SSC Combined Graduate Level CGL Online Form 2026
Job Description
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will conduct the Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGLE) 2026 for recruitment to various Group "B" and Group "C" posts in Ministries/Departments/Organizations under the Government of India.
Total Tentative Vacancies: Approximately 12,256
Exam Name: Combined Graduate Level Examination, 2026
Conducting Body: Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
Mode of Application: Online only (https://ssc.gov.in or my SSC mobile app)
Selection Process: Two-tier Computer Based Examination (Tier-I & Tier-II) + Document Verification
Syllabus & Exam Pattern
Here is the detailed Syllabus and Exam Pattern for the SSC Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGLE) 2026, as per the official notification (Pages 24-36). The examination is conducted in two tiers.
Exam Pattern
Tier-I Examination (Computer Based)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Marks | 200 |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Duration | 1 hour (1 hour 20 minutes for eligible PwBD candidates with scribe) |
| Question Type | Objective Type, Multiple Choice Questions |
| Negative Marking | 0.50 marks deducted for each wrong answer |
| Sectional Timer | 15 minutes per subject (20 minutes for eligible PwBD candidates) |
Subjects in Tier-I:
| Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| A. General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| B. General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| C. Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| D. English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Note: Questions will be set in both English & Hindi except for English Comprehension.
Tier-II Examination (Computer Based)
Tier-II consists of Paper-I (compulsory for all) , Paper-II (for JSO & Statistical Investigator Gr.II) , and Paper-III (for AAO & AAS) .
Paper-I (Compulsory for all posts)
| Section | Subject | Questions | Marks | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session-I | ||||
| Section-I (Part A) | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 60* | 1 hour (with sectional timer) |
| Section-I (Part B) | Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 60* | |
| Section-II (Part A) | English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135* | 1 hour (with sectional timer) |
| Section-II (Part B) | General Awareness | 25 | 75* | |
| Section-III | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 | 60* | 15 minutes |
| Session-II | ||||
| Section-IV | Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) | – | Qualifying | 15 minutes |
| Total Paper-I | 150 | 450 | 2 hours 15 mins |
*Marks per question: Section-I = 2 marks each, Section-II = 3 marks each, Section-III = 3 marks each
Negative Marking in Paper-I:
Section-I & II & III: 1 mark deducted for each wrong answer
Section-IV (DEST): No negative marking (qualifying only)
Important:
Candidates must qualify all sections of Paper-I separately.
Section-III (Computer Knowledge) and Section-IV (DEST) are qualifying in nature.
Higher qualifying standards for posts requiring Computer Proficiency (ASO in CSS, MEA, AFHQ, etc.).
Paper-II (for JSO & Statistical Investigator Gr.II only)
| Subject | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|
| Statistics | 200 |
Negative marking: 0.50 marks per wrong answer
Duration: 2 hours
Paper-III (for Assistant Audit Officer & Assistant Accounts Officer only)
| Part | Subject | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Part A | Finance & Accounts | 80 |
| Part B | Economics & Governance | 120 |
| Total | 200 |
Negative marking: 0.50 marks per wrong answer
Duration: 2 hours
Syllabus
Tier-I Syllabus
A. General Intelligence & Reasoning (25 questions)
Verbal and non-verbal type questions
Analogies (Semantic, Symbolic/Number, Figural)
Classification (Semantic, Symbolic/Number, Figural)
Series (Semantic, Number, Figural)
Problem Solving, Word Building, Coding & Decoding
Numerical Operations, Symbolic Operations
Trends, Space Orientation, Space Visualization
Venn Diagrams, Drawing Inferences
Punched hole/pattern-folding & unfolding
Figural Pattern-folding and completion
Indexing, Address matching, Date & city matching
Classification of centre codes/roll numbers
Embedded Figures, Critical Thinking
Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence
B. General Awareness (25 questions)
General awareness of environment and its application to society
Current events and everyday observations
Scientific aspects of common experiences
India and its neighboring countries:
History, Culture, Geography
Economic Scene, General Policy
Scientific Research
C. Quantitative Aptitude (25 questions) – 10th standard level
Computation of whole numbers, decimals, fractions
Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Square roots, Averages
Interest (Simple & Compound), Profit & Loss, Discount
