The Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) Examination 2026 is one of the most competitive government examinations in India, conducted for recruitment to various Group 'B' and Group 'C' posts in Central Government Ministries, Departments, Constitutional Bodies, Tribunals, and other Government organizations. Every year, lakhs of graduates appear for this examination to secure prestigious government jobs with attractive salaries, job security, and career growth opportunities.
The SSC CGL 2026 examination consists of Tier 1 and Tier 2 Computer-Based Tests (CBT). Tier 1 is the preliminary stage covering General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Candidates who qualify Tier 1 are shortlisted for Tier 2, which includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning & General Intelligence, English Language & Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test (CKT), Data Entry Speed Test (DEST), and for specific posts, Statistics or Finance & Economics. The latest syllabus and exam pattern help candidates prepare strategically by focusing on high-weightage topics and understanding the marking scheme.
Candidates are advised to download the official SSC CGL Syllabus PDF and follow the latest exam pattern while preparing. Regular mock tests, previous year question papers, and revision of important topics significantly improve the chances of success. A well-planned preparation strategy, combined with consistent practice, is the key to qualifying for the SSC CGL 2026 examination.
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) Examination every year to recruit eligible graduates for various Group 'B' and Group 'C' posts in Ministries, Departments, Constitutional Bodies, Tribunals, and Government Offices across India.
The SSC CGL 2026 Examination consists of Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Candidates preparing for the examination should understand the latest syllabus and exam pattern before starting their preparation. A thorough knowledge of the syllabus helps candidates focus on important topics, improve time management, and increase their chances of qualifying for the next stage.
The Tier 1 examination is qualifying in nature and includes four subjects: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Candidates shortlisted in Tier 1 appear for Tier 2, which contains multiple sections covering Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning & General Intelligence, English Language & Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test, Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) and, for certain posts, Statistics or Finance & Economics.
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release Date | 21 May 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 21 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 25 June 2026 (11:00 PM) |
| Last Date for Online Fee Payment | 26 June 2026 (11:00 PM) |
| Application Correction Window | 01 July – 03 July 2026 |
| SSC CGL Tier 1 Admit Card | August 2026 (Expected) |
| SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Date | 13 August – 30 August 2026 |
| SSC CGL Tier 1 Answer Key | September 2026 (Expected) |
| SSC CGL Tier 1 Result | September / October 2026 (Expected) |
| SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Date | December 2026 (Tentative) |
| SSC CGL Tier 2 Admit Card | Before Examination |
| SSC CGL Tier 2 Answer Key | After Examination |
| SSC CGL Final Result | To Be Announced |
| Category | Application Fee |
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100/- |
| SC | Nil |
| ST | Nil |
| PwBD | Nil |
| Women Candidates (All Categories) | Nil |
| Ex-Servicemen (Eligible for Reservation) | Nil |
Payment Mode
(As on 01 August 2026)
The age limit varies according to the post.
| Post Category | Age Limit |
| Minimum Age | 18 Years |
| Maximum Age | 32 Years (Post-wise) |
Post-wise Age Criteria
Age Relaxation
| Category | Relaxation |
| SC / ST | 5 Years |
| OBC | 3 Years |
| PwBD (UR) | 10 Years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 Years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per Government Rules |
Total Posts - 12,256 Posts
| Post Name | Total Vacancies |
| SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2026 | 12,256 Posts |
The recruitment is being conducted for various Group 'B' and Group 'C' posts in Ministries, Departments, Constitutional Bodies, Tribunals, Attached Offices, and Government Organizations under the Government of India.
Candidates must possess the required educational qualification on or before the prescribed cut-off date.
For Most Posts
Junior Statistical Officer (JSO)
Candidates must have either:
Statistical Investigator Grade-II
Research Assistant (National Human Rights Commission - NHRC)
Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) / Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO)
Note: Final-year students may apply only if they possess the required qualification by the date specified in the official notification.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 Minutes |
Tier 1 Highlights
Paper I (Compulsory for All Posts)
Section I
| Module | Subject |
| Module I | Mathematical Abilities |
| Module II | Reasoning & General Intelligence |
Section II
| Module | Subject |
| Module I | English Language & Comprehension |
| Module II | General Awareness |
Section III
| Module | Subject |
| Module I | Computer Knowledge Test |
| Module II | Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) (Qualifying) |
Paper II (Only for Junior Statistical Officer – JSO)
| Subject |
| Statistics |
Paper III (If Applicable for Specific Posts)
| Subject |
| General Studies (Finance & Economics) |
(Applicable only for posts notified by SSC in the official recruitment notification.)
