SSC CGL 2026 Exam Pattern, Age Limit & Selection Process

SSC CGL 2026 Overview

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level) exam annually to recruit eligible graduates for various Group 'B' and Group 'C' posts across Central Government Ministries and Departments (such as Income Tax Inspector, Assistant Section Officer, Excise Inspector, and Auditor).

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the SSC CGL 2026 Eligibility Criteria, Age Limit, Selection Process, and Updated Exam Pattern.

1. Eligibility Criteria & Age Limit

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Bachelor's Degree from a recognized university.
• Age Limit (Post-wise):
  • Group C Posts (Auditor, Tax Assistant, UDC): 18 to 27 years.
  • Group B Posts (Inspector, Assistant Section Officer): 18/20 to 30 years.
  • Junior Statistical Officer (JSO): Up to 32 years.
• Age Relaxation: Upper age limit relaxations apply as per government norms (3 years for OBC, 5 years for SC/ST).

2. Selection Process

The SSC CGL selection process consists of two primary computer-based testing stages:

1. Tier 1 Examination (CBT): Qualifying nature.
2. Tier 2 Examination (CBT + Typing Test): Final merit list and post allocation are based on Tier 2 scores.
3. Document Verification (DV): Conducted for candidates qualifying in Tier 2.

(Note: There is no interview round in the SSC CGL recruitment process).

3. SSC CGL Exam Pattern

Tier 1 Exam Pattern (Qualifying)

Tier 1 consists of 100 Computer-Based MCQs with a total duration of 60 minutes.

Negative Marking: 0.50 marks deducted for each incorrect answer

Tier 2 Exam Pattern (Merit Deciding)

Tier 2 Paper-I is compulsory for all posts:

Note: Tier 2 Paper-I is compulsory for all posts.