Partnership Business, Mixture & Alligation
Time & Distance, Time & Work
Basic algebraic identities, Elementary surds
Graphs of Linear Equations
Triangle (kinds of centres, congruence, similarity)
Circle (chords, tangents, angles subtended)
Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons
Right Prism, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder, Sphere, Hemisphere
Rectangular Parallelepiped, Regular Right Pyramid
Trigonometric ratios, Degree & Radian measures, Standard Identities, Complementary angles, Heights & Distances
Histogram, Frequency polygon, Bar diagram, Pie chart
D. English Comprehension (25 questions)
Understanding correct English
Basic comprehension and writing ability
Tier-II Syllabus
Paper-I – Section-I (Mathematical Abilities) – Matriculation level
| Topic | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Number Systems | Computation of Whole Number, Decimal and Fractions, Relationship between numbers |
| Fundamental Arithmetical Operations | Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, Square roots, Averages, Interest (Simple & Compound), Profit & Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture & Alligation, Time & Distance, Time & Work |
| Algebra | Basic algebraic identities of School Algebra, Elementary surds (simple problems), Graphs of Linear Equations |
| Geometry | Triangle (various kinds of centres, congruence, similarity), Circle (chords, tangents, angles subtended by chords), Common tangents to two or more circles |
| Mensuration | Triangle, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circle, Right Prism, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder, Sphere, Hemispheres, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Regular Right Pyramid with triangular/square base |
| Trigonometry | Trigonometric ratios, Complementary angles, Heights and distances (simple problems), Standard Identities (sin²θ + cos²θ = 1, etc.) |
| Statistics & Probability | Histogram, Frequency polygon, Bar-diagram, Pie-chart; Measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode, standard deviation); Calculation of simple probabilities |
Paper-I – Section-I (Reasoning & General Intelligence)
Same as Tier-I General Intelligence & Reasoning (verbal & non-verbal)
Additional topics: Semantic Analogy, Symbolic operations, Trends, Space Orientation, Venn Diagrams, Drawing inferences, Punched hole/pattern-folding, Figural Pattern-folding, Embedded figures, Critical Thinking, Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence
Paper-I – Section-II (English Language & Comprehension) – 10+2 level
| Topic | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Vocabulary & Grammar | Synonyms, Antonyms, Homonyms, Spellings, Idioms & Phrases, One-word substitution |
| Sentence Structure | Spot the Error, Fill in the Blanks, Improvement of Sentences |
| Voice & Narration | Active/Passive Voice, Direct/Indirect Narration |
| Sentence Arrangement | Shuffling of Sentence parts, Shuffling of Sentences in a passage |
| Cloze Passage | Filling blanks in a passage |
| Comprehension Passage | Three or more paragraphs (one simple from book/story, two from current affairs/report/editorial) |
Paper-I – Section-II (General Awareness)
Same as Tier-I General Awareness (India & neighboring countries – History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General Policy, Scientific Research)
Paper-I – Section-III (Computer Knowledge/Proficiency) – Qualifying
| Topic | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Computer Basics | Organization of a computer, CPU, input/output devices, computer memory, memory organization, backup devices, ports, Windows Explorer, Keyboard shortcuts |
| Software | Windows Operating system, Microsoft Office (MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint) |
| Internet & Email | Web Browsing & Searching, Downloading & Uploading, Managing an Email account, e-Banking |
| Networking & Cyber Security | Networking devices and protocols, Network and information security threats (hacking, virus, worms, Trojan) and preventive measures |
Paper-I – Section-IV (Data Entry Speed Test – DEST) – Qualifying
Passage of about 2000 key depressions for 15 minutes
Maximum errors allowed:
UR: 20%
OBC/EWS: 25%
SC/ST/PwBD: 30%
Paper-II Syllabus (Statistics) – Graduation Level
| Topic | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Collection, Classification & Presentation of Data | Primary and Secondary data, methods of data collection, tabulation, graphs, charts, frequency distributions, diagrammatic presentation |
| Measures of Central Tendency | Mean, median, mode; Partition values (quartiles, deciles, percentiles) |
| Measures of Dispersion | Range, quartile deviations, mean deviation, standard deviation; measures of relative dispersion |
| Moments, Skewness & Kurtosis | Types of moments and relationship; skewness and kurtosis measures |
