SSC CGL Exam Pattern (Tier 1 & Tier 2)
The SSC CGL selection process runs in two stages — Tier 1 and Tier 2 — both conducted as computer-based tests (CBT). Tier 1 is common to every post and screens candidates for Tier 2, where the final merit is decided.
Knowing the exact structure — number of questions, marks per section, time limit and the negative-marking rule — is the first step to a smart preparation plan.
SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern
Tier 1 is an objective, multiple-choice paper with four equally weighted sections. There are 100 questions for a total of 200 marks. For the 2026 cycle, candidates should prepare with section-wise timing: 15 minutes per section, making the total duration 60 minutes.
Candidates eligible for a scribe get 20 minutes per section, for a total of 80 minutes. Each correct answer earns 2 marks and each wrong answer carries a penalty of 0.50 marks, so accuracy matters as much as speed.
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern
Tier 2 is more detailed and decides the final selection. Paper 1 is compulsory for every candidate. Paper 2 is only for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) applicants, and Paper 3 is for posts such as Assistant Audit Officer / Assistant Accounts Officer.
Paper 1 is split into modules covering Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning & General Intelligence, English Language & Comprehension, General Awareness and Computer Knowledge, along with a Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). Session I runs for 2 hours 15 minutes, the Computer Knowledge Test is 15 minutes, and DEST is conducted in Session II.
| Paper | Who takes it |
|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Compulsory for all posts |
| Paper 2 | Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) |
| Paper 3 | Assistant Audit Officer / Assistant Accounts Officer |
Key takeaways
- Tier 1: 100 questions, 200 marks, 60 minutes total, with 15 minutes per section.
- All four Tier 1 sections carry equal weight (50 marks each).
- Tier 2 Paper 1 is compulsory; Papers 2 and 3 are post-specific.
- Tier 2 Paper 1 includes Computer Knowledge and DEST; Paper 2 is for JSO/Statistical Investigator and Paper 3 is for AAO/Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
- Both tiers are computer-based; there is no offline written paper.
Preparation Use
How this exam pattern guide should change your SSC CGL preparation
SSC CGL Exam Pattern (Tier 1 & Tier 2) is useful only when it changes your timetable, mock strategy, or revision order. Treat this guide as a decision page: understand the rule or strategy, convert it into a weekly target, and test it through SSC CGL mock tests and PYQ-based practice.
Before you practise
- Note the exact rule, pattern, or strategy that affects your preparation.
- Decide which subject or topic needs practice today.
- Keep official SSC instructions separate from coaching-site assumptions.
During mock analysis
- Check whether your mistakes come from speed, accuracy, or wrong topic priority.
- Compare your section-wise time with the latest exam pattern.
- Revise only the weak areas that repeatedly hurt your score.
After this guide
- Take one free topic test to confirm understanding.
- Add difficult mistakes to revision.
- Attempt a mixed mock so the rule is tested under exam pressure.
Join and turn this guide into practice
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Join free and start practiceFrequently asked questions
- How many questions are there in SSC CGL Tier 1?
- SSC CGL Tier 1 has 100 questions for 200 marks - 25 questions each from Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English. For the 2026 cycle, prepare with 15 minutes per section.
- Is there negative marking in SSC CGL?
- Yes. In Tier 1, 0.50 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. In the Tier 2 objective papers, the penalty is 1 mark per wrong answer.
- Is the SSC CGL exam online or offline?
- Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 are conducted online as computer-based tests (CBT).
Exam rules can change each cycle. Always confirm the latest details against the official SSC notification at ssc.gov.in.