SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Tier 1 & Tier 2 Subject-Wise Syllabus PDF
SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 is divided into two main computer-based stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 covers General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Tier 2 includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, and the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). Candidates preparing for specific posts may also need Statistics or Finance and Economics.Â
Candidates should pay special attention to the latest SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026, as Tier 1 has a separate 15-minute sectional timer for each subject. Tier 1 is used for shortlisting candidates for Tier 2, while final merit is determined through Tier 2 performance as applicable to the post.
Applicants can check the complete SSC CGL Tier 1 syllabus, SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus, exam pattern, subject-wise topics, negative marking, PDF details, and preparation strategy below. This blog covers the complete subject-wise syllabus, exam pattern, important topics, PDF details, preparation tips, and FAQs in simple language.
The SSC CGL exam has two main stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Understanding the SSC CGL syllabus along with the exam pattern helps candidates plan their preparation better.
| Particular | Details |
| Exam Name | SSC Combined Graduate Level Examination 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission |
| Exam Stages | Tier 1 and Tier 2 |
| Mode | Computer-Based Examination |
| Tier 1 Subjects | Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English |
| Tier 1 Questions | 100 |
| Tier 1 Marks | 200 |
| Tier 1 Duration | 60 Minutes |
| Tier 1 Sectional Timing | 15 Minutes per Subject |
| Tier 1 Negative Marking | 0.50 Mark per Wrong Answer |
| Tier 1 Role | Shortlisting Stage |
| Tier 2 Paper 1 | Compulsory for All Posts |
| Tier 2 Paper 2 | Statistics for Applicable Statistical Posts |
| Tier 2 Paper 3 | Finance & Economics for Applicable AAO/Assistant Accounts Officer Posts |
| Final Merit | Based on Tier 2 Performance as Applicable |
The syllabus should always be studied with the latest exam pattern. This is important as candidates need to prepare not only the topics but also sectional timing, negative marking, qualifying modules, and post-specific papers.
The SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026 consists of two main stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 is used to shortlist candidates for Tier 2. Tier 2 Paper 1 is compulsory for all candidates, while Paper 2 and Paper 3 apply to candidates appearing for specific posts.
Tier 1 consists of 100 objective-type questions carrying 200 marks. Each section has a separate 15-minute timer.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 Minutes |
Candidates should remember these important points:
The sectional timer makes speed and accuracy important. Candidates should therefore practise each subject separately with a 15-minute timer.
Tier 2 Paper 1 is compulsory for all posts. It covers Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, and DEST.
| Section | Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
| Section I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 30 Minutes |
| Section I | Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | 30 Minutes |
| Section II | English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 40 Minutes |
| Section II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | 20 Minutes |
| Section III | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 | 60 | 15 Minutes |
| Section IV | Data Entry Speed Test | One Task | Qualifying | 15 Minutes |
For Tier 2 Paper 1, 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer in Sections I, II and III.
The Computer Knowledge Test and DEST are qualifying components in the SSC CGL Syllabus and exam structure, although candidates must meet the standards prescribed for them.
Some candidates have to appear for additional papers depending on the post.
| Paper | Applicable Candidates | Questions | Marks | Duration |
| Paper 2 – Statistics | Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade II candidates, as applicable | 100 | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Paper 3 – General Studies (Finance & Economics) | Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer candidates, as applicable | 100 | 200 | 2 Hours |
Paper 2 and Paper 3 carry a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer.
The SSC CGL Tier 1 syllabus includes four subjects:
Each section contains 25 questions carrying 50 marks.
