CBI Officer Career Guide
Serve justice and fight crime - Complete guide to becoming a Central Bureau of Investigation Officer
What is CBI?
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is India's premier investigating agency, established in 1963. It operates under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions and is tasked with investigating high-profile corruption cases, economic crimes, and special crimes.
CBI officers are responsible for conducting complex investigations involving corruption in high places, economic offences affecting the country's financial health, and serious crimes that have inter-state or international ramifications.
CBI Motto & Values
- Industry, Impartiality, Integrity
- Truth, Justice, Fair Play
- Professional Excellence
- Fearless Investigation
- Service to Nation
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
Indian Citizenship required
Education
Bachelor's Degree from recognized university
Age Limit
20-30 years (relaxation for reserved categories)
Character
Good moral character and clean criminal record
Age Relaxation & Reservation
Selection Process
Tier-I: Preliminary Examination
Online MCQ Test2 hours
100 questions
Online MCQ Test
General Studies, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, Reasoning
Tier-II: Main Examination
Online MCQ Test2 hours
100 questions
Online MCQ Test
Quantitative Aptitude, English Language & Comprehension, General Studies, Logical Reasoning
Physical Efficiency & Medical Standards Test
Physical Test1-2 days
Physical Standards
Physical Test
Height, weight, chest measurements, medical examination
Interview/Personality Test
Oral Interview20-30 minutes
Personal Interview
Oral Interview
Assessment of personality, leadership qualities, general awareness
Physical & Medical Standards
| Category | Height | Weight | Chest | Vision |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male (General) | 165 cm | As per height | 84 cm (unexpanded) | 6/6 or 6/9 |
| Female (General) | 150 cm | As per height | N/A | 6/6 or 6/9 |
| Male (OBC) | 162 cm | As per height | 82 cm (unexpanded) | 6/6 or 6/9 |
| Male (SC/ST) | 160 cm | As per height | 80 cm (unexpanded) | 6/6 or 6/9 |
| Female (OBC/SC/ST) | 147 cm | As per height | N/A | 6/6 or 6/9 |
CBI Divisions & Functions
Anti-Corruption Division
Corruption cases involving public servants
Economic Crimes Division
Financial crimes and economic offences
Special Crime Division
Serious and organized crimes
Policy & Coordination Division
Administrative and coordination functions
Types of Cases Investigated
Corruption Cases
Bribery, disproportionate assets, abuse of official position
Economic Crimes
Bank fraud, securities scam, hawala transactions
Special Crimes
Murder, kidnapping, terrorism, cyber crimes
Multi-State Cases
Inter-state crimes, organized criminal networks
High-Profile Cases
Cases involving senior officials, politicians
International Cases
Cross-border crimes, extradition cases
Training Program
Foundation Course
Location: CBI Academy, Ghaziabad
Law, investigation techniques, physical training
Specialized Training
Location: Various institutes
Cybercrime, forensics, financial investigation
On-Job Training
Location: Field postings
Practical investigation under supervision
Advanced Courses
Location: National/International
Leadership, advanced investigation techniques
Posting Locations & Opportunities
Delhi NCR
Headquarters and major operations
Mumbai
Financial crime hub
Kolkata
Eastern region operations
Chennai
Southern region headquarters
State Branches
Various state locations
Job Hierarchy & Salary
| Rank | Level | Pay Scale | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sub Inspector (SI) | Group C | ₹35,400-1,12,400 | Field investigations, evidence collection, case documentation |
| Inspector | Group B | ₹44,900-1,42,400 | Supervise investigations, coordinate with agencies, case management |
| Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) | Group A | ₹56,100-1,77,500 | Senior investigations, policy implementation, team leadership |
| Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) | Group A | ₹67,700-2,08,700 | Regional operations, administrative duties, major case oversight |
| Superintendent of Police (SP) | Group A | ₹78,800-2,09,200 | State-level operations, strategic planning, inter-agency coordination |
| Deputy Inspector General (DIG) | Group A | ₹1,31,100-2,16,600 | Zone-level command, policy formulation, senior management |
Essential Investigation Skills
Analytical Thinking
Critical for case analysis and evidence evaluation
Communication Skills
Essential for interrogation and report writing
Legal Knowledge
Understanding of criminal law and procedures
Technical Skills
Digital forensics, cyber crime investigation
Physical Fitness
Field work, raids, and operations
Psychological Assessment
Understanding human behavior and motives
Benefits & Facilities
Job Security
Central government job with excellent stability
Prestigious Career
High social status and respect in society
Medical Facilities
Comprehensive healthcare for self and family
Accommodation
Government quarters or house rent allowance
Travel Opportunities
Pan-India postings and international training
Pension Benefits
Attractive retirement benefits and gratuity
Exam Syllabus
General Studies
Quantitative Aptitude
English Language
Logical Reasoning
Preparation Strategy
Focus strongly on current affairs, especially crime and law enforcement news
Study Indian Constitution, legal provisions, and criminal law basics
Practice quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning daily
Improve English comprehension and vocabulary through newspaper reading
Stay updated with CBI functions, structure, and recent cases
Prepare for physical fitness tests and maintain good health
Practice mock tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy
Develop analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
Career Progression
Sub Inspector (SI)
0-5 years
₹35,400-60,000
Inspector
5-10 years
₹44,900-70,000
Assistant SP (ASP)
10-15 years
₹56,100-90,000
Deputy SP (DSP)
15-20 years
₹67,700-1,20,000
Superintendent of Police (SP)
20-25 years
₹78,800-1,50,000
Deputy Inspector General (DIG)
25+ years
₹1,31,100-2,00,000
Ready to Serve Justice?
Join the CBI and become part of India's premier investigation agency!