SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Check Tier 1 & Tier 2 Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Important Topics & Preparation Tips.The SSC CGL Exam 2026 is one of the most popular government recruitment exams for graduates. Every year, a large number of candidates appear for the examination with the aim of securing posts in different ministries, departments and government offices.
Before starting preparation, however, candidates should have a clear idea about the SSC CGL syllabus and exam pattern. Knowing the syllabus helps you decide what to study, what to revise and where to spend more time.
The SSC CGL examination is conducted in Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 is the first stage, while Tier 2 is the main merit-based stage. The syllabus includes Reasoning, General Awareness, Mathematics, English, Computer Knowledge, and specialised subjects for certain posts.
Overview of SSC CGL Syllabus 2026
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SSC Combined Graduate Level Examination 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission |
| Selection Process | Tier 1, Tier 2 & Document Verification |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Examination |
| Question Type | Objective Type |
| Tier 1 Questions | 100 |
| Tier 1 Marks | 200 |
| Tier 1 Duration | 60 Minutes |
| Tier 2 Paper I | Compulsory |
| Tier 2 Paper II | Statistics for eligible JSO candidates |
| Tier 2 Paper III | Finance & Economics for eligible AAO candidates |
| Tier 2 Paper I Marks | 450 |
| Exam Language | Hindi and English |
SSC CGL Selection Process 2026
The SSC CGL selection process is completed through the following stages:
- Tier 1 Examination
- Tier 2 Examination
- Document Verification
Tier 1 acts as the screening stage, while Tier 2 is the important merit-based stage. Candidates should therefore avoid treating Tier 1 as the only target and begin building their Tier 2 preparation from the start.
SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026
Tier 1 consists of four sections:
- General Intelligence and Reasoning
- General Awareness
- Quantitative Aptitude
- English Comprehension
Each section contains 25 questions for 50 marks. The complete paper has 100 questions for 200 marks and is conducted for 60 minutes.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | 15 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 Minutes |
Negative Marking in Tier 1
There is a 0.50-mark deduction for every incorrect answer.
Exam Tip: Since every section has limited time, don’t spend too long on a single question. If a question is taking more time than expected, move ahead and return to it only if time permits.
SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026
1. General Intelligence and Reasoning
The Reasoning section tests your ability to identify patterns, relationships and logical connections. It is one of the subjects where regular practice can quickly improve performance.
Important Topics
- Analogy
- Classification
- Coding-Decoding
- Number Series
- Alphabet Series
- Semantic Classification
- Symbolic Classification
- Figural Classification
- Word Building
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Venn Diagrams
- Syllogistic Reasoning
- Statement and Conclusion
- Non-Verbal Series
- Space Visualisation
- Relationship Concepts
- Address Matching
- Date and City Matching
- Emotional Intelligence
- Social Intelligence
The syllabus includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning.
How to Prepare for Reasoning
Don’t try to memorise solutions. Understand the pattern behind a question and solve several similar questions. With practice, many reasoning questions become much quicker to handle.
2. SSC CGL Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
Mathematics is an important part of both Tier 1 and Tier 2 preparation. The syllabus covers basic arithmetic along with algebra, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, statistics and probability.
Arithmetic
- Number System
- Whole Numbers
- Decimals
- Fractions
- Percentage
- Ratio and Proportion
- Average
- Square Root
- Simple Interest
- Compound Interest
- Profit and Loss
- Discount
- Partnership
- Mixture and Alligation
- Time and Work
- Time and Distance
Algebra
- Basic Algebraic Identities
- Elementary Surds
- Linear Equations
- Graphs of Linear Equations
Geometry
- Triangles
- Centres of Triangles
- Congruence of Triangles
- Similarity of Triangles
- Quadrilaterals
- Regular Polygons
- Circles
- Chords
- Tangents
- Angles
- Common Tangents
Mensuration
- Triangle
- Quadrilateral
- Circle
- Right Prism
- Cone
- Cylinder
- Sphere
- Hemisphere
- Rectangular Parallelepiped
- Pyramid
Trigonometry
- Trigonometric Ratios
- Complementary Angles
- Heights and Distances
- Standard Identities
Statistics and Probability
- Histogram
- Frequency Polygon
- Bar Graph
- Pie Chart
- Mean
- Median
- Mode
- Standard Deviation
- Simple Probability
Preparation Tip: Mathematics becomes easier when you practise it every day. Keep a formula notebook and revise important formulas before solving questions.
3. SSC CGL English Language Syllabus
English is another important section and can become highly scoring with regular practice.
Important Topics
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Error Spotting
- Sentence Correction
- Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Synonyms
- Antonyms
- Idioms and Phrases
- One-Word Substitution
- Active Voice
- Passive Voice
- Direct Speech
- Indirect Speech
- Vocabulary
- Grammar
- Spelling
How to Prepare English?
