SSC CGL

SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 and Exam Pattern, Tier 1 and Tier 2 Syllabus PDF

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Home » SSC CGL » SSC CGL Syllabus 2026

The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 includes Quantitative Aptitude, General Intelligence and Reasoning, English Language, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, Statistics, and Finance and Economics. The Staff Selection Commission conducts the examination in two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2.

Tier 1 contains 100 questions for 200 marks with a 15-minute sectional timer for each subject. Tier 2 determines the final merit and includes Paper I for all candidates, while Paper II and Paper III apply only to specific posts. Candidates should download the SSC CGL Syllabus PDF, identify high-weightage topics, and practise according to the official sectional time limits.

The SSC CGL 2026 notification confirms that Tier 1 is scheduled for August–September 2026, while Tier 2 is tentatively scheduled for December 2026.

Key Takeaways: SSC CGL Syllabus 2026

  • SSC CGL 2026 consists of Tier 1 and Tier 2 computer-based examinations.
  • Tier 1 includes 100 questions for 200 marks.
  • Candidates receive 15 minutes for each Tier 1 subject.
  • SSC deducts 0.50 marks for every incorrect Tier 1 answer.
  • Tier 2 Paper I is compulsory for all posts.
  • Tier 2 Paper I includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, and DEST.
  • SSC deducts 1 mark for an incorrect answer in Sections I, II, and III of Tier 2 Paper I.
  • Computer Knowledge and DEST are compulsory but qualifying in nature.
  • Paper II applies to Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade II posts.
  • Paper III applies to Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
  • Candidates must qualify separately in every section of Tier 2 Paper I.

SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 and Exam Pattern: Overview

The following table summarizes the SSC CGL syllabus and examination structure.

ParticularDetails
Conducting bodyStaff Selection Commission
Examination nameCombined Graduate Level Examination 2026
PostsGroup B and Group C posts
Examination modeComputer-Based Examination
Selection stagesTier 1 and Tier 2
Tier 1 subjectsReasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English
Tier 1 questions100
Tier 1 marks200
Tier 1 duration60 minutes
Tier 1 sectional timing15 minutes per subject
Tier 2 Paper ICompulsory for all candidates
Tier 2 Paper IIJSO and Statistical Investigator Grade II
Tier 2 Paper IIIAssistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer
Question typeObjective multiple-choice questions, except DEST
Examination languageHindi and English, except the English section
Official websiteStaff Selection Commission @ssc.gov.in

The SSC CGL syllabus should be studied with the exam pattern because the number of questions, negative marking, sectional timing, and qualifying requirements directly influence preparation. The source content has been reorganized to provide direct answers, complete topic coverage, and a people-first reading experience. Google also recommends comprehensive, trustworthy content that helps users complete their intended task without searching again.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026

The SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026 defines the number of questions, maximum marks, negative marking, sectional timing, and qualifying conditions for Tier 1 and Tier 2.

SSC CGL Tier 1 is a computer-based examination containing four subjects. Each subject has 25 questions carrying 50 marks.

Candidates receive 15 minutes for each subject, and a section closes automatically after its allotted time. The total duration is 60 minutes. SSC deducts 0.50 marks for every incorrect answer.

SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern

SubjectQuestionsMarksSectional Time
General Intelligence and Reasoning255015 minutes
General Awareness255015 minutes
Quantitative Aptitude255015 minutes
English Comprehension255015 minutes
Total10020060 minutes

Important Tier 1 Marking Rules

  • Each correct answer carries 2 marks.
  • SSC deducts 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer.
  • Tier 1 questions are available in Hindi and English, except English Comprehension.
  • Tier 1 shortlists candidates for Tier 2.
  • Tier 1 marks are not used to prepare the final merit list.
  • Scores may be normalized when the examination is conducted in multiple shifts.

Candidates should practise with an SSC CGL mock test that follows the 15-minute sectional timing because unused time from one section cannot be shifted to another section.

What Is the SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026?

SSC CGL Tier 2 includes three papers:

  1. Paper I: Compulsory for all posts
  2. Paper II: For Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade II
  3. Paper III: For Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer

Paper I is conducted in two sessions on the same day. Session I lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes, while Session II contains the 15-minute Data Entry Speed Test.

SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper I Exam Pattern

SectionSubjectQuestionsMarksTime
Section I, Part AMathematical Abilities309030 minutes
Section I, Part BReasoning and General Intelligence309030 minutes
Section II, Part AEnglish Language and Comprehension4513540 minutes
Section II, Part BGeneral Awareness257520 minutes
Section IIIComputer Knowledge Test206015 minutes
Section IVData Entry Speed TestOne data-entry taskQualifying15 minutes

SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper I Total Marks

Tier 2 Paper I contains 150 objective questions carrying 450 marks, along with a qualifying Data Entry Speed Test.

However, the Computer Knowledge Test is qualifying in nature. For most posts, the merit score is calculated mainly from Section I and Section II, which together carry 390 marks, subject to qualifying for the Computer Knowledge Test and DEST.

Tier 2 Paper I Sectional Timing

The official 2026 structure introduces fixed subject-wise timing:

  • Mathematical Abilities: 30 minutes
  • Reasoning and General Intelligence: 30 minutes
  • English Language and Comprehension: 40 minutes
  • General Awareness: 20 minutes
  • Computer Knowledge Test: 15 minutes
  • Data Entry Speed Test: 15 minutes

The official notice confirms that Section I lasts one hour, Section II lasts one hour, and the Computer Knowledge Test lasts 15 minutes. DEST is conducted separately in Session II.

Negative Marking in SSC CGL Tier 2

Paper or SectionNegative Marking
Paper I: Sections I, II and III1 mark per wrong answer
Paper II: Statistics0.50 marks per wrong answer
Paper III: Finance and Economics0.50 marks per wrong answer
DESTNo negative marking; qualifying skill test

Also Read: SSC CGL Salary 2026, Grade Pay, In Hand Salary, Job Profile and Career Growth

SSC CGL Syllabus 2026

The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 assesses mathematical ability, language proficiency, logical reasoning, general knowledge, computer proficiency, statistics, finance, and economics.

Tier 1 tests foundational aptitude, while Tier 2 evaluates the same core subjects at a broader and more advanced level.

SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026

What Is Included in the SSC CGL Reasoning Syllabus?

The SSC CGL General Intelligence and Reasoning syllabus includes verbal, non-verbal, analytical, spatial, and logical reasoning.

Important topics include:

  • Semantic analogy
  • Symbolic and number analogy
  • Figural analogy
  • Semantic classification
  • Symbolic and number classification
  • Figural classification
  • Semantic series
  • Number series
  • Figural series
  • Coding and decoding
  • Numerical operations
  • Symbolic operations
  • Trends
  • Space orientation
  • Space visualization
  • Venn diagrams
  • Drawing inferences
  • Punched hole and pattern folding
  • Figural pattern folding and completion
  • Embedded figures
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem-solving
  • Word building
  • Address matching
  • Date and city matching
  • Classification of center codes and roll numbers
  • Small and capital letter coding
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Social intelligence
  • Relationship concepts
  • Statement and conclusion
  • Syllogistic reasoning

The official syllabus specifies that this section contains both verbal and non-verbal questions and tests observation, analysis, judgment, visual memory, and decision-making.

What Is Included in the SSC CGL General Awareness Syllabus?

The SSC CGL General Awareness syllabus tests knowledge of current events, India and its neighbouring countries, everyday science, and the application of general knowledge to society.

Candidates should prepare:

  • Current affairs
  • Indian history
  • Indian culture
  • Indian and world geography
  • Indian economy
  • Indian polity
  • Constitution of India
  • Scientific research
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Environmental science
  • Government schemes
  • Important national and international events
  • Books and authors
  • Awards and honours
  • Sports
  • Important days
  • People in the news
  • National and international organisations
  • Census and demographic data
  • Economic developments

For current affairs, candidates should prioritize important events from the months preceding the examination instead of memorizing unrelated daily updates.

What Is Included in the SSC CGL Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus?

The SSC CGL Quantitative Aptitude syllabus covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, and data interpretation.

