SSC · Updated October 2026
SSC Havaldar ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
Havaldar posts in the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) are filled through the SSC Multi Tasking Staff (MTS) examination. Candidates sit the same computer-based test as MTS but must also clear a Physical Efficiency Test and Physical Standard Test.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- National
- Conducting body
- SSC
Start for free with SSC Havaldar syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
SSC Havaldar exam overview and highlights
About SSC Havaldar
Havaldar posts in the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) are filled through the SSC Multi Tasking Staff (MTS) examination. Candidates sit the same computer-based test as MTS but must also clear a Physical Efficiency Test and Physical Standard Test. The job involves field and office support work in customs, GST and narcotics offices.
The examination process for SSC Havaldar comprises 3 stages: Computer-based examination (common with MTS), followed by Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST), followed by Document verification. The official syllabus tests candidates across 4 core areas — Numerical and Mathematical Ability, Reasoning Ability and Problem Solving, General Awareness, English Language and Comprehension — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Session I is qualifying only. Candidates shortlisted on Session II marks must clear the PET and PST, which are qualifying, and final merit among them is based on Session II marks, followed by document verification.
Key subjects
- Numerical and Mathematical Ability
- Reasoning Ability and Problem Solving
- General Awareness
- English Language and Comprehension
What clearing SSC Havaldar leads to
- Havaldar in CBIC (Customs and GST offices)
- Havaldar in Central Bureau of Narcotics
- Compensation & Pay Scale: Pay Level 1 (basic pay from around ₹18,000) plus central government allowances
- Central / Institutional appointment through Staff Selection Commission (SSC) merit recommendation
- Structured time-scale promotions, Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) elevation, and central allowances (DA, HRA, TA, Medical & NPS)
- All-India or zonal ministry, department, PSU, or public sector field and headquarters postings
Quick facts
- Conducting body
- Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
- Frequency
- Once a year (with the SSC MTS examination)
- Exam mode
- Online (computer-based test) followed by physical tests
- Languages
- English, Hindi and 13 regional languages
- Stages & papers
- 3 stages (2 papers total)
- Negative marking
- No negative marking in Session I; one mark deducted per wrong answer in Session II
- Official website
- ssc.gov.in
SSC Havaldar — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of SSC Havaldar conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SSC Havaldar |
| 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 (with the SSC MTS examination) |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Notified with the SSC MTS examination, usually around June; written test in September or October; physical tests a few months later |
| Mode of Application | Online on ssc.gov.in after one-time registration (OTR); Havaldar is opted for in the MTS application form |
| Mode of Examination | Online (computer-based test) followed by physical tests |
| Medium / Exam Languages | English, Hindi and 13 regional languages |
| Selection Stages | 3 Stages (2 Papers Total): Computer-based examination (common with MTS) → Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST) → Document verification |
| Negative Marking | No negative marking in Session I; one mark deducted per wrong answer in Session II |
| Selection / Merit Process | Session I is qualifying only. Candidates shortlisted on Session II marks must clear the PET and PST, which are qualifying, and final merit among them is based on Session II marks, followed by document verification. |
| Educational Qualification | Passed Class 10 (Matriculation) or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Age Limit | 18 to 27 years, with relaxation for reserved categories |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | Pay Level 1 (basic pay from around ₹18,000) plus central government allowances |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | High national-level competition across test cities nationwide |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
SSC Havaldar exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for SSC Havaldar. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official SSC website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| SSC Havaldar Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Notified with the SSC MTS examination, usually around June; written test in September or October; physical tests a few months later | Once a year (with the SSC MTS examination) |
| Online Registration & Application Fee Window | Typically remains open for 21 to 30 days from the date of notification release | Online Portal |
| Application Form Correction / Edit Window | 2 to 5 days immediately following the close of the online registration window | As Notified |
| Exam City Intimation & Admit Card Release | City slip 10–15 days prior; Hall Ticket / E-Admit Card 4 to 10 days before the exam date | Via Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| SSC Havaldar — Computer-based examination (common with MTS) | Notified with the SSC MTS examination, usually around June; written test in September or October; physical tests a few months later | Online (computer-based test) followed by physical tests |
| SSC Havaldar — Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST) | Typically 6 to 12 weeks after declaration of Stage 1 results | Shortlisted Candidates |
| Provisional Answer Key & Objection Representation Window | Within 3 to 10 days after completion of the objective examination shifts | Online Challenge |
| Final Answer Key, Normalized Result & Merit List / Scorecard | Typically 3 to 6 weeks after conclusion of the examination stage | Merit List PDF / Login |
- Vacancies & Competition
- Exact post-wise, department-wise, and category-wise (UR, EWS, OBC, SC, ST, ESM, PwBD) vacancies are notified in the official SSC Havaldar recruitment advertisement published by Staff Selection Commission (SSC).
