Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standards Test (PST) — Meaning, Definition & Examples (Sarkari Exam 2026)
Category: Selection
Short definition: Mandatory physical fitness tests (running, long jump, height, chest measurement) that police, paramilitary, and defence Sarkari exam candidates must pass after clearing the written exam.
What is Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standards Test (PST)? (Detailed Explanation)
PET (Physical Efficiency Test) measures stamina and athleticism through running, long jump, high jump, and similar field events. PST (Physical Standards Test) measures body parameters — height (typically 170 cm for men, 157 cm for women in general category), chest (80 cm unexpanded for men, 5 cm minimum expansion), and weight (proportionate to height).
Most central police organisations (Delhi Police, BSF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, CISF, NIA) and SSC GD include PET/PST after written CBT clearance. Standards relax for SC/ST candidates (e.g., 162.5 cm height for ST men) and for residents of certain hill states (Garhwal, Kumaon, Sikkim, North-East, Ladakh, J&K). Indian Army Agniveer has separate PET parameters by zone (height 157–170 cm).
PET is qualifying, not merit-deciding. Failing any PET event (e.g., not completing 1.6 km run in 6.5 minutes for SSC GD male candidates) results in disqualification — no negative consequence on overall merit but candidate is removed from selection. PST disqualification (height/chest below norm) is equally fatal. After PET/PST, medical examination follows for those who clear.
Live examples from Sarkari Exam notifications
- SSC GD Constable — 1.6 km run in 6.5 min (men)
- Delhi Police Constable — 1.6 km in 6 min (men below 30)
- BSF Constable — height 170 cm, chest 80 cm (men)
Frequently Asked Questions about Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standards Test (PST)
Q1. Are PET timings the same for men and women?
No. Standard SSC GD: men 1.6 km in 6.5 minutes; women 800 m in 4 minutes. Each force has its own published PET standards in the official notification.
Q2. Can I appeal PET disqualification?
Re-test is granted on the same day if the Presiding Officer notes a procedural issue (timing dispute, false start). Otherwise, no second chance — except a few forces allow 'doubtful' candidates to be re-tested in special PET-only windows.
Q3. Is PET applicable for non-uniformed Sarkari posts?
No. Bank, SSC clerical, UPSC civil services (except IPS), railway non-technical, teaching jobs — none have PET. PET is uniformed-services-specific.
Where to learn more
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