Joining the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) — India’s most prestigious investigative agency — is a dream for many aspiring government job seekers. Whether you’re inspired by justice or motivated to take down corruption, getting into CBI offers a respected and powerful career path.

If you’re planning to appear for the CBI Exam in 2025, this blog covers everything you need to know — eligibility criteria, exam process, pattern, and how to apply.

How to Join the CBI in India?

To become an officer in the CBI, candidates are usually selected through competitive examinations conducted by either the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) via SSC-CGL or by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), depending on the specific role.

CBI Exam 2025 Eligibility Criteria

1. Educational Qualification

A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university is mandatory to apply for CBI roles.

2. Age Limit

• For most posts, the age limit is 20 to 27 years.
• Age relaxations are applicable for candidates from reserved categories as per government norms.

3. Nationality

• You must be an Indian citizen to apply for CBI positions.

4. Physical Requirements

Some roles in the CBI, especially field or enforcement-based posts, may have specific physical standards that candidates must meet.

CBI Exam 2025 Selection Process

The recruitment process for CBI posts includes several stages:

1. Written Examination

Depending on the post, candidates must appear for either the SSC-CGL Exam or the UPSC Civil Services Exam.

• SSC-CGL is typically used for Sub-Inspector or Inspector-level roles.
• UPSC recruitment is used for Group A posts such as DSP (Deputy Superintendent of Police) or higher.

2. Interview/Personality Test

Shortlisted candidates from the written examination are called for an interview, which assesses their personality, decision-making skills, and overall suitability for investigative roles.

3. Physical Standards & Tests (if applicable)

Certain roles, especially investigative or fieldwork-related, require candidates to meet physical fitness standards.

4. Final Selection

A final merit list is prepared based on your performance in the written test, interview, and physical tests (if applicable).

CBI Exam Pattern 2025

📌 SSC-CGL Exam Pattern (for most Inspector roles)

The SSC-CGL (Combined Graduate Level) exam consists of:

• Tier 1: General Intelligence, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, English
• Tier 2: Quantitative Abilities, English Language and Comprehension, Statistics (for some posts), General Studies (Finance & Economics)
• Tier 3: Descriptive Paper (Essay/Letter Writing)
• Tier 4: Computer Proficiency Test/Data Entry Skill Test (as applicable)

According to Testbook and other exam prep platforms, SSC-CGL is the primary route to enter as an Inspector in CBI.

📌 UPSC Civil Services Exam Pattern (for higher-level posts)

For Group A officers in CBI, such as Indian Police Service (IPS) or DSP roles, the recruitment is done through UPSC’s Civil Services Examination, which includes:

• Prelims: General Studies Paper I & CSAT
• Mains: Nine papers including Essay, Optional Subjects, General Studies, and Languages
• Interview: Personality Test

How to Apply for CBI Recruitment 2025

1. Check Official Notifications

Keep an eye on the following websites:

• SSC Official Website for SSC-CGL related posts
• UPSC Official Website for Civil Services roles
• CBI Official Website for direct recruitment updates

2. Submit Online Application

• Visit the relevant website (SSC or UPSC)
• Fill out the application form online
• Upload necessary documents and recent photograph
• Pay the application fee (non-refundable)
• Submit and save a copy of the final application for future use