SSC CPO Syllabus 2026 & Exam Pattern: Paper 1, 2, and PET/PST Guide

The SSC CPO 2026 exam comprises two computer-based objective papers. Paper 1 (200 marks, 2 hours) features four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Knowledge & Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension (50 questions each). Paper 2 (200 marks, 2 hours) is dedicated to English Language & Comprehension. Both papers include a negative marking of 0.25 per incorrect answer. The recruitment stages are: Tier 1 → PET/PST → Tier 2 → Medical Examination.

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Central Police Organization (CPO) exam to recruit Sub-Inspectors for the Delhi Police and various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), such as the BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB. With the SSC CPO 2026 notification approaching, mastering the syllabus and exam pattern is vital for strategic preparation. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the syllabus for Paper 1 and 2, updated sectional timings, and essential PET/PST and medical standards.

SSC CPO Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026

Familiarizing yourself with the official SSC CPO syllabus and exam structure is the foundational step toward effective preparation. Review the critical details regarding the SSC CPO 2026 exam outlined in the table below. 

SSC CPO Physical Dates 2025 Released - Click Here to View

SSC CPO 2026 Exam Structure

The SSC CPO selection process consists of four distinct stages for candidates aiming for roles in Delhi Police and CAPFs. Paper 1 is an objective-type test, followed by the English Comprehension-focused Paper 2. Candidates must also qualify for the Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST) to assess physical endurance and medical fitness.

SSC CPO 2026 Notification Date Announced - Click to Check

SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2026

This section covers the comprehensive SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2026 for Papers 1 and 2, along with the specific requirements for PST & PET. Let's explore the structure of the SSC CPO 2026 examination. 

SSC CPO Paper-1 Exam Pattern

1. There would be 200 Multiple-Choice Questions in the SSC CPO Paper 1.
2. Each correct answer will score you 1 mark, and for each incorrect answer, there will be a negative marking of 0.25 mark.
3. The duration of the SSC CPO 2026 Paper 1 will be 2 hours (120 minutes).
4. This time, SSC has introduced sectional timing in Paper 1, i.e. 30 minutes for each part. 

SSC CPO Paper 2 Exam Pattern 2026

Please note that the SSC CPO Paper 2 exam is scheduled to take place after candidates have successfully cleared the PET/PST requirements for the 2026 cycle.

1. The total time duration of the exam is of 120 minutes i.e. 2 hours.
2. The total number of questions asked will be 200 MCQ and the maximum marks for Paper-2 will be 200.
3. The test will be of the English Language and Comprehension conducted online.
4. There will be a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.

SSC CPO Syllabus 2026

The SSC CPO exam is divided into two computer-based stages, each with a unique syllabus. Staying informed about any updates to the 2026 syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for maintaining an effective study schedule. 

SSC CPO Paper 1 Syllabus

SSC CPO Tier I includes four core sections: Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness. Reasoning assesses your logic, while Quantitative Aptitude measures numerical proficiency. The English Language section evaluates grammar and vocabulary, and General Awareness keeps you updated on current events, static GK, and foundational knowledge.

SSC CPO Paper 2 Syllabus

In the SSC CPO Tier 2 exam, the focus shifts to advanced English comprehension and reading proficiency. You will be tasked with analyzing complex passages, such as cloze tests, alongside testing your grasp of grammar and vocabulary. Please refer to the table below for detailed insights.

SSC CPO Physical Standard Test (PST)

Upon qualifying for SSC CPO Paper 1, candidates are required to undergo the Physical Standard Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET). The specific criteria for these assessments are tabulated below. 

SSC CPO Physical Efficiency Test (PET)

Physical Standards for Male Candidates

1. 100-metre race in 16 seconds
2. 1.6 Km Race in 6.5 minutes
3. Long Jump: 3.65 metres in 5 chances
4. High Jump: 1.2 metres in 3 chances
5. Short put 16 LBS: 4.5 metres in 3 chances

Physical Standards for Female Candidates

1. 100-metre race in 18 seconds
2. 800-metre race in 4 minutes
3. Long Jump: 2.7 metres or 9 feet in 3 chances
4. High Jump: 0.9 metres or 3 feet in 3 chances

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SSC CPO Medical Test

The specific medical criteria for the SSC CPO selection process are outlined below:

1. Minimum Near Vision: N6 (better eye) and N9 (worse eye)
2. Minimum Distant Vision: 6/6 (better eye) and 6/9 (worse eye)
3. Must not have knock knee, flat foot, varicose vein or squint in eyes
4. Eye standards should be without visual correction of any kind even by glasses.