The Staff Selection Commission has officially revised the SSC Stenographer Exam Date 2026. The Computer-Based Test (CBT) is now rescheduled for 9–15 September 2026, to be followed by the Skill Test. Access the complete exam calendar, pattern guidelines, and admit card release updates below.
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the revised exam schedule for the SSC Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’ recruitment 2026. The Computer-Based Examination is set to commence on 9 September 2026 for all eligible candidates. This recruitment cycle aims to fill 1,170 vacancies across various Central Government ministries and departments.
Official SSC Stenographer Exam Date 2026 Revised
Aspirants preparing for the SSC Stenographer 2026 recruitment should take note of the latest schedule published by the commission. The Computer-Based Examination will now take place from 9 to 15 September 2026 at designated test centers nationwide.
The total duration of the examination is 2 hours, adhering to specific sectional time constraints. Refer to the table below for the comprehensive SSC Stenographer 2026 exam breakdown.
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release | 24th April 2026 |
| Apply Online Starts | 24th April 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 15th May 2026 (11:00 PM) |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 16th May 2026 (11:00 PM) |
| Correction Window | 20th-21st May 2026 |
| City Intimation | Released |
| Admit Card Release Date | 2-3 days before the exam date |
| SSC Stenographer CBE Date 2026 |
9th to 15th September 2026
|
| Answer Key | 10-15 days after the exam |
| CBE Result | TBA |
| Skill Test Date |
To Be Announced
|
| Final Result |
To Be Announced
|
SSC Stenographer 2026 Recruitment Highlights
The Staff Selection Commission conducts this national-level recruitment to appoint candidates for Grade ‘C’ and Grade ‘D’ Stenographer positions in various Central Government offices. The selection process consists of a primary Computer-Based Examination followed by a mandatory Shorthand Skill Test.
Candidates who clear all stages of the selection process will be deployed to various Ministries, Departments, and Government Offices, enjoying competitive salary packages, standard allowances, and full job security.
| Parameter | Details |
| Exam Name |
SSC Stenographer Grade C & D Examination 2026
|
| Conducting Body |
Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
|
| Posts |
Stenographer Grade C (Group B) & Grade D (Group C)
|
| Total Vacancies | 1170 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Exam Mode |
Computer-Based Examination (CBE)
|
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
| Helpline Number |
1800 309 3063 (Toll Free)
|
Download SSC Stenographer 2026 Notification PDF
The official SSC Stenographer 2026 notification, accessible via the official SSC portal, contains all critical recruitment guidelines. We advise all candidates to review the document for exhaustive details on the exam pattern, subject-wise syllabus, salary structures, eligibility criteria, and instructions for exam day.
SSC Stenographer 2026 Selection Process
The comprehensive selection process for the SSC Stenographer 2026 is divided into the following stages:
- Computer-Based Examination (CBE): It is conducted to assess the knowledge of the candidates and the total duration is 2 hours. Marks obtained in CBE will be used for final merit making.
- Skill Test in Stenography: This test is conducted to assess the stenography skills of the candidates and if they are suitable for the post or not.
- Document Verification: Original documents and certificates of the qualified candidates will be verified by the department
- Final Merit List: The final selection list will be prepared based on CBE marks but only those who qualify the Steno skill test and DV round, will be considered for final selection.
SSC Stenographer 2026 Exam Pattern
| Part | Subject | No. of Qs | Max. Marks | Duration |
| Part I | General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 50 |
2 Hours (with sectional timer of 30 min each for Part I & II, 60 min for Part III)
|
| Part II | General Awareness | 50 | 50 | |
| Part III | English Language & Comprehension | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 2 Hours | |
- All questions are Objective Type (MCQ).
- The question paper is set in both English and Hindi.
- Negative marking of 0.25 mark for each wrong answer.
