Home » SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Tier 1 & Tier 2 Pattern

SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Complete Tier 1 & Tier 2 Exam Pattern

The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 is very important for candidates who want to prepare for the exam in the right direction. Therefore, before starting preparation, candidates should clearly understand the syllabus, exam pattern, marking scheme, and selection process.

The Staff Selection Commission conducts the Combined Graduate Level exam for different Group B and Group C posts. These posts are available in various government departments, ministries, and offices. As a result, lakhs of graduates appear for this exam every year.

Before making a study plan, candidates should know the latest SSC CGL exam pattern, subject-wise syllabus, negative marking, post-wise papers, and final merit process. Moreover, a clear understanding of these details helps candidates save time and focus on the most important topics.

In this article, candidates can check the complete SSC CGL Tier 1 syllabus, SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus, exam pattern, negative marking, JSO syllabus, AAO syllabus, FAQs, and preparation tips in a simple and easy-to-read format.

Note: Candidates should also visit the official SSC website regularly for the latest notices, updates, and exam-related instructions.

Quick Summary

Here is a quick overview of the SSC CGL 2026 exam. This section will help candidates understand the main points before reading the detailed syllabus.

PointDetails
Exam StagesSSC CGL 2026 is conducted in Tier 1, Tier 2, and Document Verification stages.
Tier 1 NatureTier 1 is qualifying in nature.
Final MeritTier 2 marks are counted for final merit.
InterviewThere is no interview in SSC CGL.
Tier 1 SubjectsTier 1 includes Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, and General Awareness.
Tier 2 SubjectsTier 2 includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, and post-specific papers.
Paper 2Paper 2 is for Junior Statistical Officer, JSO posts.
Paper 3Paper 3 is for Assistant Audit Officer / Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
Negative MarkingNegative marking applies in both Tier 1 and Tier 2.

SSC CGL 2026: Basic Overview

SSC CGL 2026 is conducted through computer-based examinations. First, candidates appear for Tier 1. After qualifying this stage, they move to Tier 2. Finally, shortlisted candidates have to complete Document Verification.

Tier 1 is only qualifying in nature. However, Tier 2 is very important because its marks are used for the final merit list. Therefore, candidates should prepare Tier 2 with extra focus

ParticularDetails
Exam NameSSC CGL
Full FormStaff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level
Question TypeObjective Type
Exam ModeComputer-Based Test
Exam StagesTier 1, Tier 2, Document Verification
Exam LanguageHindi and English
Tier 1 NatureQualifying
Tier 2 NatureMerit-based
Final MeritBased on Tier 2 Marks
InterviewNo Interview
Official Websitessc.gov.in

SSC CGL Selection Process 2026

The SSC CGL Selection Process 2026 includes three main stages. These are Tier 1, Tier 2, and Document Verification. Since there is no interview in SSC CGL, candidates should focus mainly on written exam performance.

First, candidates need to qualify Tier 1. Then, they appear for Tier 2. After that, selected candidates are called for Document Verification. Finally, the selection is made on the basis of Tier 2 marks and eligibility verification.

StageNameNature
Tier 1Preliminary ExaminationQualifying
Tier 2Main ExaminationMerit-based
Document VerificationFinal VerificationMandatory

Key Points

  • There is no interview round in SSC CGL.
  • Candidates must qualify Tier 1 to appear in Tier 2.
  • Tier 2 marks are counted for final merit.
  • Document Verification is compulsory for final appointment.
  • Candidates must satisfy the required eligibility conditions before final selection.

SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026

The SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam 2026 is an objective-type computer-based test. It has four subjects: General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness.

Each section carries 25 questions. Also, each section has 50 marks. In total, the exam has 100 questions for 200 marks. Candidates get 60 minutes to complete the paper.

There is negative marking in Tier 1. For every wrong answer, 0.50 mark is deducted. Therefore, candidates should avoid random guessing and focus on accuracy.

