SSC · Updated 19 October 2026
SSC CGL 2026Exam Date, Eligibility, Pattern, Syllabus, Cut-Off and Free Mock Test
SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL)
Conducted annually by the Staff Selection Commission, SSC CGL is India's largest graduate-level recruitment exam for Group B and Group C posts across Union Ministries, CBDT, CBIC, CBI, CAG, and Enforcement Directorate. It features a qualifying Tier I CBT and a comprehensive merit-deciding Tier II CBT including computer and data-entry modules.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- National
- Conducting body
- SSC
Start for free with SSC CGL syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
Coming up: Tier 1 exam (under way), 30 Sep to 30 Oct 2026. Every mock test you take before then shows you where you stand. See all dates
SSC CGL exam overview and highlights
About SSC CGL
The Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination is conducted by the Staff Selection Commission to fill Group B and Group C posts in ministries, departments and organisations of the Government of India. It is one of the largest graduate-level recruitment exams in the country. Selection leads to posts such as Assistant Section Officer, Income Tax Inspector, Central Excise Inspector, Sub-Inspector in CBI and Auditor.
The examination process for SSC CGL comprises 3 stages: Tier I, followed by Tier II, followed by Document verification and post allocation. The official syllabus tests candidates across 6 core areas — General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge (Tier II), Statistics (Paper II, JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II only) — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Tier I only shortlists candidates for Tier II. The final merit is based on Tier II marks alone (Sections I and II of Paper I, plus Paper II for JSO and Statistical Investigator or Paper III for AAO and AAcO), subject to qualifying the Computer Knowledge Test and the Data Entry Speed Test. Posts are then allotted by merit and the preferences given in the online option form.
Key subjects
- General Intelligence and Reasoning
- Quantitative Aptitude
- English Comprehension
- General Awareness
- Computer Knowledge (Tier II)
- Statistics (Paper II, JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II only)
What clearing SSC CGL leads to
- Assistant Section Officer (CSS, MEA, Railways, AFHQ)
- Inspector of Income Tax
- Inspector (Central Excise, Preventive Officer, Examiner) in CBIC
- Assistant Enforcement Officer
- Sub-Inspector in CBI and NIA
- Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer
Quick facts
- Full name
- SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL)
- Conducting body
- Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
- Frequency
- Once a year
- Exam mode
- Online (computer-based test)
- Languages
- English and Hindi for most sections; English Language section in English only
- Stages & papers
- 3 stages (5 papers total)
- Negative marking
- Yes. Half a mark per wrong answer in Tier I; one mark per wrong answer in most sections of Tier II
- Official website
- ssc.gov.in
SSC CGL — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of SSC CGL conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SSC CGL — SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam Category | SSC |
| Exam Level | National level |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Recruitment (Direct Recruitment & Cadre Selection) |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Notification around June; Tier I in September or October; Tier II a few months later |
| Mode of Application | Online on ssc.gov.in after one-time registration (OTR) |
| Mode of Examination | Online (computer-based test) |
| Medium / Exam Languages | English and Hindi for most sections; English Language section in English only |
| Selection Stages | 3 Stages (5 Papers Total): Tier I → Tier II → Document verification and post allocation |
| Negative Marking | Yes. Half a mark per wrong answer in Tier I; one mark per wrong answer in most sections of Tier II |
| Selection / Merit Process | Tier I only shortlists candidates for Tier II. The final merit is based on Tier II marks alone (Sections I and II of Paper I, plus Paper II for JSO and Statistical Investigator or Paper III for AAO and AAcO), subject to qualifying the Computer Knowledge Test and the Data Entry Speed Test. Posts are then allotted by merit and the preferences given in the online option form. |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor's degree from a recognised university for most posts. Junior Statistical Officer needs 60% in Mathematics at Class 12 or Statistics as a subject at graduation. Statistical Investigator Grade-II needs a bachelor's degree in a listed subject such as Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science or Data Science. Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer have desirable qualifications such as CA, CS, MBA or M.Com, and the state cadre posts also need proficiency in the state's regional language. |
| Age Limit | 18 to 30 years for most Group B posts (20 to 30 years for ASO in CSS, Railways, MEA and AFHQ and for Sub Inspector in CBI), 18 to 32 years for Junior Statistical Officer, and 18 to 27 years for Group C posts at Pay Levels 4 and 5 (age counted as on 1 August 2026 in the 2026 cycle), with relaxation for reserved categories as per rules |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | Pay Level 4 to 8 depending on the post (basic pay from around ₹25,500 to ₹47,600) |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | Over 20 lakh applicants for a few thousand to around fifteen thousand posts in most cycles |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
SSC CGL 2026: important dates, vacancy and application process
Last verified on 19 October 2026 against the official notification. Always confirm dates on the official website before you apply.