The SSC CGL Reasoning syllabus section tests logical thinking, observation, problem-solving, and analytical ability. It includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning
Important topics include:
| Topic Area | Important Topics |
| Analogy | Semantic Analogy, Number Analogy, Figural Analogy |
| Classification | Semantic, Number and Figural Classification |
| Series | Number Series, Semantic Series, Figural Series |
| Coding | Coding-Decoding, Numerical and Symbolic Operations |
| Spatial Ability | Space Orientation, Space Visualization |
| Logical Reasoning | Statement and Conclusion, Drawing Inferences, Syllogistic Reasoning |
| Figure-Based Reasoning | Embedded Figures, Pattern Folding, Figure Completion |
| Problem Solving | Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Problem Solving |
| Other Topics | Venn Diagrams, Word Building, Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence |
Candidates should first build basic accuracy and then practise reasoning questions with the 15-minute sectional timer.
The SSC CGL General Awareness syllabus tests knowledge of current events and important areas related to India and neighbouring countries.
Important areas include:
A good strategy is to combine static General Knowledge with regular current affairs revision. Studying a few topics every day can make revision easier.
The SSC CGL Quantitative Aptitude syllabus covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, and data representation.
| Area | Important Topics |
| Arithmetic | Number System, Percentage, Ratio, Average, Profit & Loss, Discount, Simple & Compound Interest, Partnership, Mixture & Alligation, Time & Work, Time & Distance |
| Algebra | Basic Algebraic Identities, Elementary Surds, Linear Equations |
| Geometry | Triangles, Congruence, Similarity, Circles, Chords, Tangents |
| Mensuration | Triangle, Quadrilateral, Polygon, Prism, Cone, Cylinder, Sphere, Hemisphere, Pyramid |
| Trigonometry | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities, Complementary Angles, Heights & Distances |
| Data Representation | Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Bar Diagram, Pie Chart |
Important arithmetic topics such as Percentage, Profit and Loss, Ratio and Proportion, Average, Time and Work, Speed and Distance, and Simple and Compound Interest should be included in regular practice.
Candidates should also cover Advanced Maths topics such as Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Trigonometry, and Data Interpretation.
The SSC CGL English syllabus section tests grammar, vocabulary, sentence usage, and reading comprehension.
Grammar
Vocabulary
Comprehension
Candidates should combine grammar rules with regular question practice. Learning a few vocabulary words every day can also help improve English preparation.
The SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus includes:
Paper 1 is compulsory for all candidates.
The Tier 2 Mathematical Abilities syllabus section includes:
The Tier 2 Mathematics of SSC CGL syllabus overlaps with Tier 1. Therefore, candidates can build one strong Maths foundation and gradually increase the difficulty level.
Important topics include:
Regular timed practice is important because Reasoning is part of the merit-oriented Tier 2 Paper 1.
The Tier 2 English syllabus includes:
Candidates can also practise comprehension passages based on books, stories, current affairs, reports, and editorials.
The General Awareness syllabus broadly covers:
Many of these topics overlap with Tier 1. However, candidates should focus on better retention and regular revision for Tier 2.
The SSC CGL Computer Knowledge Test is part of Tier 2 Paper 1 and is qualifying in nature.
Important topics include:
| Area | Topics |
| Computer Fundamentals | CPU, Input/Output Devices, Memory, Backup Devices, Ports |
| Operating System | Windows, Windows Explorer, Keyboard Shortcuts |
| MS Office | MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint |
| Internet | Web Browsing, Searching, Uploading, Downloading, Email |
| Networking | Networking Devices, Protocols, Internet Concepts |
| Cyber Security | Viruses, Worms, Trojans, Information Security, Preventive Measures |
Candidates should not ignore Computer Knowledge just because it is qualifying. A few minutes of regular revision can make this section easier.
The SSC CGL Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) is conducted in Session II of Tier 2 Paper 1. Candidates are required to complete a data-entry task of approximately 2,000 key depressions in 15 minutes.
DEST is qualifying in nature, subject to the conditions and exemptions prescribed by SSC. Regular typing practice should be started well before the Tier 2 examination.
Who has to appear for SSC CGL Statistics Paper?