SubjectQuestionsMarksTime
General Intelligence & Reasoning255015 minutes
Quantitative Aptitude255015 minutes
English Language255015 minutes
General Awareness255015 minutes
Total10020060 minutes

SSC CGL Tier 1 Marking Scheme

ParticularDetails
Total Questions100
Total Marks200
Exam Duration60 minutes
Negative Marking0.50 mark for each wrong answer
Tier 1Qualifying only
Tier 1 MarksNot included in final merit

SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026

The SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026 is divided into four subjects. Each subject checks a different skill. For example, Reasoning checks logic, Quantitative Aptitude checks maths ability, English checks language skills, and General Awareness checks knowledge of current and static topics.

General Intelligence and Reasoning Syllabus

This section checks logical thinking, mental ability, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, it tests how quickly a candidate can understand patterns, directions, relationships, and conclusions.

Important Topics

S.No.Topic Name
1Analogies
2Similarities and differences
3Space visualization
4Spatial orientation
5Problem-solving
6Analysis and judgment
7Blood relations
8Decision making
9Visual memory
10Observation
11Relationship concepts
12Arithmetical reasoning
13Figural classification
14Number series
15Non-verbal series
16Coding-decoding
17Statement and conclusion
18Syllogistic reasoning

Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus

This section checks basic maths skills, calculation speed, and concept clarity. Therefore, candidates should practise arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, and data interpretation regularly.

Important Topics

  • Whole numbers
  • Decimals and fractions
  • Relationship between numbers
  • Percentage
  • Ratio and proportion
  • Square roots
  • Average
  • Profit and loss
  • Discount
  • Partnership
  • Mixture and alligation
  • Simple and compound interest
  • Time and work
  • Time and distance
  • Basic algebraic identities
  • Elementary surds
  • Graphs of linear equations
  • Triangle and its centres
  • Congruence and similarity of triangles
  • Circle, chords, tangents, and angles
  • Quadrilaterals and regular polygons
  • Cone, cylinder, sphere, and hemisphere
  • Rectangular parallelepiped
  • Regular right pyramid
  • Heights and distances
  • Trigonometric ratios
  • Standard trigonometric identities
  • Histogram
  • Frequency polygon
  • Bar diagram
  • Pie chart

 

English Language Syllabus

The English section tests grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and reading ability. In addition, candidates should practise comprehension, error spotting, cloze test, sentence improvement, and vocabulary-based questions daily.

Important Topics

  • Idioms and phrases
  • One-word substitution
  • Sentence correction
  • Error spotting
  • Fill in the blanks
  • Spelling correction
  • Reading comprehension
  • Synonyms and antonyms
  • Active and passive voice
  • Sentence rearrangement
  • Sentence improvement
  • Cloze test

General Awareness Syllabus

This section includes current affairs, static GK, general science, history, geography, economy, and important events. Therefore, regular reading and revision are very useful for this subject.

Important Topics

  • India and neighbouring countries
  • History
  • Culture
  • Geography
  • Economy
  • General policy
  • Scientific research
  • General science
  • Current affairs
  • Books and authors
  • Sports
  • Important government schemes
  • Important days and dates
  • Portfolio
  • People in news
  • Static GK

SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026

SSC CGL Tier 2 is the main stage of the exam. Since Tier 2 marks are counted for final merit, candidates should give this stage more attention.

Paper 1 is compulsory for all candidates. However, Paper 2 and Paper 3 are post-specific. Paper 2 is for Junior Statistical Officer candidates, while Paper 3 is for Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer posts.

There is negative marking in Tier 2 as well. In applicable sections, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer. Therefore, candidates should balance speed with accuracy.