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Notification | 21 May 2026 | Done |
| Online application window | 21 May to 22 June 2026 | Done |
| Application window reopened | 23 to 25 June 2026 | Done |
| Last date for fee payment (revised) | 26 June 2026 | Done |
| Application correction window (revised) | 1 to 3 July 2026 | Done |
| Tier 1 exam city details released | 21 September 2026 | Done |
| Tier 1 admit card | 2 to 3 days before each candidate's exam date | Upcoming |
| Tier 1 exam (under way) | 30 Sep to 30 Oct 2026 | Upcoming |
| Tier 2 exam | December 2026 (tentative, as per the notice) | Expected |
- Vacancies
- 10,731 (tentative, as on 24 Sep 2026; the notice had said about 12,256)
- Salary
- Pay Level 4 (₹25,500 to ₹81,100) up to Pay Level 8 (₹47,600 to ₹1,51,100), depending on the post
- Application fee
- ₹100. Women and candidates from SC, ST, PwBD and ex-servicemen categories eligible for reservation pay no fee.
Latest updates
- CGL 2026 notice published on 21 May 2026 with about 12,256 tentative vacancies.
- Application window reopened from 23 to 25 June 2026 after more than 28 lakh applications came in.
- SSC notice of 12 Sep 2026 fixed Tier 1 for 30 Sep to 30 Oct 2026, later than the August to September plan in the notice.
- Tier 1 exam city details went live on 21 Sep 2026.
- Tentative vacancies updated to 10,731 on 24 Sep 2026.
- CGL 2025 final result declared on 14 May 2026.
Tier 1 answer key and result dates are not announced yet. The Tier 2 month comes from the original notice and may change.
Sources: Notice of Combined Graduate Level Examination, 2026 (21 May 2026), Reopening of online application window, CGL 2026 (23 June 2026), Important Notice: Schedule of Examination, CGL 2026 Tier 1 (12 Sep 2026), Exam city and admission certificate notice, CGL 2026 Tier 1 (21 Sep 2026), Tentative vacancy of CGL 2026 as on 24 Sep 2026
How to apply online for SSC CGL
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit ssc.gov.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online on ssc.gov.in after one-time registration (OTR).
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the SSC CGL application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (English and Hindi for most sections; English Language section in English only), and choose 3 to 4 preferred test cities.
Upload Photograph, Signature & Category Certificates
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in prescribed KB dimensions and light background), scanned running-hand signature, and valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD/Domicile certificates where applicable.
Online Application Fee Payment & Confirmation Page
Pay the category-wise examination fee via UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or e-Challan before the closing deadline, then download and preserve the final SSC CGL Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
SSC CGL eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for SSC CGL must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by SSC.
Educational qualification
Bachelor's degree from a recognised university for most posts. Junior Statistical Officer needs 60% in Mathematics at Class 12 or Statistics as a subject at graduation. Statistical Investigator Grade-II needs a bachelor's degree in a listed subject such as Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science or Data Science. Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer have desirable qualifications such as CA, CS, MBA or M.Com, and the state cadre posts also need proficiency in the state's regional language.
