as per the earlier schedule, candidates should follow SSC for the revised dates.
Once the notification is released, candidates should carefully check all the eligibility conditions before applying.
SSC CPO 2026 Application Form
The SSC CPO 2026 application form will be released online through the SSC website.
Candidates will have to complete the registration process, enter their personal and educational details, upload the required information, and pay the application fee, if applicable.
Candidates who have already completed their One-Time Registration (OTR) on the SSC portal can use their login details to apply for the examination, as per the applicable SSC instructions.
Documents and Details to Keep Ready
Candidates should keep the following information ready before starting the application:
- Mobile number
- Email ID
- Aadhaar or other valid ID details
- Class 10 details
- Graduation details
- Category certificate, if applicable
- PwBD certificate/details, if applicable
- Photograph and signature, as required
Before submitting the form, candidates should check all details carefully.
How to Apply for SSC CPO 2026?
Once the application window opens, candidates can follow these basic steps:
- Visit the official SSC website.
- Complete One-Time Registration if required.
- Log in to the candidate portal.
- Select the SSC CPO 2026 examination.
- Enter personal and educational details.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the application fee, if applicable.
- Check the complete application form.
- Submit the application.
- Download and save the confirmation page.
Candidates should avoid waiting until the last day to apply.
SSC CPO 2026 Application Fee
The SSC CPO 2026 application fee will be confirmed in the official notification.
In the previous recruitment cycle, the application fee was ₹100. Women candidates and candidates belonging to SC, ST, and eligible Ex-Servicemen categories were exempted from paying the fee.
Candidates should check the 2026 notification for the final fee structure.
SSC CPO 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Nationality/Citizenship
Candidates applying for SSC CPO must meet any one of the following nationality conditions:
- Citizen of India
- Subject of Nepal
- Subject of Bhutan
Candidates from Nepal or Bhutan must have a Certificate of Eligibility issued by the Government of India. They may appear for the examination, but appointment will be offered only after the required certificate is issued.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized university for all posts. Candidates who have appeared for their Bachelor’s degree examination may also apply, but they must obtain the required qualification on or before the application closing date.
SSC CPO 2027 Age Limit
The SSC CPO 2027 age limit is expected to be 20 to 25 years. However, the exact date for calculating age and the eligible date-of-birth range will be mentioned in the official SSC CPO 2027 notification.
SSC CPO 2027 Age Relaxation
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | 3 years, subject to applicable rules |
| Eligible widows/divorced/judicially separated women | Up to 35 years |
| SC/ST women in the above category | Up to 40 years |
| Delhi Police departmental candidates (UR/EWS) | Up to 30 years |
| Delhi Police departmental candidates (OBC) | Up to 33 years |
| Delhi Police departmental candidates (SC/ST) | Up to 35 years |
Driving Licence for Delhi Police SI
Candidates applying for the Sub-Inspector in Delhi Police post should pay special attention to the driving licence requirement. In previous recruitment rules, male candidates applying for Delhi Police SI were required to have a valid LMV driving licence. Candidates should check the 2026 notification for the final requirement.
Are ODL/Distance Education candidates eligible?
Degrees, diplomas and certificates obtained through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) are accepted for Central Government employment only if the programme and institution were approved by the Distance Education Bureau (DEB), UGC for the relevant period of study.
Candidates must produce the required DEB-UGC approval when asked. Engineering, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, architecture, physiotherapy and similar programmes cannot generally be offered through ODL. However, IGNOU B.Tech./Engineering diplomas awarded to students enrolled up to 2009-10 will remain valid wherever applicable.
Candidates who acquire the required qualification by the online application closing date are also eligible, provided they submit documentary proof.
Candidates may provide their sports-related information in the designated Sports Column of the Online Application Form as per Annexure-X. However, no additional marks or benefits will be awarded for holding a sports certificate.
SSC CPO 2026 Exam Pattern
The SSC CPO selection process includes written examinations and physical/medical stages.
