SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Tier 1 & Tier 2 Exam Pattern, PDF Download
Access the comprehensive SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 for AAO, JSO, and other Group B & C posts. Stay updated with the latest sectional timing rules in the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and download the official Tier 1 and Tier 2 syllabus PDF.
SSC CGL Syllabus 2026
Candidates must be aware that the SSC CGL exam includes a negative marking scheme, where points are deducted for each incorrect attempt. Since the core curriculum overlaps between Tier 1 and Tier 2, an integrated preparation strategy is highly recommended. Mastering the entire syllabus early will significantly boost your confidence and performance across both exam stages.
Key Updates to the SSC CGL Syllabus & Pattern 2026
The SSC has implemented mandatory sectional timing for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations.
The Tier 2 structure now features three papers, with Paper 3 specifically for AAO post aspirants.
SSC CGL Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026 – Highlights
| Particular | Details |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission |
| Exam Name | SSC CGL 2026 |
| Selection Process | Tier 1 and Tier 2 |
| Total Questions |
|
| Total Marks |
|
| Questions Type | MCQ-based |
| Exam Medium | Hindi and English |
| Negative Marking |
|
Official SSC CGL 2026 Notification Released – View Details Here
SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026
The SSC CGL selection process is structured into multiple key stages:
- Tier 1 (CBT)
- Tier 2 (CBT + Skill/Typing Test)
- Document Verification

SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026
Tier 1 serves as the primary qualifying stage, carrying a maximum of 200 marks.
- The exam is divided into four sections. Each section has 25 questions for 50 marks and now carries its own 15-minute sectional timer.
- You will get 60 minutes to complete the entire paper. Candidates who need a scribe will be given 1 hour 20 minutes.
- There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for every wrong answer. So be careful while guessing.
|
Section
|
No. of Questions
|
Marks
|
Duration |
|
English Comprehension
|
25
|
25×2 = 50 | 15 Mins |
|
General Awareness
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25
|
25×2 = 50 | 15 Mins |
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General Intelligence & Reasoning
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25
|
25×2 = 50 | 15 Mins |
|
Quantitative Aptitude
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25
|
25×2 = 50 | 15 Mins |
|
Total
|
100
|
200
|
1 hour
|
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
The Tier 2 exam comprises Paper I, II, and III. This stage demands an advanced level of preparation and includes a mandatory Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) to assess typing accuracy.
|
Tier 2 Paper I Exam Pattern (Compulsory for All Posts)
|
|||||
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Sessions
|
Section
|
Subject
|
No. of Questions
|
Marks
|
Duration
|
|
I (2 Hour 15 Mins)
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Section I
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A: Mathematical Abilities
|
30
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30×3=90 | 30 Mins |
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B: Reasoning and General Intelligence
|
30
|
30×3=90 | 30 Mins | ||
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Section II
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A: English Language & Comprehension
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45
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45×3=135
|
40 Mins | |
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B: General Awareness
|
25
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25×3=75
|
20 Mins | ||
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Section III
|
Computer Knowledge Test
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20
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20×3=60
|
15 Minutes
|
|
| II |
Section IV
|
Data Entry Speed Test
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1 Task
|
–
|
15 Minutes
|
|
Total
|
–
|
450
|
2 Hours 30 Mins
|
||
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 2 Exam Pattern 2026
Paper II is exclusively for candidates applying for the roles of Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) and Statistical Investigator Grade-II.
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Paper II
|
Subject
|
No. of Questions
|
Maximum Marks
|
Duration
|
|
For JSO Only
|
Statistics
|
100
|
100×2=200 |
2 Hours (2 hours and 40 minutes for the candidates eligible)
|
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 3 Exam Pattern 2026
Paper III is conducted specifically for candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) and Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) posts following their performance in Tier I.
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Paper III
|
Subject
|
No. of Questions
|
Maximum Marks
|
Duration
|
|
For AAO only
|
General Studies (Finance and Economics) |
100
|
100×2=200 |
2 Hours (2 hours and 40 minutes for the candidates eligible)
|
SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus
Below is the detailed subject-wise syllabus for the SSC CGL Tier 1 examination.