| Correlation & Regression | Scatter diagram, simple correlation coefficient, simple regression lines, Spearman's rank correlation, measures of association of attributes, multiple regression, multiple & partial correlation (for 3 variables only) |
| Probability Theory | Meaning of probability, different definitions, conditional probability, compound probability, independent events, Bayes' theorem |
| Random Variable & Probability Distributions | Random variable, probability functions, expectation and variance, higher moments; Binomial, Poisson, Normal and Exponential distributions; joint distribution of two random variables (discrete) |
| Sampling Theory | Population and sample, parameter and statistic, sampling and non-sampling errors; probability sampling (simple random, stratified, multistage, multiphase, cluster, systematic) and non-probability sampling (purposive, convenience, quota); sampling distribution; sample size decisions |
| Statistical Inference | Point and interval estimation, properties of good estimator, methods of estimation (moments, maximum likelihood, least squares); testing of hypothesis (Z, t, Chi-square, F tests), confidence intervals |
| Analysis of Variance | One-way and two-way classified data |
| Time Series Analysis | Components of time series, determination of trend component (different methods), measurement of seasonal variation |
| Index Numbers | Meaning, problems in construction, types, different formulae, base shifting and splicing, cost of living index numbers, uses |
Paper-III Syllabus (General Studies – Finance & Economics) – Graduation Level
Part A: Finance & Accounts (80 marks)
| Topic | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Financial Accounting | Nature and scope, limitations, basic concepts and conventions, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) |
| Basic Accounting Concepts | Single and double entry, books of original entry, bank reconciliation, journal, ledgers, trial balance, rectification of errors |
| Final Accounts | Manufacturing, Trading, Profit & Loss Appropriation Accounts, Balance Sheet |
| Capital & Revenue | Distinction between capital and revenue expenditure |
| Depreciation Accounting | Methods and concepts |
| Valuation of Inventories | Methods and principles |
| Non-profit Organisations | Receipts and Payments, Income & Expenditure Accounts |
| Bills of Exchange | Concepts and accounting |
| Self-Balancing Ledgers | Principles |
Part B: Economics & Governance (120 marks)
| Topic | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| CAG of India | Constitutional provisions, role and responsibility |
| Finance Commission | Role and functions |
| Basic Economics & Micro Economics | Definition, scope, nature of Economics, methods of economic study, central problems of an economy, production possibilities curve |
| Theory of Demand & Supply | Meaning and determinants, law of demand, elasticity of demand (price, income, cross), consumer behaviour (Marshallian & Indifference curve approaches), law of supply, elasticity of supply |
| Theory of Production & Cost | Factors of production, laws of production (variable proportions, returns to scale) |
| Forms of Market & Price Determination | Perfect Competition, Monopoly, Monopolistic Competition, Oligopoly – price determination in each |
| Indian Economy | Nature of Indian economy, role of agriculture, industry and services (problems and growth); National Income (concepts, methods of measurement); Population (size, growth rate, economic implications); Poverty and unemployment (absolute/relative, types, causes, incidence); Infrastructure (energy, transportation, communication) |
| Economic Reforms in India | Reforms since 1991 – Liberalisation, Privatisation, Globalisation, Disinvestment |
| Money & Banking | Monetary/Fiscal policy, RBI (role and functions), commercial banks/RRB/Payment banks, Budget and Fiscal deficits, Balance of Payments, FRBM Act 2003 |
| Governance | Role of Information Technology in Governance |
Minimum Qualifying Marks / Standards
| Category | Tier-I | Tier-II (Section-I, II, III) | DEST (Max errors allowed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UR | 30% | 30% | 20% |
| OBC/EWS | 25% | 25% | 25% |
| SC/ST/PwBD | 20% | 20% | 30% |
Resolution of Tie Cases (Tier-II)
For AAO/AAS Posts:
Marks in Paper-III → 2. Marks in Section-I of Paper-I → 3. Older candidate → 4. Alphabetical order
For JSO/Statistical Investigator Gr.II:
Marks in Paper-II → 2. Marks in Section-I of Paper-I → 3. Older candidate → 4. Alphabetical order
For All Other Posts:
Marks in Section-I of Paper-I → 2. Older candidate → 3. Alphabetical order
Note: The syllabus and scope are as prescribed by the Commission and may be updated. The tentative answer keys will be uploaded on the SSC website after each examination. Representations can be submitted with a fee of ₹100 per question (non-refundable). No re-evaluation/re-checking of scores is permitted.
