SSC CGL 2026 Syllabus & Exam Pattern | Tier 1 & 2

Section-wise weightage

Sr. No.	Section	Tier 1	Tier 2
1	Quantitative Aptitude (Maths)	25%	23%
2	General Intelligence & Reasoning	25%	23%
3	English Language & Comprehension	25%	35%
4	General Awareness	25%	19%
5	Computer Knowledge Test	–	Qualifying

Topic-wise weightage

Each sections has been broken down into important topics in the following table:

Section	Topic	Tier 1	Tier 2
Quant	Geometry	3%	2%
Quant	Profit Loss	3%	2%
Quant	Mensuration	3%	2%
Quant	Ratio	2%	1%
Quant	Algebra	2%	3%
Quant	Trigonometry	2%	2%
Quant	Time and Work	2%	1%
Quant	Average and Mixture	2%	2%
Quant	Percentage	2%	2%
Quant	Simplification	1%	3%
Quant	Number system	1%	1%
Quant	Compund Interest	1%	1%
Quant	Speed, distance time	1%	1%
Quant	Data Interpretation	0%	0%
Quant	Probability	0%	0%
Quant	Statistics	0%	0%
Reasoning	Analogy	7%	2%
Reasoning	Series	6%	1%
Reasoning	Blood relation	4%	1%
Reasoning	Coding Decoding	3%	2%
Reasoning	Visual reasoning	2%	5%
Reasoning	Verbal Reasoning	1%	7%
Reasoning	Puzzle	1%	3%
Reasoning	Direction	1%	1%
Reasoning	Seating Arrangement	0%	1%
Verbal	Grammar	10%	10%
Verbal	Vocb	8%	7%
Verbal	RC	5%	7%
Verbal	Parajumble	2%	5%
Verbal	Cloze test	0%	5%
Verbal	Word Test	0%	1%
GA	General Knowledge	13%	8%
GA	Current Affairs	8%	5%
GA	General Science	4%	6%

Points to note:

• 0% weightage does not mean the topic will never appear in the SSC CGL exam. It only indicates that the topic has been rarely tested in previous papers.
• Topic-wise weightages are derived from an analysis of previous SSC CGL exam papers. Candidates are advised to prepare all topics thoroughly, as SSC may introduce unexpected questions.
• Coordinate Geometry has been included under Geometry to provide a simplified and consolidated view of the syllabus.
• Verbal Reasoning includes Syllogism and Statement–Conclusion type questions.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern

The SSC CGL Exam is conducted in two main stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 are administered as Computer-Based Tests (CBT) featuring objective multiple-choice questions. Tier 1 is qualifying exam, while Tier 2 is the selection round.

The core syllabus includes four main subjects: General Intelligence & Reasoning, English, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Awareness. Additionally, candidates targeting specific positions must take domain-related papers. Below is a summary of the exam structure:

Exam Structure

Tier	Exam Type	Mode
Tier 1 (Qualifying round)	Objective MCQs covering – General Intelligence & Reasoning – English Comprehension – Quantitative Aptitude (Maths) and – General Awareness	Computer-Based (Online)
Tier 2 (Final selection round)	– Paper I (compulsory for all candidates) – Paper II (for JSO post candidates) – Paper III (for Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer candidates) – Objective MCQs, except for Module-II of Section-III in Paper I	Computer-Based (Online)

Tier 1 Exam Pattern

Below is the updated exam pattern for both stages.

Tier 1 is the initial stage and serves as a qualifying exam. Although marks from Tier 1 are not included in the final merit list, candidates must clear the cut-off to move on to Tier 2.

• Paper has 100 multiple-choice questions for 200 marks
• Four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
• Each section contains 25 questions.
• Candidates have 60 minutes (1 hour) to complete the exam.
• There is a penalty of 0.50 marks for every incorrect response.There is no sectional timing.

Subject	Number of Questions	Total Marks
General Intelligence & Reasoning	25	50
General Awareness	25	50
Quantitative Aptitude	25	50
English Comprehension	25	50
Total	100	200

Tier 2 Exam Pattern

SSC CGL Tier 2 is the final and most important stage of the selection process. It consists of Paper I (mandatory for all posts) and Paper II (only for candidates applying for Junior Statistical Officer – JSO posts).

Paper	Posts
Paper I	Mandatory for all posts
Paper II	Only for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO)

The SSC CGL Tier 2 consists of Paper I being held over two sessions—Session I and Session II—in separate days/shifts. All candidates who pass Paper I must appear in both sessions. Session I covers Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III, while Session II includes Module II of Section III. Candidates are required to clear all sections of Paper I to qualify.

