SSC CGL Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026
SSC CGL Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026: Tier 1 and Tier 2
Check SSC CGL 2026 syllabus and exam pattern for Tier 1 and Tier 2 from the official SSC scheme. See subject-wise topics, marks, duration, negative marking, and syllabus PDF
SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Tier-I and Tier-II Exam Pattern, Sectional Timing, Marks and Subject-Wise Topics
The SSC Combined Graduate Level Examination 2026 is conducted in two stages—Tier-I and Tier-II. Both are computer-based examinations, but their roles in the selection process are different.
Tier-I is used to shortlist candidates for Tier-II. The final merit list is prepared primarily from the relevant portions of Tier-II, subject to qualifying the compulsory modules, fulfilling post-specific eligibility and submitting post preferences.
Most important theory line: Tier-I helps a candidate reach the main examination, while Tier-II determines the candidate’s final merit position.
The information below is based on the official SSC CGL 2026 notification.
SSC CGL 2026 Exam Overview
Particular | SSC CGL 2026 details |
|---|---|
Conducting authority | Staff Selection Commission |
Examination name | Combined Graduate Level Examination, 2026 |
Recruitment level | Various Group B and Group C posts |
Number of tiers | Tier-I and Tier-II |
Examination mode | Computer-Based Examination |
Tier-I tentative schedule | August–September 2026 |
Tier-II tentative schedule | December 2026 |
Tier-I purpose | Shortlisting candidates for Tier-II |
Final merit | Based on relevant Tier-II marks and post preference |
Official website |
SSC CGL 2026 Selection Process
Stage | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
Tier-I | Objective computer-based examination | Used for shortlisting |
Tier-II Paper-I | Mathematics, Reasoning, English, GA, Computer and DEST | Compulsory for all posts |
Tier-II Paper-II | Statistics | For shortlisted JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II candidates |
Tier-II Paper-III | General Studies—Finance and Economics | For shortlisted Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer candidates |
Post preference | Candidates submit their preferred posts | Allotment follows merit-cum-preference |
Verification | Educational, category and post-specific eligibility verification | Candidate must satisfy every applicable requirement |
Final selection | Based on Tier-II performance, preference, eligibility and available vacancies | Determines final post allotment |
Important: Candidates should check the educational, physical, medical and other requirements of a post before placing it high in their preference list. Failure to meet the requirements of the allotted post may result in cancellation of candidature.
SSC CGL Tier-I Exam Pattern 2026
Tier-I contains four subjects. Every subject has a separate 15-minute sectional timer.
Subject | Questions | Maximum marks | Marks per question | Sectional time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 | 2 | 15 minutes |
General Awareness | 25 | 50 | 2 | 15 minutes |
Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | 2 | 15 minutes |
English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | 2 | 15 minutes |
Total | 100 | 200 | — | 60 minutes |
Important Tier-I Rules
Rule | Official provision |
|---|---|
Examination mode | Computer-Based Examination |
Question type | Objective multiple-choice questions |
Total questions | 100 |
Maximum marks | 200 |
Total duration | 60 minutes |
Sectional timer | 15 minutes for each subject |
Negative marking | 0.50 mark for each wrong answer |
Language | English and Hindi, except English Comprehension |
Scribe-eligible candidates | 20 minutes for each subject, subject to SSC conditions |
Role in selection | Shortlisting candidates for Tier-II |
Important theory line: Because the timer operates separately for every subject, candidates cannot freely distribute the total 60 minutes among the four sections.
Effect of negative marking
Every correct Tier-I answer carries two marks, while every wrong answer deducts 0.50 mark.
For example:
Attempt outcome | Calculation | Score |
|---|---|---|
10 correct answers | 10 × 2 | 20 |
4 wrong answers | 4 × 0.50 | −2 |
Final score | 20 − 2 | 18 marks |
Therefore, random guessing can reduce the overall score.
