SSC CGL 2026 Complete Guide: Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Fees & Posts
Quick Answer
SSC CGL 2026 recruits candidates for 17,727 Group B and C posts across Central Ministries. Any graduate aged 18 to 32 can apply directly on ssc.gov.in. The exam consists of Tier 1 qualifying test followed by Tier 2 merit examination.
Key Takeaways
- Total Vacancies: 17,727 Group B and C posts across Central Ministries
- Age Requirement: 18 to 32 years with standard category age relaxations
- Application Fee: ₹100 for General and OBC males; ₹0 for all Female, SC, ST, and PwBD candidates
- Selection stages: Two-tier Computer Based Test (CBT) with DEST typing test conducted during Tier 2
- Live camera selfie and 10 to 20 KB signature upload required during online application
What is SSC CGL and Why is it so Popular?
The Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination conducted by the Staff Selection Commission is one of India's most sought-after competitive recruitment drives. It offers a direct pathway to prestigious officer and inspector roles inside Central Ministries, Investigative Agencies, and Revenue Departments.
If you are aiming for job security, an attractive 7th Pay Commission salary structure, and high administrative responsibility, CGL is one of the most reliable routes.
Major Job Profiles Offered
The notification covers multiple pay levels ranging from Level 4 to Level 8:
- Assistant Section Officer (ASO) in Central Secretariat (CSS), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and Intelligence Bureau (IB)
- Inspector of Central Excise & GST under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
- Income Tax Inspector (ITI) under the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)
- Sub-Inspector in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and National Investigation Agency (NIA)
- Divisional Accountant & Auditor under CAG and CGA
- Tax Assistant & Postal Assistant across Central departments
How the Examination Stages Work
The exam is structured into two main computer-based tiers:
Tier 1 Examination (Screening & Qualifying)
Tier 1 consists of 100 multiple choice questions carrying 200 marks in total, to be solved in 60 minutes.
- General Intelligence & Reasoning: 25 questions (50 marks)
- General Awareness & Current Affairs: 25 questions (50 marks)
- Quantitative Aptitude: 25 questions (50 marks)
- English Comprehension: 25 questions (50 marks)
There is a negative marking penalty of 0.50 marks for every incorrect answer.
Tier 2 Examination (Final Merit Ranking)
Your final selection depends purely on Tier 2 performance. Paper 1 has three consecutive sections:
- Section 1: Mathematical Abilities (30Q) and Reasoning (30Q)
- Section 2: English Language (45Q) and General Awareness (25Q)
- Section 3: Computer Knowledge Module (20Q) and Data Entry Speed Test (DEST typing)
Practical Tips for Filling the Online Application
Always use a desktop browser like Chrome or Edge with a steady internet connection. Keep your scanned signature between 10 KB and 20 KB ready before opening the form. If you wear glasses, take them off during live camera capture to prevent glare rejection.
1-Minute Actionable Checklist
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Official Source: https://ssc.gov.in
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