SSC · Updated October 2026
SSC Stenographer ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
SSC Stenographer Grade C & D
Administered by the Staff Selection Commission, this national examination recruits Stenographer Grade C (Group B Non-Gazetted) and Grade D (Group C) officials for central ministries, departments, and tribunals. Selection is based on a 200-mark objective CBT (without mathematics) followed by a qualifying shorthand dictation and transcription skill test.
- Type
- Recruitment
- Level
- National
- Conducting body
- SSC
Start for free with SSC Stenographer syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
SSC Stenographer exam overview and highlights
About SSC Stenographer
The SSC Stenographer Grade C and Grade D examination recruits stenographers for central government ministries, departments and offices. Candidates must pass a computer-based objective test followed by a shorthand skill test in English or Hindi. Grade C is a Group B non-gazetted post and Grade D is a Group C post.
The examination process for SSC Stenographer comprises 3 stages: Computer-based examination, followed by Skill test (shorthand), followed by Document verification. The official syllabus tests candidates across 4 core areas — General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, English Language and Comprehension, Shorthand (skill test) — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Final merit is based on the marks of the computer-based examination, subject to qualifying the shorthand skill test, followed by document verification.
Key subjects
- General Intelligence and Reasoning
- General Awareness
- English Language and Comprehension
- Shorthand (skill test)
What clearing SSC Stenographer leads to
- Stenographer Grade C in central ministries and departments
- Stenographer Grade D in central ministries, departments and attached offices
- Compensation & Pay Scale: Pay Level 4 for Grade C (basic pay from around ₹25,500) and Pay Level 2 for Grade D (basic pay from around ₹19,900)
- 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
- Full name
- SSC Stenographer Grade C & D
- Conducting body
- Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
- Frequency
- Once a year
- Exam mode
- Online (computer-based test) followed by a skill test
- Languages
- English and Hindi (English Language section in English only)
- Stages & papers
- 3 stages (1 paper total)
- Negative marking
- Yes, 0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer
- Official website
- ssc.gov.in
SSC Stenographer — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of SSC Stenographer conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SSC Stenographer — SSC Stenographer Grade C & D |
| 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 July or August; computer-based examination in October or November; skill test a few months later |
| Mode of Application | Online on ssc.gov.in after one-time registration (OTR) |
| Mode of Examination | Online (computer-based test) followed by a skill test |
| Medium / Exam Languages | English and Hindi (English Language section in English only) |
| Selection Stages | 3 Stages (1 Paper Total): Computer-based examination → Skill test (shorthand) → Document verification |
| Negative Marking | Yes, 0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer |
| Selection / Merit Process | Final merit is based on the marks of the computer-based examination, subject to qualifying the shorthand skill test, followed by document verification. |
| Educational Qualification | Passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Age Limit | 18 to 30 years for Grade C and 18 to 27 years for Grade D, with relaxation for reserved categories |
| Pay Scale / Salary Structure | Pay Level 4 for Grade C (basic pay from around ₹25,500) and Pay Level 2 for Grade D (basic pay from around ₹19,900) |
| Merit Panel Validity | Valid for the notified recruitment cycle and reserve list period |
| Competition Scale | A few lakh applicants for around a thousand to two 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 Stenographer exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for SSC Stenographer. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official SSC website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| SSC Stenographer Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Notification around July or August; computer-based examination in October or November; skill test a few months later | Once a year |
| 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 Stenographer — Computer-based examination | Notification around July or August; computer-based examination in October or November; skill test a few months later | Online (computer-based test) followed by a skill test |
| SSC Stenographer — Skill test (shorthand) | 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
- A few lakh applicants for around a thousand to two thousand posts in most cycles. Exact post-wise, department-wise, and category-wise (UR, EWS, OBC, SC, ST, ESM, PwBD) vacancies are notified in the official SSC Stenographer 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 Stenographer
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 Stenographer application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (English and Hindi (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 Stenographer Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
SSC Stenographer eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for SSC Stenographer must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by SSC.
Educational qualification
Passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognised board.
Age limit & relaxations
18 to 30 years for Grade C and 18 to 27 years for Grade D, 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
Shorthand skill in English or Hindi is essential for the skill test stage.
SSC Stenographer — 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 Stenographer selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: Yes, 0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer. Selection & Merit Weightage: Final merit is based on the marks of the computer-based examination, subject to qualifying the shorthand skill test, followed by document verification.
Stage 1: Computer-based examination
Online (computer-based test) • 1 Paper (General Intelligence and Reasoning (50), General Awareness (50), English Language and Comprehension (100)) • 200 Questions • 200 Total Marks • Duration: 2 hours • An objective test on reasoning, general awareness and English.
An objective test on reasoning, general awareness and English. Marks from this test decide shortlisting for the skill test and the final merit.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration General Intelligence and Reasoning (50), General Awareness (50), English Language and Comprehension (100)0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer 200 200 2 hours Stage 2: Skill test (shorthand)
Online (computer-based test) followed by a skill test • A dictation of 10 minutes at 100 words per minute for Grade C and 80 words per minute for Grade D, followed by transcription on a computer.
A dictation of 10 minutes at 100 words per minute for Grade C and 80 words per minute for Grade D, followed by transcription on a computer. Transcription time is 40 minutes (English) or 55 minutes (Hindi) for Grade C and 50 minutes (English) or 65 minutes (Hindi) for Grade D. The skill test is qualifying.