Paper	Section	Module	Sections	No. of Questions	Marks	Time Duration
Paper 1	Section-I	Module-I	Mathematical Abilities	30	90	1 hour
		Module-II	Reasoning & General Intelligence	30	90
	Section-II	Module-I	English Language and Comprehension	45	135	1 hour
		Module-II	General Awareness	25	75
	Section-III	Module-I	Computer Proficiency	20	60 (Qualifying)	15 minutes
		Module-II	Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)	–	Qualifying	15 minutes
Paper 2	–	–	Statistics	100	200	2 hours

Paper I Summary

• Total Questions: 155
• Total Marks: 390
• Computer Proficiency & DEST are qualifying in nature
• Candidates must qualify in all sections

Negative Marking (Paper I)

• 1 mark deducted for each wrong answer in:
  • Mathematical Abilities
  • Reasoning & General Intelligence
  • English Language & Comprehension
• 0.50 mark deducted for each wrong answer in:
  • General Awareness
• No negative marking in Computer Proficiency Test & DEST

Negative Marking (Paper II)

• 0.50 mark deducted for every incorrect answer
• Paper II marks are considered only for JSO candidates

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SSC CGL Normalization Process

Since SSC CGL is conducted in multiple shifts on different days, the difficulty level of question papers may vary slightly. To ensure fairness, SSC follows a normalization process before declaring results.

Why Normalization is Applied

• Exam is conducted in multiple shifts
• Difficulty level may differ across shifts
• Ensures no candidate is disadvantaged due to a tougher shift

How Normalization Works

• Raw marks obtained by candidates are converted into normalized scores
• Statistical formula is used by SSC
• Final merit and cut-off are decided based on normalized marks
• Candidates are ranked according to normalized scores, not raw marks

Important Points

• Normalization applies to both Tier 1 and Tier 2
• The exact formula is decided and applied by SSC
• Final scorecard shows normalized marks

Tier 1 Syllabus

The syllabus for Tier 1 covers the following subjects:

1. General Intelligence and Reasoning

This section assesses your ability to think logically and solve problems through both verbal and non-verbal questions. It evaluates skills like pattern recognition, analytical reasoning, and decision making. Focus Areas in this section frequently include Series, Coding-Decoding, and Analogy.

General Intelligence & Reasoning	Difficulty	Priority
Analogy	High	High
Coding Decoding	High	High
Word Test	Medium	Medium
Venn Diagrams	Medium	Medium
Missing Number	Medium	Medium
Alphanumerical Series	High	High
Syllogism	Medium	Medium
Visual Reasoning	Medium	Medium

2. General Awareness

Scoring well in the General Awareness section can make a significant difference during the SSC CGL exam, it is highly rewarding for those who prepare thoroughly, yet can be tricky for those who overlook it. Focus Areas include Science + Static GK. Static GK is more frequent than dynamic current affairs.

General Awareness Topics	Difficulty	Priority
History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern)	High	High
Geography (India & World – Physical + Political)	High	High
Polity (Constitution, Parliament, Fundamental Rights)	High	High
Economics (Basic Concepts, Budget, Inflation, RBI)	Medium	Medium
General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology – Class 6–10 level)	High	High
Current Affairs (Last 6–8 months)	High	High
Government Schemes & Committees	Medium	Medium
Sports, Awards & Honours	Medium	Low to Medium
Books & Authors	Low	Low
Important Days	Low	Low

3. Quantitative Aptitude (Numerical Ability/ Maths)

This section measures your proficiency in mathematics, focusing on accuracy, speed, and problem-solving abilities. It primarily consists of questions that require both calculations and the application of concepts. Focus Areas include Mensuration, Profit-Loss, and Percentage.

Quantitative Aptitude Topics	Difficulty	Priority
Number System	High	High
Simplification	Medium	Medium
Ratio & Proportion	Medium	High
Percentage	Medium	High
Average and Mixture	Low	Medium
Simple & Compound Interest	Low	High
Profit and Loss	High	High
Time and Work	Medium	High
Time, Speed & Distance	Medium	High
Algebra	High	High
Geometry	High	Medium
Mensuration	Medium	Medium
Trigonometry	Medium	Medium
Data Interpretation	High	High

4. English Comprehension

This segment evaluates a candidate’s grasp of English, including grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills. It tests the ability to understand, interpret, and analyze language effectively. Focus Areas include Grammar-based error spotting and cloze test.

English Comprehension Topics	Difficulty	Priority
Reading Comprehension	High	High
Cloze Test	High	High
Fill in the Blanks	Medium	High
Find Error	High	High
Synonyms Antonyms	Low	High
One Word Substitution	Medium	Medium to High
Idioms & Phrases	Medium	Medium
Active & Passive Voice	Medium	Medium
Direct & Indirect Speech	Medium	Medium
Parajumbles	High	Medium
Spelling	Low	Low to Medium

Exam Preparation Tips for Tier 1:

• Focus on maintaining a balance between speed and accuracy instead of trying to answer every question.
• Give proper attention to the General Awareness section, as it provides the highest score-to-time advantage.
• Take timed mock tests regularly to improve time management under actual exam conditions.

Tier 2 Syllabus

Topics for Tier 1 and tier 2 exams are same, thoguht the level of questions would be slightly tougher. A lot of coachings try to package same topics with different names just to sell tier 1 and tier 2 courses separately, so be aware of that. There is literally no difference.

1. Mathematical Abilities (Module I of Session I of Paper I)

2. General Intelligence and Reasoning (Module-II of Section-I of Paper-I)

3. English Language & Comprehension (Module-I of Section-II of Paper-I)

4. General Awareness (Module-II of Section-II of Paper-I)

5. Computer Proficiency (Module-I of Section-III of Paper-I)

Syllabus Topics	Sub-Topics
Computer Fundamentals	Structure and organization of a computer Central Processing Unit (CPU) Input and output devices Computer memory and its organization Backup storage devices Ports and connectors Windows Explorer usage Common keyboard shortcuts
Software	Basics of Windows Operating System along with Microsoft Office applications such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Internet and Email	Internet usage and email management including web browsing, searching, downloading and uploading files, managing email accounts, and e-banking
Networking and Security	Fundamentals of networking and cybersecurity Devices for Networking and communication protocols Security risks like hacking, viruses, worms, Trojans, and methods to prevent them

SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus- Paper 2 (Statistics)

Paper-II is applicable only to candidates who have applied for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) positions in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation and for the Statistical Investigator Grade II role in the office of the Registrar General of India (Ministry of Home Affairs). These candidates must have also been shortlisted in Tier-I for these specific posts to be eligible for Paper-II.

This paper focuses on advanced-level statistics topics relevant to these roles, while Paper-I is mandatory for all SSC CGL candidates regardless of the post applied for.

Topic	Priority	Approximate Weightage (Number of Questions)
Collection, Classification, and Presentation of Statistical Data	High	4-6
Measures of Central Tendency	High	3-5
Measures of Dispersion (Common Measures)	High	2-4
Moments, Skewness, and Kurtosis	Medium	1-2
Correlation and Regression	Medium	1-3
Probability Theory	Medium to High	2-4
Random Variable and Probability Distributions	Medium	1-3
Sampling Theory	Medium	1-2
Statistical Inference	Medium	1-3
Analysis of Variance	Low to Medium	1-2
Time Series Analysis	Low	0-1
Index Numbers	Low	0-1

SSC CGL Minimum Qualifying Marks

Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by SSC to move to the next stage of the examination.

Minimum Qualifying Marks (Category-wise)

Category	Minimum Qualifying Marks
UR (General)	30%
OBC / EWS	25%
SC / ST / PwBD	20%

Important Points

• These qualifying marks apply to Tier 1 and Tier 2.
• In Tier 2 Paper I, candidates must clear each section separately.
• Merely securing minimum qualifying marks does not guarantee selection.
• Final selection depends on:
  • Cut-off marks
  • Normalized scores
  • Number of vacancies
  • Category-wise merit

Check Cut Off Trends

SSC CGL Final Merit & Post Allocation Process

The final selection in SSC CGL is based primarily on performance in Tier 2.

Preparation of Final Merit List

• Tier 1 is qualifying in nature; its marks are not included in final merit.
• Final merit is prepared based on:
  • Tier 2 Paper I marks (for all candidates)
  • Tier 2 Paper II marks (only for JSO candidates)
• Computer Proficiency Test and DEST are qualifying in nature.
• Candidates must clear all required sections and qualifying tests.
• Merit list is prepared using normalized scores.

Post Allocation Process

Post allocation is done after the final result based on the following factors:

• Candidate’s rank in the final merit list
• Category (UR/OBC/SC/ST/EWS/PwBD)
• Post preferences filled during application
• Availability of vacancies in each post

Important Points About Post Preference

• Candidates must carefully fill post preferences during the application process.
• Higher-ranked candidates get preference for top posts.
• Once a post is allotted and accepted, it cannot be changed.
• Document verification is conducted before final appointment.

SSC CGL Salary Structure & Career Growth

SSC CGL offers attractive salary packages along with job stability, allowances, and regular promotions under the 7th Pay Commission.

SSC CGL Salary Structure (As per 7th Pay Commission)

Pay Level	Pay Scale	Common Posts
Level 4	₹25,500 – ₹81,100	Tax Assistant, Upper Division Clerk
Level 5	₹29,200 – ₹92,300	Auditor, Accountant
Level 6	₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400	Inspector (Income Tax, GST), Assistant Section Officer
Level 7	₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400	Assistant Audit Officer, Assistant Accounts Officer
Level 8	₹47,600 – ₹1,51,100	Certain senior posts

Salary Components

SSC CGL salary includes:

• Basic Pay
• Dearness Allowance (DA)
• House Rent Allowance (HRA)
• Transport Allowance (TA)
• Medical Benefits
• Pension & Other Government Benefits

Approximate In-Hand Salary

Pay Level	Approximate In-Hand Salary
Level 4	₹30,000 – ₹35,000
Level 5	₹35,000 – ₹40,000
Level 6	₹45,000 – ₹55,000
Level 7	₹60,000 – ₹70,000
Level 8	₹65,000 – ₹75,000

(In-hand salary may vary depending on city classification: X, Y, or Z city.)

