SSC CGL Medical Standards: A Post-Wise Guide to the Physical Requirements
The complete guide to SSC CGL medical and physical standards. We provide a post-wise breakdown of the requirements for height, chest, vision, and color blindness for Inspector, ASO, and other top posts.
You've cleared the SSC CGL written examinations and are on the verge of securing your dream government job. But there's one final hurdle that many aspirants overlook until the last minute: the Medical and Physical Standards Test. For certain coveted posts, especially those involving field duties and a uniform, failing to meet the specific physical or medical criteria can lead to disqualification, regardless of how high you scored.
This definitive guide will serve as your one-stop resource for understanding the complete medical and physical requirements for all major SSC CGL posts. We will provide a detailed, post-wise breakdown of the standards for height, chest, vision, and physical tests, and clarify crucial points like the color blindness criteria. Knowing these requirements beforehand is essential for filling your post-preference form strategically and avoiding any final-stage disappointment.
The Two Tiers of Medical Standards
The first thing to understand is that not all posts have the same stringent requirements. The standards can be broadly divided into two categories:
- Desk Posts: Roles like Assistant Section Officer (ASO), Accountant, Auditor, and Tax Assistant have relaxed medical standards. The focus is on ensuring general good health.
- Uniformed & Field Posts: Roles like Inspector (in CBIC and CBDT) and Sub-Inspector (in CBI/NIA) have very specific and strict physical and visual standards that are non-negotiable.
The Strictest Requirements: Physical Standards for Inspector Posts
These standards are applicable for posts like Inspector (GST, Examiner, Preventive Officer), Sub-Inspector in CBI, and Inspector of Posts.
| Parameter | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 157.5 cm (relaxation of 5 cm for Garhwalis, Assamese, Gorkhas, etc.) | 152 cm (relaxation of 2.5 cm available) |
| Chest | 81 cm (fully expanded, with a minimum expansion of 5 cm) | Not Applicable |
| Physical Test | Walking: 1600 meters in 15 minutes Cycling: 8 km in 30 minutes | Walking: 1 km in 20 minutes Cycling: 3 km in 25 minutes |
*Note: The requirements for Sub-Inspector in CBI can be slightly different (e.g., Height for males is 165 cm). Always refer to the official notification for the most accurate post-wise details.
[These physical standards are a key part of the job profile for top posts. Learn more about the Top 10 Posts here.]
The Deal-Breaker: Vision Standards and Color Blindness
This is one of the most critical and often overlooked aspects of the medical standards.
For Uniformed Posts
All Inspector and Sub-Inspector posts have strict vision standards.
- Distant Vision: Your eyesight should be 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other eye, with or without glasses.
- Near Vision: Should be 0.6 in one eye and 0.8 in the other eye (Snellen).
- Color Blindness: This is a crucial point. Candidates with **color blindness are NOT eligible** for any Inspector post in CBIC (GST, Preventive Officer, Examiner), CBDT (Income Tax), or Sub-Inspector roles. This is a common reason for final-stage disqualification.
For Desk Posts
For administrative and desk-based posts like **ASO in MEA/CSS, Auditor, Accountant, and Tax Assistant**, the vision standards are much more relaxed. Use of glasses is perfectly acceptable, and color blindness is **generally not a disqualifying factor**.
General Medical Standards for All Posts
Apart from the specific physical tests, all candidates must undergo a general medical examination by a government-appointed medical officer. This is to ensure you are in good mental and bodily health and free from any physical defect likely to interfere with the discharge of your duties. This includes basic checks of blood pressure, hearing, and a general physical examination. For most healthy individuals, this is a straightforward process.
Your Training Starts Now
Ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria is the first step. The next is dedicated preparation to secure the rank you need.
Conclusion: Know Your Standards, Choose Your Post Wisely
The physical and medical tests are the final filter in the SSC CGL selection process. It is absolutely essential to be aware of these standards *before* you fill out your post-preference form. There is no point in aiming for an Inspector post if you know you have color blindness or cannot meet the height requirements.
Be honest with yourself. Get a preliminary medical and eye check-up done from your own doctor to know where you stand. By making an informed and realistic choice, you can avoid any potential disappointment at the very last stage and ensure you embark on a long, healthy, and successful career in the service of the nation.