Stage 3: Document verification
Online (computer-based test) followed by a skill test • Candidates who clear the skill test are called for verification of certificates before post allocation.
Candidates who clear the skill test are called for verification of certificates before post allocation.
SSC Stenographer 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
General Awareness — Part I (Indian history and the freedom movement)
- Indian history and the freedom movement
- Indian polity and Constitution
- Geography of India and the world
- Indian economy and budget basics
General Awareness — Part II (General science)
- 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
English Language and Comprehension — Part I (Reading comprehension)
- Reading comprehension
- Error spotting and sentence improvement
- Fill in the blanks
- Synonyms, antonyms and one-word substitution
- Idioms and phrases
English Language and Comprehension — Part II (Spelling correction)
- Spelling correction
- Active and passive voice, direct and indirect speech
- Cloze test and para jumbles
- Grammar: tenses, articles, prepositions, subject-verb agreement
- Sentence rearrangement and paragraph completion
Shorthand (skill test): Shorthand outlines and phrasing in & Dictation practice at 80 and
- Shorthand outlines and phrasing in English or Hindi
- Dictation practice at 80 and 100 words per minute
- Accurate transcription within the time limit
- Common official and parliamentary vocabulary
Previous Year Trend Analysis & High-Weightage Topics (SSC Stenographer)
- Recurring multi-concept questions from past SSC Stenographer 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 Stenographer salary, pay scale, job profile & career growth
Pay Level 4 for Grade C (basic pay from around ₹25,500) and Pay Level 2 for Grade D (basic pay from around ₹19,900). Appointments under Staff Selection Commission (SSC) carry structured pay progression, statutory allowances, and time-bound departmental promotions.
Pay Scale & Grade Structure
Pay Level 4 for Grade C (basic pay from around ₹25,500) and Pay Level 2 for Grade D (basic pay from around ₹19,900).
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 Stenographer cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) releases stage-wise and category-wise SSC Stenographer 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 Stenographer — 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 Stenographer 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, 0.25 marks deducted per wrong answer, maintaining high accuracy (85%+) significantly boosts your normalized score.
Factors Determining SSC Stenographer 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 Stenographer 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 Stenographer admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
SSC Stenographer Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official SSC Stenographer 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 Stenographer 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 Stenographer 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 Stenographer Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
Staff Selection Commission (SSC) declares the SSC Stenographer 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 Stenographer 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 Stenographer mock tests
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SSC Stenographer Full Mock Test 1
Computer-based examination · 200 questions · 2 hours
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SSC Stenographer Full Mock Test 2
Computer-based examination · 200 questions · 2 hours
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SSC Stenographer Full Mock Test 3
Computer-based examination · 200 questions · 2 hours
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SSC Stenographer Full Mock Test 4
Computer-based examination · 200 questions · 2 hours
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SSC Stenographer Full Mock Test 5
Computer-based examination · 200 questions · 2 hours
SSC Stenographer previous year papers
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Recent SSC Stenographer question papers
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Complete 10-year SSC Stenographer paper archive
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Predicted questions for SSC Stenographer
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for SSC Stenographer
- Practice shorthand dictation daily at a speed slightly above the required 80 or 100 words per minute so that the real test feels slower.
- Treat the English section as the deciding one: it carries half the marks of the written test.
- Revise reasoning and general awareness from previous year stenographer and CHSL papers, since the level is similar.
- Practice transcription on a computer, not on paper, and learn the error limits that SSC allows in the skill test.
- Decide early whether you will take the skill test in English or Hindi and prepare only that language.
- Read the official SSC Stenographer notification carefully for the exact pattern, eligibility and selection stages.
SSC Stenographer FAQs
Is there negative marking in SSC Stenographer?
Yes. 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer in the computer-based examination.
What is the age limit for SSC Stenographer?
Grade C: 18 to 30 years. Grade D: 18 to 27 years. Reserved categories get relaxation as per rules.
What is the shorthand speed required for SSC Stenographer?
100 words per minute for Grade C and 80 words per minute for Grade D, with a 10-minute dictation followed by transcription on a computer.
What is the salary of SSC Stenographer?
Stenographer Grade C is at Pay Level 4 and Grade D is at Pay Level 2 of the 7th Pay Commission, with central government allowances.
Can I take the SSC Stenographer skill test in Hindi?
Yes. The skill test can be taken in either English or Hindi, and the choice is made in the application form.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for SSC Stenographer?
SSC Stenographer is conducted by Staff Selection Commission (SSC) across 3 stages: Computer-based examination → Skill test (shorthand) → Document verification. Final merit is based on the marks of the computer-based examination, subject to qualifying the shorthand skill test, followed by document verification.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for SSC Stenographer?
Educational Qualification: Passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognised board. Age Limit: 18 to 30 years for Grade C and 18 to 27 years for Grade D, with relaxation for reserved categories.
When is the SSC Stenographer notification released and how can I apply online?
SSC Stenographer is held once a year (Notification around July or August; computer-based examination in October or November; skill test a few months later). Online on ssc.gov.in after one-time registration (OTR).
Where can I practice free SSC Stenographer mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select SSC Stenographer as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, English Language and Comprehension, Shorthand (skill test), solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact SSC Stenographer pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for SSC Stenographer on SmartRank?
Select SSC Stenographer as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, English Language and Comprehension, Shorthand (skill test), solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact SSC Stenographer pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.