PaperSection / ModuleSubjectQuestionsMarksDuration
Paper 1Section 1Mathematical Abilities30180 combined with Reasoning30 minutes
Paper 1Section 1Reasoning & General Intelligence30—30 minutes
Paper 1Section 2English Language & Comprehension45210 combined with GA40 minutes
Paper 1Section 2General Awareness25—20 minutes
Paper 1Section 3Computer Knowledge206015 minutes
Paper 1Section 4Data Entry Speed / Typing Test—Qualifying15 minutes
Paper 2—Statistics1002002 hours
Paper 3—General Studies: Finance & Economics1002002 hours

Important Points for SSC CGL Tier 2

S.No.Important Point
1Paper 1 is compulsory for all posts.
2Paper 2 is only for candidates applying for Junior Statistical Officer, JSO.
3Paper 3 is only for candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer or Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
4Tier 2 marks are used for final merit.
5There is negative marking in Tier 2.
6In applicable sections, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer.

SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026

The SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026 is more detailed than Tier 1. Hence, candidates should prepare with a proper timetable. Regular mock tests, revision, and previous year papers can improve performance.

Paper 1: Mathematical Abilities Syllabus

This section includes number system, arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, statistics, and probability. As a result, candidates should focus on both concepts and calculation speed.

S.No.SectionTopics
1Number SystemWhole numbers, decimals, fractions, relationship between numbers
2Fundamental ArithmeticPercentage, ratio and proportion, square roots, average, simple interest, compound interest, profit and loss, discount, partnership, mixture and alligation, time and distance, time and work
3AlgebraBasic algebraic identities, elementary surds, graphs of linear equations
4GeometryTriangle and its centres, congruence and similarity of triangles, circle, chords, tangents, angles subtended by chords, common tangents
5MensurationTriangle, quadrilaterals, regular polygons, circle, right prism, cone, cylinder, sphere, hemisphere, rectangular parallelepiped, regular right pyramid
6TrigonometryTrigonometric ratios, complementary angles, height and distance, standard identities
7Statistics and ProbabilityTables and graphs, histogram, frequency polygon, bar diagram, pie chart, mean, median, mode, standard deviation, simple probability

Paper 1: Reasoning and General Intelligence Syllabus

This subject checks logical thinking, analytical ability, decision-making skills, and reasoning accuracy. Moreover, topics such as analogy, series, classification, coding-decoding, embedded figures, and Venn diagrams are important.

Important Topics

S.No.Topic Name
1Semantic analogy
2Symbolic operations
3Symbolic and number analogy
4Trends
5Figural analogy
6Space orientation
7Semantic classification
8Venn diagrams
9Symbolic and number classification
10Drawing inferences
11Figural classification
12Pattern folding and unfolding
13Punched hole pattern
14Semantic series
15Figural pattern completion
16Number series
17Embedded figures
18Figural series
19Critical thinking
20Problem solving
21Emotional intelligence
22Word building
23Social intelligence
24Coding-decoding
25Numerical operations

Paper 1: English Language and Comprehension Syllabus

This section tests grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, reading skills, and comprehension ability. In addition, candidates may get passages based on stories, literature, current affairs, or editorial topics.

Important Topics

Paper 1: English Language and Comprehension Syllabus
S.No.Topic Name
1Vocabulary
2Grammar
3Sentence structure
4Spotting errors
5Fill in the blanks
6Synonyms
7Homonyms
8Antonyms
9Spelling and misspelt words
10Idioms and phrases
11One-word substitution
12Sentence improvement
13Active and passive voice
14Direct and indirect narration
15Sentence part shuffling
16Sentence shuffling in passage
17Cloze passage
18Reading comprehension

Paper 1: Computer Knowledge Syllabus

Computer Knowledge is also part of SSC CGL Tier 2. Therefore, candidates should not ignore this section. It includes computer basics, software, internet, email, networking, and cybersecurity topics.

S.No.SectionTopics
1Computer BasicsComputer organisation, CPU, input and output devices, memory, backup devices, ports, Windows Explorer, keyboard shortcuts
2Software KnowledgeWindows operating system basics, MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint
3Internet and EmailWeb browsing, searching, downloading, uploading, managing email accounts, e-banking
4Networking and CybersecurityNetworking devices, network protocols, information security threats, hacking, viruses, worms, Trojans, preventive security measures

Paper 1: General Awareness Syllabus

The General Awareness section includes static GK, general studies, and current affairs. Hence, candidates should revise important facts and read daily updates regularly.

Important Topics

S.No.Topic Name
1India and neighbouring countries
2History
3Culture
4Geography
5Economic scene
6General policy
7Scientific research
8General science
9Current affairs
10Books and authors
11Sports
12Important schemes
13Important days and dates
14Portfolio
15People in news

Paper 2: Statistics Syllabus for JSO

Paper 2 is only for candidates applying for the Junior Statistical Officer post. Therefore, candidates who choose this post should prepare statistics topics carefully.

UnitMain Topics
Collection, Classification and Presentation of DataPrimary and secondary data, methods of data collection, tabulation, graphs, charts, frequency distribution
Measures of Central TendencyMean, median, mode, quartiles, deciles, percentiles
Measures of DispersionRange, quartile deviation, mean deviation, standard deviation, relative dispersion
Moments, Skewness and KurtosisMoments, relationship between moments, skewness, kurtosis
Correlation and RegressionScatter diagram, correlation coefficient, regression lines, Spearman rank correlation, association of attributes, multiple and partial correlation
Probability TheoryMeaning, definitions, conditional probability, compound probability, independent events, Bayes’ theorem
Random Variable and Probability DistributionsRandom variable, probability functions, expectation, variance, binomial, Poisson, normal, exponential distribution, joint distribution
Sampling TheoryPopulation, sample, parameter, statistic, sampling errors, non-sampling errors, sampling methods, sampling distribution, sample size
Statistical InferencePoint estimation, interval estimation, properties of good estimator, hypothesis testing, Z test, t test, chi-square test, F test, confidence interval
Analysis of VarianceOne-way and two-way classified data
Time Series AnalysisComponents of time series, trend determination, seasonal variation
Index NumbersMeaning, construction, types, formulae, base shifting, splicing, cost of living index, uses

Paper 3: General Studies, Finance and Economics Syllabus for AAO

Paper 3 is only for candidates shortlisted for Assistant Audit Officer or Assistant Accounts Officer posts. Therefore, candidates preparing for AAO-related posts should focus on Finance, Accounts, Economics, and Governance.

Part A: Finance and Accounts — 80 Marks

Part A includes Finance and Accounts topics. For example, candidates need to study financial accounting, accounting concepts, journal, ledger, trial balance, balance sheet, depreciation accounting, and related topics.

Financial Accounting

  • Nature and scope of financial accounting
  • Limitations of financial accounting
  • Basic accounting concepts
  • Accounting conventions
  • Generally accepted accounting principles

Basic Concepts of Accounting

  • Single entry system
  • Double entry system
  • Books of original entry
  • Bank reconciliation
  • Journal
  • Ledger
  • Trial balance
  • Rectification of errors
  • Manufacturing account
  • Trading account
  • Profit and loss appropriation account
  • Balance sheet
  • Capital and revenue expenditure
  • Depreciation accounting
  • Inventory valuation
  • Accounts of non-profit organisations
  • Receipts and payments account
  • Income and expenditure account
  • Bills of exchange
  • Self-balancing ledgers

Part B: Economics and Governance — 120 Marks

Part B includes Economics and Governance topics. Moreover, this section covers CAG, Finance Commission, microeconomics, Indian economy, economic reforms, banking, fiscal policy, monetary policy, budget, and governance-related topics.

