SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Tier 1 & Tier 2 Subject-Wise Syllabus PDF
The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 consists of Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations. Tier 1 includes General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension, while Tier 2 covers Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test, and Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). Statistics and Finance and Economics are applicable to candidates appearing for specific posts.
Understanding the SSC CGL Syllabus along with the latest SSC CGL Notification is important before starting preparation, as it helps candidates know the topics covered in each tier and prepare according to the latest exam requirements. This article provides the complete SSC CGL syllabus, SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026, negative marking, important topics, syllabus PDF, and preparation strategy.
The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 follows the current two-tier examination structure, with additional modules in Tier 2. Candidates should note that Tier 1 consists of four sections, while Tier 2 includes Computer Knowledge and DEST along with the main written sections.
Some important points candidates should remember are:
The SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026 also includes fixed sectional timings in Tier 1, with 15 minutes allotted to each section. Tier 2 Paper 1 includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test, and DEST, while Paper 2 and Paper 3 are applicable to specific posts.
The SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026 consists of Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 has 100 questions for 200 marks in 60 minutes with a 15-minute sectional timer for each subject, while Tier 2 includes Paper 1 for all posts and additional papers for specific posts.
| Stage | Subjects | Marks | Nature |
| Tier 1 | Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English | 200 | Qualifying |
| Tier 2 Paper 1 | Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, DEST | As prescribed | Merit/Qualifying components |
| Tier 2 Paper 2 | Statistics | 200 | For JSO and applicable statistical posts |
| Tier 2 Paper 3 | Finance and Economics | 200 | For AAO and Assistant Accounts Officer posts |
Tier 1 consists of four sections, with 25 questions from each section, making a total of 100 questions for 200 marks. Each section has a 15-minute timer.
Many beginners confuse the SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2 syllabus. Although several subjects overlap, both stages have different structures and requirements.
| Feature | Tier 1 | Tier 2 |
| Purpose | Qualifying | Final Merit |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate | Higher |
| Subjects | Four | Multiple Modules |
| Computer Knowledge | No | Yes |
| Statistics | No | Specific Posts |
| Finance and Economics | No | Specific Posts |
Candidates should therefore understand the Tier 2 syllabus from the beginning instead of waiting until Tier 1 is over. Tier 2 Paper 1 is compulsory for all posts, while Paper 2 and Paper 3 are conducted only for candidates shortlisted for the applicable posts.
The SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus consists of four subjects: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Each section contains 25 questions carrying 50 marks, making a total of 100 questions for 200 marks.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
| 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 |
Since Tier 1 is qualifying in nature, candidates should focus on building strong fundamentals, maintaining accuracy, and clearing the stage with a controlled attempt strategy. The current pattern gives each section a fixed 15-minute timer.
The SSS CGL Tier 1 syllabus 2026 is designed to test the basic foundational knowledge of a graduate. Even though it is qualifying in nature, the high cutoff marks mean you cannot afford to take it lightly.
The SSC CGL Reasoning Syllabus evaluates logical thinking, analytical ability, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. Questions are designed to test problem-solving and reasoning ability.
The SSC CGL reasoning syllabus includes both verbal and non-verbal components, so preparation should cover different question formats rather than focusing on only one type.
The SSC CGL General Awareness Syllabus covers current events along with subjects related to India and the world. Candidates should prepare both factual and conceptual areas.
General Awareness combines static subjects and current events, so both areas should remain part of the preparation schedule.
The SSC CGL Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus covers numerical ability, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, statistics, and data interpretation. It is one of the sections where systematic practice can improve calculation speed and accuracy.
The SSC CGL Quantitative Aptitude syllabus covers arithmetic and advanced mathematics together, so candidates should build fundamentals first and then increase the difficulty of practice.
The SSC CGL English Comprehension Syllabus evaluates grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, sentence formation, and language usage. Consistent reading and regular practice can help candidates improve familiarity with different question types.
The SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus is more comprehensive than Tier 1 and includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test, and DEST. Statistics and Finance and Economics are applicable to specific posts.
| Session | Section | Module | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session I | Section I | Module I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 30 Minutes |
| Session I | Section I | Module II | Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | 30 Minutes |
| Session I | Section II | Module I | English Language and Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 40 Minutes |
| Session I | Section II | Module II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | 20 Minutes |
| Session I | Section III | Module I | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 | 60 | 15 Minutes |
| Session II | Section III | Module II | Data Entry Speed Test | One Task | Qualifying | 15 Minutes |
Unlike Tier 1, Tier 2 requires candidates to prepare additional modules and maintain a higher level of speed and accuracy. Paper 1 is compulsory for all posts, while Paper 2 is applicable to specific statistical posts and Paper 3 is applicable to Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
The SSC CGL Tier 2 Mathematical Abilities syllabus covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, mensuration, statistics, and data interpretation. Candidates should focus on concept clarity, formula revision, calculation speed, and extensive practice.
The SSC CGL Tier 2 Reasoning Syllabus evaluates analytical thinking, critical reasoning, decision-making, and logical ability. Candidates should focus on improving accuracy while solving questions within the available time.
The SSC CGL Tier 2 English Language and Comprehension syllabus covers grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and language skills. Candidates should have a strong command of grammar and vocabulary and should be comfortable solving comprehension-based questions.
The SSC CGL Tier 2 General Awareness Syllabus covers current affairs, static General Knowledge, and subjects related to India and the world.
