SSC CGL Exam

What is SSC CGL?

The Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), is one of the most sought-after national-level recruitment exams for graduates. Through this exam, SSC recruits for Group B and C posts across various central government departments and ministries, including Income Tax, Customs, CBI, CBDT, and CBIC.

Why this exam matters With thousands of vacancies and intense competition, SSC CGL provides a golden opportunity for aspirants to secure government employment in prestigious departments.

Exam Overview

Exam Name SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL)
Conducting Authority Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
Posts Covered Group B & C roles across central government departments
Mode of Exam Online Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Eligibility Graduate degree in any discipline (post-specific criteria apply)
Age Range Generally 18–32 years (with relaxations as per government rules)

Eligibility Criteria

  • Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline. For Junior Statistical Officer – degree with Statistics/Mathematics.
  • Age Limit: 18–32 years (varies by post; relaxations for SC/ST, OBC, PwBD, Ex-Servicemen). Age-relaxation is available for SC/ST, OBC, PwBD, ex-servicemen, etc., as per government rules.
  • Nationality: Must be Indian citizen or eligible subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or of Indian origin settled in India.

Application & Fee

The application process is entirely online through the official SSC portal.

  • General fee: ₹100
  • Exempted: Female candidates, SC/ST, PwBD, and Ex-Servicemen
  • Payment options: Net banking, UPI, debit/credit cards

Selection Process

SSC CGL follows a two-tier selection process:

  • Tier-I (Qualifying): Online multiple-choice test covering reasoning, maths, English, and general awareness.
  • Tier-II: Compulsory Paper-I for all posts, plus Paper-II for specific roles such as Junior Statistical Officer.

Exam Pattern & Syllabus

Tier-I (Objective)
  • Online multiple-choice format
  • Sections: Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, General Awareness
  • Duration: 60 minutes
Tier-II (Main)
  • Paper-I: Quantitative, English, Statistics (as applicable), General Awareness
  • Paper-II: For certain posts (e.g. JSO, AAO) focusing more on Statistics/Mathematics.
Syllabus Highlights (Tier-I):
  • Reasoning: Series, analogy, coding-decoding, puzzles
  • Quantitative Aptitude: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, data interpretation
  • English: Grammar, comprehension, vocabulary
  • General Awareness: Current affairs, history, polity, geography, science & tech

Salary Structure & Career Growth

The pay scale varies by post, ranging from Level 4 (₹25,500) to Level 7 (₹44,900) under the 7th Pay Commission, along with allowances and promotions.

Types of Posts:
  • Group B: Assistant Section Officer, Inspectors (CBIC/CBDT)
  • Group C: Tax Assistants, UDC, Auditors, Junior Accountants

Preparation Strategy

  • Understand the pattern & syllabus: Get clarity on subjects, sections, marks and time allotted.
  • Create a structured study plan: Allocate time to each subject, factor your strengths & weaknesses.
  • Choose reliable materials: Use up-to-date books, online resources, current affairs digest.
  • Practice with mock tests & past papers: This builds speed, accuracy, familiarity with question types.
  • Time management is key: Simulate exam conditions, practise solving within the time frame.
  • Revision & notes: Maintain concise notes for rapid revision closer to exam day.
  • Stay updated with current affairs: Especially for the General Awareness section.
  • Subject-wise focus: Dedicate extra time to weaker subject areas or topics.

Examination Center

The online exam for SSC CGL will be held at various regional centres across India. Candidates can choose their preferred city during application (subject to availability). Admit cards will mention the exact venue and timings.

Admit Card, Answer Key, Result & Cut-Off

  • Admit cards for Tier-I and Tier-II will be released on the official SSC website.
  • After each exam stage, a provisional answer key is released, followed by final key. Candidates may get the opportunity to raise objections.
  • Results are declared stage-wise; only those qualified move to the next stage. Final selection is based on Tier-II performance (and where applicable, additional criteria).
  • Category-wise cut-off marks are announced post-result; analysing past years’ cut-offs gives aspirants a target to aim for.
KD Gurukulam Classroom

Why Choose KD Gurukulam for SSC CGL?

  • Expert faculty with proven results
  • Updated study material aligned to the latest SSC pattern
  • Regular mock tests & performance tracking
  • Flexible batches for working aspirants

Note: All details above (dates, vacancies, pay scale) are subject to change as per the official SSC notification. Always refer to the official SSC website for final information.