Age limit & relaxations
18 to 30 years for most Group B posts (20 to 30 years for ASO in CSS, Railways, MEA and AFHQ and for Sub Inspector in CBI), 18 to 32 years for Junior Statistical Officer, and 18 to 27 years for Group C posts at Pay Levels 4 and 5 (age counted as on 1 August 2026 in the 2026 cycle), with relaxation for reserved categories as per rules.
Number of attempts
Unlimited attempts permitted as long as the candidate remains within the eligible category-wise upper age limit as on the crucial cut-off date.
Nationality & domicile
Citizen of India, or other categories permitted under Government of India rules.
Other conditions & standards
Some posts have physical standards (for example Inspector in Central Excise and CBI Sub-Inspector). Post preferences are collected later through an online option form on the SSC website before the allocation result, and cannot be changed once submitted.
SSC CGL — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) (Central Government Norms) | +5 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Requires valid SC/ST certificate in the prescribed Government of India format. |
| Other Backward Classes — Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) (Central Government Norms) | +3 Years above prescribed upper age limit | Candidate must fall outside the Creamy Layer as on the crucial closing date of the online application. |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD — UR / OBC / SC-ST) | +10 Years (UR) / +13 Years (OBC) / +15 Years (SC/ST) | Subject to post suitability and 40%+ benchmark disability certificate under the RPwD Act, 2016. |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) & Commissioned Officers (ECO / SSCO) | +3 to 5 Years after deducting military service rendered from actual age | Must produce discharge book / NOC from the competent defence authority at document verification. |
SSC CGL selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: Yes. Half a mark per wrong answer in Tier I; one mark per wrong answer in most sections of Tier II. Selection & Merit Weightage: Tier I only shortlists candidates for Tier II. The final merit is based on Tier II marks alone (Sections I and II of Paper I, plus Paper II for JSO and Statistical Investigator or Paper III for AAO and AAcO), subject to qualifying the Computer Knowledge Test and the Data Entry Speed Test. Posts are then allotted by merit and the preferences given in the online option form.
Stage 1: Tier I
Online (computer-based test) • 1 Paper (Tier I (General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension)) • 100 Questions • 200 Total Marks • Duration: 60 minutes • A screening test with four sections of 25 questions each and a 15 minute timer per section.
A screening test with four sections of 25 questions each and a 15 minute timer per section. Tier I marks are used only to shortlist candidates for Tier II and do not count in the final merit.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Tier I (General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension)0.50 marks deducted per wrong answer 100 200 60 minutes Stage 2: Tier II
Online (computer-based test) • 4 Papers (Paper I, Session I: Mathematical Abilities (30), Reasoning and General Intelligence (30), English Language and Comprehension (45), General Awareness (25), Paper I, Session I, Section III: Computer Knowledge Test (Session II is the Data Entry Speed Test), Paper II: Statistics (for JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II only) + 1 more) • Questions: 130 • 850 Total Marks • Duration: 2 hours (1 hour for Section I and 1 hour for Section II) • Paper I is compulsory for all posts and has sections on mathematical abilities, reasoning, English, general awareness and computer knowledge, plus a data entry speed test.
Paper I is compulsory for all posts and has sections on mathematical abilities, reasoning, English, general awareness and computer knowledge, plus a data entry speed test. Paper II (Statistics) is only for Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade-II, and Paper III (General Studies: Finance and Economics) is only for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Paper I, Session I: Mathematical Abilities (30), Reasoning and General Intelligence (30), English Language and Comprehension (45), General Awareness (25)3 marks per question; 1 mark deducted per wrong answer 130 390 2 hours (1 hour for Section I and 1 hour for Section II) Paper I, Session I, Section III: Computer Knowledge Test (Session II is the Data Entry Speed Test)Both are compulsory and qualifying for all posts, with higher standards for some posts; 1 mark deducted per wrong answer in the Computer Knowledge Test 20 (computer module) 60 15 minutes for the Computer Knowledge Test in Session I; the Data Entry Speed Test is a separate 15 minute Session II Paper II: Statistics (for JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II only)0.50 marks deducted per wrong answer 100 200 2 hours Paper III: General Studies, Finance and Economics (for AAO only)0.50 marks deducted per wrong answer 100 200 2 hours Stage 3: Document verification and post allocation
Online (computer-based test) • Candidates in the merit list are called for document verification.