The SSC CGL Computer Knowledge Test is a qualifying module in Tier 2 and evaluates candidates on basic computer concepts and digital knowledge. Candidates should prepare this section properly even though it is qualifying in nature.
In Tier 2 Paper 1, the Computer Knowledge Test is mandatory for all candidates but is qualifying in nature. Higher qualifying standards may apply to certain posts where computer proficiency is prescribed.
The SSC CGL Syllabus PDF published by the Staff Selection Commission should be treated as the primary reference for the latest syllabus and examination structure. Candidates can keep a copy of the official document and use it as a checklist throughout preparation.
The official syllabus covers:
Keeping the syllabus PDF accessible helps candidates track preparation and verify that all relevant topics have been covered.
The SSC CGL Statistics Paper is applicable only to candidates shortlisted for specific statistical posts such as Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade-II. Candidates appearing for other SSC CGL posts are not required to prepare this additional paper.
The syllabus includes:
Candidates applying for other posts do not need to prepare this additional paper.
The SSC CGL Finance and Economics Paper is applicable to candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts. Candidates targeting other SSC CGL posts do not need to prepare this additional paper.
The syllabus includes:
Paper 3 consists of 100 questions for 200 marks and is conducted for candidates shortlisted for the applicable posts.
The SSC CGL negative marking scheme varies by examination stage. Tier 1 has a deduction of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer, while Tier 2 Paper 1 has 1 mark deducted for each wrong answer in Sections I, II, and III. Paper 2 and Paper 3 have a deduction of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer.
| Exam Stage | Negative Marking |
| Tier 1 | 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer |
| Tier 2 Paper 1 | 1 mark for each incorrect answer in Sections I, II and III |
| Tier 2 Paper 2 | 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer |
| Tier 2 Paper 3 | 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer |
Completing the SSC CGL Syllabus in 30 days requires a focused approach. Instead of trying to study every topic simultaneously, divide preparation into four phases covering foundation, high-priority topics, advanced practice, and final revision.
Start by covering the core topics of every subject and strengthening your basic concepts.
Quantitative Aptitude
Reasoning
English
General Awareness
Focus on important areas while continuing short daily revision sessions.
Quantitative Aptitude
Reasoning
English
General Awareness
Complete the remaining important areas of the SSC CGL Syllabus and begin intensive practice.
Quantitative Aptitude
Reasoning
English
General Awareness
Also during this week:
The final week should be dedicated to revision and exam-level practice.
Focus on:
Analyse every mock test carefully, identify weak areas, and revise those topics before attempting the next test.
Simply reading the SSC CGL Syllabus is not enough. Use it as a checklist throughout your preparation so that you can track completed topics and identify areas that still need revision.
Every topic in the SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 should be covered, but candidates can prioritise frequently practised areas while planning their preparation.
| Subject | High Priority Topics |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Percentage, Ratio and Proportion, Profit and Loss, Time and Work, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Data Interpretation |
| Reasoning | Coding and Decoding, Series, Analogy, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Syllogism, Venn Diagrams |
| English | Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Cloze Test, Vocabulary, Idioms and Phrases, One Word Substitution |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Economy, General Science, Environment |
| Computer Knowledge | MS Office, Operating System, Internet, Networking, Cyber Security, Computer Fundamentals |
Candidates should first strengthen these areas but should not completely skip the remaining topics in the official syllabus.
Many candidates struggle to complete the SSC CGL syllabus because of poor planning and irregular revision. The following mistakes can make preparation less efficient.
The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 provides the roadmap for preparation across Tier 1 and Tier 2. Candidates should first understand the latest syllabus and SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026, then divide each subject into manageable topics and follow a regular cycle of concept building, practice, revision, and mock-test analysis.
Do not treat the syllabus as something to complete only once. Keep it as a checklist throughout preparation so that you can track unfinished topics, revise weak areas, and make sure your preparation remains aligned with the current examination structure. Candidates can complement the syllabus with PracticeMock mock tests, previous year papers, topic-wise quizzes, study material, and current affairs resources for structured preparation across both tiers.
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SSC CGL Syllabus for Tier 1 has four main subjects – Quantitative Aptitude, English, Reasoning, and General Awareness. In Tier 2, the level is higher and it also includes Computer Knowledge and advanced Maths topics.
Yes. SSC CGL Tier 1 exam consists of four core subjects, whereas Tier 2 is broader and includes Computer Knowledge and DEST along with the main subjects. Statistics is applicable to relevant statistical posts, while Finance and Economics is applicable to Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam consists of 100 objective questions for 200 marks and is conducted for 60 minutes. There are four sections with 25 questions and 50 marks each, and every section has a separate 15-minute timer. A negative marking of 0.50 marks applies to each incorrect answer.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 1 is compulsory for all posts and includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test, and DEST. Paper 2 is for applicable statistical posts, while Paper 3 is for candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
Computer Knowledge is included in the SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper 1 and is mandatory for all candidates, although the Computer Knowledge Test is qualifying in nature. Candidates should prepare computer fundamentals, operating systems, MS Office, Internet, networking, cyber security, memory, and input/output devices.
The SSC CGL Statistics Paper is for candidates shortlisted for relevant statistical posts such as JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade-II. The Finance and Economics Paper is for candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts. Candidates applying for other posts do not need these additional papers.
Start with the official SSC CGL syllabus, divide it subject-wise, build your concepts, and then move to topic-wise questions. Practise previous year questions, attempt sectional and full-length mock tests, revise regularly, and maintain an error notebook. Use the syllabus as a checklist so that no relevant topic remains incomplete.
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