Educational Qualification
| Post | Essential Qualification |
|---|---|
| Assistant Audit Officer (Central/State Cadre) & Assistant Accounts Officer (State Cadre) | Bachelor's degree from a recognized University/Institute. Desirable: CA/CMA/CS/M.Com/MBS/MBA (Finance)/MBE. |
| Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) | Bachelor's degree in any subject with at least 60% marks in Mathematics at 12th level; OR Bachelor's degree with Statistics as one of the subjects at degree level. |
| Statistical Investigator Grade-II | Bachelor's degree in Statistics or Mathematics or Economics or Demography or Population Studies or Operation Research or IT or Computer Science or Computer Engineering or Computer Technology or Computer Application or Data Science or Artificial Intelligence. |
| All Other Posts (Inspector, Assistant Section Officer, Auditor, Accountant, Tax Assistant, UDC, etc.) | Bachelor's degree from a recognized University or equivalent. |
Important Notes:
Final year students can apply but must possess the essential qualification by 01.08.2026.
Distance learning degrees are valid only if approved by UGC Distance Education Bureau.
B.Tech degrees from IGNOU for enrollment up to 2009-10 are valid as per Supreme Court order.
Eligibility Criteria
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Citizen of India, OR subject of Nepal/Bhutan, OR Tibetan refugee (arrived before 01.01.1962), OR person of Indian origin migrated from specified countries (Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries, Vietnam) with permanent settlement intent. |
| Marital Status | Persons with a living spouse cannot marry again. Dowry acceptance makes candidate ineligible. |
| Physical Standards | Applicable for specific posts: Inspector (CBIC/CBN), Sub-Inspector (CBI/NIA/NCB), and BRO posts. Details in Annexure-XV & XVI. |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | Only for Group "C" posts. Must have 15 years service for non-graduate ESM. Wards/dependents of ESM are NOT eligible for ESM reservation. |
| PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) | As per RPwD Act, 2016 (Notification No. 38-16/2020-DD-III dated 04.01.2021). Suitable disabilities for each post listed in Annexure-XI. |
Total Vacancies
Post Details – Post Code & Eligibility
Pay Level-8 (₹47,600–1,51,100) | Group B Gazetted (Non-Ministerial)
Assistant Audit Officer (Central Cadre) — C&AG, Age: 18–30 Assistant Audit Officer (State Cadre) — C&AG, Age: 18–30 Assistant Accounts Officer (State Cadre) — C&AG, Age: 18–30
Post Details – Category-wise Distribution
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100/- |
| Women Candidates | Exempted |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Ex-Servicemen (eligible for reservation) | Exempted |
Payment Modes: BHIM UPI, Net Banking, Visa/Mastercard/Maestro/RuPay Debit Cards.
Correction Charges (if required):
First correction: ₹200/-
Second correction: ₹500/-
Note: Fee once paid is non-refundable and non-adjustable.
Age Limit
Age Limit (As on 01.08.2026)
| Age Limit | Birth Range (both dates inclusive) | Applicable Posts |
|---|---|---|
| 18-27 years | Born between 02.08.1999 to 01.08.2008 | Auditor, Accountant, UDC, Tax Assistant, etc. |
| 18-30 years | Born between 02.08.1996 to 01.08.2008 | Assistant Audit Officer, Inspector (Income Tax/CBIC/CBN), Assistant Section Officer (IB/MoE&IT/Other Ministries), etc. |
| 20-30 years | Born between 02.08.1996 to 01.08.2006 | Assistant Section Officer (CSS/Railways/MEA/AFHQ), Sub-Inspector (CBI), Inspector Posts |
Age Relaxation (Permissible beyond upper age limit):
| Code | Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | SC/ST | 5 years |
| 02 | OBC | 3 years |
| 03 | PwBD (General) | 10 years |
| 04 | PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| 05 | PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| 06 | Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | 3 years after deduction of military service |
| 07 | Defence Personnel disabled in operation | 3 years |
| 08 | Defence Personnel disabled (SC/ST) | 8 years |
| 09 | Central Govt. Civilian Employees (3+ years service) | Up to 40 years |
| 10 | Central Govt. Civilian Employees (SC/ST) | Up to 45 years |
Important Dates
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | 21 May 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Application | 22 June 2026 (23:00 hours) |
| Last Date for Online Fee Payment | 23 June 2026 (23:00 hours) |
| Window for Application Form Correction | 29 June 2026 to 01 July 2026 (23:00 hours) |
| Tentative Schedule of Tier-I Examination (CBT) | August-September 2026 |
| Tentative Schedule of Tier-II Examination (CBT) | December 2026 |
Note: Dates are tentative. Any changes will be communicated only through the SSC website (https://ssc.gov.in). Candidates are advised to regularly visit the website for updates.