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
- Whole numbers, Decimals, and fractions
- Percentage
- Ratio & Proportion
- Averages
- Profit and Loss, Discount, Interest
- Partnershi
- Mixture and Alligation
- Time and Distance
- Time & Work
- Square/Cube Roots
- Elementary Surds
- Arithmetic Number Series
- Graphs of Linear Equations
- Triangle and its centres
- Quadrilaterals
- Regular Polygons
- Circle (chords, tangents, angles, common tangents)
- Right Prism, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder
- Sphere, Hemispheres, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Regular Right Pyramid
- Heights and Distances
- Trigonometric Ratio, Degree and Radian Measures, Standard Identities, Complementary Angles
- Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Bar Diagram, Pie Chart
General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus
- Analogies
- Space Visualisation
- Problem-solving, Analysis,
- Decision Making
- Visual Memory
- Blood Relations
- Arithmetical Reasoning
- Figural Classification
- Non-verbal Series
- Coding and Decoding
- Statement Conclusion
- Syllogism
- Number Series
English Language Syllabus
- Idioms and Phrases
- One Word Substitution
- Sentence Correction
- Sentence Improvement
- Error Spotting
- Fill in the Blanks
- Spelling Correction
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Active and Passive Voice
- Sentence Rearrangement
- Cloze Test
- Reading Comprehension
General Awareness Syllabus
- India and its neighbouring countries
- Science & Technology
- Current Affairs
- Books and Authors
- Sports
- Important Schemes
- Important Days
- People in the News
- Portfolio
- Static GK
- History and Culture
- Geography
- Polity
- Economy
SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus
Start your Tier 2 preparation alongside Tier 1 to avoid last-minute pressure. Many aspirants mistakenly delay advanced topics, but a synchronized study plan ensures comprehensive coverage and better retention, ultimately leading to higher success rates.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Mathematical Abilities Syllabus
The topic-wise Quantitative Aptitude syllabus for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 is outlined below.
Number System & Arithmetic
- Whole numbers, decimals, and fractions
- Relationships between numbers
- Percentage
- Ratio and proportion
- Square roots
- Averages
- Simple and compound interest
- Profit, loss, and discount
- Partnership business
- Mixture and allegation
- Time and distance
- Time and work
Algebra
- Basic algebraic identities
- Elementary surds
- Graphs of linear equations
Geometry & Mensuration
- Triangles and their centres
- Congruence and similarity of triangles
- Quadrilaterals and polygons
- Circles (chords, tangents, angles, common tangents)
- 3D figures: Prism, Cone, Cylinder, Sphere Hemispheres, Parallelepiped, Pyramid
Trigonometry
- Trigonometric ratios
- Complementary angles
- Standard identities (e.g., sin²θ + cos²θ = 1)
- Heights and distances
Data Interpretation & Statistics
- Tables and graphs (Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Bar Chart, Pie Chart)
- Mean, Median, Mode
- Standard Deviation
- Basic probability
SSC CGL Tier 2 General Intelligence and Reasoning Syllabus
The Reasoning and General Intelligence section is crucial for both tiers. Diligent practice across these topics is essential to secure high marks:
- Semantic analogy
- Number/symbolic analogy
- Figural analogy
- Semantic classification
- Number/symbolic classification
- Figural classification
- Semantic series
- Number series
- Figural series
- Letter and number coding-decoding
- Small & capital letter classification
- Symbolic operations
- Syllogism
- Statement and conclusion
- Drawing inferences
- Analytical reasoning
- Judgment and decision making
- Problem solving
- Arithmetical reasoning
- Numerical operations
- Trends and patterns
- Space visualisation and orientation
- Visual memory and observation
- Embedded figures
- Punched hole / paper folding & unfolding
- Figural completion and pattern folding
- Venn diagram-based questions
- Indexing
- Address, date, and city matching
- Classification of roll numbers/centre codes
- Word building
- Discrimination
- Relationship concepts
- Critical thinking
- Emotional intelligence
- Social intelligence
SSC CGL Tier 2 English Language & Comprehension Syllabus
The English Language syllabus covers comprehensive topics for both Tier 1 and Tier 2. To excel, we recommend consistent reading of editorials, English newspapers, and engaging with diverse media content.
