The SSC CPO 2025 exam is one of the most sought-after recruitment tests for aspirants aiming to join India’s central police forces. With roles like Sub-Inspector (SI) in Delhi Police and CAPFs, this exam demands a solid grasp of its pattern, syllabus, and physical standards. Whether you’re a first-time candidate or reappearing, understanding the SSC CPO exam structure is crucial. This guide breaks down everything Tier 1 & 2 syllabus, negative marking, PET/PST requirements, and expert-backed strategies to crack it.
SSC CPO 2025 📌
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Posts Offered | Sub-Inspector (Delhi Police & CAPFs) |
| Exam Mode | Online (CBT) |
| Stages | Tier 1, PET/PST, Tier 2, Medical Test |
| Negative Marking | -0.25 per wrong answer |
| Total Marks (Tier 1) | 200 (50 questions per section) |
| Tier 2 Focus | English Language & Comprehension |
| Physical Tests | Running, Long Jump, High Jump, Shot Put (for males) |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
SSC CPO Exam Pattern 2025: Tier 1 & Tier 2 📊
Tier 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
The first hurdle is Tier 1, a 200-mark objective test with four sections. Here’s the breakdown:
| Section | No. of Qs | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 50 | 2 Hours |
| General Knowledge | 50 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | |
| English Comprehension | 50 | 50 |
🔹 Marking Scheme: +1 for correct, -0.25 for wrong answers.
🔹 Language: Bilingual (except English section).
Tier 2: English Proficiency Test
Candidates clearing Tier 1 and PET/PST face Tier 2, an English-only paper:
| Section | No. of Qs | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language & Comprehension | 200 | 200 | 2 Hours |
🔹 Key Topics: Error spotting, vocabulary, cloze tests, grammar.
Detailed SSC CPO Syllabus 2025 📚
1️⃣ General Intelligence & Reasoning 🧠
This section tests logical and analytical skills. Key topics:
| Topic | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Coding-Decoding | 5-7 Qs |
| Syllogism | 4-6 Qs |
| Seating Arrangement | 6-8 Qs |
| Blood Relations | 3-5 Qs |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | 5-7 Qs |
🔹 Pro Tip: Practice puzzles and previous year papers for speed .
2️⃣ General Knowledge & Awareness 🌍
Covers static GK and current affairs:
| Topic | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Indian Polity | 6-8 Qs |
| Science & Tech | 10-12 Qs |
| History | 5-7 Qs |
| Current Affairs | 12-15 Qs |
🔹 Expert Insight: Follow newspapers like The Hindu for updates .
3️⃣ Quantitative Aptitude ➗
Focuses on maths and data interpretation:
| Topic | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Percentage & Profit/Loss | 8-10 Qs |
| Time & Work | 4-6 Qs |
| Geometry | 5-7 Qs |
| Algebra | 3-5 Qs |
🔹 Study Hack: Master shortcut tricks for faster calculations .
4️⃣ English Comprehension 📖
Tests grammar and vocabulary:
| Topic | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 10-12 Qs |
| Error Detection | 8-10 Qs |
| Synonyms/Antonyms | 5-7 Qs |
🔹 Tip: Read editorials daily to improve comprehension .
Physical Standards (PST) & Endurance Test (PET) 🏃
Height & Chest Requirements
| Category | Male Height | Female Height | Chest (Male) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General | 170 cm | 157 cm | 80-85 cm |
| ST/SC | 162.5 cm | 154 cm | 77-82 cm |
PET Tasks
| Test | Male Criteria | Female Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| 100m Race | 16 sec | 18 sec |
| Long Jump | 3.65m | 2.7m |
| High Jump | 1.2m | 0.9m |
🔹 Real-Life Example: A 2024 qualifier, Rahul Sharma, shared that consistent sprint practice helped him clear PET .
Expert Preparation Tips 🎯
1️⃣ Study Plan
- Daily Goals: 2 hours per subject + revision.
- Weak Areas: Focus more on quant and reasoning.
2️⃣ Mock Tests & PYQs
- Take 1-2 mocks weekly to track progress.
- Analyze mistakes to avoid repeats.
3️⃣ Physical Fitness
- Start training early for running/jumps.
- Join a local athletics club if needed.
🔹 Expert Quote: “Balancing mental and physical prep is key,” says IAS mentor Pavan Kumar .
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Ignoring Negative Marking | Skip unsure questions |
| Last-minute GK Cramming | Daily news reading |
| Neglecting PET Prep | Start jogging early |
🔹 Did You Know? Over 30% of candidates fail PET due to poor stamina .
Final Thoughts
The SSC CPO 2025 exam isn’t just about books—it’s strategy, speed, and stamina. With the right plan, you can ace Tier 1, smash PET, and conquer Tier 2. Stay consistent, stay fit, and keep pushing! 🚀
For updates, always check the official SSC website.
Arjun Kapoor is a Content writer who is recruitment and result notification expert with a Master’s in Human Resources. He has 6+ years of experience crafting content on job recruitment updates and exam results. Arjun is passionate about helping job seekers and enjoys playing chess.
