SSC CGL Exam Pattern – A Complete Guide
The SSC CGL exam is conducted in two tiers since the 2023 reform. Earlier, it had four tiers, but now it is more streamlined while still testing candidates’ aptitude and professional skills.
- Tier 1 – Computer-Based Test (CBT), qualifying in nature
- Tier 2 – Computer-Based Test (divided into compulsory and optional papers)
SSC CGL Exam Pattern A Strategic Blueprint: Govt Results Info
The Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) Examination is one of the most popular recruitment tests for graduates in India. Every year, lakhs of candidates apply for this exam to secure government jobs in ministries, departments, and other organizations. To succeed, it is essential to understand the exam pattern thoroughly. Below is a detailed explanation of the SSC CGL exam structure, subjects, marking scheme, and selection stages. Overview of SSC CGL Selection Process The SSC CGL exam is conducted in two tiers since the 2023 reform. Earlier, it had four tiers, but now it is more streamlined while still testing candidates’ aptitude and professional skills.- Tier 1 – Computer-Based Test (CBT), qualifying in nature
- Tier 2 – Computer-Based Test (divided into compulsory and optional papers)
SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern
Tier 1 is the first stage of the exam and serves as a screening test. Marks scored here are not considered in the final merit list but are used to shortlist candidates for Tier 2.
- Mode of Exam: Online (Computer-Based Test)
- Type of Questions: Objective (MCQs)
- Duration: 60 minutes (1 hour)
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 200
- Marking Scheme: +2 for each correct answer, -0.5 for each wrong answer
SSC CGL Tier-I Exam Pattern
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
- Tier 1 is only qualifying in nature.
- Speed and accuracy play a crucial role because of the negative marking.
- Candidates must secure minimum cut-off marks (decided by SSC) to qualify for Tier 2
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern
Tier 2 is the most important stage of SSC CGL as marks obtained here are considered for final selection. It consists of three papers, out of which Paper I is compulsory for all.
- Mode of Exam: Online (CBT)
- Type of Questions: Objective (MCQs)
- Marking Scheme: -0.5 for each wrong answer (varies by section)
-
Paper I – Compulsory (for all posts)
-
Sections:
- Mathematical Abilities
- Reasoning & General Intelligence
- English Language & Comprehension
- General Awareness
- Computer Knowledge Test
- Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) – one passage of 15 minutes (2000 key depressions)
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Marks: 450
-
Sections:
-
Paper II – Statistics (only for Junior Statistical Officer)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 100 questions, 200 marks
-
Paper III – General Studies (Finance & Economics) (only for Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Marks: 100 questions, 200 marks
- The final merit list is prepared based on Tier 2 performance only.
- Candidates must qualify skill tests (DEST/Computer Proficiency) wherever applicable.
- Document verification is conducted before the final appointment.
- Tier 1 is qualifying only – focus on clearing the cut-off.
- Tier 2 is the deciding factor for your final selection.
- Time management is crucial, especially in Paper I of Tier 2.
- Prepare for optional papers only if your post preference requires it.
- Keep practicing mock tests to get familiar with the online exam environment.
- Tier-I: A preliminary, computer-based exam that is qualifying in nature.
- Tier-II: The main, computer-based exam where marks determine the final selection.
- General Intelligence & Reasoning
- General Awareness
- Quantitative Aptitude
- English Comprehension
Papers in SSC CGL Tier 2
SSC CGL Final Selection
Important Things to Keep in Mind
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Freqently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum educational qualification for SSC CGL?
You need a Bachelor's Degree from a recognized university or institute in any discipline. For certain specialized posts like Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) or Assistant Audit Officer (AAO), there are specific educational requirements.
Is there an age limit for the SSC CGL exam?
Yes, the age limit varies depending on the post. Generally, it ranges from 18 to 32 years. Different posts have different age criteria (e.g., 18-27 years, 20-30 years, etc.). Age relaxation is provided for reserved categories like SC/ST, OBC, and PwD as per government rules.
Can final year students apply for SSC CGL?
Yes, final year students can apply. However, you must have completed your graduation and be able to produce the final pass certificate on or before the cut-off date specified in the official exam notification.
What is the application fee?
The application fee is typically ₹100. Women, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Persons with Disabilities (PwD), and Ex-servicemen (ESM) are exempted from paying the fee.
How many stages are there in the SSC CGL exam?
The SSC CGL exam is conducted in two stages, known as Tiers.
Is there an interview in the SSC CGL selection process?
No, the interview process for SSC CGL was discontinued. The final selection is based purely on the marks obtained in the Tier-II examination.
Is there negative marking in the exam?
Yes. In Tier-I, there is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each wrong answer. In Tier-II, the negative marking is 1 mark for each wrong answer in Paper-I (Sections I & II) and 0.50 marks for Paper-II and Paper-III.
What are the subjects in Tier-I?
Tier-I consists of four sections:
What kind of posts are offered through SSC CGL?
SSC CGL recruits for various Group 'B' and Group 'C' posts in different ministries and departments of the Government of India. Popular posts include Inspector (in CBI, CBDT, CBIC), Assistant Section Officer (in CSS, MEA), Auditor, Accountant, and Upper Division Clerk.
What is the salary of an SSC CGL officer?
The salary varies based on the Pay Level of the post. It can range from Pay Level 4 (₹25,500 to ₹81,100) for posts like Postal Assistant to Pay Level 8 (₹47,600 to ₹1,51,100) for posts like Assistant Audit Officer. The in-hand salary also depends on the city of posting due to different HRA rates.
Are there any physical standards required for SSC CGL posts?
Yes, for certain posts like Inspector (in CBIC, CBN, CBI) and Sub-Inspector (in NIA), there are specific physical fitness standards, including height, chest measurements, and physical endurance tests (like walking/cycling). For most other posts, there are no such requirements.