- Passages based on literature and current affairs
- Inference and understanding-based questions
- Synonyms and antonyms
- One word substitution
- Idioms and phrases
- Homonyms
- Word usage
- Error spotting
- Sentence correction
- Fill in the blanks
- Spelling errors
- Sentence improvement
- Sentence rearrangement/reordering
- Active and passive voice
- Direct and indirect speech
- Passage-based fill-in-the-blanks
SSC CGL Tier 2 General Awareness Syllabus
The General Awareness (GA) section spans Current Affairs, Static GK, Science, and essential topics pertaining to daily life.
Current Affairs
- National and international current events
- Important days and events
- People in news
- Recent government schemes
Static GK
- India and its neighbouring countries
- History and culture
- Geography
- Economic scene
- General policy
Science & Research
- Basic science awareness
- Scientific research and developments
- Environmental awareness and its application to society
Miscellaneous
- Books and authors
- Sports
- Important portfolios
- Daily observations and practical knowledge
SSC CGL Tier 2 Computer Knowledge and Proficiency Syllabus
The Computer Knowledge module tests proficiency in basics, software, internet usage, email protocols, and cybersecurity. Specific sub-topics are detailed below.
- CPU, I/O Devices
- Memory & Storage
- Backup Devices
- Ports
- Windows Explorer
- Keyboard Shortcuts
- Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
- Web Browsing & Searching
- File Downloading/Uploading
- Email Account Management
- e-Banking Basics
- Network Devices & Protocols
- Information Security Threats (Viruses, Worms, Trojan, etc.)
- Prevention Measures
Check Eligibility: Number of Attempts Allowed in SSC CGL Exam
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 2 Statistics Syllabus (For JSO Post Only)
Paper 1 (Statistics) is mandatory only for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) applicants. It covers key statistical concepts, including:
1. Collection, Classification, and Presentation of Data
- Primary and Secondary data
- Methods of data collection
- Tabulation of data
- Graphs and charts
- Frequency distributions
- Diagrammatic presentation of frequency distributions
2. Measures of Central Tendency
- Mean, Median, Mode
- Quartiles, Deciles, Percentiles
3. Measures of Dispersion
- Range
- Quartile deviation
- Mean deviation
- Standard deviation
- Relative dispersion
4. Moments, Skewness, and Kurtosis
- Types of moments
- Meaning of skewness and measures
- Meaning of kurtosis and measures
5. Correlation and Regression
- Scatter diagram
- Simple correlation coefficient
- Regression lines
- Spearman’s rank correlation
- Association of attributes
- Multiple regression
- Multiple and partial correlation (for 3 variables)
6. Probability Theory
- Meaning and definitions of probability
- Conditional probability
- Compound probability
- Independent events
- Bayes’ theorem
7. Random Variable and Probability Distributions
- Random variable
- Probability functions
- Expectation and variance
- Higher moments
- Binomial distribution
- Poisson distribution
- Normal distribution
- Exponential distribution
- Joint distribution of two discrete variables
8. Sampling Theory
- Population and sample
- Parameter and statistic
- Sampling and non-sampling errors
- Probability and non-probability sampling techniques:
- Simple random sampling
- Stratified sampling
- Multistage sampling
- Multiphase sampling
- Cluster sampling
- Systematic sampling
- Purposive sampling
- Convenience sampling
- Quota sampling
- Sampling distribution (statement only)
- Sample size decisions
9. Statistical Inference
- Point estimation and interval estimation
- Properties of a good estimator
- Methods: Moments, Maximum likelihood, Least squares
- Hypothesis testing basics
- Small and large sample tests
- Z-test, t-test, Chi-square test, F-test
- Confidence intervals
10. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)
- One-way classified data
- Two-way classified data
11. Time Series Analysis
- Components of time series
- Trend measurement methods
- Seasonal variation measurement methods
12. Index Numbers
- Meaning of index numbers
- Problems in construction
- Types of index numbers
- Different formulae
- Base shifting and splicing
- Cost of living index numbers
- Uses of index numbers
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 3 General Studies: Finance & Economics (For AAO Post Only)
Note: Paper 3 is for AAO aspirants. However, as there are no vacancies reported for the AAO post this cycle, Paper 3 will not be conducted during the Tier 2 examination.
Part A: Finance and Accounts (80 Marks)
• Financial Accounting: Scope & Concepts
• GAAP and Basic Principles
• Journals, Ledgers, and Trial Balance
• Bank Reconciliation and Rectification of Errors
• Financial Statements: Trading, P&L, and Balance Sheet
• Depreciation and Inventory Valuation
• Non-profit Accounting, Bills of Exchange, and Self-Balancing Ledgers
Part B: Economics and Governance (120 Marks)
1. Roles of the CAG of India
- Constitutional provisions
- Role and responsibilities
2. The Finance Commission
- Role and functions
3. Microeconomic Fundamentals
- Definition of Economics
- Scope and nature of Economics
- Methods of economic study
- Central problems of an economy
- Production possibilities curve
4. Theory of Demand and Supply
- Meaning and determinants of demand
- Law of demand and elasticity of demand
- Price, income and cross elasticity
- Theory of consumer behaviour
- Marshallian approach
- Indifference curve approach
- Meaning and determinants of supply
- Law of supply
- Elasticity of supply
5. Production and Cost Theory
- Meaning and factors of production
- Law of variable proportions
- Laws of returns to scale
6. Market Structures and Price Determination
- Perfect competition
- Monopoly
- Monopolistic competition
- Oligopoly
- Price determination in different markets
7. Indian Economy Overview
- Nature of the Indian economy
- Role of agriculture, industry, and services – problems and growth
- National Income – concepts and methods of measurement
- Population – size, growth rate, impact on economic growth
- Poverty and unemployment – types, causes, extent
- Infrastructure – energy, transportation, communication
8. Economic Reforms in India
- Economic reforms since 1991
- Liberalisation
- Privatisation
- Globalisation
- Disinvestment
9. Money and Banking Systems
- Monetary and fiscal policy
- Role and functions of Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
- Functions of commercial banks, Regional Rural Banks (RRB), Payment Banks
- Budget and fiscal deficits
- Balance of payments
- Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003
10. IT in Governance
- Use of IT in administration and governance
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SSC CGL Official Syllabus 2026 PDF
Download the official SSC CGL 2026 syllabus PDF, released with the recruitment notification. Keep a printed copy with your study materials for quick reference.
Tier 1 Vs Tier 2: The Difference
| Aspect | Tier 1 | Tier 2 |
| Purpose | to select candidates for Tier 2 |
determines the final merit list
|
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
Computer-Based Test (CBT)
|
| Question Type | Objective/MCQs |
Objective MCQs + Computer Knowledge and DEST
|
| Importance | Candidates must qualify to appear for Tier 2 |
Marks are counted for final selection and ranking
|
| Preparation Focus | Speed, accuracy, and time management |
Strong concepts, accuracy, and exam strategy
|
SSC CGL Syllabus: Topic-wise Weightage
| General Awareness Syllabus | |
| Topics |
No. of Questions
|
| Current Affairs (National and International) | 5 to 7 |
| History of India and World | 2 to 3 |
| Geography of India and World | 2 to 3 |
| Polity and Constitution | 2 to 3 |
| Economics | 1 to 2 |
| General Science | 4 to 6 |
| Static GK | 3 to 5 |
| Miscellaneous (Computer Basics, Abbreviations, etc.) | 1 to 2 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus | |
| Topics | Questions |
| Mathematical Operations | 1 to 2 |
| Syllogism | 1 to 2 |
| Direction Sense | 1 to 2 |
| Venn Diagram | 1 to 2 |
| Odd One Out | 1 to 2 |
| Analogy | 2 to 4 |
| Coding-Decoding | 3 to 4 |
| Number Series / Alpha-Numeric Series | 2 to 3 |
| Seating Arrangement | 2 to 3 |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | 1 to 2 |
| Blood Relations | 1 to 2 |
| Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus | |
| Topics |
No. of Questions
|
| Ratio & Proportion | 1 to 2 |
| Algebra | 2 to 3 |
| Geometry | 2 to 3 |
| Mensuration | 1 to 2 |
| Trigonometry | 1 to 2 |
| Data Interpretation | 1 to 2 |
| Number System | 1 to 2 |
| Miscellaneous (Simplification, Surds, Indices) | 1 to 2 |
| Profit & Loss | 2 to 3 |
| Time and Work | 1 to 2 |
| Percentages | 1 to 2 |
| Simple & Compound Interest | 1 to 2 |
| Time, Speed & Distance | 1 to 2 |
| Averages | 1 to 2 |
SSC CGL Tier 2 Typing Speed Test Syllabus
The typing assessment in the SSC CGL exam is officially recognized as the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). While mandatory for all candidates, it is purely qualifying in nature.