Candidates in the merit list are called for document verification. Posts are allotted on the basis of merit and the preferences given in the application.
SSC CGL subject-wise syllabus and study material
SmartRank organizes chapter-wise study notes for every subject below in 12 languages, with an AI Tutor on hand for doubts. Start exploring for free, and unlock the complete syllabus with Learn or SmartRank Pass.
General Intelligence and Reasoning — Part I (Analogies and classification)
- Analogies and classification
- Number and letter series
- Coding and decoding
- Syllogism and statement conclusions
General Intelligence and Reasoning — Part II (Blood relations and direction sense)
- Blood relations and direction sense
- Venn diagrams
- Non-verbal reasoning: figure series, mirror images, paper folding
- Puzzles and seating arrangement
Quantitative Aptitude — Part I (Number system, LCM and HCF)
- Number system, LCM and HCF
- Percentage, profit and loss, discount
- Ratio, proportion and partnership
- Simple and compound interest
- Time and work, pipes and cisterns
Quantitative Aptitude — Part II (Time, speed and distance)
- Time, speed and distance
- Averages and mixtures
- Algebra: identities, linear and quadratic equations
- Geometry: triangles, circles, chords and tangents
- Trigonometry: ratios, identities, heights and distances
English Comprehension: Reading comprehension & Error spotting and sentence improvement
- Reading comprehension
- Error spotting and sentence improvement
- Fill in the blanks
- Synonyms, antonyms and one-word substitution
- Idioms and phrases
- Spelling correction
- Active and passive voice, direct and indirect speech
- Cloze test and para jumbles
General Awareness: Indian history and the freedom movement & Indian polity and Constitution
- Indian history and the freedom movement
- Indian polity and Constitution
- Geography of India and the world
- Indian economy and budget basics
- General science: physics, chemistry, biology
- Static GK: awards, books, sports, important days
- Current affairs of the last 6 to 12 months
- Government schemes and organisations
Computer Knowledge (Tier II): Computer basics & Software, operating systems and MS Office
- Computer basics: CPU, memory, input and output devices
- Software, operating systems and MS Office
- Internet, email and networking basics
- Cyber security and malware
Statistics (Paper II, JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II only)
- Collection and presentation of data
- Measures of central tendency and dispersion
- Moments, skewness and kurtosis
- Correlation and regression
- Probability and distributions
- Sampling theory and statistical inference
- Index numbers and time series
SSC CGL salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
Pay Level 4 to 8 depending on the post (basic pay from around ₹25,500 to ₹47,600). Appointments under Staff Selection Commission (SSC) carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
Pay Level 4 to 8 depending on the post (basic pay from around ₹25,500 to ₹47,600).
Appointing / Cadre Authority
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) (Central Government / Public Sector Service)
Allowances & Perks
Dearness Allowance (DA), HRA (X/Y/Z cities: 30%/20%/10%), Transport Allowance, CGHS/Medical cover, LTC, and NPS contribution.
Probation & Training
Initial probation period (typically 1 to 2 years) with induction/foundation training before cadre confirmation.