Tier 1
| Particular | Details |
| Correct Answer | +2 Marks |
| Incorrect Answer | -0.50 Mark |
| Unattempted Question | 0 Mark |
Tier 2
| Particular | Details |
| Correct Answer | As per Question |
| Negative Marking | 1 Mark for every incorrect answer in applicable objective papers |
| DEST | Qualifying Nature |
| Computer Knowledge Test | Included in Paper I |
(Candidates should refer to the official notification for post-specific evaluation details.)
The SSC CGL Tier 1 Examination consists of four subjects carrying 25 questions each for a total of 100 questions and 200 marks. The syllabus is designed to assess a candidate's reasoning ability, mathematical aptitude, English language skills, and general awareness.
1. General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus
This section evaluates logical thinking, analytical ability, and problem-solving skills.
Verbal Reasoning
Non-Verbal Reasoning
2. General Awareness Syllabus
This section tests the candidate's knowledge of current events and general knowledge related to India and the world.
Current Affairs
History
Geography
Indian Polity
Indian Economy
General Science
Environment
Static GK
3. Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
This section evaluates numerical ability and mathematical concepts.
Arithmetic
Algebra
Geometry
Mensuration
Trigonometry
Coordinate Geometry
Data Interpretation
4. English Comprehension Syllabus
This section assesses the candidate's understanding of the English language, grammar, and vocabulary.
Grammar
Vocabulary
Reading Skills
Writing Ability
| Subject | High-Scoring Topics |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | Analogy, Coding-Decoding, Series, Blood Relation, Syllogism, Puzzle |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs, History, Polity, Geography, Economy, Science |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Percentage, Profit & Loss, Ratio, SI & CI, Time & Work, Algebra, Geometry, DI |
| English Comprehension | Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Cloze Test |
Candidates should thoroughly cover all the above topics and regularly practice previous years' question papers and mock tests to improve speed and accuracy. The official SSC syllabus should be used as the primary reference while preparing.
SSC CGL Tier 2 is the main examination conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Paper I is compulsory for all candidates, while Paper II (Statistics) is only for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) posts. The syllabus covers Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning & General Intelligence, English Language & Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test (CKT), Data Entry Speed Test (DEST), Statistics, and Finance & Economics (for applicable posts).
Section I – Module I: Mathematical Abilities
Number System
Algebra
Geometry
Mensuration
Trigonometry
Coordinate Geometry
Arithmetic
Statistics & Data Interpretation
Section I – Module II: Reasoning & General Intelligence
Verbal Reasoning
Non-Verbal Reasoning
Section II – Module I: English Language & Comprehension
Grammar
Vocabulary
Reading Skills
Writing Ability
Section II – Module II: General Awareness
Current Affairs
History
Geography
Indian Polity
Economy
General Science
Static GK
Section III – Module I: Computer Knowledge Test (CKT)
Section III – Module II: Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)
Candidates are required to perform data entry at a speed of 2,000 key depressions in 15 minutes on a computer. The DEST is qualifying in nature for applicable posts.
Paper II – Statistics (Only for Junior Statistical Officer)
Finance & Economics (For Applicable Posts)
Finance
Economics
| Subject | High-Weightage Topics |
| Mathematical Abilities | Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Data Interpretation |
| Reasoning & General Intelligence | Coding-Decoding, Analogy, Number Series, Puzzle, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Blood Relation |
| English Language | Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Cloze Test, Vocabulary, Grammar, Para Jumbles |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs, History, Polity, Geography, Economy, Science, Static GK |
| Computer Knowledge | MS Office, Internet, Operating System, Hardware, Software, Networking |
| Statistics (JSO) | Probability, Correlation, Regression, Sampling, Time Series, Index Numbers |
| Finance & Economics | Budget, Inflation, National Income, Banking, Fiscal Policy, Accounting Principles |
Cracking SSC CGL requires a smart study plan, consistent practice, and regular revision. Since both Tier 1 and Tier 2 are Computer-Based Tests (CBTs), candidates should prepare according to the latest syllabus and exam pattern.
1. Understand the Latest Syllabus
Before starting your preparation, carefully go through the latest SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2 syllabus. Focus only on the topics mentioned in the official syllabus.
2. Make a Study Plan
Prepare a daily study schedule and allocate sufficient time to each subject.
Suggested Daily Schedule
3. Strengthen Your Basics
Build a strong foundation in:
4. Practice Previous Year Question Papers
Solve at least the last 5–10 years of SSC CGL question papers to understand:
5. Attempt Mock Tests Regularly
6. Improve Speed & Accuracy
SSC CGL is a time-bound examination.