CBE Minimum Qualifying Standards:
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks |
| UR (Unreserved) | 30% |
| OBC / EWS | 25% |
| All Other Categories (SC/ST/PwBD/ESM) | 20% |
Stenography Skill Test Requirements
| S.No. | Post | Language | Normal Duration | Duration (with Scribe) |
| 1 | Steno Grade D | English | 50 minutes | 70 minutes |
| 2 | Steno Grade D | Hindi | 65 minutes | 90 minutes |
| 3 | Steno Grade C | English | 40 minutes | 55 minutes |
| 4 | Steno Grade C | Hindi | 55 minutes | 75 minutes |
Comprehensive SSC Stenographer Syllabus
The examination is designed to assess candidates across three core areas: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, and English Language. Mastering these subjects is essential for creating a successful study plan and boosting your overall competitive score.
| Section | Topics Covered |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning |
Analogies and Similarities
|
|
Coding and Decoding
|
|
| Blood Relations | |
|
Direction and Distance
|
|
|
Number Series and Classification
|
|
| Puzzle Solving | |
|
Non-verbal Reasoning (Figures, Patterns)
|
|
| General Awareness |
Current Affairs (National & International)
|
|
Indian History and Freedom Struggle
|
|
|
Geography (India and World)
|
|
|
Indian Polity and Constitution
|
|
|
Economy and Budget Basics
|
|
|
General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology – Basic Level)
|
|
|
Important Government Schemes and Awards
|
|
| English Language & Comprehension |
Reading Comprehension
|
|
Sentence Correction and Error Spotting
|
|
| Fill in the Blanks | |
|
Synonyms and Antonyms
|
|
|
Active and Passive Voice
|
|
|
Direct and Indirect Speech
|
|
| Para Jumbles | |
|
Vocabulary Usage
|
SSC Stenographer Vacancy 2026 (Grade C & D)
The Staff Selection Commission has currently estimated 1,170 (revised) vacancies for the 2026 cycle. As reporting from various ministries continues, this number remains subject to final consolidation. These posts are distributed across diverse Government of India departments.
| Post Name | Vacancy |
| Stenographer (Grade C) | 1021 |
| Stenographer (Grade D) | 149 |
| Total | 1170 |
SSC Stenographer Eligibility Guidelines
Candidates must ensure they meet all mandatory eligibility criteria before finalizing their SSC Stenographer 2026 application submission.
Academic Qualifications
Applicants are required to have successfully completed their Class 12 or an equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University as of 1st August 2026.
| Criteria | Details |
| Open & Distance Learning (ODL) Qualification |
Accepted if the degree/diploma is obtained from a university approved by the Distance Education Bureau, UGC
|
| Result Declaration Eligibility |
Candidates whose results were declared on or before the cut-off date are eligible
|
| Proof Requirement |
Candidates must provide valid documentary evidence of their qualifications
|
Age Requirements (as of 01/08/2026)
| Post | Age Limit |
Date of Birth Range
|
| Stenographer Grade C | 18 to 30 years |
02.08.1996 to 01.08.2008
|
| Stenographer Grade D | 18 to 27 years |
02.08.1999 to 01.08.2008
|
Category-wise Age Relaxations
Find the detailed, category-specific age relaxation guidelines listed below:
| Category | Relaxation |
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| PwBD (Unreserved/EWS) | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) |
3 years after deduction of military service from actual age
|
| Defence Personnel (disabled in operations) | 3 years |
| Defence Personnel (disabled, SC/ST) | 8 years |
| Central Govt. Civilian Employees (3+ years service) – UR/OBC/EWS |
Up to 40 years
|
| Central Govt. Civilian Employees (3+ years service) – SC/ST |
Up to 45 years
|
| Widows/Divorced Women (not remarried) |
Up to 35 years
|
| Widows/Divorced Women (SC/ST, not remarried) |
Up to 40 years
|
Citizenship & Nationality Criteria
Candidates must be citizens of India, subjects of Nepal, or subjects of Bhutan, as per the standard government eligibility guidelines for this recruitment.