Allowances, Perks & Service Benefits
- Dearness Allowance (DA) revised bi-annually in line with Consumer Price Index (AICPI)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) or official government quarters / leased accommodation
- Transport Allowance (TA), Leave Travel Concession (LTC), and Children Education Allowance
- Comprehensive medical care (CGHS / ECHS / State Health Scheme) for employee and dependents
- National Pension System (NPS) employer contribution, gratuity, and paid maternity/paternity/study leave
Promotion Hierarchy & Career Progression
- Entry-Level Cadre Appointment (Post allotment & induction training under Staff Selection Commission (SSC))
- Senior / Higher Grade Scale via Time-Bound Financial Upgradation (MACP / Dynamic ACP)
- Sectional / Supervisory / Inspector / Assistant Executive Cadre via Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) or LDCE
- Middle Management / Gazetted / Divisional Officer Scale
- Senior Administrative / Directorate / Executive Leadership Cadre
SSC CGL cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) releases stage-wise and category-wise SSC CGL cut-off marks at each stage (Prelims/Tier-I shortlisting, Mains/Tier-II evaluation, and Final Merit List). Candidates must clear both minimum qualifying standards and overall/sectional merit cut-offs to advance.
SSC CGL — Qualifying Standards & Safe Target Benchmarks
| Category | Qualifying Floor / Standard | Recommended Safe Target |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 30% to 40% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 72% to 82% of Total Marks (95+ Percentile in Mock Tests) |
| General — Economically Weaker Section (GEN-EWS) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / PwBD | 20% to 30% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 58% to 70% of Total Marks |
Score Normalization & Marking Impact
When SSC CGL is conducted across multiple shifts or sessions, Staff Selection Commission (SSC) applies standard score normalization (Equi-Percentile or Mean-Standard Deviation method) to account for any variation in paper difficulty across shifts. Because raw marks are governed by yes. Half a mark per wrong answer in Tier I; one mark per wrong answer in most sections of Tier II, maintaining high accuracy (85%+) significantly boosts your normalized score.
Factors Determining SSC CGL Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across participating cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the SSC CGL cycle
- Relative difficulty level of the question paper (and shift-wise variation in multi-shift CBT exams)
- Category-wise vertical (UR, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and horizontal (PwBD, ESM, Women) reservation ratios
- Previous year cut-off trajectory and candidate score distribution at the top percentiles
SSC CGL admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
SSC CGL Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official SSC CGL Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on ssc.gov.in. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must log in with their Registration Number and Date of Birth / Password to download it.
- Clear A4 printout of the SSC CGL e-Admit Card with visible barcode and photograph
- Original valid Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs matching the image uploaded in the online application
- PwBD / Scribe certificate and undertaking (if availing compensatory time or scribe facility)
Within 3–10 days after the examination
SSC CGL Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, Staff Selection Commission (SSC) uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on ssc.gov.in. Candidates can calculate their raw score and submit online representations against any ambiguous question or key discrepancy within the stipulated 48–72 hour window.
- Download your recorded Response Sheet PDF and match Question IDs with the Master Answer Key
- Calculate raw score using the official positive and negative marking formula
- Attach standard textbook / NCERT / official gazette proof if challenging any provisional key
- Review the Final Answer Key published after subject-expert scrutiny of all representations
3–6 weeks after stage completion
SSC CGL Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) declares the SSC CGL result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on ssc.gov.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official SSC CGL Scorecard / Rank Letter PDF immediately upon release
- Verify category-wise and sectional cut-off marks in the official result write-up notice
- Keep original matriculation, degree, caste/EWS, and domicile certificates ready for verification
- Track reserve list / multi-round seat allotment updates on the official website
SSC CGL mock tests
Practice in the official SSC CGL pattern on the Free plan, and unlock 10 full or sectional mocks every month, unlimited chapter and topic tests, and the CBT Exam Simulator with SmartRank Pass.
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SSC CGL Full Mock Test 1
Tier I · 100 questions · 60 minutes
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SSC CGL Full Mock Test 2
Tier I · 100 questions · 60 minutes
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SSC CGL Full Mock Test 3
Tier I · 100 questions · 60 minutes
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SSC CGL Full Mock Test 4
Tier I · 100 questions · 60 minutes
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SSC CGL Full Mock Test 5
Tier I · 100 questions · 60 minutes
SSC CGL previous year papers
Papers come with a solution for every question. Read them, or attempt them as timed tests. See all SSC CGL previous year papers by year
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Recent SSC CGL question papers
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Complete 10-year SSC CGL paper archive
Up to 10 years of solved papers with SmartRank Pass (4 years with Learn)
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Predicted questions for SSC CGL
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for SSC CGL
- Build speed in Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning first, because these two sections decide most of the Tier I score and carry heavy weight in Tier II.
- Solve previous year papers section-wise so you learn the exact question styles SSC repeats, especially in English vocabulary and error spotting.
- Prepare static GK and the last six months of current affairs together; General Awareness is the quickest section to attempt if you know the facts.
- Practice typing in the data entry format well before Tier II; a qualifying test should never be the reason you lose a post.
- Fill post preferences carefully after checking the physical standards and job profiles, because preferences cannot be changed later.
- Attempt full-length mock tests under 60-minute timing to settle your section order and your accuracy with negative marking.
SSC CGL FAQs
Is there negative marking in SSC CGL?
Yes. In Tier I, 0.50 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. In Tier II Paper I, 1 mark is deducted per wrong answer in Sections I and II and in the Computer Knowledge Test. Papers II and III deduct 0.50 marks per wrong answer.
What is the age limit for SSC CGL?
The age limit depends on the post. Most Group B posts allow 18 to 30 years (20 to 30 for a few), Junior Statistical Officer allows 18 to 32 years, and Group C posts such as Auditor, Accountant, Tax Assistant and UDC allow 18 to 27 years. Reserved categories get relaxation as per government rules. Always check the current notification for post-wise limits.
Which subjects are asked in SSC CGL Tier I?
Tier I has four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English Comprehension, with 25 questions each.
Is SSC CGL only for graduates?
Yes. A bachelor's degree from a recognised university is the minimum qualification. A few posts such as Junior Statistical Officer and Assistant Audit Officer have additional requirements.
What is the salary of SSC CGL posts?
Posts range from Pay Level 4 to Pay Level 8 of the 7th Pay Commission. For example, Assistant Section Officer and Inspector posts are at Pay Level 7, while Auditor and Accountant are at Pay Level 5. Allowances such as HRA and DA are added on top of basic pay.
Do Tier I marks count in the final merit of SSC CGL?
No. Under the 2026 notice, Tier I is only a shortlisting stage. The final merit is prepared from Tier II marks alone.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for SSC CGL?
SSC CGL is conducted by Staff Selection Commission (SSC) across 3 stages: Tier I → Tier II → Document verification and post allocation. Tier I only shortlists candidates for Tier II. The final merit is based on Tier II marks alone (Sections I and II of Paper I, plus Paper II for JSO and Statistical Investigator or Paper III for AAO and AAcO), subject to qualifying the Computer Knowledge Test and the Data Entry Speed Test. Posts are then allotted by merit and the preferences given in the online option form.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for SSC CGL?
Educational Qualification: Bachelor's degree from a recognised university for most posts. Junior Statistical Officer needs 60% in Mathematics at Class 12 or Statistics as a subject at graduation. Statistical Investigator Grade-II needs a bachelor's degree in a listed subject such as Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science or Data Science. Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer have desirable qualifications such as CA, CS, MBA or M.Com, and the state cadre posts also need proficiency in the state's regional language. Age Limit: 18 to 30 years for most Group B posts (20 to 30 years for ASO in CSS, Railways, MEA and AFHQ and for Sub Inspector in CBI), 18 to 32 years for Junior Statistical Officer, and 18 to 27 years for Group C posts at Pay Levels 4 and 5 (age counted as on 1 August 2026 in the 2026 cycle), with relaxation for reserved categories as per rules.
When is the SSC CGL notification released and how can I apply online?
SSC CGL is held once a year (Notification around June; Tier I in September or October; Tier II a few months later). Online on ssc.gov.in after one-time registration (OTR).
Where can I practice free SSC CGL mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select SSC CGL as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension, General Awareness, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact SSC CGL pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for SSC CGL on SmartRank?
Select SSC CGL as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension, General Awareness, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact SSC CGL pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.