Important Topics

  • Comptroller and Auditor General of India
  • Constitutional provisions
  • Role and responsibility of CAG
  • Finance Commission
  • Basic economics
  • Microeconomics
  • Definition and scope of economics
  • Methods of economic study
  • Central problems of an economy
  • Production possibility curve
  • Demand and supply
  • Elasticity of demand and supply
  • Consumer behaviour
  • Marshallian approach
  • Indifference curve approach
  • Production and cost
  • Market forms
  • Price determination
  • Indian economy
  • Agriculture, industry, and services
  • National income
  • Population
  • Poverty
  • Unemployment
  • Infrastructure
  • Economic reforms since 1991
  • Liberalisation
  • Privatisation
  • Globalisation
  • Disinvestment
  • Money and banking
  • Monetary policy
  • Fiscal policy
  • Reserve Bank of India
  • Commercial banks
  • Regional Rural Banks
  • Payment banks
  • Budget
  • Fiscal deficit
  • Balance of payments
  • FRBM Act, 2003
  • Role of information technology in governance

SSC CGL Negative Marking 2026

Negative marking is an important part of the SSC CGL exam. In Tier 1, 0.50 mark is deducted for each wrong answer. Meanwhile, in Tier 2, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer in applicable sections.

Because of this, candidates should avoid guesswork. Instead, they should attempt questions carefully and focus on accuracy.

SSC CGL Negative Marking 2026
Exam StageNegative Marking
Tier 10.50 mark for each wrong answer
Tier 21 mark for each wrong answer in applicable sections

SSC CGL 2026 Preparation Tips

A smart preparation plan can help candidates complete the syllabus on time. Also, it can improve speed, accuracy, and confidence before the exam.

First, candidates should read the complete syllabus. Then, they should understand the exam pattern and marking scheme. After that, they can make a realistic timetable according to their strengths and weaknesses.

Moreover, regular practice is very important. Candidates should solve previous year papers, attempt mock tests, revise formulas, and analyse mistakes after every test. Finally, they should revise current affairs and static GK daily.

Best Preparation Tips

S.No.Preparation Tip
1Read the complete SSC CGL syllabus before starting preparation.
2Understand the latest exam pattern and marking scheme.
3Make a realistic study timetable.
4Give more time to weak subjects.
5Revise formulas and grammar rules daily.
6Practice previous year question papers.
7Attempt mock tests regularly.
8Analyse mistakes after every test.
9Read current affairs and static GK daily.
10Improve calculation speed for Quantitative Aptitude.
11Focus on accuracy to avoid negative marking.

 

SSC CGL 2026 FAQs
Q.No.Question & Answer
Q1What is the SSC CGL Syllabus 2026?
The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 includes Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General Awareness, Mathematical Abilities, Computer Knowledge, Statistics, Finance, and Economics, depending on the exam tier and post.
Q2What is the selection process for SSC CGL 2026?
The SSC CGL selection process includes Tier 1, Tier 2, and Document Verification. Tier 1 is qualifying, while Tier 2 marks are used for final merit.
Q3Is there negative marking in SSC CGL 2026?
Yes, there is negative marking. In Tier 1, 0.50 mark is deducted for each wrong answer. In Tier 2, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer in applicable sections.
Q4Are SSC CGL Tier 1 marks counted in final selection?
No, Tier 1 marks are qualifying only. Final selection is based on marks scored in Tier 2.
Q5What are the subjects in SSC CGL Tier 1?
SSC CGL Tier 1 includes General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness.

Conclusion

The SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 is the foundation of exam preparation. Therefore, candidates should understand the Tier 1 and Tier 2 exam pattern before starting their study plan.

Although Tier 1 is qualifying, it is still important because candidates must clear it to appear in Tier 2. On the other hand, Tier 2 is the main stage because its marks decide the final merit.

In conclusion, candidates should prepare with a clear strategy, practise mock tests regularly, revise important topics, and avoid guesswork. Also, they should keep checking the official SSC website for the latest updates.

Bookmark this page for quick revision and share it with other SSC CGL aspirants who are preparing for the 2026 exam.

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