- Application Fee & Payment Norms
- Standard SSC fee norms apply: ₹100 for Unreserved/OBC/EWS male candidates; Women candidates and candidates belonging to SC, ST, PwBD, and Ex-Servicemen (ESM) categories are exempted from paying the application fee.
How to apply online for SSC Havaldar
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); Havaldar is opted for in the MTS application form.
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the SSC Havaldar application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (English, Hindi and 13 regional languages), 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 Havaldar Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
SSC Havaldar eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for SSC Havaldar must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by SSC.
Educational qualification
Passed Class 10 (Matriculation) or equivalent from a recognised board.
Age limit & relaxations
18 to 27 years, with relaxation for reserved categories.
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
Physical standards apply. Male: height around 157.5 cm and chest 76 cm with 5 cm expansion; female: height around 152 cm. PET: males walk 1,600 metres in 15 minutes and females walk 1 km in 20 minutes. Relaxation is given for certain categories and regions.
SSC Havaldar — 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 Havaldar selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: No negative marking in Session I; one mark deducted per wrong answer in Session II. Selection & Merit Weightage: Session I is qualifying only. Candidates shortlisted on Session II marks must clear the PET and PST, which are qualifying, and final merit among them is based on Session II marks, followed by document verification.
Stage 1: Computer-based examination (common with MTS)
Online (computer-based test) • 2 Papers (Session I: Numerical and Mathematical Ability (20) and Reasoning Ability (20), Session II: General Awareness (25) and English Language (25)) • 90 Questions • 270 Total Marks • Duration: 45 minutes • Objective test in two sessions.
Objective test in two sessions. Session I is qualifying with no negative marking; Session II is used for merit.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Session I: Numerical and Mathematical Ability (20) and Reasoning Ability (20)No negative marking 40 120 45 minutes Session II: General Awareness (25) and English Language (25)1 mark deducted per wrong answer 50 150 45 minutes Stage 2: Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST)
Online (computer-based test) followed by physical tests • Candidates shortlisted from the written test must complete a walking test and meet the height and chest standards.
Candidates shortlisted from the written test must complete a walking test and meet the height and chest standards. These tests are qualifying only.
Stage 3: Document verification
Online (computer-based test) followed by physical tests • Final selection is based on Session II marks among candidates who clear the physical tests.
Final selection is based on Session II marks among candidates who clear the physical tests.
SSC Havaldar 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.
Numerical and Mathematical Ability — Part I (Number system and simplification)
- Number system and simplification
- LCM and HCF
- Percentage, profit and loss
- Ratio and proportion
Numerical and Mathematical Ability — Part II (Simple and compound interest)
- Simple and compound interest
- Time and work, time and distance
- Basic mensuration
Reasoning Ability and Problem Solving — Part I (Series and coding-decoding)
- Series and coding-decoding
- Analogy and odd one out
- Direction sense and blood relations
Reasoning Ability and Problem Solving — Part II (Non-verbal reasoning)
- Non-verbal reasoning
- Calendar and age problems
General Awareness — Part I (Indian history and polity)
- Indian history and polity
- Geography of India
- General science
General Awareness — Part II (Economy basics)
- Economy basics
- Current affairs and important days
English Language and Comprehension: Basic grammar & Synonyms and antonyms
- Basic grammar
- Synonyms and antonyms
- Spelling and fill in the blanks
- Short reading passages
Previous Year Trend Analysis & High-Weightage Topics (SSC Havaldar)
- Recurring multi-concept questions from past SSC Havaldar cycles
- High-yield chapters and section-wise mark distribution patterns
- Statement-based, assertion-reason and matching question formats
- Elimination techniques and negative-marking risk management
- Time allocation strategy across sections and papers
SSC Havaldar salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
Pay Level 1 (basic pay from around ₹18,000) plus central government allowances. Appointments under Staff Selection Commission (SSC) carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
Pay Level 1 (basic pay from around ₹18,000) plus central government allowances.
