Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has outlined the complete SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026 for candidates preparing for one of the most popular government exams in India. The official details will be released on the SSC website - ssc.gov.in. Before beginning their preparation, aspirants must understand the SSC CGL exam pattern 2026 as it helps them know the stages of the exam, marking scheme, time duration and the number of questions asked. With a clear understanding of the pattern, candidates can prepare more effectively for every tier of the SSC CGL exam.
Table of Contents
The SSC CGL 2026 exam pattern includes two stages – Tier 1 and Tier 2, both conducted online. This detailed guide covers everything from exam stages to marking schemes and duration. Candidates should go through the entire article to understand every part of the SSC CGL selection process.
SSC CGL exam pattern 2026 - Stages
SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam (Objective) – Online Mode
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam – Online Mode
SSC CGL Tier 1 exam pattern 2026
Candidates who submit the SSC CGL application form 2026 are eligible for the Tier 1 exam. This computer-based exam includes four subjects – General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English Comprehension. Tier 1 includes negative marking, where 0.50 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
Check the complete SSC CGL Tier 1 exam pattern 2026 below.
SSC CGL exam pattern 2026 - Tier 1
Some important points to note:
The exam is conducted online in objective multiple-choice format.
Questions will be available in both English and Hindi (except English section).
Negative marking of 0.50 marks applies to each wrong answer.
SSC CGL Tier 1 Paper Pattern 2026
| Sections | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Time Allotted |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 | A cumulative time of 60 minutes |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Fig: SSC CGL Tier 1 Paper Pattern
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates who clear Tier 1 can appear for Tier 2. This level is considered more challenging and includes questions from Quantitative Ability, English Language, General Studies (Finance & Economics), Statistics and Computer Knowledge.
Check the complete SSC CGL Tier 2 pattern and marks distribution below.
SSC CGL 2026 Exam Pattern - Tier 2
Points to note: SSC CGL New Pattern 2026
- Tier II includes Paper-I, Paper-II and Paper-III held on separate days/shifts.
- Paper-I is compulsory for all posts.
- Paper-II is only for JSO (Junior Statistical Officer).
- Paper-III is for Assistant Audit Officer & Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
- Computer Knowledge Test (Module I of Section III) is compulsory and qualifying.
- Negative marking: • 1 mark for wrong answers in Paper-I (Section-I, II and Module-I of Section-III) • 0.50 marks for wrong answers in Paper-II & Paper-III
SSC CGL 2026 Tier 2 Exam Pattern
| Paper | Session | Subject | No of questions | Maximum marks | Time allowed |
| Paper 1 | Session 1 |
Section-I: Module-I: Mathematical Abilities Module-II: Reasoning and General Intelligence |
30+30= 60 | 180 | 1 hour |
|
Section-II: Module-I: English Language and Comprehension Module-II: General Awareness |
45+25=70 | 210 | |||
|
Section-III: Module-I: Computer Knowledge Module |
20 | 60 | |||
| Session 2 |
Section-III: Module-II: Data Entry Speed Test |
Only data entry task | 15 minutes | ||
| Paper 2 | Statistics | 100 | 200 | 2 hours | |
| Paper 3 | General Studies (Finance and Economics) | 100 | 200 | ||
SSC CGL syllabus 2026
Candidates must thoroughly review the SSC CGL 2026 syllabus along with the pattern. SSC releases a detailed syllabus for both tiers, helping candidates plan their preparation smartly and focus on important topics. A well-structured strategy based on the syllabus can improve accuracy and speed in the exam.
SSC CGL Question Papers 2026
After understanding the exam pattern and syllabus, aspirants should solve previous years’ SSC CGL question papers. Many coaching platforms release memory-based papers with solutions. Practicing these papers helps candidates understand question trends, difficulty level, and improves time management.
SSC CGL Answer Key 2026
The SSC CGL answer key 2026, both provisional and final, will be released on the official website – ssc.gov.in. Separate answer keys for Tier 1 and Tier 2 will be available. The answer key helps candidates calculate expected scores and check their performance.
SSC CGL Preparation tips
SSC CGL is one of the most competitive government exams. A strong preparation strategy is essential. Here are some useful tips to boost your SSC CGL 2026 preparation:
- Understand the SSC CGL syllabus and exam pattern.
- Solve previous year question papers regularly.
- Attempt mock tests for better speed and accuracy.
- Follow a realistic study timetable religiously.
- Use the best SSC CGL books and avoid switching materials.
- Stay away from misinformation and focus on your strategy.
- Make short revision notes.
- Maintain good health, sleep well and stay positive.
SSC CGL books 2026
Here are some of the best recommended SSC CGL 2026 books for different subjects:
| Objective General English | SP Bakshi (Arihant) |
| Competitive General English | Kiran Prakashan |
| Perfect Competitive English | V.K. Sinha |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Dr R.S. Agarwal |
| NCERT Maths (Class 6 – 11) | NCERT |
| Logical and Analytical Reasoning | A.K. Gupta |
| How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning | Arun Sharma |
| General Knowledge | Lucent |
FAQs
Q. What is the exam pattern of SSC CGL 2026?
A. The SSC CGL 2026 exam includes Tier 1 and Tier 2, both conducted online with objective-type questions. Tier 1 has 4 sections, while Tier 2 includes multiple papers with different modules.
Q. Is SSC CGL tougher than the CAT exam?
A. Both exams serve different purposes. CAT is tougher in terms of difficulty level, while SSC CGL is tough due to competition and large number of applicants.
Q. Is SSC CGL a tough exam?
A. SSC CGL is moderately tough. With consistent practice and proper strategy, candidates can crack it successfully.
Q. Is there negative marking in the SSC CGL exam?
A. Yes. Tier 1 has 0.50 negative marking per wrong answer. Tier 2 has 1 mark or 0.50 mark negative marking depending on the paper.
Q. How many stages are there stages in the SSC CGL exam?
A. There are two stages – Tier 1 and Tier 2.
Q. What are the subjects covered in SSC CGL 2026 Syllabus?
A. Maths, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Statistics, Finance & Economics, and Computer Knowledge depending on the tier/paper.
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