SSC CGL 2026 Exam Pattern The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the SSC CGL 2026 exam in two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2, both held in online (Computer-Based Test) mode.
SSC CGL 2026 – Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SSC Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) 2026 |
| Conducting Authority | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam Stages | Tier 1 & Tier 2 |
| Mode of Exam | Online (CBT) |
| Question Type | Objective (MCQs) |
| Tier 1 Role | Qualifying |
| Tier 2 Role | Final Merit |
| Negative Marking | Yes |
| Official Website | ssc.nic.in |
SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026
Tier 1 is the first stage and is common for all candidates. It evaluates basic aptitude and general awareness.
Tier 1 Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 Minutes |
Key Highlights
- All questions are multiple-choice (MCQs)
- Each question carries 2 marks
- Negative marking applies
- Used mainly for shortlisting candidates for Tier 2
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
Tier 2 is the main examination stage and determines the final merit list.
Paper 1 (Compulsory for All Posts)
Paper 1 is conducted in two sessions on the same day.
Paper 1 Structure
| Paper | Section | Module | Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Section I | Module I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | Part of 1 hour |
| Paper 1 | Section I | Module II | Reasoning & Intelligence | 30 | 90 | Part of 1 hour |
| Paper 1 | Section II | Module I | English Language | 45 | 135 | 1 hour |
| Paper 1 | Section II | Module II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | Shared |
| Paper 1 | Section III | Computer Knowledge | Computer Basics | 20 | 60 | 15 min |
| Paper 1 | Section IV | DEST | Data Entry Test | 1 Task | Qualifying | 15 min |
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- MCQs with negative marking
- Computer Knowledge & DEST are qualifying in nature
- Marks from Paper 1 are crucial for final ranking
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 2 (For Specific Posts)
Applicable only for certain posts like Junior Statistical Officer (JSO).
| Paper | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 2 | Statistics / Specialized Subject | 100 | 200 | 2 Hours |
SSC CGL 2026 Marks Distribution
| Tier | Marks |
|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 200 (Qualifying) |
| Tier 2 Paper 1 | Main contribution to merit |
| Tier 2 Paper 2 | Only for selected posts |
| Final Merit | Based mainly on Tier 2 |
SSC CGL Negative Marking 2026
| Exam | Negative Marking |
|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 0.50 marks deducted |
| Tier 2 Paper 1 | Applicable (varies by section) |
| Tier 2 Paper 2 | 0.50 marks deducted |
Strategy Tips
- Avoid blind guessing
- Attempt questions with partial certainty
- Focus on accuracy over attempts
Important Points
- SSC CGL 2026 follows a two-tier CBT system
- No interview or descriptive exam
- Tier 2 is conducted in multiple sessions
- Accuracy plays a key role due to negative marking
- Final selection depends mainly on Tier 2 performance
FAQs – SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026
Q1. What is the SSC CGL 2026 exam structure?
The SSC CGL 2026 examination is conducted in two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Both stages are held in online (Computer-Based Test) mode. Tier 1 is a qualifying stage designed to shortlist candidates for the next round, while Tier 2 is the main examination that plays a crucial role in final selection and post allocation. Candidates must clear Tier 1 cutoff to be eligible for Tier 2.
Q2. How many questions are in Tier 1?
Tier 1 consists of a total of 100 multiple-choice questions carrying 200 marks. The paper is divided into four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Each section contains 25 questions for 50 marks. The total duration of the exam is 60 minutes, and negative marking is applicable for incorrect answers.
Q3. What subjects are included in Tier 2 Paper 1?
Tier 2 Paper 1 includes several important subjects such as Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, and General Awareness. In addition, it also includes a Computer Knowledge test and a Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). While most sections contribute to the final merit, the Computer Knowledge and DEST modules are generally qualifying in nature.
Q4. Is Tier 1 counted in final merit?
No, Tier 1 marks are usually not considered while preparing the final merit list. Its primary purpose is to screen candidates and shortlist them for Tier 2. However, candidates must perform well enough to clear the cutoff.
Q5. What determines the final merit?
The final merit list is mainly based on the marks obtained in Tier 2, especially Paper 1. For certain posts, marks from Paper 2 are also included. Accuracy and performance in Tier 2 are key factors for final selection.