SSC Stenographer Salary Structure 2026 (Grade C & D)
Remuneration for Grade C and D positions follows the 7th Pay Commission structure. Review the post-wise pay scales and estimated in-hand salary figures below:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Grade C | |
| Pay Scale | Rs. 9,300 – Rs. 34, 800/- |
| In-hand Salary (Approx) |
Rs. 50,000 – Rs. 60,000 per month (depending on City)
|
| Grade D | |
| Pay Scale | Rs. 5,200 – Rs. 20,200/- |
| In-hand Salary (Approx) |
Rs 36,000 – Rs. 43,000 per month (depending on City)
|
Important: Salary packages include Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), medical benefits, and comprehensive government pension schemes (NPS).
Application Process for SSC Stenographer 2026
- Visit the official website and complete your One-Time Registration using your basic details, Aadhaar number, and contact info.
- Use your registration number and password to log in.
- Navigate to the “Stenographer Grade ‘C’ & ‘D’ Examination 2026” link and fill in the required academic and preference details.
- The new system captures a live photograph. Ensure you are in a well-lit area with a plain background.
- Upload your scanned signature as per the specifications.
- Pay the application fee online.
- Review all details carefully and submit the form
Required Documentation
| Document | Format |
File Size / Specifications
|
| Live Photograph | Captured live via the SSC portal/app |
Ensure a plain background, proper lighting, and no spectacles or cap.
|
| Scanned Signature | JPEG / JPG |
10 KB to 20 KB (Dimensions: approx. 6.0 cm width × 2.0 cm height).
|
| Identity Proof (Aadhaar / Voter ID / PAN / Passport / DL) | Digitally entered for OTR |
Required for identity verification during OTR and at the exam center.
|
| Date of Birth Proof | Soft copy for OTR |
10th Class Marksheet or Birth Certificate as a reference for DOB.
|
| Address Proof | Soft copy for OTR |
Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Utility bills to verify permanent and present address.
|
| Disability Certificate | PDF / JPEG |
Required for PwBD candidates seeking age relaxation or scribe facility.
|
| Caste Certificate | PDF / JPEG |
Required for SC/ST/OBC/EWS candidates for reservation benefits.
|
Examination Fee Details
The required online application fee structure is as follows:
- Fee Payable: ₹100/- (One Hundred Rupees).
- Exempted Categories: Women candidates and candidates belonging to SC, ST, PwBD, and Ex-servicemen are exempt from paying the fee.
- Payment Mode: Online via BHIM UPI, Net Banking, or Debit/Credit cards.
Effective Preparation Strategies for 2026
Achieve your target score by implementing these proven preparation strategies tailored for the SSC Stenographer exam:
- Solve previous year question papers regularly.
- Practice mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Revise current affairs of the last 6-12 months.
- Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.
- Focus on reasoning topics with high weightage.
- Practice stenography and typing speed daily for the skill test.
SSC Stenographer Exam 2026: Essential Guidelines
Stay updated via the official SSC portal for announcements regarding admit cards and exam city intimation. Intensify your revision and mock test practice to secure your position in the merit list.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the revised SSC Stenographer 2026 exam dates?
The SSC Stenographer Computer-Based Examination is scheduled to be held from 9th to 15th September 2026.
What is the selection roadmap for SSC Stenographer 2026?
The selection process consists of two stages: a Computer-Based Examination followed by a shorthand Skill Test.
Is there a penalty for incorrect answers in the 2026 exam?
Yes, a negative marking penalty of 0.25 marks applies to every incorrect answer in the CBE.
What is the total vacancy count for SSC Stenographer 2026?
There are a total of 1,170 announced vacancies for Grade C and Grade D positions.
When will the SSC Stenographer 2026 admit cards be issued?
Admit cards are typically released approximately 2 to 3 days prior to the scheduled examination date.