SSC CGL Tier-I Syllabus 2026
1. General Intelligence and Reasoning
This section includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
Topic group | Topics covered |
|---|---|
Analogy | Semantic analogy, symbolic or number analogy and figural analogy |
Classification | Semantic, symbolic, number and figural classification |
Series | Semantic series, number series, arithmetic series and figural series |
Coding | Coding-decoding, letter-number coding and classification |
Logical reasoning | Statement-conclusion, syllogism, drawing inferences and Venn diagrams |
Problem solving | Analysis, judgment, decision-making and critical thinking |
Spatial ability | Space visualization, spatial orientation and embedded figures |
Non-verbal reasoning | Pattern folding, unfolding, punched holes and figure completion |
Observation | Visual memory, discrimination, indexing and address matching |
Matching | Date and city matching, centre-code and roll-number classification |
Operations | Numerical operations, symbolic operations and word building |
Applied intelligence | Emotional intelligence, social intelligence and relationship concepts |
Theory line: Reasoning is broader than analogy, series and coding-decoding. The official syllabus includes visual, spatial, analytical and situation-based intelligence.
Preparation approach
Candidates should divide their reasoning preparation into three parts:
- Verbal reasoning
- Non-verbal and figure-based reasoning
- Analytical and logical reasoning
Regular timed practice is necessary because 25 questions must be handled within 15 minutes.
2. Quantitative Aptitude
The Quantitative Aptitude syllabus covers arithmetic as well as algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry and basic data interpretation.
Unit | Important topics |
|---|---|
Number system | Whole numbers, decimals, fractions and relationships between numbers |
Percentage and ratio | Percentage, ratio, proportion and square roots |
Average and interest | Average, simple interest and compound interest |
Commercial mathematics | Profit-loss, discount and partnership |
Mixture | Mixture and alligation |
Work problems | Time and work, pipes-based applications where relevant |
Motion problems | Time, speed and distance |
Algebra | Basic algebraic identities, elementary surds and linear-equation graphs |
Geometry | Triangles, triangle centres, congruence and similarity |
Circles | Chords, tangents, angles made by chords and common tangents |
Plane mensuration | Triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons and circles |
Solid mensuration | Prism, cone, cylinder, sphere, hemisphere, cuboid and pyramid |
Trigonometry | Trigonometric ratios, identities and complementary angles |
Heights and distances | Basic applications of trigonometry |
Data interpretation | Histogram, frequency polygon, bar diagram and pie chart |
Important theory line: SSC Quantitative Aptitude is not an arithmetic-only section. Ignoring geometry, mensuration and trigonometry can leave a major portion of the syllabus uncovered.
3. English Comprehension
The official Tier-I description states that this subject tests a candidate’s ability to understand correct English, basic comprehension and writing ability.
Skill area | Topics to prepare |
|---|---|
Grammar | Tenses, subject-verb agreement, articles, prepositions and parts of speech |
Error detection | Spotting grammatical and usage errors |
Sentence correction | Sentence improvement and correction |
Vocabulary | Synonyms, antonyms and contextual vocabulary |
Word usage | One-word substitution, idioms and phrases |
Spelling | Correct spelling and identification of misspelt words |
Voice | Active and passive voice |
Narration | Direct and indirect speech |
Completion | Fill in the blanks and cloze tests |
Reading | Comprehension passages and inference-based questions |
Theory line: English preparation must combine grammar, vocabulary and reading comprehension. Memorising vocabulary alone is insufficient.
4. General Awareness
General Awareness tests the candidate’s knowledge of current events and the environment around them, including its application to society.
Area | Coverage |
|---|---|
Current affairs | Important national and international events |
History | Indian history and relevant neighbouring-country topics |
Culture | Art, heritage, literature, festivals and cultural developments |
Geography | Indian and world geography, resources, climate and locations |
Economy | Basic economic concepts and current economic developments |
General policy | Constitution, polity, governance and public policy |
Science | Everyday science and scientific developments |
Scientific research | Important research, discoveries and applications |
Static GK | Important institutions, books, awards, sports and days |
Important theory line: General Awareness combines static GK with current affairs. Current events should be studied along with their historical, constitutional, economic or scientific background.
SSC CGL Tier-II Exam Pattern 2026
Tier-II is the main merit-deciding stage. It may contain up to three papers depending on the posts for which a candidate has applied and been shortlisted.
Paper | Applicable candidates | Subject |
|---|---|---|
Paper-I | All candidates shortlisted from Tier-I | Maths, Reasoning, English, GA, Computer and DEST |
Paper-II | JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II candidates | Statistics |
Paper-III | Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer candidates | Finance and Economics |
Important correction: Paper-III is included in the official SSC CGL 2026 examination scheme. It applies only to shortlisted candidates for the specified audit and accounts posts.
Tier-II Paper-I Exam Pattern
Paper-I is compulsory for all posts. It is conducted in two sessions on the same day.
Session-I
Section | Subject | Questions | Marks | Sectional time | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Section-I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 30 minutes | Merit-scoring |
Section-I | Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | 30 minutes | Merit-scoring |
Section-II | English Language and Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 40 minutes | Merit-scoring |
Section-II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | 20 minutes | Merit-scoring |
Section-III | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 | 60 | 15 minutes | Qualifying |
Total | — | 150 | 450 | 2 hours 15 minutes | — |
Session-II
Section | Test | Task | Time | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Section-IV | Data Entry Speed Test | Approximately 2,000 key depressions | 15 minutes | Qualifying |
Important Paper-I Rules
Point | Rule |
|---|---|
Compulsory status | Paper-I is compulsory for every post |
Sectional qualification | Candidates must qualify all sections separately |
Negative marking | One mark for each wrong MCQ |
Computer test | Mandatory but qualifying |
DEST | Mandatory and qualifying, subject to allowed exemptions |
Higher standards | Applicable to posts requiring Computer Proficiency or DEST |
Language | English and Hindi, except the English module |
Merit contribution | Sections I and II form the primary merit score for most posts |
Most important theory line: “Qualifying” does not mean “optional.” Failure in the Computer Knowledge Test or DEST can eliminate a candidate even if the candidate has high marks in the merit sections.
Tier-II Paper-I Syllabus
Mathematical Abilities
Unit | Topics |
|---|---|
Number Systems | Whole numbers, decimals, fractions and number relationships |
Arithmetic | Percentage, ratio-proportion, square roots and averages |
Interest | Simple and compound interest |
Commercial arithmetic | Profit-loss, discount and partnership |
Mixture | Mixture and alligation |
Time-based problems | Time-distance and time-work |
Algebra | Identities, elementary surds and linear-equation graphs |
Geometry | Elementary figures, triangles, centres, similarity and congruence |
Circles | Chords, tangents, angles and common tangents |
Mensuration | Plane figures and three-dimensional solids |
Trigonometry | Ratios, identities, complementary angles and heights-distances |
Statistics | Mean, median, mode and standard deviation |
Probability | Calculation of simple probability |
Graphs | Histogram, frequency polygon, bar chart and pie chart |
Reasoning and General Intelligence
Topic group | Coverage |
|---|---|
Analogy | Semantic, symbolic, numerical and figural |
Classification | Semantic, number and figure classification |
Series | Number, semantic and figural series |
Visual reasoning | Embedded figures, folding, unfolding and figure completion |
Spatial reasoning | Space orientation and visualisation |
Logical reasoning | Venn diagrams, inference and critical thinking |
Problem solving | Analytical and situation-based problems |
Coding | Coding-decoding and word building |
Operations | Numerical and symbolic operations |
Intelligence | Emotional and social intelligence |
English Language and Comprehension
Unit | Topics |
|---|---|
Language basics | Vocabulary, grammar and sentence structure |
Vocabulary testing | Synonyms, antonyms, homonyms and correct usage |
Error correction | Spot the error and sentence improvement |
Completion | Fill in the blanks and cloze passages |
Spelling | Detecting misspelt words |
Expressions | Idioms, phrases and one-word substitution |
Voice and narration | Active-passive and direct-indirect speech |
Arrangement | Shuffling sentence parts and passage sentences |
Comprehension | Story, book, editorial, report and current-affairs passages |
SSC may provide three or more comprehension paragraphs, including:
- At least one simple passage based on a book or story
- Two passages based on current affairs, reports or editorials
General Awareness
Area | Scope |
|---|---|
Social awareness | Environment around the candidate and its application to society |
Current events | Important contemporary developments |
Everyday science | Scientific aspects of everyday observations |
History and culture | India and neighbouring countries |
Geography | Physical and human geography |
Economy | Economic scene and important developments |
Policy | General policy, polity and governance |
Research | Scientific research and applications |
Computer Knowledge Test
Unit | Topics |
|---|---|
Computer organisation | CPU, input-output devices and memory |
Storage | Memory organisation and backup devices |
Hardware basics | Ports and peripheral devices |
Windows | Windows operating system and Windows Explorer |
Keyboard | Important keyboard shortcuts |
MS Office | Word, Excel and PowerPoint basics |
Internet | Browsing, searching, downloading and uploading |
Managing an email account | |
Digital services | E-banking |
Networking | Networking devices and protocols |
Cybersecurity | Hacking, viruses, worms, Trojans and preventive measures |
Theory line: Computer Knowledge is mandatory and qualifying. However, SSC may apply a higher qualifying standard to posts requiring computer proficiency.