Paper 2 is applicable to candidates shortlisted for relevant statistical posts, including Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade II, as applicable. The paper contains 100 questions for 200 marks.
| Unit | Important Topics |
| Data Collection | Primary and Secondary Data, Classification, Tabulation, Graphs |
| Central Tendency | Mean, Median, Mode, Quartiles, Deciles, Percentiles |
| Dispersion | Range, Mean Deviation, Quartile Deviation, Standard Deviation |
| Moments | Moments, Skewness, Kurtosis |
| Correlation & Regression | Correlation Coefficient, Regression, Rank Correlation |
| Probability | Conditional Probability, Compound Probability, Bayes’ Theorem |
| Probability Distribution | Binomial, Poisson, Normal, Exponential Distribution |
| Sampling | Random, Stratified, Cluster, Systematic and Multistage Sampling |
| Statistical Inference | Estimation, Hypothesis Testing, Z, t, Chi-Square and F Tests |
| ANOVA | One-Way and Two-Way Classification |
| Time Series | Trend and Seasonal Variation |
| Index Numbers | Construction, Base Shifting, Cost of Living Index |
Candidates appearing for Paper 2 should prepare Statistics separately from the common SSC CGL syllabus.
Who has to appear for SSC CGL Finance and Economics Paper?
Paper 3 is applicable to candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts, as applicable. The paper includes two broad areas. Candidates appearing for Paper 3 should treat it as a specialised paper and prepare it separately from Tier 2 Paper 1.
Important topics include:
Important topics include:
The difference between SSC CGL Syllabus Tier 1 and Tier 2 is important for planning your preparation.
| Feature | Tier 1 | Tier 2 |
| Role | Shortlisting | Final Merit |
| Reasoning | Yes | Yes |
| Mathematics | Yes | Yes |
| English | Yes | Yes |
| General Awareness | Yes | Yes |
| Computer Knowledge | No | Yes |
| DEST | No | Yes |
| Statistics | No | Paper 2 for Applicable Posts |
| Finance & Economics | No | Paper 3 for Applicable Posts |
| Main Paper Questions | 100 | 150 in Paper 1 |
| Main Paper Marks | 200 | 450 in Paper 1 |
| Sectional Timing | 15 Minutes per Subject | Applicable in Paper 1 |
| Negative Marking | 0.50 Mark | 1 Mark in Paper 1 Sections I–III; 0.50 in Papers 2 and 3 |
The biggest preparation advantage is the overlap between the two stages. Reasoning, Mathematics, English, and General Awareness are common areas. So, candidates do not need to prepare for two completely different exams.
The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF can be used as a simple checklist during preparation.
It helps candidates:
Candidates should always refer to the official Staff Selection Commission notification for the latest notified syllabus. The official SSC portal is the primary source for examination notifications and updates. You can also use the PracticeMock SSC CGL syllabus PDF as a structured preparation checklist.
The complete syllabus may look large at first. A simple way to manage it is to divide it subject-wise.
| Subject | Preparation Focus |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Mensuration, Trigonometry |
| Reasoning | Analogy, Classification, Series, Coding, Venn Diagram, Figures |
| English | Grammar, Vocabulary, Cloze Test, Reading Comprehension |
| General Awareness | History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science, Current Affairs |
| Computer Knowledge | Basics, MS Office, Internet, Networking, Cyber Security |
| Statistics | Probability, Sampling, Regression, Inference, Time Series |
| Finance & Economics | Accounting, Indian Economy, Banking, Fiscal Policy |
The important point is not to skip topics simply because they appear less often in previous papers. Use SSC CGL topic-wise weightage to decide the order of practice, but cover the complete notified syllabus.
Knowing the syllabus is only the first step. You also need a simple plan to finish it. Break the topics into small daily targets so you can study without feeling stressed. Give extra time to difficult topics and revise the easy ones regularly.
1. Start With the Official Syllabus: Make a checklist of every topic. Mark a chapter as complete only after you have studied the concept, solved questions, and reviewed your mistakes.