Candidates are tasked with typing a passage of roughly 2000 key depressions within a 15-minute window. Proficiency and speed are key. PwBD candidates in the OH category may seek exemption by providing a valid medical certificate from a Government Civil Surgeon.
Eligible scribe users receive an additional 5 minutes for the DEST. Visually impaired candidates utilizing a scribe during the written test are also provided with a passage reader.
SSC CGL Tie Resolution Process
In the event of a tie in scores during the SSC CGL Tier-II examination, the Commission employs standard resolution criteria to determine final rankings.
| Post |
Tie-Breaking Criteria (in order of preference)
|
| Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) / Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) |
1. Higher marks in Paper-III of Tier-II
2. Higher marks in Section I of Paper-I 3. Older candidate (Date of Birth) 4. Alphabetical order of names |
| Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) / Statistical Investigator Grade-II |
1. Higher marks in Paper-II of Tier-II
2. Higher marks in Section-I of Paper-I 3. Older candidate (Date of Birth) 4. Alphabetical order of names |
| All Other SSC CGL Posts |
1. Higher marks in Section I of Paper-I
2. Older candidate (Date of Birth) 3. Alphabetical order of names |
Prepare effectively for SSC CGL 2026 by focusing on the new sectional timing. The current exam pattern prioritizes disciplined time management, requiring candidates to complete each section within its designated 15-minute timeframe.
Strategizing your study based on topic weightage and strict time management will prevent common pitfalls and ensure you maximize your score in every section.
FAQs
While the syllabus covers standard subjects, Tier 2 requires a deeper analytical approach and includes a mandatory Computer Knowledge test and the qualifying DEST.
The SSC CGL 2026 syllabus comprises Quantitative Aptitude, General Intelligence & Reasoning, English Language, General Awareness, and Computer Knowledge, structured across Tier 1 and Tier 2.
No, there is no descriptive paper in the current SSC CGL pattern. The examination is entirely conducted in a computer-based objective (CBT) format.
SSC CGL Tier 1 consists of 100 questions totaling 200 marks, with a 60-minute duration. A negative marking of 0.50 marks applies for every incorrect answer.
Yes. A penalty of 0.50 marks applies per wrong answer in Tier 1, while specific sections in Tier 2 carry a 1-mark penalty for errors.
Essential Reasoning topics include Analogy, Coding-Decoding, Number Series, Syllogism, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Venn Diagrams, Seating Arrangements, and Non-Verbal reasoning.
Yes, Computer Knowledge is a core component of Tier 2 Paper I, focusing on fundamentals, MS Office, internet protocols, cybersecurity, and email etiquette.
Paper 3 covers specialized Finance and Economics topics including Accounting Principles, Indian Economic structures, Banking systems, and the roles of the CAG and Finance Commission.
Yes, since many foundational topics are common to both tiers, preparing for both simultaneously is the most efficient strategy.
You can download the official SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF directly from the Staff Selection Commission’s website or via the link provided earlier in this guide.