Introduction

The SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level) Exam stands as one of India's most sought-after government recruitment examinations for 2026. This prestigious exam opens doors to prestigious positions in various central government departments including Income Tax, CBI, Customs, and Accounts. With multiple tiers and a structured selection process, SSC CGL attracts lakhs of aspirants annually, making it a critical milestone for those pursuing stable government careers. The exam is designed to test candidates' analytical abilities, general knowledge, and language proficiency across multiple stages.

Exam Pattern Overview

Detailed Syllabus Breakdown

Tier I (Prelims) Syllabus

General Awareness

• Current affairs and recent events
• History and culture of India
• Geography and physical features
• Indian Constitution and governance
• Science and technology developments
• Economics and finance basics
• Sports and awards

Quantitative Aptitude

• Number systems and operations
• Percentages and profit-loss
• Ratio and proportion
• Time and work problems
• Speed, distance, and time
• Simple and compound interest
• Geometry and mensuration
• Data interpretation basics

Reasoning Ability

• Analogies and classifications
• Syllogisms and logical deduction
• Series and patterns
• Coding and decoding
• Blood relations and directions
• Seating arrangements
• Puzzles and problem-solving

English Language

• Vocabulary and word usage
• Grammar and sentence structure
• Reading comprehension
• Synonyms and antonyms
• Spelling and error detection
• Sentence completion and arrangement

Tier II (Mains) Syllabus

Mathematics

• Arithmetic and number theory
• Algebra and equations
• Trigonometry and geometry
• Calculus fundamentals
• Statistics and probability
• Coordinate geometry

English Language & Comprehension

• Essay writing
• Precis writing
• Letter and application writing
• Comprehension passages
• Grammar and vocabulary
• Idioms and phrases

Statistics (For Statistical Investigator Posts)

• Collection and classification of data
• Measures of central tendency
• Probability distributions
• Hypothesis testing
• Regression and correlation
• Index numbers

Economics (For Auditor/Accountant Posts)

• Microeconomics principles
• Macroeconomics concepts
• Indian economy overview
• Monetary and fiscal policy
• International trade basics

Selection Process

The SSC CGL selection process is multi-staged and rigorous:

• Tier I (Prelims): Objective multiple-choice test conducted on computer. Candidates scoring above the cutoff proceed to Tier II.
• Tier II (Mains): Written examination with multiple papers based on the applied post. Performance in Tier II determines merit ranking.
• Tier III/IV: Descriptive test or skill test (typing/computer proficiency) for specific posts. Document verification and medical examination follow.
• Final Selection: Merit list is prepared based on combined performance across all tiers. Selected candidates are offered government positions in their respective departments.

Important Exam Dates (2025-26)

• Tier I Exam: August 13–30, 2025 (Computer-Based)
• Tier II Exam: December 2025 (Tentative)
• Tier III/IV: As per official notification

Direct Links & Resources

• Official SSC Website
• SSC CGL Notification & Admit Card
• Previous Year Question Papers
• Syllabus PDF Download
• Online Mock Tests
• Study Material & Notes

Preparation Tips

• Create a structured study schedule covering all subjects equally
• Practice previous year papers to understand exam patterns
• Take regular mock tests to assess progress and identify weak areas
• Focus on time management during practice sessions
• Stay updated with current affairs through newspapers and news portals
• Join study groups or coaching institutes for guidance and support
• Maintain consistency and discipline throughout your preparation journey