Tier-II Paper-II: Statistics
Paper-II is conducted only for candidates shortlisted for:
- Junior Statistical Officer
- Statistical Investigator Grade-II
Paper-II Pattern
Particular | Detail |
|---|---|
Subject | Statistics |
Questions | 100 |
Maximum marks | 200 |
Duration | 2 hours |
Marks per question | 2 |
Negative marking | 0.50 mark per wrong answer |
Level | Graduation level |
Statistics Syllabus
Unit | Main topics |
|---|---|
Data collection and presentation | Primary/secondary data, collection methods, tabulation, graphs and frequency distributions |
Central tendency | Mean, median, mode, quartiles, deciles and percentiles |
Dispersion | Range, quartile deviation, mean deviation and standard deviation |
Moments | Types of moments and their relationships |
Skewness and kurtosis | Meaning and different measures |
Correlation | Scatter diagram, correlation coefficient and rank correlation |
Regression | Simple, multiple and partial regression/correlation |
Probability | Conditional probability, compound probability, independence and Bayes’ theorem |
Random variables | Probability functions, expectation, variance and moments |
Distributions | Binomial, Poisson, normal and exponential distributions |
Sampling | Sampling methods, sampling errors and sample-size decisions |
Statistical inference | Estimation, hypothesis tests and confidence intervals |
Statistical tests | Z, t, chi-square and F tests |
ANOVA | One-way and two-way analysis |
Time series | Components, trends and seasonal variation |
Index numbers | Construction, formulae, base shifting and cost-of-living indices |
Tier-II Paper-III: Finance and Economics
Paper-III applies only to candidates shortlisted for:
- Assistant Audit Officer
- Assistant Accounts Officer
Paper-III Pattern
Particular | Detail |
|---|---|
Subject | General Studies—Finance and Economics |
Questions | 100 |
Maximum marks | 200 |
Duration | 2 hours |
Marks per question | 2 |
Negative marking | 0.50 mark per wrong answer |
Broad Syllabus Areas
Part | Main coverage |
|---|---|
Finance and Accounts | Fundamental accounting principles, financial accounting and basic accounting concepts |
Economics and Governance | CAG, Finance Commission and important governance institutions |
Microeconomics | Demand, supply, production, costs and market structures |
Indian economy | Nature and major sectors of the Indian economy |
Economic reforms | Liberalisation, privatisation and globalisation |
Money and banking | Monetary concepts, banking structure and financial institutions |
Governance technology | Use of information technology in governance |
Important: Candidates targeting audit and accounts posts should consult the detailed Paper-III syllabus in the official notification instead of relying only on general economics notes.
SSC CGL Negative Marking
Examination component | Marks for correct answer | Penalty for wrong answer |
|---|---|---|
Tier-I | 2 | 0.50 |
Tier-II Paper-I MCQs | 3 | 1 |
Tier-II Paper-II | 2 | 0.50 |
Tier-II Paper-III | 2 | 0.50 |
DEST | Qualifying task | Not evaluated as an MCQ paper |
Accuracy rule: Negative marking is particularly important in Tier-II Paper-I because one full mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.