2. Prepare Tier 1 and Tier 2 Together: Mathematics, Reasoning, English, and General Awareness overlap across both tiers. Prepare these common subjects from the beginning. Later, add Computer Knowledge, DEST, Statistics, or Finance and Economics according to your post.
3. Solve Previous-Year Questions: After completing a topic, solve SSC CGL previous-year questions from that chapter. PYQs show you how questions are framed and help you understand which concepts need more practice.
4. Practice With Sectional Timers: Tier 1 gives 15 minutes to each section. Therefore, practise Reasoning, General Awareness, Maths, and English under separate 15-minute timers. This will help you become comfortable with the real exam pressure.
5. Attempt Sectional and Full-Length Mock Tests: Sectional tests help you find subject-level weaknesses. Full-length mock tests help you check your overall preparation, time management, and accuracy. Candidates can attempt PracticeMock SSC CGL mock tests to practise under exam-like conditions.
6. Analyse Every Mock Test: Do not simply look at your final score. The mistakes you make can tell you what to revise next. After every mock, check:
7. Revise Regularly: This cycle helps prevent completed topics from becoming weak over time. Follow this simple cycle: Study, Practice, PYQ, Mock Test, Analyse, Revise followed by the Reattempt.
A good preparation strategy is not only about covering more topics. It is also about avoiding mistakes that can slow down your progress and affect your performance. Candidates should avoid these common preparation mistakes:
The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 should be used as a complete preparation roadmap, not just a list of topics. Tier 1 covers Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English, while Tier 2 expands the preparation through Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, and DEST. Candidates appearing for applicable posts may also need Statistics or General Studies (Finance and Economics).
Start by completing the syllabus topic by topic. Then solve previous-year questions, practise with the latest sectional timing, attempt mock tests, and revise your weak areas regularly. Since Tier 2 plays the key role in final merit, candidates should prepare the common Tier 1 and Tier 2 subjects together instead of waiting until Tier 1 is over. For SSC CGL mock tests, previous-year papers, topic-wise tests, quizzes, and revision resources, visit PracticeMock.
SSC CGL Tier 1 includes General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Tier 2 includes these core areas along with Computer Knowledge and DEST. Statistics and Finance & Economics apply to specific posts.
SSC CGL Tier 1 contains 100 questions for 200 marks. Each of the four sections has 25 questions for 50 marks and a separate 15-minute timer.
Yes. Tier 1 has a negative marking of 0.50 marks for every incorrect answer. In Tier 2 Paper 1, 1 mark is deducted for incorrect answers in the applicable scoring modules, while Paper 2 and Paper 3 have 0.50-mark negative marking.
Tier 1 is used to shortlist candidates for Tier 2. Final merit is based on Tier 2 performance according to the examination scheme applicable to the post.
Tier 1 covers Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English. Tier 2 includes these core areas at a broader level and additionally includes Computer Knowledge and DEST. Statistics and Finance & Economics are required for applicable posts.
The Computer Knowledge Test is part of Tier 2 Paper 1 and is qualifying in nature. Candidates should prepare the prescribed computer topics even though the module is qualifying.
DEST is included in Tier 2 Paper 1 and is qualifying in nature, subject to applicable exemptions and conditions prescribed by SSC.
SSC CGL Paper 2 Statistics is applicable to candidates shortlisted for relevant statistical posts, including Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade II, as applicable.
Paper 3 General Studies (Finance and Economics) is applicable to candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts, as applicable.
Yes. Reasoning, Mathematics, English, and General Awareness overlap across Tier 1 and Tier 2. Preparing these common subjects together can save time and reduce repeated study.
Candidates should refer to the official Staff Selection Commission notification for the latest notified syllabus. A PracticeMock syllabus PDF of SSC CGL can also be used as a preparation checklist.
The current SSC CGL examination structure consists of computer-based Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations, with DEST included as a skill-based component of Tier 2 Paper 1. There is no separate descriptive paper in the current examination structure.Â
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