The SSC CGL selection process consists of two online exam stages — a qualifying Tier 1 exam and a merit-deciding Tier 2 exam — followed by Document Verification (DV) and, for certain executive posts, Physical or Medical Tests.
SSC CGL Selection Process 2026
The final merit rank and post allotment are based only on Tier 2 performance. Tier 1 is used only for shortlisting candidates for Tier 2.
- Tier 1 Exam (Qualifying Stage)
- Tier 2 Exam (Merit-Deciding Stage)
- Document Verification (DV) & Post Preference
- Physical Standards & Medical Test
Tier 1 Exam (Qualifying Stage)
SSC CGL Tier 1 is the first phase of the exam conducted to shortlist candidates for the Tier 2 examination in the SSC CGL selection process. It is an online examination based on computer having objective type multiple choice questions (MCQs).
The examination has 100 questions and total marks of 200. The candidates are given 60 minutes of time to complete the exam.
Exam Pattern
- Mode: Online (Computer-Based Test)
- Type: Objective Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 200
- Total Duration: 60 Minutes
Note:
SSC CGL Tier 1 is a one-hour computer-based examination divided into four parts, each part dedicated to a different subject. Every part has 15 minutes, and when the 15 minutes of that part end, it is automatically locked. The candidate cannot reopen that part.
Marking Scheme
- Correct Answer: +2 Marks
- Wrong Answer: -0.50 Marks
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 Minutes |
Tier 2 Exam (Merit-Deciding Stage)
Tier 2 is the main exam in the SSC CGL which decide the final merit list and rank of the student. And the post decide according to your mark. If you score more marks in Tier 2, you will get a better post in SSC CGL.
In SSC CGL, there are 3 paper are conducted in Tier 2 depending on post applied by you.
Paper 1 (Compulsory for All Posts)
- Every candidate must appear for Paper 1.
- Paper 1 is divided into three sections, and candidates must clear the sectional cutoff in each section.
Marking Scheme of SSC CGL TIer 2: Paper 1
- Correct Answer: +3 Marks
- Wrong Answer: -1 Mark
- (Applicable for Sections I & II)
SSC CGL TIer 2: Paper 1 Structure
| Section | Module | Questions | Marks | Duration / Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I (Session-I) | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 1 Hour |
| Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | ||
| Section II (Session-I) | English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 1 Hour |
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 | ||
| Section III (Session-I) | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 Questions / 60 Marks | 15 Minutes | |
| Section IV (Session-II) | Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) | 2000 Key Depressions | 15 Minutes | |
Paper-II (For JSO/SI Grade-II)
- Applicable only for candidates applying for:
- Junior Statistical Officer (JSO)
- Statistical Investigator Grade-II
- Pattern
- Questions: 100
- Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Correct Answer: +2 Marks
- Wrong Answer: -0.5 Mark
Paper-III (For AAO/AAO)
- Applicable only for:
- Assistant Audit Officer (AAO)
- Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO)
- Pattern
- Questions: 100
- Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Correct Answer: +2 Marks
- Wrong Answer: -0.5 Mark
Document Verification (DV) & Post Preference
Those candidates who clear the Tier 2 cutoff are called for Document Verification (DV). At this stage, candidates have to show the original documents for verification.
Document Verification (DV)
- The candidates who clear the Tier 2 cutoff are called for Document Verification (DV).
- For the verification process, all original documents and supporting certificates must be produced.
- Non-submission of valid documents shall result in cancellation of candidature.
Post Preference Submission
- After the examination process, candidates have to apply through the SSC portal for their post preference.
- For the allocation of posts, Tier 2 marks, category, and post preferences are considered.
- Candidates who do not submit their post preferences within the stipulated date will not be eligible for final selection.
Documents Required for SSC CGL DV
- Matriculation (10th Class) Certificate – Proof of Date of Birth.
- Graduation Degree / Provisional Degree Certificate.
- Category Certificate: (SC/ST/OBC/EWS), if applicable.
- PwBD Certificate: if applicable.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) for candidates already employed in Government service, if applicable.
- Photo Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Passport, etc.
- Any other document specified by the SSC in the official notification.
Physical Standards & Medical Test
For some SSC CGL posts, candidates have to clear the Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), and Medical Examination. Candidates for such posts shall be required to meet the prescribed physical and medical standards.
Posts Requiring Physical & Medical Tests
- Inspector (Central Excise)
- Examiner
- Preventive Officer
- Sub-Inspector in CBI
- Sub-Inspector in NIA
Physical Standard Test (PST)
- Height
- Weight
- Chest Measurement (for male candidates)
- Physical Endurance Test (PET)
Physical Endurance Test (PET)
- Walking Test
- Cycling Test
Medical Examination
- Vision Test
- Color Vision Test
- General Physical Fitness Examination
Some of the posts under SSC CGL have strict eyesight and color blindness criteria. Candidates must be able to satisfy the required medical conditions.
Final Selection Process
The final selection of candidates in SSC CGL is based on the following factors:
- Qualification in Tier 1
- Tier 2 Marks
- Post Preference Submitted by the Candidate
- Category-wise Cutoff
- Document Verification (DV)
- Physical & Medical Qualification (for applicable posts)
Tier 1 marks are not considered for the final SSC CGL merit list.
Tier 1 is a qualifying one only and is used for shortlisting the candidates for Tier 2.