SSC CGL 2026: exam pattern, syllabus, cutoff and free mocks
Combined Graduate Level Examination · Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
- Tier-I
- 100 questions · 200 marks
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Marking
- +2 for a right answer, −0.5 for a wrong one
- Mocks on Mock Matrix
- 236 tests, on the real exam screen
SSC CGL recruits graduates to Group B and Group C posts in central government ministries, departments and offices — Assistant Section Officer, Income Tax Inspector, Excise and GST Inspector, Auditor, Accountant, Junior Statistical Officer and many more.
Selection runs in two computer-based tiers. Tier-I screens candidates; the final merit list is drawn from Tier-II, followed by document verification and, for some posts, physical or medical standards.
At a glance
Eligibility
A bachelor's degree from a recognised university, completed by the cut-off date in the notification. Some posts need a specific subject (for example Statistics for Junior Statistical Officer).
Age limits depend on the post, typically between 18 and 32 years, with relaxation for reserved categories (for example SC/ST 5 years, OBC 3 years, PwBD 10 years). Always check the notification for the exact limits for each post.
Free SSC CGL mocks
Frequently asked questions
Is there negative marking in SSC CGL?
Yes. In Tier-I a wrong answer costs 0.5 marks (a right one earns 2). In Tier-II Paper I a wrong answer costs 1 mark (a right one earns 3).
Is Tier-I counted in the final merit?
No. Under the current scheme Tier-I is a screening test and the final merit is based on Tier-II. Check the latest notification, as SSC can change this.
How many attempts are allowed?
There is no limit on attempts; you can apply every year while you are within the age limit for your category.
Information is based on the latest official notification at the time of writing. Always confirm with the official notice on ssc.gov.in. Mock Matrix is not affiliated with SSC.
Take a free mock on the real exam screen.
All-India rank, cutoff gap and a coach for negative marking — in minutes.