Practice:
7. Revise Regularly
Prepare short notes for:
Revise these notes every week.
8. Focus on Current Affairs
Read current affairs regularly, especially:
9. Improve English Daily
Spend at least 30–45 minutes every day on:
10. Practice Computer Awareness
For Tier 2, revise:
Quantitative Aptitude
General Intelligence & Reasoning
English Language
General Awareness
Computer Knowledge
Prepare topics such as:
| Subject | Recommended Book | Author/Publication |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal |
| Advanced Mathematics | Fast Track Objective Arithmetic | Rajesh Verma |
| Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
| English | Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi |
| English Grammar | High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin |
| General Awareness | Lucent's General Knowledge | Lucent Publications |
| Current Affairs | Monthly Current Affairs Magazine | Any Reputed Publication |
| Computer Knowledge | Objective Computer Awareness | Arihant Publications |
These books are among the most widely recommended resources for SSC CGL preparation, along with consistent practice of previous-year papers and mock tests.
Candidates should solve previous year papers because they help in:
Candidates should always prepare according to the latest official SSC CGL Syllabus PDF. The official syllabus includes every topic asked in Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations and serves as the most reliable guide for preparation. Along with the syllabus, candidates should regularly solve previous year question papers and mock tests to improve speed, accuracy, and overall performance.
The SSC CGL Recruitment 2026 selection process consists of the following stages:
Stage 1 – Tier 1 Examination
Stage 2 – Tier 2 Examination
Stage 3 – Document Verification
Candidates qualifying the required stages will be called for document verification.
Stage 4 – Final Merit List
The final merit list is prepared based on the performance in the applicable Tier 2 papers and successful document verification, as per SSC rules.
| Description | Link |
| Official SSC CGL Syllabus PDF | Download Syllabus PDF |
| SSC CGL Notification | SSC CGL Notification |
| SSC Official Website | SSC Official Website |
| Apply Online | SSC Candidate Portal |
| Previous Year Question Papers | SSC Official Website |
| Admit Card | SSC Official Website |
| Answer Key | SSC Official Website |
| Result | SSC Official Website |
Q. How many tiers are there in SSC CGL 2026?
Answer: SSC CGL 2026 consists of Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
Q. Is Tier 1 qualifying in nature?
Answer: Yes. Tier 1 is the screening stage used for shortlisting candidates for Tier 2 as per SSC rules.
Q. What subjects are included in Tier 1?
Answer: Tier 1 includes:
Q. Is there negative marking in SSC CGL?
Answer: Yes. Negative marking is applicable in both Tier 1 and applicable sections of Tier 2 according to the official exam scheme.
Q. Is Tier 2 compulsory for all candidates?
Answer: Yes. Paper I of Tier 2 is compulsory for all candidates. Paper II is only for candidates applying for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) post.
Q. Is the Computer Knowledge Test compulsory?
Answer: Yes. The Computer Knowledge Test (CKT) is included in Paper I of Tier 2.
Q. What is the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)?
Answer: DEST is a qualifying test included in Tier 2 that evaluates a candidate's typing and data entry speed for applicable posts.
Q. Where can I download the SSC CGL Syllabus PDF?
Answer: Candidates can download the latest syllabus PDF from the official SSC website.
Q. Which subjects carry the highest weightage?
Answer: Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, Reasoning, and Current Affairs generally carry significant weightage in the examination.
Q. Which website provides the latest SSC CGL syllabus?
Answer: The latest syllabus, exam pattern, and official notification are available on the official SSC website.
Disclaimer: This information is collected from official sources and public notifications. Please verify details from official website before applying.
Find answers to the most common questions regarding this recruitment, including eligibility, application process, selection procedure, important dates, salary, admit card, result, and other essential details.
Candidates can download the latest syllabus PDF from the official website or through the direct syllabus link provided on this page.
Yes. The syllabus provided is based on the latest official notification released by the recruiting authority. Candidates should always verify updates from the official website.
The syllabus generally includes subjects such as General Awareness, Reasoning, Mathematics, English Language, Computer Knowledge, and technical subjects depending on the recruitment.
The examination pattern may change depending on the recruitment authority. Candidates should carefully read the latest notification before starting their preparation.
Previous year's syllabus can be used for reference, but candidates should always follow the latest official syllabus to ensure proper preparation.
Yes. Most recruitment authorities provide the official syllabus in PDF format, which candidates can download and use for exam preparation.
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