SSC CGL Eligibility Criteria 2025: Age Limit, Educational Qualifications & Physical Standards for Top Posts
Your complete guide to the SSC CGL 2025 eligibility criteria. We provide a detailed breakdown of the age limit for each post, educational qualifications, and the crucial physical standards for Inspector and SI roles.
Embarking on the journey to crack the SSC CGL exam is an exciting decision that promises a prestigious and secure government career. However, before you dive into months of rigorous preparation, there is a critical first step that cannot be overlooked: thoroughly checking your eligibility. A simple mistake or misunderstanding of the criteria can lead to the disqualification of your application, invalidating all your hard work.
This definitive guide will serve as your one-stop resource for the complete SSC CGL eligibility criteria for the 2025 examination. We will provide a crystal-clear breakdown of the essential educational qualifications, a detailed post-wise analysis of the complex age limit requirements, and a close look at the mandatory physical standards for coveted posts like Inspector and Sub-Inspector. Let's ensure you start your journey on the right foot.
The Basics: Nationality and Educational Qualifications
Nationality
To be eligible, a candidate must be a citizen of India, or a subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling.
Essential Educational Qualification
The fundamental requirement for almost all posts under SSC CGL is a **Bachelor's Degree** from a recognized University or equivalent in **any discipline**. The crucial point is that you must have completed your degree by the cut-off date mentioned in the official notification.
Qualifications for Specialized Posts
- Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) / Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO): While a Bachelor's Degree is essential, a desirable (but not mandatory) qualification is a professional degree like CA, CS, MBA, or a Master's in Commerce/Economics.
- Junior Statistical Officer (JSO): Candidates must have either a Bachelor's Degree in any subject with at least 60% marks in Mathematics at the 12th standard level, OR a Bachelor's Degree with Statistics as one of the subjects at the degree level.
Decoding the Age Limit: A Post-Wise Breakdown
This is the area where most candidates have questions, as the age limit varies significantly by post. It's vital to check the requirement for your dream post. The age is calculated as of a specific cut-off date mentioned in the notification (typically August 1st).
| Age Group | Popular Posts |
|---|---|
| 18-27 Years | Auditor (CAG), Accountant (CAG), Upper Division Clerk (UDC), Tax Assistant (CBDT/CBIC) |
| 20-30 Years | Assistant Section Officer (ASO) in CSS & MEA, Inspector (GST & Preventive Officer) |
| Up to 30 Years | Inspector (Income Tax), Assistant Enforcement Officer (AEO), Sub Inspector (CBI, NIA) |
| Up to 32 Years | Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) |
Age Relaxation
The government provides relaxation in the upper age limit for reserved categories:
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC: 3 years
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): 10 years (General), 13 years (OBC), 15 years (SC/ST)
- Ex-Servicemen: 3 years after deduction of military service.
[Now that you know the eligibility, decide which post to aim for. Read our guide on the Top 10 SSC CGL Posts.]
Physical Standards: Are You Fit for the Uniform?
For certain Inspector and Sub-Inspector posts that involve field duties, candidates must meet specific physical and medical standards. This is a critical stage where many aspirants are disqualified.
| Parameter | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 157.5 cm (relaxation for some categories) | 152 cm (relaxation available) |
| Chest | 81 cm (fully expanded, min. expansion 5 cm) | Not Applicable |
| Physical Test | Walking: 1600m in 15 mins Cycling: 8 km in 30 mins | Walking: 1 km in 20 mins Cycling: 3 km in 25 mins |
| Vision | Distant vision: 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other. Near vision: 0.6 and 0.8. | |
*Note: These are general standards for Inspector posts in CBIC. Specific requirements for SI in CBI/NIA might vary slightly and will be detailed in the official notification.
Your Training Starts Now
Confirming your eligibility is step one. The next is to begin your strategic and dedicated preparation to crack the exam.
Conclusion: Check Before You Leap
The SSC CGL offers a gateway to an incredible career, but it is governed by a strict set of rules and requirements. Taking the time to thoroughly check your eligibility against the official notification is a non-negotiable step that saves you from potential disappointment later.
Verify your educational qualifications, carefully check the age limit for your desired posts, and be realistic about meeting the physical standards if you are aiming for a uniformed service. Once you have this clarity, you can channel all your energy into what truly matters: a focused and disciplined preparation strategy to conquer the exam.