Tier-I vs Tier-II
Basis | Tier-I | Tier-II |
|---|---|---|
Role | Shortlisting | Final merit |
Difficulty focus | Speed and basic application | Deeper application and accuracy |
Sectional timing | 15 minutes per subject | Separate subject-wise timers |
Negative marking | 0.50 per wrong answer | Paper-I: 1; Papers II and III: 0.50 |
Specialized papers | No | Statistics and Finance/Economics |
Computer test | No | Mandatory and qualifying |
DEST | No | Mandatory and qualifying, subject to exemptions |
Final-rank importance | Indirect | Direct |
Memory line: Tier-I gets you into the competition; Tier-II decides your position in it.
Post-Wise Merit Calculation
Post category | Marks considered for merit | Qualifying requirements |
|---|---|---|
JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II | Paper-I Sections I and II plus Paper-II | Computer and DEST |
Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer | Paper-I Sections I and II plus Paper-III | Paper-I qualifying sections |
Posts with prescribed DEST | Paper-I Sections I and II | Computer at normal standard and DEST at higher standard |
Computer-proficiency posts | Paper-I Sections I and II | Computer and DEST at higher standards |
Other posts | Paper-I Sections I and II | Computer and DEST at normal qualifying standards |
How to Prepare for SSC CGL 2026
Preparation stage | Recommended work |
|---|---|
Concept building | Learn mathematics formulas, grammar rules, reasoning methods and core GA concepts |
Chapter practice | Solve questions immediately after completing every topic |
Previous papers | Identify SSC’s recurring concepts and question styles |
Sectional tests | Follow the exact official timer for each subject |
Full mock tests | Simulate Tier-I and both Tier-II sessions |
Error analysis | Classify errors as conceptual, calculation, reading or guessing mistakes |
Revision | Maintain separate formula, grammar, GA and computer notes |
Specialized preparation | Study Statistics or Finance/Economics only when targeting the relevant posts |
Suggested preparation priorities
- Prepare the common Tier-I and Tier-II subjects together.
- Practise with the official sectional timers.
- Improve accuracy before increasing attempts.
- Do not postpone Computer Knowledge and DEST merely because they are qualifying.
- Begin Paper-II or Paper-III preparation early when targeting the corresponding posts.
- Maintain a regular revision and mock-analysis schedule.
Final Quick-Revision Table
Important point | Rule or value |
|---|---|
Tier-I questions | 100 |
Tier-I maximum marks | 200 |
Tier-I duration | 60 minutes |
Tier-I sectional timer | 15 minutes per subject |
Tier-I negative marking | 0.50 per wrong answer |
Tier-II Paper-I | Compulsory for all posts |
Maths timer in Paper-I | 30 minutes |
Reasoning timer in Paper-I | 30 minutes |
English timer in Paper-I | 40 minutes |
GA timer in Paper-I | 20 minutes |
Computer timer | 15 minutes |
DEST duration | 15 minutes |
Paper-I negative marking | 1 mark per wrong MCQ |
Paper-II | Statistics: 100 questions, 200 marks |
Paper-III | Finance and Economics: 100 questions, 200 marks |
Paper-II and III penalty | 0.50 per wrong answer |
Final merit | Based on the relevant Tier-II components |
Final allotment | Merit-cum-preference, eligibility and available vacancies |
Conclusion
SSC CGL 2026 preparation must be aligned with the candidate’s desired post. All candidates take Tier-II Paper-I, but Statistics candidates must additionally prepare for Paper-II, while candidates targeting Assistant Audit Officer or Assistant Accounts Officer must prepare for Paper-III.
The introduction of subject-wise timers makes time management important in both tiers. Candidates should therefore practise individual subjects under the exact official time limits rather than depending only on unrestricted full-length tests.
Final theory line: Prepare according to the post you want—not merely according to the name of the examination—because the merit-counting papers and qualifying standards vary by post.