SSC CGL 2026 Graduate Level Examination – Complete Guide, Eligibility, Dates & Preparation
The wait is over! Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the official notification for Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2026. This is one of the most sought-after graduate-level examinations in India for Group B and Group C posts in various ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | April 2026 |
| Application Start | April 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | May 2026 |
| Tier-1 Exam | August 2026 |
| Tier-2 Exam | December 2026 |
| Result | February 2027 |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Bachelor degree in any discipline from recognized university
- Various posts have specific educational requirements
Age Limit
- General Category: 18-32 years
- OBC: 18-35 years
- SC/ST: 18-37 years
- Age relaxation as per government rules
Exam Pattern
Tier-1 (Computer Based – 200 Marks)
| Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 50 | 1 Hour |
| General Awareness | 50 | 1 Hour |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 1 Hour |
| English Comprehension | 50 | 1 Hour |
Tier-2 (Computer Based – 400 Marks)
| Paper | Subject | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | Quantitative Abilities | 200 |
| Paper-II | English Language and Comprehension | 200 |
| Paper-III | Statistics (for Statistical Investigator) | 200 |
| Paper-IV | General Studies (Finance & Economics) | 200 |
Tier-3 (Descriptive – 100 Marks)
English/Hindi – Essay, Precis, Letter, Application
Tier-4 (Skill Test)
Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) / Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)
Best Books for SSC CGL Preparation
Quantitative Aptitude
- Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
- Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma
- NCERT Mathematics (Class 6-12)
English
- Plinth to Paramount by KD Publication
- Mirror of Common Errors by A. K. Singh
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
Reasoning
- Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by S. Chand
General Awareness
- Lucent General Knowledge
- Static GK by Arihant
- Current Affairs – Monthly compilations
Online Resources
- Gradeup – Free mock tests
- SSCTube – Video lectures
- Career Power – Test series
- Adda247 – Daily quizzes
Application Fee
| Category | Fees |
|---|---|
| General/OBC | Rs 100 |
| SC/ST/PwD/Female | Exempted |
Selection Process
- Step 1: Online Application
- Step 2: Tier-1 (CBT) – Qualifying
- Step 3: Tier-2 (CBT) – Main
- Step 4: Tier-3 (Descriptive)
- Step 5: Tier-4 (Skill Test)
- Step 6: Document Verification
Posts Available through SSC CGL
- Assistant Section Officer
- Inspector (Central Excise)
- Inspector (Income Tax)
- Inspector (Preventive Officer)
- Inspector (Examiner)
- Sub-Inspector in CBI
- Statistical Investigator Grade-II
- Auditor/Accountant/Junior Accountant
- Upper Division Clerk
- And various Group B & C posts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the last date to apply for SSC CGL 2026?
The last date to apply is expected to be May 2026. Candidates should apply well before the last date to avoid technical issues.
2. Is graduation mandatory for SSC CGL?
Yes, a Bachelor degree (minimum 3 years duration) from a recognized university is mandatory for most posts.
3. What is the age limit for SSC CGL?
For General category, the age limit is 18-32 years. Age relaxation is available for OBC (3 years), SC/ST (5 years), and other reserved categories.
4. How many attempts are allowed in SSC CGL?
There is no limit on attempts. However, you must satisfy the age criteria.
5. Is there negative marking in SSC CGL?
Yes, there is negative marking of 0.50 marks in Tier-1 and 0.25 marks in Tier-2 for each wrong answer.
6. What is the qualifying percentage in Tier-1?
There is no fixed qualifying percentage. Cut-off marks are determined based on available vacancies and candidate performance.
7. Which is the easiest tier in SSC CGL?
Tier-1 is generally considered easier as questions are of matriculation/10+2 level. Tier-2 requires more preparation.
8. Is Tier-3 mandatory?
Yes, Tier-3 (Descriptive Paper) is mandatory for all candidates who qualify Tier-1 and Tier-2.
9. What is DEST test in SSC CGL?
Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) requires typing 2000 words in 15 minutes in English. It is qualifying in nature for certain posts.
10. When should I start preparing for SSC CGL?
Ideally 6-8 months before the exam. Start with basic books and gradually move to mock tests.
How to Apply
- Visit Official SSC Portal: ssc.nic.in
- Register yourself on the portal
- Fill the application form with required details
- Upload photograph and signature
- Pay application fee (if applicable)
- Submit and take printout
Official Website: ssc.nic.in
Stay tuned to FreeJobsAlerts.org for more updates on SSC CGL 2026 notification, admit card, result, and cut-off marks.