Arithmetic

  • Whole numbers
  • Decimals and fractions
  • Relationships between numbers
  • Percentage
  • Ratio and proportion
  • Square roots
  • Average
  • Simple interest
  • Compound interest
  • Profit and loss
  • Discount
  • Partnership
  • Mixture and alligation
  • Time and distance
  • Time and work

Algebra

  • Basic algebraic identities
  • Elementary surds
  • Graphs of linear equations

Geometry

  • Triangle and its centres
  • Congruence of triangles
  • Similarity of triangles
  • Circle and its chords
  • Tangents
  • Angles subtended by chords
  • Common tangents to circles
  • Quadrilaterals
  • Regular polygons

Mensuration

  • Triangle
  • Quadrilaterals
  • Regular polygons
  • Circle
  • Right prism
  • Right circular cone
  • Right circular cylinder
  • Sphere
  • Hemisphere
  • Rectangular parallelepiped
  • Regular right pyramid

Trigonometry

  • Trigonometric ratios
  • Degree and radian measures
  • Standard identities
  • Complementary angles
  • Heights and distances

Data Interpretation

  • Histogram
  • Frequency polygon
  • Bar diagram
  • Pie chart

What Is Included in the SSC CGL English Syllabus?

The SSC CGL English Comprehension syllabus tests grammar, vocabulary, sentence formation, and reading ability.

Important topics include:

  • Spotting errors
  • Fill in the blanks
  • Synonyms
  • Antonyms
  • Homonyms
  • Spelling correction
  • Idioms and phrases
  • One-word substitution
  • Sentence improvement
  • Active and passive voice
  • Direct and indirect speech
  • Sentence rearrangement
  • Shuffling of sentence parts
  • Cloze test
  • Reading comprehension
  • Grammar
  • Sentence structure
  • Vocabulary
  • Correct usage of words

SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026

What Is the SSC CGL Tier 2 Mathematical Abilities Syllabus?

The Tier 2 Mathematical Abilities syllabus includes:

  • Number systems
  • Whole numbers
  • Decimals and fractions
  • Percentage
  • Ratio and proportion
  • Square roots
  • Average
  • Simple and compound interest
  • Profit and loss
  • Discount
  • Partnership
  • Mixture and alligation
  • Time and distance
  • Time and work
  • Algebraic identities
  • Elementary surds
  • Linear equation graphs
  • Triangles
  • Congruence and similarity
  • Circles
  • Chords and tangents
  • Quadrilaterals
  • Regular polygons
  • Prism
  • Cone
  • Cylinder
  • Sphere and hemisphere
  • Trigonometric ratios
  • Standard identities
  • Heights and distances
  • Mean, median and mode
  • Standard deviation
  • Probability

Compared with Tier 1, Tier 2 adds statistics and probability and requires faster calculation under fixed sectional timing.

What Is the SSC CGL Tier 2 Reasoning Syllabus?

The Tier 2 Reasoning and General Intelligence syllabus covers:

  • Semantic analogy
  • Symbolic analogy
  • Number analogy
  • Figural analogy
  • Classification
  • Number series
  • Figural series
  • Problem-solving
  • Analysis
  • Judgment
  • Decision-making
  • Visual memory
  • Coding and decoding
  • Numerical operations
  • Venn diagrams
  • Puzzles
  • Critical thinking
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Social intelligence
  • Statement and conclusion
  • Syllogistic reasoning
  • Pattern folding and unfolding
  • Embedded figures

What Is the SSC CGL Tier 2 English Syllabus?

The Tier 2 English Language and Comprehension syllabus includes:

  • Vocabulary
  • Grammar
  • Sentence structure
  • Synonyms and antonyms
  • Correct usage
  • Spot the error
  • Fill in the blanks
  • Homonyms
  • Spellings
  • Idioms and phrases
  • One-word substitution
  • Sentence improvement
  • Active and passive voice
  • Direct and indirect speech
  • Shuffling of sentence parts
  • Sentence rearrangement
  • Cloze passage
  • Comprehension passage

Tier 2 contains 45 English questions for 135 marks, making English the highest-question subject in Paper I.

What Is the SSC CGL Tier 2 General Awareness Syllabus?

The Tier 2 General Awareness syllabus covers:

  • Current events
  • India and neighbouring countries
  • History
  • Culture
  • Geography
  • Economic scene
  • General policy
  • Scientific research
  • Government schemes
  • National and international developments
  • Static general knowledge

What Is the SSC CGL Computer Knowledge Syllabus?

The Computer Knowledge Test checks basic computer proficiency. It is mandatory for all posts but qualifying in nature.