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 Havaldar cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) releases stage-wise and category-wise SSC Havaldar 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 Havaldar — 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 Havaldar 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 no negative marking in Session I; one mark deducted per wrong answer in Session II, maintaining high accuracy (85%+) significantly boosts your normalized score.
Factors Determining SSC Havaldar 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 Havaldar 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 Havaldar admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
SSC Havaldar Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official SSC Havaldar 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 Havaldar 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 Havaldar 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 Havaldar Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) declares the SSC Havaldar 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 Havaldar 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 Havaldar mock tests
Practice in the official SSC Havaldar 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 Havaldar Full Mock Test 1
Computer-based examination (common with MTS) · 40 questions · 45 minutes
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SSC Havaldar Full Mock Test 2
Computer-based examination (common with MTS) · 40 questions · 45 minutes
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SSC Havaldar Full Mock Test 3
Computer-based examination (common with MTS) · 40 questions · 45 minutes
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SSC Havaldar Full Mock Test 4
Computer-based examination (common with MTS) · 40 questions · 45 minutes
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SSC Havaldar Full Mock Test 5
Computer-based examination (common with MTS) · 40 questions · 45 minutes
SSC Havaldar previous year papers
Papers come with a solution for every question. Read them, or attempt them as timed tests. See all SSC Havaldar previous year papers by year
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Recent SSC Havaldar question papers
Included on the Free plan with step-by-step solutions
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Complete 10-year SSC Havaldar paper archive
Up to 10 years of solved papers with SmartRank Pass (4 years with Learn)
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Predicted questions for SSC Havaldar
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for SSC Havaldar
- Prepare for the written test exactly as for SSC MTS, because the paper is the same; the physical test is the only extra stage.
- Start a daily brisk-walking routine well before the exam so that the 1,600 metre or 1 km walk is comfortable.
- Check the height and chest standards for your category before applying; relaxations differ by region.
- Score as high as possible in Session II, since merit among candidates who clear the physical test depends only on those marks.
- Read the official SSC Havaldar notification carefully for the exact pattern, eligibility and selection stages.
- Start with previous year SSC Havaldar papers to understand the question level and the topics that repeat.
SSC Havaldar FAQs
Is the SSC Havaldar exam different from SSC MTS?
No. The written test is the same as the SSC MTS examination. Havaldar candidates additionally have to clear a Physical Efficiency Test and Physical Standard Test.
What is the age limit for SSC Havaldar?
The age limit for Havaldar posts in CBIC and CBN is 18 to 27 years, with relaxation for reserved categories as per rules.
What are the physical standards for SSC Havaldar?
Male candidates need a height of about 157.5 cm and chest of 76 cm with 5 cm expansion, and must walk 1,600 metres in 15 minutes. Female candidates need a height of about 152 cm and must walk 1 km in 20 minutes. Some categories get relaxation.
What is the salary of SSC Havaldar?
Havaldar posts are at Pay Level 1 of the 7th Pay Commission, with the usual central government allowances.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for SSC Havaldar?
SSC Havaldar is conducted by Staff Selection Commission (SSC) across 3 stages: Computer-based examination (common with MTS) → Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST) → Document verification. Session I is qualifying only. Candidates shortlisted on Session II marks must clear the PET and PST, which are qualifying, and final merit among them is based on Session II marks, followed by document verification.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for SSC Havaldar?
Educational Qualification: Passed Class 10 (Matriculation) or equivalent from a recognised board. Age Limit: 18 to 27 years, with relaxation for reserved categories.
Is there negative marking in the SSC Havaldar exam?
Yes — No negative marking in Session I; one mark deducted per wrong answer in Session II. Candidates should use a two-pass attempt strategy during mock tests to keep accuracy above 85% and minimise negative marking deductions.
When is the SSC Havaldar notification released and how can I apply online?
SSC Havaldar is held once a year (with the SSC MTS examination) (Notified with the SSC MTS examination, usually around June; written test in September or October; physical tests a few months later). Online on ssc.gov.in after one-time registration (OTR); Havaldar is opted for in the MTS application form.
Where can I practice free SSC Havaldar mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select SSC Havaldar as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Numerical and Mathematical Ability, Reasoning Ability and Problem Solving, General Awareness, English Language and Comprehension, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact SSC Havaldar pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for SSC Havaldar on SmartRank?
Select SSC Havaldar as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Numerical and Mathematical Ability, Reasoning Ability and Problem Solving, General Awareness, English Language and Comprehension, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact SSC Havaldar pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.