SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026: Session-wise CBT Pattern, Marking Scheme & Preparation Tips

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026 consists of two sessions focusing on Numerical & Mathematical Ability, Reasoning & Problem Solving, General Awareness, and English Language. Conducted by the Staff Selection Commission(SSC), the SSC MTS exam is a national-level recruitment examination to fill non-technical vacancies for Group C Multi-Tasking Staff and Havaldar in various Central Government Departments, conducted every year, subject to the availability of vacancies.

The minimum educational qualification requirement for the exam is matriculation (Class 10). The exam is conducted in a Computer-based test (CBT) mode to assess candidates’ numerical, reasoning, general awareness and language proficiency. With the CBT exam scheduled to begin on February 4, 2026, candidates must familiarise themselves with key details on the SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026 for effective preparation. The Admit Card for the SSC MTS 2026 CBT exam has been released on the official website.

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026: Highlights

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026 adopts a structure of two mandatory sessions, which are conducted on the same day. The pattern followed by both sessions varies from one another, where session 1 doesn’t follow a negative marking scheme and session 2 follows one (1 mark deducted for every incorrect response). It is important to understand and prioritise the strong areas in accordance with the exam pattern for better time management in the exam.

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026: Stage-wise Exam Pattern

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026 is structured into two CBT sessions of 45 minutes each. Each of them evaluates candidates on different skill sets. Session 1 focuses on numerical and reasoning ability, with 40 questions carrying a total of 120 marks (3 marks for each), while Session 2 is based on General Awareness and English Proficiency, with 50 questions carrying a total of 120 marks (3 marks each).

Check: SSC MTS Syllabus 2026

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026: Marking Scheme

There is no negative marking in the first session, whereas the second session follows a negative marking scheme with 1 mark deducted for each incorrect response. Each session awards 3 marks for the correct responses made by the candidate. Being aware of the scheme helps the candidates minimise deductions and make an effective attempt.

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026: PET/PST (for Havaldar)

Candidates would be called for PET/PST in any centre of the country, after qualifying for the Havaldar CBT exam. The PET/PST stage is only for the Havaldar post and not MTS (non-technical) posts. Below are the standards which the candidates are required to be qualified in for further selection in the process.

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026: Preparation Tips

Understanding the SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026 is essential for an effective strategy towards preparation. Since the SSC MTS 2026 CBT is conducted in two phases, candidates should be able to build accuracy and time management for their examination.

• Build a realistic daily schedule to ensure consistency in the preparation.
• Strengthen the weak areas by attempting mock tests and previous year questions.
• Revise regularly so that the concepts are retained for a longer period of time.
• Disciplined practice done over time is better than last-minute preparations.
• Due to the time-bound nature of the exam, it is necessary to build speed and accuracy.

Check: SSC MTS Admit Card 2026

SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs