The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is one of India’s most respected paramilitary organizations, responsible for providing security to critical infrastructure, government buildings, and industrial establishments across the country. Every year, thousands of aspirants dream of joining CISF as a Sub-Inspector (SI) due to the job security, prestige, and career growth opportunities it offers.
One of the most common questions asked by candidates before applying is — What is the age limit for CISF SI in 2025? Since eligibility criteria, including age, can differ based on categories such as General, OBC, SC, ST, and Ex-Servicemen, it is crucial to understand these details before filling out the application form.
This article covers the CISF SI Age Limit 2025 in detail, including upper and lower age limits for all categories, previous year trends, relaxations allowed by the government, and FAQs. By the end, you’ll have complete clarity on whether you are eligible to apply.
CISF SI Age Limit 2025 – Quick Overview
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 20 years | 25 years |
| OBC | 20 years | 28 years |
| SC / ST | 20 years | 30 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | 20 years | Relaxation as per govt. rules |
| Departmental Candidates (CISF personnel) | 20 years | 35 years |
✅ Note: The date of birth mentioned in the matriculation/secondary examination certificate will be considered final for age eligibility.
CISF SI Age Limit 2025 – Detailed Breakdown
1. General Category Candidates
For candidates belonging to the Unreserved (UR/General) category, the minimum age is 20 years and the maximum is 25 years as of the closing date of application. This means a candidate must not have been born earlier than 02 January 2000 and not later than 01 January 2005 (exact dates vary depending on notification).
2. OBC Candidates
Other Backward Class candidates enjoy a 3-year age relaxation, making the maximum age 28 years. This is as per government reservation policies to ensure fair representation.
3. SC / ST Candidates
Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates have a 5-year age relaxation, allowing them to apply up to the age of 30 years. This is one of the biggest relaxations provided under CISF recruitment.
4. Ex-Servicemen
Ex-servicemen are given special relaxation as per government rules. Generally, the total service period in the armed forces plus an additional relaxation is considered, but the exact limit is mentioned in the official notification.
5. Departmental Candidates (CISF Personnel)
If you are already working in CISF as a constable or head constable and want to appear for internal departmental exams, then the upper age limit is 35 years with at least 5 years of regular service.
Why Understanding Age Limit is Important?
- Avoid Rejection: Applications not meeting age criteria are automatically rejected.
- Plan Ahead: Young aspirants can plan preparation as per eligibility timelines.
- Relaxation Benefits: Reserved category candidates should take advantage of relaxations provided.
- Future Attempts: Knowing the upper limit helps you plan how many attempts you can make.
Other Important CISF SI Eligibility Criteria (Besides Age)
While age is an important factor, candidates must also fulfill the following criteria:
1. Educational Qualification
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
2. Nationality
- Must be a citizen of India.
3. Physical Standards
- Minimum height: 170 cm (General, OBC, SC); 162.5 cm (ST).
- Chest: 80–85 cm (General), with relaxation for ST candidates.
- Eyesight: 6/6 and 6/9 without glasses.
4. Medical Standards
- Candidates must be in good mental and physical health without any deformity.
Previous Year CISF SI Age Limit Trends
Looking at the previous CISF SI notifications (2019, 2022, 2023), the age criteria have remained consistent:
- Minimum: 20 years
- Maximum: 25 years (General)
- Relaxations: 3 years (OBC), 5 years (SC/ST)
Hence, it is expected that CISF SI Age Limit 2025 will remain unchanged, with similar relaxations continuing.
Tips for Candidates Approaching the Age Limit
- Apply at the Earliest: If you are nearing the maximum age, don’t wait for future notifications.
- Keep Documents Ready: Proof of category (SC/ST/OBC/Ex-Servicemen) must be valid.
- Focus on Physical Fitness: As age increases, maintaining CISF’s strict physical standards may become harder.
- Check Updates Regularly: Always refer to the official CISF recruitment portal or SSC website for the latest details.
FAQs on CISF SI Age Limit 2025
Q1. What is the minimum age to apply for CISF SI 2025?
The minimum age is 20 years for all categories.
Q2. What is the maximum age for General category candidates?
The upper age limit is 25 years for General/UR candidates.
Q3. How many years of relaxation do OBC candidates get?
OBC candidates get a 3-year relaxation, making their maximum age limit 28 years.
Q4. What is the CISF SI age limit for SC/ST candidates?
SC and ST candidates can apply up to 30 years of age.
Q5. Is there any age relaxation for Ex-Servicemen?
Yes, Ex-Servicemen are eligible for age relaxation as per government norms.
Q6. Can departmental CISF employees apply beyond 30 years?
Yes, departmental candidates can apply up to 35 years of age, provided they have at least 5 years of regular service.
Q7. Has the CISF SI age limit changed in recent years?
No, the age limit has remained 20–25 years (General) with relaxations for reserved categories.