SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Tier-Wise Total Marks, Duration and Number of Questions

The SSC CGL exam pattern 2026 explains the examination structure, including the number of tiers, subjects, questions, maximum marks, exam duration and marking scheme. The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination in two tiers: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Understanding the exam pattern helps candidates prepare effectively and allocate time according to subject-wise weightage.

The SSC CGL marks distribution differs between the two tiers, with separate question counts, sectional timers and qualifying tests. The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam pattern covers General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English Comprehension. Tier 2 includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge and Data Entry Speed Test, along with additional papers for specific posts.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Overview and Examination Structure

The SSC CGL 2026 examination consists of two tiers conducted through computer-based examinations. Tier 1 contains 100 objective-type questions carrying 200 marks, while Tier 2 includes compulsory Paper 1 and additional papers for candidates shortlisted for specified posts.

The following table highlights the SSC CGL exam pattern, including the number of questions, maximum marks, duration and negative marking.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Tier 1 Questions, Marks and Duration

The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam pattern includes four subjects: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English Comprehension. Each subject carries 50 marks and contains 25 questions, making the SSC CGL prelims total marks 200. Candidates must attempt 100 questions within 60 minutes.

The examination follows a sectional timing system, with 15 minutes allotted to each subject. Candidates eligible for a scribe under the specified provisions receive additional time, with 20 minutes allotted per subject.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Tier 1 Negative Marking

The SSC CGL negative marking Tier 1 2026 scheme deducts 0.50 marks for every incorrect answer. Candidates should answer carefully to avoid unnecessary deductions and improve their overall scores.

• Correct answer: 2 marks awarded.
• Incorrect answer: 0.50 marks deducted.
• Unattempted question: No penalty for leaving a question unanswered.

The questions are objective-type multiple-choice questions set in both English and Hindi, except for the English Comprehension section.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Tier 2 Marks Distribution and Duration

The SSC CGL Tier 2 exam pattern includes Paper 1, which is compulsory for all posts, and additional papers for candidates shortlisted for specified positions. Paper 1 covers Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test (CKT) and Data Entry Speed Test (DEST).

Paper 1 is conducted in two sessions on the same day. Paper 2 is applicable to eligible candidates shortlisted for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) and Statistical Investigator Grade-II posts. Paper 3 is for candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts.

Note: Paper 2 and Paper 3 are applicable only to candidates shortlisted for the specified posts. Paper 1 is compulsory for all candidates, and its Computer Knowledge Test and Data Entry Speed Test are qualifying in nature.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Tier 2 Paper 1 Section-Wise Timing

Paper 1 is divided into four sections conducted across two sessions. Each section has a fixed time limit and closes automatically when the allotted time ends.

Session I lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes, followed by a break for re-registration before Session II. Candidates eligible for a scribe receive additional time according to the official notification.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Tier-Wise Marks Distribution

The SSC CGL marks distribution varies by tier and paper. Tier 1 carries 200 marks, while Tier 2 Paper 1 includes scored sections carrying a combined 450 marks. Paper 2 and Paper 3 carry 200 marks each and are conducted for candidates shortlisted for the relevant posts.

The following table provides the SSC CGL exam pattern and maximum marks for each tier and paper.

The Computer Knowledge Test and DEST are qualifying in nature. Candidates should distinguish between the marks awarded in scored sections and the requirements of qualifying tests while planning their preparation.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Negative Marking Rules

Negative marking is an important part of the SSC CGL exam pattern 2026 because incorrect answers can reduce a candidate's score. In Tier 1, 0.50 marks are deducted for each wrong answer. Candidates should understand the marking scheme before attempting questions and avoid unnecessary guesses.

For Tier 2, candidates should refer to the applicable marking provisions in the official notification rather than assuming that the Tier 1 negative marking scheme applies to every paper and section.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026: Important Examination Instructions

Candidates should understand the examination rules alongside the SSC CGL exam pattern to avoid confusion during the recruitment process.

• Normalisation: Scores are normalised when the computer-based examination is conducted in multiple shifts, according to the Commission's prescribed procedure.
• Answer keys: Candidates can submit representations against tentative answer keys online within the stipulated deadline by paying ₹100 per question. The fee is non-refundable.
• Final answer keys: The Commission uses the final answer keys to process examination results and uploads them after the result declaration.
• Re-evaluation: Re-evaluation or rechecking of scores at any stage of the examination is not permitted.
• Sectional timers: Candidates must complete each section within its allotted time.
• Qualifying tests: The Computer Knowledge Test and DEST in Tier 2 Paper 1 are mandatory and qualifying in nature.

For detailed information on the SSC CGL exam pattern 2026, including the latest examination scheme and marking criteria, visit the official SSC website: ssc.gov.in.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs