1. Exam Mode

• Conducted online (computer-based test – CBT) in most cases

• Some circle-specific exams may be offline (pen-paper)

2. Papers / Sections

The PA/SA exam generally consists of 3 main sections:

Note: Some circle-specific notifications may include:

Paper 1: Written Test (100–200 marks)

Paper 2: Typing / Data Entry (qualifying)

Paper 3: Local language test (qualifying)

3. Exam Duration & Marks

• Total duration: 1–2 hours (depending on notification)

• Total marks: Usually 100–200 marks (CBT)

• Negative marking: Most SSC exams have 0.25 marks deduction per wrong answer, check the notification

4. Skill Test

For PA/SA posts, many notifications include qualifying skill tests:

• Data Entry Speed Test (DEST): Usually 15 minutes, target speed ~8000 key depressions per hour

• Typing Test: 35–40 words per minute in English/Hindi

  Passing the skill test is mandatory, but marks are usually not counted in merit.

5. Selection Process

1. Written/CBT Exam – Merit-based

2. Skill Test / Typing Test – Qualifying

3. Local Language Test – Qualifying (if applicable)

4. Document Verification – Final selection

6. Key Points

• Pattern may slightly vary between SSC CHSL recruitment and circle-specific PA/SA notifications

• Postal knowledge is usually included in General Awareness section in circle-specific exams

• Candidates must pass all qualifying tests (typing/data entry/local language) to be eligible for final selection