Paper-I
SSC CPO Paper-I Exam Pattern
| Part | Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | General Intelligence and Reasoning | 50 | 50 | 2 Hours* |
| II | General Knowledge and General Awareness | 50 | 50 | |
| III | Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | |
| IV | English Comprehension | 50 | 50 | |
| Total | — | 200 | 200 | 2 Hours |
SC CPO Paper-II Exam Pattern
| Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language & Comprehension | 200 | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 2 Hours |
Important Points
- Both Paper-I and Paper-II consist of Objective Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
- In Paper-I, Parts I, II, and III are conducted in Hindi and English.
- Negative marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for every wrong answer in both Paper-I and Paper-II.
- If the Computer-Based Examination is conducted in multiple shifts, candidates’ scores will be normalized as per the SSC procedure. The normalized scores will be used for determining the cut-off and final merit.
SSC CPO 2026 Syllabus
General Intelligence and Reasoning
This section checks the candidate’s logical and analytical ability.
Important topics include:
- Analogy
- Classification
- Series
- Coding-Decoding
- Syllogism
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Logical reasoning
- Non-verbal reasoning
General Knowledge and General Awareness
Candidates should prepare both static GK and current affairs.
Important areas include:
- History
- Geography
- Indian Polity
- Economy
- General Science
- Current Affairs
- Important national and international events
Quantitative Aptitude
This section tests basic mathematical and numerical skills.
Important topics include:
- Number System
- Percentage
- Ratio and Proportion
- Average
- Profit and Loss
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Time and Work
- Time, Speed and Distance
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Mensuration
- Data Interpretation
English Comprehension
Candidates should focus on grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
Important topics include:
- Error Spotting
- Fill in the Blanks
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Sentence Improvement
- Idioms and Phrases
- One-word Substitution
- Cloze Test
- Reading Comprehension
SSC CPO 2026 PET/PST
The physical test is an important part of SSC CPO recruitment. Candidates who qualify Paper-I are shortlisted for the Physical Endurance Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST).
The physical stage checks whether candidates meet the prescribed physical standards and endurance requirements. Candidates preparing for SSC CPO should therefore start their physical preparation along with their written exam preparation.
SSC CPO 2026 Selection Process
The SSC CPO 2026 selection process consists of multiple stages designed to assess candidates on their written knowledge, physical fitness, and medical suitability. The selection process can be broadly understood as:
Paper-I → PET/PST → Paper-II → Medical Examination → Final Selection
Candidates must qualify at each stage to continue in the recruitment process. Paper-I and Paper-II assess candidates through computer-based examinations, while the PET/PST evaluates their physical fitness and measurements. The medical examination is conducted to check whether candidates meet the required medical standards for the post.
The physical and medical stages are particularly important for candidates seeking Sub-Inspector posts in Delhi Police and CAPFs, as failure to meet the prescribed standards can lead to disqualification.
SSC CPO 2026 Vacancy
The number of SSC CPO 2026 vacancies will be announced by SSC through the official recruitment notification. Vacancies can be available for Delhi Police and different CAPFs. The number of posts can vary by force, category, and other recruitment requirements. Candidates should rely on the official vacancy notice rather than unofficial vacancy estimates.
SSC CPO 2026 Exam Date
According to the SSC 2026-27 tentative examination calendar, SSC CPO Paper-I is scheduled for October-November 2026. However, candidates should treat this as a tentative schedule. The final exam date will be confirmed by SSC through its official notification or revised examination schedule.
SSC CPO 2026 Salary
Candidates selected as Sub-Inspectors through SSC CPO receive salary according to the applicable government pay structure. In the previous recruitment, the Sub-Inspector posts were placed in Pay Level-6, with a basic pay scale starting from ₹35,400.
The actual monthly salary can be different depending on posting, allowances, and deductions. The final salary details for SSC CPO 2026 should be checked in the official notification.
Also read: SSC CHSL 2026 Eligibility
SSC CPO 2026 Preparation Tips
Candidates should start preparing for SSC CPO well before the examination.
Make a Study Plan
Candidates should prepare a structured study plan by dividing their available time among Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English. Give extra time to subjects where you are weak and keep separate slots for revision and practice. A consistent daily schedule can help maintain balanced preparation.
