SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025, Paper-Wise, PET/PST & Medical Details

SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025 has been officially released by the Staff Selection Commission in the latest notification. The exam for Sub-Inspector (SI) in Delhi Police and CAPFs will be conducted in four stages — Paper 1 (CBT), PET/PST, Paper 2 (CBT), and Medical Test.

Unlike many SSC exams, SSC CPO has both academic and physical assessments, making it unique and challenging.

Also Read: SSC CPO Syllabus

SSC CPO Exam Pattern Overview

Each stage tests a different ability, like reasoning, physical strength, and English language skills. Each stage must be cleared to proceed to the next, which makes it essential to focus on each part of the SSC CPO exam pattern. Check the overview below:

SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025 for Paper 1

Paper 1 is the first stage in the SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025. It is an online computer-based test that includes four different sections, each testing different areas of knowledge and aptitude. Here is the subject-wise breakup of Paper 1:

Key Points:

• Sectional timer: 30 minutes for each part (new update in 2025 notification).

• Negative marking: –0.25 marks for every wrong answer.

• Questions set in English & Hindi (except English section).

SSC CPO Physical Exam Pattern

After clearing Paper 1, candidates are shortlisted for the PET/PST, which is qualifying in nature. These tests are designed to evaluate the physical strength and endurance of the candidates. While they do not carry marks, failure to qualify means disqualification from further rounds.

Note: For female candidates, pregnancy status must be declared before PET. If found pregnant, they will be marked temporarily unfit and re-tested after confinement (notification para 12.9.10)

Physical Endurance (PET)

For Male Candidates

• 100m Race: 16 seconds

• 1.6 Km Race: 6.5 minutes

• Long Jump: 3.65 m (3 chances)

• High Jump: 1.2 m (3 chances)

• Shot Put (16 lbs): 4.5 m 

For Female Candidates

• 100m Race: 18 seconds

• 800m Race: 4 minutes

• Long Jump: 2.7 m (3 chances)

• High Jump: 0.9 m (3 chances)

SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025 for Paper 2 

Candidates who pass the PET/PST stage proceed to Paper 2, which is also conducted online. This paper is designed to test the candidate’s command of the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Paper 2 follows the structure shown below:

Key Points:

• Equal weightage as Paper 1 in final merit.

• Includes grammar, comprehension, vocabulary, sentence structure, synonyms, antonyms, idioms.

• Negative marking: –0.25 marks for each wrong answer

SSC CPO Medical Examination 2025

Candidates qualifying Paper 2 must undergo Detailed Medical Examination (DME):

• Eyesight: 6/6 (better eye), 6/9 (worse eye) without glasses.

• No flat foot, knock knee, varicose vein, or squint in eyes.

• Tattoos allowed only if religious/traditional, on inner forearm/hand, and <¼ size of limb. [Read More - SSC CPO Tattoo Rules ]

• Must clear 7 obstacle events in training (Tarzan Swing, Monkey Crawl, Rope Climb etc.) or risk disqualification.

Qualifying Stages SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025

The final selection is made based on the combined marks scored in Paper 1 and Paper 2. The PET/PST and Medical Examination are qualifying in nature, but mandatory to be eligible for the final merit. The merit list preparation process is summarized below. The final merit list is prepared based on the marks obtained in both written examinations.

Note: NCC Bonus Marks

• ‘C’ Certificate: +10 marks per paper

• ‘B’ Certificate: +6 marks per paper

• ‘A’ Certificate: +4 marks per paper

This can directly boost scores in both Paper 1 & Paper 2, giving NCC holders an edge in final merit.

SSC CPO Exam Pattern Importance

Understanding the SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025 helps candidates create a practical and focused study plan specific to each tier of the exam. 

• Helps plan tier-wise preparation.

• Avoids surprises in PET, Medical, or NCC bonus.

• Prevents disqualification due to minor details (e.g., tattoo rules, pregnancy clause, or eyesight).

• Enables candidates to maximize scores in written exams, the only stages counted in merit.

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