SSC CGL 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

What is SSC CGL?

SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission – Combined Graduate Level Examination) 2026 is one of the most popular and competitive government exams in India. It is conducted annually to recruit graduates for prestigious Group B and C posts in ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India.

SSC CGL offers job security, high salary, career growth, promotions, and work-life balance, making it a top choice for aspirants every year.

Eligibility Criteria for 2026

Educational Qualification

• Graduation from a recognized university
• Final year students are eligible, subject to passing before joining

Age Limit

• General: 18–30 years
• OBC: 18–33 years
• SC/ST: 18–35 years
• Age relaxation for PwD & Ex-Servicemen as per rules

SSC CGL Posts & Departments

• Assistant Section Officer (MEA, CSS, AFHQ)
• Income Tax Inspector
• Central Excise Inspector
• Assistant Enforcement Officer
• Auditor & Accountant (CAG, CGA)
• Junior Statistical Officer
• Tax Assistant
• Compiler, Sub Inspector (CBI)

SSC CGL Salary 2026

The salary is based on the 7th Pay Commission. Along with basic pay, candidates receive DA, HRA, TA, and other allowances.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026

Tier I – Preliminary Exam

• General Intelligence & Reasoning – 25 Questions
• Quantitative Aptitude – 25 Questions
• English Language – 25 Questions
• General Awareness – 25 Questions
• Duration: 60 minutes

Tier II – Mains Exam

• Quantitative Abilities – 100 Questions
• English Language & Comprehension – 200 Questions
• Statistics – 100 Questions
• General Studies (Finance & Economics) – 100 Questions
• Duration: 2 hours each section

Tier III – Descriptive Paper

Essay/Letter/Precis – 100 Marks (Pen & Paper mode)

Tier IV – Skill/Computer Test (where applicable)

Data Entry, Computer Proficiency Tests as per post requirements.

SSC CGL 2026 – Detailed Syllabus

Quantitative Aptitude

Number System, Simplification, Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Time & Work, Speed, Distance & Time, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Data Interpretation

Reasoning

Analogies, Coding-Decoding, Series, Syllogism, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Puzzle, Statement & Conclusion, Input-Output

English Language

Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Cloze Test, Para Jumbles, Idioms & Phrases, Error Spotting

General Awareness

History, Geography, Polity, Economics, Science, Current Affairs, Banking & Finance, International Relations

SSC CGL Preparation Strategy 2026

• Understand the syllabus & exam trend thoroughly
• Make daily & weekly study schedules
• Practice previous year questions & mock tests regularly
• Focus on weaker sections to improve scores
• Time management practice for speed & accuracy
• Read newspapers & GK notes daily for General Awareness

SSC CGL Cutoff Trends

Cutoff varies based on category, number of vacancies, and difficulty level. Typical 2025 trends:

• General – Tier I: 140–150, Tier II: 295–310
• OBC – Tier I: 130–140, Tier II: 280–295
• SC – Tier I: 110–120, Tier II: 260–275
• ST – Tier I: 100–110, Tier II: 245–260

Important Tips for SSC CGL 2026

• Start preparation 6–8 months in advance
• Focus on accuracy, speed, and revision
• Create short notes for quick revision
• Attempt mock tests under exam conditions
• Keep updated with current affairs & government schemes

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is SSC CGL tough? – Competitive but crackable with smart planning.
• Can freshers apply? – Yes, fresh graduates can apply.
• Is coaching necessary? – No, self-study with proper resources is enough.
• Number of attempts? – Depends on age category.