SSC CGL 2026 exam pattern with section-wise marks, number of questions, exam duration, and negative marking. Updated prelims and mains pattern with all selection process stages.
Understanding the SSC CGL 2026 exam pattern is the first step in planning your preparation. The pattern defines how many questions appear in each section, what marks they carry, whether negative marking applies, and how much total time is available. Candidates who internalize the pattern before starting practice consistently allocate their time better on exam day and avoid avoidable sectional cutoff failures.
SSC CGL now runs as a two-tier process. Tier 1 (60 minutes, 200 marks) is purely qualifying and serves as a screening test to shortlist candidates for Tier 2. Tier 2 marks alone determine your final merit and post allocation — the old Tier 3 descriptive paper was removed in 2023, and there is no interview round at any post level. Tier 2 spans three sessions across Paper I (compulsory for all posts) and Paper II (Statistics — for Junior Statistical Officer only). Negative marking applies in both tiers: 0.50 marks per wrong answer in Tier 1 and 1.0 marks per wrong answer in Tier 2 Sections I and II. Computer Knowledge and Data Entry Speed Test in Tier 2 Session III are qualifying only.
| Section / Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | Composite (60 min) |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | Composite (60 min) |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | Composite (60 min) |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | Composite (60 min) |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Also explore for SSC CGL
Yes. SSC CGL typically has a penalty of 0.25 marks per wrong answer in both Prelims and Mains. Unattempted questions carry no penalty. Accuracy is therefore more important than blind attempt count.
SSC CGL selection typically involves 2–3 stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and in some cases an Interview or Language Proficiency Test. The exact stages are confirmed in the official notification.
SSC CGL Prelims is generally 1 hour and Mains extends to 2.5–3 hours depending on the exam. Some sections may carry individual time limits. Always refer to the official call letter for confirmed timings.
Free Mock Test
Practice SSC CGL MCQs with detailed solutions and analytics.
Start Free TestStay updated with exam-relevant news to boost your GK score.
All Current Affairs