Prepare the following topics:

  • Computer fundamentals
  • Organisation of a computer
  • Central Processing Unit
  • Input and output devices
  • Computer memory
  • Memory organisation
  • Data representation
  • Ports
  • Windows operating system
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Internet browsing
  • Email
  • Downloading and uploading
  • E-banking
  • Networking devices
  • Cybersecurity
  • Viruses, worms and malware
  • Preventive security measures

Some posts require a higher qualifying standard in the Computer Knowledge Test.

What Is the SSC CGL Data Entry Speed Test?

The Data Entry Speed Test, or DEST, evaluates a candidate’s typing speed and accuracy.

Candidates must complete a data-entry task equivalent to approximately 2,000 key depressions in 15 minutes. DEST is compulsory for most candidates and is qualifying in nature.

Read about: SSC CGL Cut Off Trends – Comprehensive Category-Wise Safe Score Blueprints

SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper II Syllabus

Paper II is conducted for candidates shortlisted for the posts of Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade II.

The Statistics syllabus includes:

  • Collection and presentation of data
  • Primary and secondary data
  • Frequency distributions
  • Graphs and charts
  • Mean, median and mode
  • Quartiles, deciles and percentiles
  • Range
  • Mean deviation
  • Quartile deviation
  • Standard deviation
  • Coefficient of variation
  • Moments
  • Skewness and kurtosis
  • Correlation
  • Scatter diagram
  • Regression
  • Spearman’s rank correlation
  • Association of attributes
  • Probability
  • Conditional probability
  • Independent events
  • Bayes’ theorem
  • Random variables
  • Mathematical expectation
  • Binomial distribution
  • Poisson distribution
  • Normal distribution
  • Exponential distribution
  • Sampling theory
  • Sampling and non-sampling errors
  • Estimation
  • Hypothesis testing
  • Z-test
  • t-test
  • Chi-square test
  • F-test
  • Analysis of variance
  • Time series
  • Index numbers

Paper II contains 100 questions for 200 marks and has a duration of two hours.

SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper III Syllabus

Paper III applies to candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts.

Part A: Finance and Accounts

  • Accounting principles and concepts
  • Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
  • Single-entry and double-entry systems
  • Journal
  • Ledger
  • Trial balance
  • Bank reconciliation
  • Rectification of errors
  • Trading account
  • Profit and loss account
  • Balance sheet
  • Capital and revenue expenditure
  • Depreciation
  • Inventory valuation
  • Non-profit organisation accounts
  • Bills of exchange
  • Self-balancing ledgers

Part B: Economics and Governance

  • Comptroller and Auditor General of India
  • Finance Commission
  • Basic concepts of economics
  • Microeconomics
  • Demand and supply
  • Elasticity
  • Consumer behaviour
  • Production and cost
  • Market structures
  • Indian economy
  • National income
  • Population
  • Poverty and unemployment
  • Infrastructure
  • Economic reforms since 1991
  • Liberalisation
  • Privatisation
  • Globalisation
  • Money and banking
  • Role of the Reserve Bank of India
  • Monetary policy
  • Fiscal policy
  • Union Budget
  • Fiscal deficit
  • Balance of payments
  • FRBM Act, 2003
  • Information technology in governance

Paper III contains 100 questions for 200 marks and has a duration of two hours.

How Should You Prepare the SSC CGL Syllabus Subject-Wise?

Mathematics: Build Accuracy Before Speed

Start with percentage, ratio, average, profit and loss, time and work, and time and distance. After completing arithmetic, cover algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, and statistics.

Practise each topic under a timer because both Tier 1 and Tier 2 now use fixed sectional timings.

English: Use It as a Scoring Section

Revise grammar rules and solve questions on error detection, sentence improvement, vocabulary, cloze tests, and comprehension.

Since Tier 2 gives 40 minutes for 45 English questions, candidates should target both speed and accuracy.

Reasoning: Practise Pattern Recognition

Reasoning performance improves through repeated exposure to analogies, series, coding-decoding, syllogisms, Venn diagrams, and non-verbal questions.

Maintain a record of questions that take more than one minute and practise similar patterns separately.

General Awareness: Revise, Do Not Only Read

Divide General Awareness into:

  • Static GK
  • General science
  • Current affairs
  • History
  • Geography
  • Polity
  • Economy

Use short revision notes and question-based practice instead of relying only on lengthy current affairs material.

Computer Knowledge: Prepare for the Qualifying Cut-Off

Computer Knowledge carries 60 marks and must be qualified separately. Study computer fundamentals, MS Office, networking, internet use, and cybersecurity before attempting topic-wise tests.

SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF Download

Candidates can download the SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF from the official notification released by the Staff Selection Commission.

The official PDF contains:

  • Tier 1 exam pattern
  • Tier 2 exam pattern
  • Subject-wise syllabus
  • Sectional timing
  • Negative marking
  • Qualifying criteria
  • DEST requirements
  • Post-specific papers
  • Examination instructions

Download SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF – Official Notification

The official 2026 notification was released on May 21, 2026, and applications remain open until June 22, 2026.

How to Use the SSC CGL Syllabus PDF Effectively

Follow these steps:

  1. Download and save the official SSC CGL syllabus PDF.
  2. Create separate checklists for Tier 1 and Tier 2.
  3. Mark topics as completed, under revision, or pending.
  4. Analyse previous-year papers to identify frequently tested areas.
  5. Take topic-wise tests after completing each chapter.
  6. Attempt sectional tests within the official time limit.
  7. Take full-length mock tests after covering at least 70% of the syllabus.
  8. Review incorrect and unattempted questions after every test.
  9. Revise weak topics every week.
  10. Track accuracy, attempts, and time spent section-wise.

SSC CGL Preparation Tips 2026

  • Understand the exam pattern before starting the syllabus.
  • Complete concept-building before learning shortcuts.
  • Practise calculations daily.
  • Revise vocabulary and grammar regularly.
  • Solve previous-year questions after every topic.
  • Use sectional tests to adjust to the new timers.
  • Attempt at least one full mock test every week initially.
  • Increase mock-test frequency as the exam approaches.
  • Analyse every mock instead of focusing only on the score.
  • Avoid random guessing because of negative marking.
  • Keep Computer Knowledge and DEST in the study plan.
  • Revise through short notes during the final weeks.

SSC CGL Study Material

Study MaterialAccess
SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2 Mock TestAttempt Now
SSC CGL Tier 1 Previous-Year PapersDownload PDF
SSC CGL Tier 2 Previous-Year PapersDownload PDF
SSC CGL Topic-Wise TestsStart Practice
SSC CGL Sectional TestAttempt Now
SSC Weekly Current Affairs QuizStart Quiz

Regularly attempting an SSC CGL mock test helps candidates measure accuracy, adapt to the official sectional timer, identify weak topics, and improve question-selection strategy.

Join our exclusive Telegram group for expert guidance, personalized tips, and real-time solutions to boost your SSC exam prep. [Click here to join now!]

Other Blogs of SSC CGL
SSC CGL NotificationSSC CGL Syllabus
SSC CGL Study PlanSSC CGL Exam Pattern
SSC CGL Cut OffSSC CGL Preparation Strategy
SSC CGL Previous Year Question Papers

FAQs on SSC CGL Syllabus 2026

What Subjects Are Included in the SSC CGL Syllabus 2026?

The SSC CGL Tier 1 syllabus includes General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Tier 2 additionally includes Computer Knowledge, DEST, Statistics, and Finance and Economics for applicable posts.

What Is the SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026?

The SSC CGL Tier 1 syllabus covers Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Each subject contains 25 questions for 50 marks.

What Is the SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026?

The SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, and DEST. Statistics and Finance and Economics are included for specific posts.

Where Can I Download the SSC CGL Syllabus PDF?

Candidates can download the SSC CGL Syllabus PDF from the official SSC CGL 2026 notification available on the Staff Selection Commission website.

Is There Sectional Timing in SSC CGL Tier 1?

Yes. SSC CGL Tier 1 has a 15-minute sectional timer for each of the four subjects. The total examination duration is 60 minutes.

Is There Sectional Timing in SSC CGL Tier 2?

Yes. Tier 2 Paper I provides 30 minutes each for Mathematics and Reasoning, 40 minutes for English, 20 minutes for General Awareness, and 15 minutes each for Computer Knowledge and DEST.

Abhishek Jatariya

Hello Guys, I am Abhishek Jatariya (B.Tech (IT), HBTU Kanpur). At PracticeMock I am a dedicated Government Job aspirant turned passionate Content writer & Content creator. My blogs are a one-stop destination for accurate and comprehensive information on exams like SSC, Railways, and Other PSU Jobs. I am on a mission to provide you with all the details about these exams you need, conveniently in one place. I hope you will like my writing.

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