SSC CGL- Exam Pattern, Syllabus & Preparation

The SSC CGL 2026 notification announced 12,256 vacancies across Group B and Group C posts. Vacancy counts vary each cycle - recent cycles have ranged roughly between 12,000 and 18,000 - and the final count is often revised after the notification.

For most posts the age limit is 18–27 years as on the cut-off date in the notification. Some posts allow up to 30 or 32 years. Relaxation: SC/ST +5 years, OBC +3 years, PwD +10 years.

Yes. Tier 1 deducts 0.50 marks per wrong answer. In Tier 2 Paper I, the deduction is 1 mark per wrong answer in Sections I and II (Maths and Reasoning plus English) and 0.50 marks in the Computer Knowledge module, as per recent notifications. Always confirm in the current year's notification.

There is no limit on attempts. You can apply every year as long as you meet the age and eligibility criteria for the posts you choose.

From the 2026 cycle, Tier 1 has sectional timing - each of the four sections gets a fixed 15 minutes and you cannot switch back. Tier 2 continues with Paper I mandatory for all, Paper II only for Junior Statistical Officer, and Paper III only for AAO posts.

It depends on the post and city. For Level 6 posts (₹35,400–₹1,12,400 pay scale), gross in-hand salary with HRA and DA in metros is roughly ₹50,000–₹65,000 per month. Level 7 and Level 8 posts like Income Tax Inspector and AAO earn more.

Inspector of Income Tax and Assistant Audit Officer are widely considered the best - AAO is a gazetted Level 8 post, and Income Tax Inspector offers strong career growth and field exposure. The best fit depends on your preference for desk vs field roles and posting location.

Cut-offs vary by year, category, and vacancy count. In recent cycles the General category Tier 1 cut-off has typically ranged around 120–160 out of 200. Fewer vacancies generally push cut-offs higher, so aim well above the previous year's mark.

Yes. Final-year graduation students can apply, but they must possess the degree (or proof of passing) by the cut-off date given in the notification, verified at document verification.

Yes, CGL is tougher - it demands graduate-level depth, has a more competitive Tier 2, and attracts stronger competition because the posts (and salaries) are better. CHSL questions are closer to 10+2 level. Many aspirants prepare for both since the syllabi overlap heavily.

Most successful candidates prepare seriously for 6–12 months. With a graduate-level base, 4–6 months of disciplined study plus regular mock tests can be enough. Start with concepts, then shift to timed practice - you can take free SSC CGL mock tests and topic-wise practice questions on PrepClever.

The fee has typically been ₹100 for General/OBC male candidates, with women, SC, ST, PwD, and ex-servicemen exempted. Confirm the exact fee in the current notification on ssc.gov.in.