Are you dreaming of working with India’s most prestigious investigation agency? Becoming a CBI Officer is not only a matter of pride but also a serious responsibility. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is India’s top criminal investigation agency, dealing with corruption, economic crimes, special cases, and more.
In this blog, you’ll learn the full process to become a CBI officer — eligibility, exams, selection stages, salary, and more
What is the Role of a CBI Officer?
A CBI officer is responsible for:
- Investigating corruption and scams
- Handling criminal and economic offenses
- Collecting and analyzing evidence
- Conducting raids and interrogations
- Filing charges and presenting cases in court
Working in the CBI means protecting justice and integrity at the national level.
How to Become a CBI Officer in India?
There are two main ways to become a CBI officer:
| Route | Exam | Post Offered |
|---|---|---|
| 1. SSC CGL | Staff Selection Commission – Combined Graduate Level | Sub-Inspector in CBI |
| 2. UPSC CSE | Union Public Service Commission – Civil Services Exam | IPS Officer → DSP in CBI |
Eligibility Criteria
For SSC CGL (Sub-Inspector in CBI)
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in any stream
- Age Limit: 20 to 30 years (age relaxation for reserved categories)
- Nationality: Indian citizen
For UPSC Civil Services (IPS/DSP Level)
- Education: Graduation from a recognized university
- Age Limit: 21 to 32 years (with relaxation for SC/ST/OBC)
- Physical Standards: Must meet IPS physical criteria
CBI Officer Exam Pattern
SSC CGL Exam Pattern
| Tier | Type | Subjects | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Objective | Reasoning, GK, Math, English | 60 mins |
| Tier 2 | Objective | English, Math | 2 hrs per paper |
| Tier 3 | Descriptive | Essay, Letter, Precis | 1 hr |
| Tier 4 | DV & Medical | No interview for CBI SI | – |
UPSC Civil Services Exam Pattern
| Stage | Type | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| Prelims | Objective | GS Paper I & CSAT |
| Mains | Descriptive | 9 Papers incl. Essay, GS, Optional |
| Interview | Personality Test | Leadership, Ethics, Decision-making |
Step-by-Step Process to Become a CBI Officer
Through SSC CGL (Sub-Inspector)
- Complete graduation.
- Apply for SSC CGL exam online.
- Select “Sub-Inspector in CBI” post.
- Clear all tiers of the exam.
- Attend document verification and medical test.
- Join CBI as a Sub-Inspector.
Through UPSC Civil Services (Group A Officer)
- Prepare for UPSC Civil Services Exam.
- Choose IPS as your preference.
- Clear Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
- Get IPS posting.
- After a few years, get deputed to CBI as DSP or above.
Salary of a CBI Officer
Sub-Inspector in CBI (via SSC)
- Pay Level: 7 (₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400)
- In-Hand Salary: Around ₹60,000/month with allowances
- Perks: Travel allowance, DA, house rent allowance, job security
DSP/IPS in CBI (via UPSC)
- Pay Level: 10 and above (₹56,100+)
- Higher ranks can earn up to ₹2,25,000/month
- Perks: Official residence, staff, security, vehicle, etc.
Physical & Medical Requirements for CBI Officer
1. For Sub-Inspector in CBI (SSC CGL)
There are no specific physical tests like PET (Physical Efficiency Test), but candidates must meet basic medical and physical fitness standards.
Physical Standards:
| Criteria | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Minimum 165 cm* | Minimum 150 cm* |
| Chest (Expanded) | 76 cm (with expansion) | Not applicable |
| Weight | Proportionate to height | Proportionate to height |
| Vision (Eye Sight) | 6/6 or 6/9 in one eye, 6/12 in the other (with or without glasses) | Same as male |
*Height relaxation: 5 cm relaxation for candidates from hill areas, SC/ST, and some tribal regions.
Medical Requirements:
- Must be free from diseases like hernia, diabetes, heart problems, etc.
- No color blindness, night blindness, or squint eyes
- Good hearing and speech
- No physical deformity or disability
2. For DSP in CBI (via UPSC IPS Route)
As an IPS officer, physical and medical standards are strict and mandatory.
Physical Standards (IPS):
| Criteria | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Minimum 165 cm* | Minimum 150 cm* |
| Chest | 84 cm (with 5 cm expansion) | Not required |
| Vision (without glasses) | 6/6 or 6/9 distant vision | 6/6 or 6/9 |
| Color Vision | No color blindness | No color blindness |
| General Health | Mentally and physically fit | Same |
*Height relaxation: 160 cm for SC/ST and certain hill tribes.
Other Medical Conditions:
- No flat foot or knock knees
- Healthy lungs, heart, and nervous system
- Good dental health
- Blood pressure within normal range
Final tip:
Even though SSC CGL doesn’t officially require a PET for CBI posts, the medical test is strict, and basic physical fitness is essential to handle the duties of a CBI officer (raids, arrests, case work, etc.).
Key Skills Required
- Analytical thinking
- Integrity and honesty
- Physical and mental stamina
- Leadership and communication
- Decision-making under pressure
- Attention to detail
Conclusion
Becoming a CBI officer is a dream for many and a reality for those who work hard with the right strategy. Whether through SSC CGL or UPSC, both paths demand dedication, discipline, and strong reasoning skills.
This is not just a job—it’s a mission to serve justice and fight corruption. Start early, plan smart, and stay focused. One day, your badge could say “CBI”.
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