Career Growth & Promotion

SSC CGL posts offer structured promotions and departmental exams for career advancement.

Income Tax Inspector

• Income Tax Inspector
• Income Tax Officer
• Assistant Commissioner
• Deputy Commissioner

Assistant Section Officer (ASO)

• Assistant Section Officer
• Section Officer
• Under Secretary
• Deputy Secretary

Auditor

• Auditor
• Senior Auditor
• Audit Officer
• Senior Audit Officer

Key Benefits of SSC CGL Jobs

• Regular promotions
• Salary increments
• Government accommodation (in some posts)
• Job security
• Work-life balance (varies by department)
• Pension benefits

Essential Tips for SSC CGL Preparation

• Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself thoroughly with the number of questions, total marks, time duration for each section, and the marking scheme including negative marking, to strategize your approach effectively.
• Create a Detailed Study Plan: Allocate specific time slots for each subject and topic based on their weightage and your proficiency. Incorporate regular revision sessions to reinforce concepts and avoid last-minute cramming.
• Practice Previous Year Question Papers: Solving past SSC CGL papers helps you get accustomed to the exam’s difficulty level, question types, and time management, boosting your confidence and performance.
• Enhance Speed and Accuracy: Focus on increasing your problem-solving speed while minimizing mistakes. This balance is crucial since high accuracy with rapid solving is required to clear competitive cut-offs.
• Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Dedicate daily time to reading newspapers, news websites, and monthly current affairs magazines to cover national, international, sports, economy, and government schemes updates.
• Identify and Improve Weak Areas: Analyse your performance in mock tests and practice papers to spot weak subjects or topics. Devote extra time to these areas with targeted practice and concept revision.
• Regular Mock Tests and Analysis: Consistently attempt full-length mock exams under real exam conditions. Review your mistakes carefully and understand the solutions to improve your weaknesses. Practicing mock tests can help build confidence before exam.
• Build Strong Conceptual Clarity: Do not rely solely on rote learning; focus on understanding fundamental concepts in quantitative aptitude, reasoning, English language, and general awareness for long-term retention.
• Time Management Practice: Develop skills to manage time efficiently during the exam so that you can attempt all questions without rushing or leaving any section incomplete.
• Focus on Shortcuts and Tricks: Learn shortcut methods and problem-solving tricks for quantitative and reasoning sections to save valuable time during the exam.
• Maintain Health and Mindset: Ensure proper sleep, balanced diet, and regular breaks during study to keep your mind fresh and focused. Stay positive and confident throughout your preparation journey.

SSC CGL is highly competitive, and a well-structured and consistent preparation strategy is vital for success. Emphasizing frequent revision, practicing mock tests, and keeping updated with current affairs will enhance your chances significantly. Maintaining discipline and a positive attitude will help you stay motivated and perform at your best on exam day.

SSC CGL Exam FAQs

Q1: What are the qualification requirements for SSC CGL?

The minimum qualification varies depending on the post, but generally, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Certain posts, such as Junior Statistical Officer or Statistical Investigator Grade-II, may require specific educational backgrounds or subject criteria like mathematics or statistics.

Q2: Is Tier 1 considered only a qualifying exam?
Yes, the Tier 1 exam is qualifying in nature. The marks obtained in Tier 1 do not contribute to the final merit list but clearing it is mandatory to advance to Tier 2.

Q3: Which tier holds the greatest importance for the final selection?
Tier 2, specifically Paper 1, is the most significant. It is mandatory for all posts and carries the highest weightage in determining the final merit.

Q4: Can candidates succeed in SSC CGL without attending coaching classes?
Definitely. Many aspirants clear SSC CGL by following a disciplined study routine, practicing mock tests regularly, and thoroughly covering the official syllabus, without the need for coaching.

Q5: Which are the highest-ranking positions available through SSC CGL?
Some of the top posts that candidates can aspire to through SSC CGL include:

• Income Tax Auditor
• Assistant Law Enforcement Officer in the Emergency Department
• Assistant Section Officer (ASO) in the Ministry of External Affairs
• Deputy Inspector in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
• Goods and Services Tax (GST) Inspector
• Deputy Auditor at the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
• District Accountant

Refer SSC CGL Previous Year Question Papers | SSC CGL Free Mock Tests | SSC CGL Topic wise Questions