Solve Previous-Year Papers
Solving SSC CPO previous-year question papers helps candidates understand the pattern, types of questions, and difficulty level of the examination. It also helps identify frequently asked topics and gives candidates an idea of their preparation level.
Take Mock Tests
Regularly attempting mock tests is important for improving speed, accuracy, and time management. Candidates should analyse their performance after every mock test, identify mistakes, and work on weaker sections instead of simply focusing on the score.
Revise Current Affairs
General Awareness and Current Affairs require regular revision. Candidates should follow important national and international events, government schemes, awards, sports, and other relevant developments. Make short notes and revise them periodically so that important information remains fresh before the examination.
Start Physical Preparation Early
Candidates should not wait for the Paper-I result to begin preparing for PET/PST. Start physical training early with regular running, exercise, and other activities required for the physical test. Gradually increasing stamina and fitness can make it easier to meet the prescribed physical standards.
SSC CPO 2026: Delhi Police SI vs CAPF SI
SSC CPO provides candidates with opportunities to become Sub-Inspectors in Delhi Police and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). While both are Sub-Inspector positions, the department, place of posting, and nature of duties may differ. Candidates should carefully check the post preferences and eligibility requirements while applying, particularly the driving licence requirement for male candidates applying for Delhi Police SI.
A Delhi Police SI generally works under Delhi Police, while a CAPF SI can be posted in different parts of the country depending on the force and service requirements.
Candidates should understand the nature of both options before filling their preferences during the recruitment process.
How can SATHEE help in SSC CPO?
- Quantitative Aptitude: Practice concepts and numerical questions to improve calculation speed.
- Reasoning: Useful for practising logical reasoning and developing accuracy.
- English: Helps with grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and regular practice.
- General Awareness: Study relevant concepts and use available practice material for revision.
- Mock Tests & Practice: Regular practice can help improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
However, SATHEE should be used as a preparation resource rather than your only source. For SSC CPO, candidates should also solve SSC CPO previous-year papers, take full-length mocks, and prepare Current Affairs separately. Also remember that SATHEE/written preparation does not replace PET/PST and physical training.
SSC CPO 2026: What Should Candidates Do Now?
Candidates who want to become a Sub-Inspector in Delhi Police or CAPFs should start their preparation now rather than waiting for the application form. Focus on the four Paper-I subjects, practise previous-year questions, and take regular mock tests. At the same time, candidates should begin physical preparation for PET/PST. The SSC CPO 2026 schedule may change, so candidates should keep checking the official SSC website for the notification, application form, vacancy, exam date, and other updates.
FAQs
Q1. When will SSC CPO 2026 notification be released?
The SSC 2026-27 calendar had scheduled the SSC CPO notification for May 2026, with the application process expected to close in June 2026. However, candidates should check SSC for the revised notification and application dates because the detailed recruitment notice has not followed the earlier schedule.
Q2. When will the SSC CPO 2026 exam be conducted?
As per the SSC tentative examination calendar, SSC CPO Paper-I 2026 is scheduled for October-November 2026. The exact examination date will be confirmed by SSC through its official notification or revised schedule.
Q3. What is the qualification for SSC CPO?
Candidates generally need a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised university to apply for SSC CPO. The final educational qualification and eligibility conditions will be mentioned in the 2026 notification.
Q4. Is there a physical test in SSC CPO?
Yes. Candidates shortlisted after Paper-I have to appear for the Physical Standard Test (PST) and Physical Endurance Test (PET). This is an important stage for candidates applying for Sub-Inspector posts.
Q5. What is the SSC CPO selection process?
The selection process broadly includes Paper-I, PET/PST, Paper-II, and Medical Examination. Candidates who qualify the required stages are considered for final selection according to SSC’s rules.
Q6. Is a driving licence required for Delhi Police SI?
A valid LMV driving licence was required for male candidates applying for Delhi Police SI in the previous recruitment. Candidates should check the SSC CPO 2026 notification for the final requirement.
Q7. What is the SSC CPO Paper-II?
Paper-II is an examination focused mainly on English Language and Comprehension. Candidates who qualify the required earlier stages are eligible to appear for Paper-II.