SSC CGL Selection Process 2026
Staff Selection Commission — Combined Graduate Level
How selection works
SSC CGL has two computer-based tiers. Tier 1 is used to shortlist candidates; Tier 2 is the decisive stage for merit, followed by post allocation and document verification.
Stage-by-stage process
Tier 1: shortlisting exam
Candidates take the computer-based Tier 1 exam. SSC uses the normalised Tier 1 score and category-wise cut-offs to shortlist candidates for the relevant Tier 2 papers. Tier 1 does not decide the final merit list.
Tier 2: merit-stage examination
Paper I is compulsory for every shortlisted candidate. Paper II applies only to candidates shortlisted for Junior Statistical Officer and Statistical Investigator Grade II. Paper III applies only to Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer candidates.
Qualifying modules and post preference
Candidates must separately qualify the required sections of Paper I. The Computer Knowledge Test and Data Entry Speed Test are qualifying. Before the result, candidates must submit their post and department preferences; unlisted preferences are not considered.
Final merit, allocation and document verification
SSC prepares final merit from Tier 2 performance, subject to the qualifying requirements, and allocates posts by merit and submitted preferences. The allotted user department then verifies original eligibility and category documents.
Which Tier 2 papers apply?
| Paper | Who takes it | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Paper I | All shortlisted candidates | Compulsory |
| Paper II | JSO and Statistical Investigator Grade II | Post-specific |
| Paper III | Assistant Audit Officer and Assistant Accounts Officer | Post-specific |
Important post-specific checks
Some inspector, sub-inspector and BRO posts have physical, medical or educational standards. Read those requirements before locking your post preferences because allocation does not waive them.
Official source
Selection rules can be changed by corrigenda. Confirm the current wording in the official SSC CGL 2026 notice.