Are you gearing up for the SSC CGL 2026 exam and wondering where to start? The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam is one of India’s most competitive government job recruitment processes, attracting lakhs of aspirants annually for Group B and C posts in ministries and departments. With the official notification expected around June 2026, now is the perfect time to dive into the SSC CGL syllabus 2026 and exam pattern.
Understanding the SSC CGL syllabus 2026 is your first step toward success. This comprehensive guide breaks down the Tier 1 and Tier 2 syllabi, key topics, weightage, and preparation tips. Whether you’re a beginner or refreshing your knowledge, this post will help you create a strategic study plan to crack the exam on your first attempt.
What is SSC CGL 2026?
The SSC CGL exam recruits graduates for prestigious roles like Assistant Section Officer, Income Tax Inspector, Auditor, and more. The selection process includes two main computer-based tiers (Tier 1 and Tier 2), followed by document verification and sometimes skill tests for specific posts.
Key highlights for SSC CGL 2026:
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university; age 18-32 years (varies by post).
- Exam Mode: Online (CBT) for both tiers.
- Vacancies: Expected to be around 10,000-15,000 (based on previous trends).
- Negative Marking: 0.50 marks in Tier 1; varies in Tier 2.
The syllabus remains consistent year-over-year unless officially revised, so the SSC CGL 2026 syllabus aligns with the latest 2025 patterns.
SSC CGL 2026 Exam Pattern: An Overview
The exam is divided into two tiers. Tier 1 is qualifying, while Tier 2 determines final merit.
Tier 1 Exam Pattern
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Total Questions/Marks: 100 questions / 200 marks
- Sections: 4 (25 questions each, 50 marks per section)
| Section | Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| 2 | General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| 3 | Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| 4 | English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
- Negative Marking: -0.50 marks per wrong answer.
Tier 2 Exam Pattern
Tier 2 is more advanced and conducted in two phases (Paper 1 compulsory for all, Paper 2 & 3 for specific posts). Total duration: Varies by paper.
| Paper | Session | Section | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 (Compulsory) | Session 1 | Module I | Mathematical Abilities (Quant) | 30 | 90 | 1 hour |
| Module II | Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | |||
| Session 2 | Module I | English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 1 hour | |
| Module II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | |||
| Module III | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 | 60 | 15 min | ||
| Paper 2 | – | Statistics | Statistics (for JSO posts) | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper 3 | – | General Studies (Finance & Economics) | Finance & Accounts + Economics (for AAO posts) | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
- Negative Marking: -1 mark per wrong answer in most sections.
- Qualifying Nature: Computer Knowledge and Data Entry modules are qualifying.
Detailed SSC CGL 2026 Syllabus: Subject-Wise Breakdown
The SSC CGL syllabus 2026 emphasizes conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. Below is a topic-wise breakdown for Tier 1 and Tier 2.
1. General Intelligence & Reasoning
This section tests logical thinking and problem-solving. Expect verbal and non-verbal questions.
Tier 1 Topics:
- Analogies, similarities, differences
- Spatial visualization and orientation
- Arithmetical reasoning, number series
- Non-verbal series, coding-decoding
- Statement conclusion, syllogism
- Semantic analogy, symbolic operations
Tier 2 Topics (Module II): Similar to Tier 1, with advanced emphasis on:
- Emotional intelligence, social intelligence
- Critical thinking, decision-making
Weightage: 20-25 questions in Tier 1; 30 in Tier 2. Focus on puzzles and series for high scores.
2. General Awareness
Covers current affairs and static GK. Stay updated via newspapers and apps.
Tier 1 & Tier 2 Topics:
- History (India & World), Geography
- Polity, Economy, Science
- Current events (national/international)
- Sports, books/authors, awards
- Environment, static GK (important dates, schemes)
Tier 2 Specific (Module II): Deeper focus on economics and recent developments.
Weightage: 5-7 current affairs questions in Tier 1. Revise monthly quizzes for retention.
3. Quantitative Aptitude (Maths)
The backbone of SSC CGL—practice daily for speed.
Tier 1 Topics:
- Number systems, decimals, fractions
- Percentages, ratio & proportion
- Profit & loss, simple/compound interest
- Time & work, time & distance
- Mensuration (2D/3D), geometry
- Algebra, trigonometry basics
Tier 2 Topics (Module I – Mathematical Abilities): Advanced coverage including:
- Advanced algebra, coordinate geometry
- Statistics basics, probability
Weightage: High-scoring; aim for 20+ in Tier 1. Use shortcuts for DI (data interpretation).
4. English Comprehension
Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills.
Tier 1 Topics:
- Reading comprehension
- Fill in the blanks, synonyms/antonyms
- Error spotting, sentence improvement
- Idioms/phrases, one-word substitution
- Active/passive voice, direct/indirect speech
Tier 2 Topics (Module I):
- Advanced comprehension, para jumbles
- Vocabulary in context, cloze test
Weightage: Easiest section; target 22+ with daily reading.
Additional Tier 2 Sections
- Computer Knowledge (Module III): Basics of MS Office, internet, email, networking. Qualifying (60% marks needed).
- Statistics (Paper 2): Collection/classification of data, measures of central tendency, probability.
- General Studies (Finance & Economics – Paper 3): Accounting principles, budgeting, Indian economy, economic reforms.
Download the official SSC CGL syllabus 2026 PDF from ssc.nic.in for a printable version.
How to Prepare for SSC CGL 2026: Pro Tips
- Create a Study Plan: Dedicate 6-8 hours daily. Cover syllabus in 4-5 months, then revise with mocks.
- Best Books:
- Quant: R.S. Aggarwal, Kiran SSC Maths
- Reasoning: Verbal/Non-Verbal by R.S. Aggarwal
- English: Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
- GK: Lucent’s General Knowledge
- Practice Strategy: Solve 50-100 questions daily per subject. Analyze PYQs (previous year questions) from the last 5 years.
- Mock Tests: Take weekly full-length tests. Focus on time management—Tier 1 needs under 1 minute per question.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Ignoring weak areas, skipping revisions, or neglecting current affairs.
- Health & Mindset: Sleep 7 hours, exercise, and stay positive. Consistency beats intensity.
For SSC CGL 2026 eligibility and application details, check the official notification in June 2026.
Conclusion: Your Path to SSC CGL 2026 Success Starts Now
Mastering the SSC CGL syllabus 2026 is about smart preparation, not endless hours. With this guide, you’re equipped to tackle Tier 1 and Tier 2 confidently. Start today—track your progress, stay updated on exam dates, and join online forums for doubts.
Ready to ace SSC CGL 2026? Download the syllabus PDF, grab your books, and let’s turn your government job dream into reality. Share your preparation tips in the comments below!
Hi, I’m Varun Pathak, the founder of TheSarkariNaukri.com—a dedicated platform for the latest updates on government jobs (Sarkari Naukri) in India. With years of experience curating reliable information on job vacancies, admit cards, exam results, and preparation strategies, I help thousands of aspirants navigate the competitive world of public sector opportunities. Passionate about job security, career growth, and empowering freshers for roles like IAS, IPS, and PSU positions, I update the site regularly with actionable insights for 2025 and beyond. Let’s connect to turn your career dreams into reality!