SSC CGL 2026 Exam Date, Eligibility & Age Limit Explained – Complete Guide
The SSC CGL 2026 (Staff Selection Commission – Combined Graduate Level) exam is one of the most-awaited government recruitment exams in India. Every year, lakhs of graduates apply for SSC CGL to secure prestigious Group B and Group C posts in various ministries and departments of the Government of India.
If you are planning to appear for SSC CGL 2026, understanding the exam date, eligibility criteria, and age limit is the first and most important step. This detailed guide explains everything clearly, accurately, and in simple language.
SSC CGL 2026 Exam Date (Expected Schedule)
The SSC releases the official CGL notification once a year on its website. Based on previous year trends, the tentative SSC CGL 2026 exam schedule is as follows:
SSC CGL 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
Event | Expected Date |
|---|---|
SSC CGL 2026 Notification | April–May 2026 |
Online Application Start | April–May 2026 |
Last Date to Apply | May–June 2026 |
Application Correction Window | June 2026 |
Tier-I Exam Date | June–July 2026 |
Tier-II Exam Date | September–October 2026 |
Final Result | December 2026 |
📌 Note: These dates are tentative. Final dates will be announced in the official SSC CGL 2026 notification.
SSC CGL 2026 Eligibility Criteria (Detailed Explanation)
To apply for SSC CGL 2026, a candidate must fulfill three key eligibility conditions:
- Nationality
- Educational Qualification
- Age Limit
Nationality Criteria for SSC CGL 2026
A candidate must be:
- A citizen of India, OR
- A subject of Nepal or Bhutan, OR
- A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1 January 1962, OR
- A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, or East African countries (with eligibility certificate)
SSC CGL 2026 Educational Qualification
Minimum Qualification (For Most Posts)
- A Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institution.
Post-Specific Educational Qualification
Post | Required Qualification |
|---|---|
Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) | Bachelor’s degree (CA / CMA / CS preferred) |
Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) | Graduation with Statistics OR Statistics as a subject |
Statistical Investigator | Graduation with Statistics |
Other CGL Posts | Graduation in any stream |
📌 Candidates in their final year can apply but must possess the degree before the cutoff date.
SSC CGL 2026 Age Limit (Post-Wise Explained)
The age limit for SSC CGL 2026 varies depending on the post. Age is calculated as on the date mentioned in the official notification.
SSC CGL Age Limit Table (Expected)
Post Category | Age Limit |
|---|---|
Lower Division Clerk / Tax Assistant | 18–27 Years |
Auditor / Accountant | 18–27 Years |
Assistant Section Officer | 20–30 Years |
Inspector (Income Tax, CBI, Customs) | 18–30 Years |
Assistant Audit Officer | Up to 30 Years |
SSC CGL 2026 Age Relaxation (As per Government Rules)
Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories:
Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
SC / ST | 5 Years |
OBC | 3 Years |
PwBD (UR) | 10 Years |
PwBD (OBC) | 13 Years |
PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 Years |
Ex-Servicemen | As per rules |
Important Points About SSC CGL Eligibility
✔ Graduation is mandatory
✔ No minimum percentage required
✔ Final-year students are eligible (with conditions)
✔ Age eligibility depends on the post
✔ Multiple post preferences allowed
Common Eligibility Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Wrong date of birth entry
❌ Assuming the same age limit for all posts
❌ Not checking post-specific qualification
❌ Applying without valid graduation proof
FAQs – SSC CGL 2026 Exam Date, Eligibility & Age Limit
Q1. When will SSC CGL 2026 notification be released?
The SSC CGL 2026 notification is expected between April and May 2026.
Q2. Can final-year students apply for SSC CGL 2026?
Yes, final-year students can apply, but they must possess their graduation degree before the cutoff date.
Q3. What is the minimum age to apply for SSC CGL 2026?
The minimum age is 18 years, depending on the post.
Q4. Is there any attempt limit for SSC CGL?
No, there is no limit on attempts, as long as you satisfy the age criteria.
Q5. Is SSC CGL conducted every year?
Yes, SSC CGL is conducted once every year.
Q6. Is Aadhaar mandatory for SSC CGL 2026?
Aadhaar is recommended but not mandatory. Other valid IDs are accepted.
Why Understanding Eligibility Early Matters
Knowing the SSC CGL exam date, eligibility, and age limit early helps you:
- Avoid form rejection
- Choose the correct post preferences
- Plan preparation timeline smartly
- Stay stress-free during the application
Final Words
SSC CGL 2026 is a golden opportunity for graduates seeking a stable and respected government career. If you meet the eligibility criteria and start preparation early, clearing SSC CGL in your first attempt is absolutely achievable.