The SSC GD Evaluation Timeline Recruitment Funnel
Because you will be wearing a uniform, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) tests your mind first, and then your physical fitness.
Phase 01
CBT (Written Exam)
80 questions covering Math, Reasoning, GK, and Hindi/English. This score decides your force!
Phase 02
PST / PET (Physical)
A height/chest measurement (PST) followed by an exciting running test (PET).
Phase 03
Detailed Medical (DME)
A thorough medical checkup by force doctors to ensure you are perfectly fit for duty.
Phase 04
Force Allocation
The final merit list is released. Based on your marks and preferences, you get your dream force!
Physical Test Requirements (PST & PET) Mandatory Check
This is a uniformed defence role, so physical fitness is key! You don't need to be an Olympic athlete, but you must clear these basic benchmarks comfortably.
| Test Type | Male Candidates (General/OBC/SC) | Female Candidates (General/OBC/SC) |
|---|---|---|
| Height (PST) | 170 cm minimum. | 157 cm minimum. |
| Chest (PST) | 80 cm (unexpanded) + 5 cm expansion. | Not Applicable. |
| Running Test (PET) | Run 5 Kilometers in exactly 24 minutes. | Run 1.6 Kilometers in 8.5 minutes. |
Relaxation Note: Candidates belonging to Scheduled Tribes (ST) and specific hilly regions (like North-East, Gorkhas, Dogras) receive wonderful relaxations in both Height and Chest measurements!
Paramilitary Salary Structure Financial Rewards
The starting basic pay is Level 3 (₹21,700), but the real magic happens when you get posted to a field area. The Risk and Hardship allowances can nearly double a new recruit's salary!
Level 3 Base
~₹32k – ₹38k
L3 + Risk Pay
~₹42k – ₹55k+
Level 4/6
~₹50k – ₹80k+
Interactive Risk Pay Estimator
Select Your Role
Posting Environment
Estimated Monthly Gross Pay
Includes Basic + DA + HRA + Selected Risk Allowance.
₹43,000+
Strategic Preparation Insights Pro Tips
To easily clear the SSC GD exam, keep these valuable insights in mind during your application and preparation phases.
The NCC Certificate Bonus Hack
If you were in the NCC during school, you are in luck! The SSC gives free bonus marks added directly to your final score. An 'A' certificate gives 2%, 'B' gives 3%, and a 'C' certificate gives a massive 5% bonus! Make sure to tick the NCC box while filling your online form.
Running Practice Timing
Many students easily clear the written exam but fail the 5km run because they start practicing too late. Don't wait for the CBT results! Start a light morning jogging routine the day after your written exam. The 5km run is purely a test of stamina, not speed.
Force Regulations & Common Questions Detailed FAQ
What is the educational requirement for SSC GD Constable?
The educational requirement is incredibly accessible. You only need to have passed your Class 10th (Matriculation) from a recognized board. No minimum percentage is required, making it a brilliant opportunity for all students.
Which forces are included in the SSC GD exam?
The exam recruits for the elite Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). This includes BSF (Border Security Force), CISF (Central Industrial Security Force), CRPF, ITBP, SSB, SSF (Secretariat Security Force), and Assam Rifles.
What is the physical running requirement (PET)?
For the Physical Efficiency Test (PET), male candidates must run 5 kilometers in 24 minutes. Female candidates need to run 1.6 kilometers (1600 meters) in 8.5 minutes. Dedicated morning practice makes this highly achievable.
What are the height and chest requirements?
For General/OBC/SC male candidates, the minimum height is 170 cm, and the chest must be 80 cm (with a 5 cm expansion). For female candidates, the minimum height is 157 cm. ST candidates and those from specific hilly regions receive generous height relaxations.
Do NCC certificate holders get extra marks?
Yes! This is a fantastic advantage. NCC 'C' Certificate holders get a 5% bonus on the maximum marks. 'B' Certificate holders get 3%, and 'A' Certificate holders get 2%. This bonus can easily secure your top force preference.
What is the starting salary of a GD Constable?
A GD Constable starts at Pay Level 3 (Basic ₹21,700). With standard Dearness Allowance (DA) and House Rent Allowance (HRA), the starting in-hand salary ranges between ₹32,000 to ₹38,000.
Do Constables get extra pay for dangerous postings?
Absolutely. If you are posted in a high-altitude border area (like ITBP) or a tactical zone (like CRPF in Kashmir), you receive a massive 'Risk and Hardship Allowance' which can add an extra ₹9,700 to ₹17,300 to your salary every single month.
Which is the best force for a peaceful family life?
CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) and SSF (Secretariat Security Force) are highly favored for stability. CISF personnel secure airports, metro stations, and heritage sites like the Taj Mahal, allowing them to live in major cities with their families.
Is there a negative marking in the SSC GD written exam?
Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer. The Computer Based Test (CBT) consists of 80 questions (2 marks each), making accuracy very important.
Can I choose which force I want to join?
Yes! During the application process, you submit a 'Force Preference' list (e.g., 1. CISF, 2. SSB, 3. BSF). The SSC allocates your force based on your CBT score—higher scores mean you get your first choice.
Are glasses allowed in the medical test?
Uniformed defence roles have specific visual requirements. Your distant vision should ideally be 6/6 and 6/9 without correction. Color blindness is not permitted. It is highly recommended to get a pre-medical checkup to ensure your visual fitness.
Are tattoos allowed in paramilitary forces?
Small religious tattoos or names on the inner aspect of the forearm or dorsum of the hands are generally permitted. However, large tattoos or tattoos on the saluting arm (right hand) are strictly not allowed and will lead to medical rejection.
How can a Constable get promoted to an Officer?
After completing a few years of regular service, you become eligible for Limited Departmental Competitive Exams (LDCE). By clearing these internal exams, you can be promoted rapidly to Head Constable, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), or Sub-Inspector (SI).
Is the SSC GD exam available in regional languages?
Yes, in a wonderful recent update, the SSC GD Computer Based Test is now conducted in English, Hindi, and 13 regional languages, making it highly accessible for students across the country.
What is the syllabus for the CBT exam?
The syllabus is perfectly aligned with the 10th-grade level. It includes General Intelligence & Reasoning (20 Qs), General Knowledge & Awareness (20 Qs), Elementary Mathematics (20 Qs), and English/Hindi language (20 Qs).
Can female candidates apply for SSC GD?
Yes, female candidates are highly encouraged to apply! There are reserved vacancies for women in all forces, and the physical running requirements (1.6 km in 8.5 mins) are specially adjusted for female applicants.
What happens during the Medical Examination (DME)?
The Detailed Medical Examination (DME) checks your overall physical health, including vision, hearing, flat foot, knock knee, and general fitness, to ensure you can comfortably handle the duties of a uniformed soldier.
Is there an interview for the Constable post?
No. There is zero interview round. Your selection is beautifully transparent: if you score high in the written exam and pass the physical and medical tests, you will be selected and receive your uniform.
Do CAPF personnel get military canteen facilities?
Yes! CAPF personnel have access to the Central Police Canteen (CPC) system, which functions similarly to the army's CSD, providing groceries, electronics, and household items at subsidized, tax-free rates.
How long does the training period last?
The basic training typically lasts around 44 weeks. During this exciting phase, you are taught physical endurance, weapon handling, crowd control, and tactical maneuvers. You receive your full monthly salary during the entire training period.