SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Official Tier 1 & Tier 2 Exam Pattern PDF

SSC CGL Official Syllabus 2026

Because the core syllabus for SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2 remains largely consistent, students can optimize their study time by preparing for both stages concurrently. Implementing a comprehensive study plan that covers foundational concepts early will significantly boost your performance across both tiers.

Latest Exam Updates:

• Strict sectional timing implemented for Tier 1: 15 minutes per section with no time carry-over.
• Massive recruitment drive: 12,256 total vacancies announced across Group B and C posts.
• AAO vacancies confirmed: Paper III (Finance & Economics) will be held this cycle.
• Enhanced Eligibility: Statistical Investigator posts now open to graduates in AI, Data Science, CS, and IT.

SSC CGL Syllabus and Exam Pattern- Highlights

SSC CGL Exam Pattern?

The SSC CGL recruitment process consists of three distinct stages, detailed as follows:

1. Tier 1 (CBT)
2. Tier 2 (CBT + Skill/Typing Test)
3. Document Verification

SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern

The Tier 1 exam serves as a qualifying stage for Tier 2. Note that the exam now features mandatory sectional timing, requiring candidates to complete specific modules within fixed time windows. See the full breakdown below:

• Total Duration: 1 hour (15 Mins each section)
• Total Marks: 200
• Total Questions: 200
• Question Type: Objective type MCQ based
• There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for every wrong answer.

Practice with our SSC CGL Mock Test 2026 – Start Now!

SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern

The Tier 2 exam is comprised of Paper I, Paper II, and Paper III. This stage demands a higher level of analytical precision and advanced subject knowledge, alongside proficiency in the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). Be advised: Strict sectional timing is also enforced throughout Tier 2.

• Total Marks: 450
• Duration: 2 Hours 30 Mins
• Total Questions: 150
• Question Type: Objective Type MCQs
• Negative Marking: 1 mark for each incorrect answer

SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus (Topic-wise)

Review the detailed subject-wise syllabus for SSC CGL Tier 1 below.

Quantitative Aptitude

• Whole numbers, Decimals, and fractions
• Percentage
• Ratio & Proportion
• Averages
• Profit and Loss, Discount, Interest
• Partnership
• 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

• 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

• Spot the Error
• Fill in the Blanks
• Synonyms
• Antonyms
• Spellings / Detecting Misspelt Words
• Idioms and Phrases
• One Word Substitution
• Sentence Improvement
• Active Voice and Passive Voice
• Direct and Indirect Speech (Narration)
• Shuffling of Sentence Parts
• Sentence Rearrangement (Para Jumbles)
• Cloze Test
• Reading Comprehension
• Vocabulary
• Grammar
• Word Usage
• Sentence Correction
• Verbal Ability Questions

General Awareness

• 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 2026

Tier 2 features a mandatory Paper I for all candidates, with specific papers (Paper II and III) required for JSO and AAO aspirants. Key areas include Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, and the DEST. Focus on balancing speed with high accuracy for maximum scoring.

SSC CGL Mathematical Abilities

The following topic-wise syllabus covers the Quantitative Aptitude requirements for both SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2.

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

General Intelligence and Reasoning

This section evaluates candidates' General Intelligence and Logical Reasoning. Consistent practice across all sub-topics is essential to master this section for both Tier 1 and Tier 2.

• 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

English Language & Comprehension

The English Language syllabus covers comprehension and grammar. Candidates are encouraged to read editorials and English-language media regularly to improve their vocabulary and reading speed.

• 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

General Awareness

The General Awareness syllabus includes Current Affairs, Static GK, Science, and essential real-world knowledge.

​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

Computer Knowledge and Proficiency

The Computer Knowledge module covers fundamental computing concepts, software applications, email usage, and essential cybersecurity principles.

• 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, Trojans, etc.)
• Prevention Measures

SSC CGL Tier 2 Typing Test Syllabus

​In the SSC CGL framework, the typing assessment is designated as the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). While mandatory for all, it is purely  qualifying in nature.

Candidates must type a passage of approximately 2000 key depressions within 15 minutes. Accuracy and speed are the primary metrics. PwBD candidates (specifically OH category) may be exempt if they provide a valid medical certificate from a Civil Surgeon confirming their inability to type.

Eligible candidates utilizing a scribe are granted an additional 5 minutes for the DEST. Visually impaired candidates who used a scribe during the written exam will also be provided with a passage reader.

SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper II Statistics Syllabus (For JSO Post Only)

Paper I for Statistics is specifically for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) applicants, who must complete this paper alongside the standard Tier 2 modules. Key syllabus areas include:

1. Data Collection, Classification, and Presentation

• 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 Variables and 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 III General Studies: Finance & Economics (For AAO Post Only)

Paper III is a specialized component of Tier 2 for Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) applicants.

Part A: Finance and Accounts (80 Marks)

• Accounting Nature and Scope
• Limitations of Financial Accounting
• Basic Concepts and Conventions
• GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)
• Accounting Fundamentals
• Single and Double Entry Systems
• Books of Original Entry
• Bank Reconciliation
• Journals and Ledgers
• Trial Balance
• Rectification of Errors
• Financial Statements (Manufacturing, Trading, Profit & Loss)
• Balance Sheet
• Capital vs. Revenue Expenditure
• Depreciation Accounting
• Inventory Valuation
• Non-profit Organization Accounts
• Receipts/Payments and Income/Expenditure Accounts
• Bills of Exchange
• Self-Balancing Ledgers

Part B: Economics and Governance (120 Marks)

1. Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG) of India

• Constitutional provisions
• Role and responsibilities

2. Finance Commission

• Role and functions

3. Basic Economic Concepts & Microeconomics

• 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. Theory of Production and Cost

• 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. The Indian Economy

• 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

• Monetary and fiscal policy
• Role and functions of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• Functions of commercial banks, Regional Rural Banks (RRB), and Payment Banks
• Budget and fiscal deficits
• Balance of payments
• Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003

10. IT Governance and Information Technology

• Use of IT in administration and governance

​Explore SSC CGL Online Coaching Programs

SSC CGL Official Syllabus PDF

Download the official syllabus document released by the SSC. Keep a printed copy with your study materials to track your progress effectively.

Download Official SSC CGL Syllabus PDF

Tier 1 Vs Tier 2 Syllabus- A Comparison

Topic-wise weightage in the SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam?

Note that Tier 2 Paper I carries higher marks per question. Prepare using the official pattern, ensuring you master the new sectional timing. The exam environment now prioritizes disciplined time management alongside accuracy; you must manage the 15-minute window for each section strictly.

Candidates who align their preparation with actual topic weightage and the new timing structure—rather than relying on generic lists—will gain a significant competitive edge and minimize avoidable errors.