SSC CGL Exam Pattern

Each stage is checked separately so one stage cannot inherit another stage's scoring rules.

Tier 1

Official 2026 pattern

Questions	100
Total marks	200
Duration	60 minutes
Negative marking	0.5 per wrong answer
Sections	General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension

Timing: 15 minutes per subject.

Official 2026 pattern

Questions	150
Total marks	450
Duration	150 minutes
Negative marking	1 per wrong answer
Sections	Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence, English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge Test, Data Entry Speed Test

Timing: Paper I uses sectional timers; the 15-minute DEST is a separate task.

The totals above cover the objective parts of compulsory Paper I; DEST is qualifying.