SSC CGL Exam Guide: Tier Pattern, Dates and Study Tips

Short answer
SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) recruits graduates for Group B and C posts. Tier-I 2026 runs from 30 September to 30 October 2026 (SSC notice dated 12 September 2026). Application window was 21 May-22 June 2026.
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Dates and rules change. This is a general guide. Always confirm on the official website: ssc.gov.in.
SSC CGL is for Indian graduates seeking central government Group B/C roles. Age limits and post-wise eligibility are in the official notice.
Key dates (CGL 2026)
- Apply online: 21 May to 22 June 2026 (closed).
- Tier-I (CBE): 30 September to 30 October 2026.
- Later tiers: announced after Tier-I on SSC's site.
Track updates on our exam calendar.
Pattern overview
Tier-I is a computer-based objective test covering General Intelligence, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English. Negative marking applies as per the notice. Later tiers (including DEST typing where required) follow SSC's published scheme.
Practise percentages with the percentage calculator. For DEST, train with the typing speed test and read average typing speed.
4-week study plan
- Week 1: learn the official format and do one diagnostic practice set.
- Week 2: focus on your weakest section in Pomodoro blocks (25 on / 5 off).
- Week 3: timed section practice with the countdown timer.
- Week 4: two full mocks; review every miss; keep notes in the online notepad.
Dates and rules change. This is a general guide. Always confirm on the official website: ssc.gov.in.
Independent study hub β not affiliated
ViralScopeHub is not affiliated with NTA, UPSC, SSC, College Board, ETS, IELTS, Pearson, IBPS, RRB, AAMC, LSAC, GMAC, or any exam board or government. Dates, fees, syllabuses and rules change. Confirm every detail only on the official website linked in this guide and its Sources. On-site quizzes are unofficial original practice for learning β not real exams, not past papers, and not official question banks. We do not host copyrighted exam papers or scraped question banks. See our disclaimer.
Frequently asked questions
When is SSC CGL Tier-I 2026?
SSC schedules Tier-I from 30 September to 30 October 2026.
Who can apply?
Graduates meeting the age and other conditions in that year SSC CGL notice.
Is there negative marking?
Yes in the objective tiers, as specified in the official notice.
Where do I apply?
Only on ssc.gov.in or the official app named in the notice.