SSC GD Constable Exam Pattern 2026 – CBE, PET & PST Complete Details

The SSC GD Constable 2026 exam pattern consists of four stages: Computer Based Examination (CBE), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Physical Standard Test (PST), and Medical Examination. Understanding each stage is critical as candidates must clear every stage sequentially — failure at any stage results in elimination.

The Computer Based Examination (CBE) is the first screening stage. It consists of 80 objective-type MCQs carrying 160 marks, to be completed in 60 minutes. The four sections are General Intelligence & Reasoning (20 questions, 40 marks), General Knowledge & General Awareness (20 questions, 40 marks), Elementary Mathematics (20 questions, 40 marks), and English/Hindi (20 questions, 40 marks). Negative marking is 0.50 marks per wrong answer. Questions are at 10th standard difficulty level.

Unlike SSC CGL/CHSL where there are separate tiers, SSC GD has only one written exam. The CBE score (after normalisation across shifts) determines which candidates proceed to PET/PST. Typically, candidates scoring 120+ out of 160 have a strong chance of clearing the CBE cut-off, though exact cut-offs vary by category and year.

The Physical Efficiency Test (PET) is the second stage and is qualifying in nature. Male candidates must complete a 2.4 km race within 8 minutes 30 seconds (under 30 years) or 9 minutes (30–32 years). Female candidates must complete a 1.6 km race within 5 minutes 45 seconds (under 30 years) or 6 minutes (30–32 years). For Ladakh and high-altitude regions, relaxed timings apply. Candidates who fail to complete the race within the stipulated time are eliminated.

The Physical Standard Test (PST) measures height and chest (for males). Male General/OBC/SC candidates require 170 cm height and 80 cm chest (85 cm expanded). Male ST candidates require 162.5 cm height and 76 cm chest (81 cm expanded). Female General/OBC/SC candidates require 157 cm height, and Female ST candidates require 150 cm height. Regional relaxations apply for candidates from hill areas, Gorkhas, Assam, and North-Eastern states.

The Medical Examination is the final stage. Candidates undergo a detailed medical exam checking eyesight (6/6 without glasses for CAPFs), hearing, general physical and mental fitness, and absence of flat feet, knock knees, and other conditions that may affect duty performance. Candidates declared medically unfit can request a Review Medical Examination (RME) within 15 days. The medical standards are strict for armed forces — prepare your health well in advance.

Key strategy: Since PET/PST is qualifying and CBE score determines merit, candidates should prioritise CBE preparation. However, start physical training (running, height-related exercises) at least 3 months before PET to avoid elimination at this stage. Many CBE-qualified candidates fail in PET due to inadequate physical preparation.

Computer Based Examination (CBE)