The SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission - Combined Graduate Level) exam follows a four-tier selection process to recruit candidates for various posts in central government departments. Here is the detailed exam pattern:

1. Tier-I: Preliminary Exam (Computer-Based Test)

• Mode: Online (Objective Multiple-Choice Questions)
• Duration: 1 hour (60 minutes)
• Total Marks: 200 marks
• Total Questions: 100 questions
• Negative Marking: 0.50 marks for each wrong answer

Subjects and Marks Distribution

2. Tier-II: Mains Exam (Computer-Based Test)

• Mode: Online (Objective Multiple-Choice Questions)
• Duration: 2 hours for each paper
• Negative Marking: 1 mark for each wrong answer in Paper-I, Paper-II, and Paper-III

Papers and Marks Distribution

• Paper-I and Paper-II are mandatory for all candidates.
• Paper-III and IV are only for candidates applying for specific posts like Statistical Investigator and Assistant Audit Officer.

3. Tier-III: Descriptive Paper (Offline)

• Mode: Pen-and-Paper (Written Test)
• Duration: 1 hour
• Total Marks: 100 marks

Format

• Essay Writing, Precis Writing, Letter Writing, or Application Writing in English or Hindi.
• This paper evaluates writing and communication skills.

4. Tier-IV: Skill Test/Computer Proficiency Test

• Mode: Practical Skill Test (wherever applicable)

Tests Conducted

1. Data Entry Speed Test (DEST):

• For posts like Tax Assistant.
• Typing speed of 8,000 key depressions per hour is tested.

2. Computer Proficiency Test (CPT):

• For posts like Assistant Section Officer.
• Tests on Word Processing, Spreadsheets, and PowerPoint.

3. Document Verification (DV):

• Mandatory for all shortlisted candidates before the final selection.

Key Highlights

• Tier-I and Tier-II are screening tests, and their scores are used for shortlisting candidates for later stages.
• The final merit list is based on the cumulative scores of Tier-I, Tier-II, and Tier-III.
• Tier-IV is qualifying in nature but mandatory for final selection.