Try to make English part of your daily routine. Read regularly, revise grammar rules and solve practice questions. Don’t focus only on memorising vocabulary; understanding sentence structure is equally important.
4. SSC CGL General Awareness Syllabus
General Awareness has a broad syllabus. The best approach is to study important areas selectively and revise them multiple times.
Important Topics
- Current Affairs
- Indian History
- Indian Culture
- Indian Geography
- World Geography
- Indian Polity
- Constitution
- Economy
- General Science
- Science and Technology
- Books and Authors
- Important Days
- Important Events
- Static GK
- India and Neighbouring Countries
- Government and Important Organisations
Remember: General Awareness is more about retention than difficult concepts. Short notes and regular revision can make a big difference.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
Tier 2 is the most important stage for candidates because performance at this stage has a major role in the final selection.
Tier 2 consists of three papers, although Paper I is compulsory for all candidates. Paper II and Paper III are applicable only to candidates appearing for specific posts.
Tier 2 Papers
| Paper | Applicable For |
|---|---|
| Paper I | All candidates |
| Paper II | Junior Statistical Officer candidates |
| Paper III | Assistant Audit Officer candidates |
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper I Exam Pattern
Paper I covers Mathematics, Reasoning, English, General Awareness and Computer Knowledge.
| Section | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 30 Minutes |
| Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | 30 Minutes |
| English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 40 Minutes |
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 | 20 Minutes |
| Computer Knowledge | 20 | 60 | 15 Minutes |
Paper I also includes the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) as a qualifying skill test.
Tier 2 Negative Marking
For the applicable sections of Paper I, 1 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer. The Computer Knowledge and DEST components are qualifying in nature.
Important: The higher level and tighter timing in Tier 2 make speed and accuracy extremely important. Candidates should gradually move towards timed practice instead of relying only on untimed question solving.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Mathematical Abilities Syllabus
The Mathematics syllabus at Tier 2 includes:
- Number System
- Whole Numbers
- Decimals and Fractions
- Percentage
- Ratio and Proportion
- Average
- Square Root
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Profit and Loss
- Discount
- Partnership
- Mixture and Alligation
- Time and Work
- Time and Distance
- Algebra
- Surds
- Linear Equations
- Geometry
- Mensuration
- Trigonometry
- Statistics
- Probability
- Data Interpretation
Candidates should focus on both concept clarity and calculation speed.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Reasoning Syllabus
The Tier 2 Reasoning section includes verbal as well as non-verbal questions.
Major Topics
- Analogy
- Classification
- Coding-Decoding
- Series
- Venn Diagrams
- Syllogism
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Statement and Conclusion
- Logical Reasoning
- Figural Reasoning
- Non-Verbal Series
- Space Visualisation
- Relationship Concepts
- Problem Solving
- Emotional Intelligence
- Social Intelligence
Regular practice is the best way to improve your performance in this section.
SSC CGL Tier 2 English Syllabus
English carries 135 marks in Paper I, making it one of the most important sections.
Major Topics
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Error Spotting
- Sentence Improvement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Synonyms
- Antonyms
- Idioms and Phrases
- One-Word Substitution
- Active and Passive Voice
- Direct and Indirect Speech
- Grammar
- Vocabulary
Candidates should practise comprehension along with grammar and vocabulary rather than preparing each area in isolation.
SSC CGL Tier 2 General Awareness Syllabus
The General Awareness section covers:
- Current Affairs
- History
- Geography
- Indian Polity
- Indian Constitution
- Economy
- General Science
- Science and Technology
- Static GK
- Important Events
- Books and Authors
- Important Days
- India and Neighbouring Countries
A simple strategy is to study current affairs regularly and revise static GK in smaller portions.
SSC CGL Computer Knowledge Syllabus
Computer Knowledge is included in Tier 2 Paper I.
Important Topics
- Computer Fundamentals
- Basic Computer Operations
- Internet
- Computer Applications
- Networking Basics
- Cyber Security
- MS Office
- Digital Technology
This section has fewer questions compared with English and Mathematics, but it should not be ignored. With focused preparation, candidates can cover the basic topics without spending excessive time.
SSC CGL Data Entry Speed Test 2026
The Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) is a qualifying skill test in Tier 2.
Candidates should start typing practice well before the examination rather than waiting for the written exam to finish.
Typing Practice Tips
- Practise regularly
- Work on accuracy first
- Gradually increase speed
- Practise with a timer
- Try to reduce spelling and typing errors
- Maintain a consistent rhythm
Even 15–20 minutes of daily practice can help you become more comfortable with the test.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper II – Statistics
Paper II is applicable to candidates appearing for the Junior Statistical Officer post.
Important Topics
- Data Collection
- Data Presentation
- Mean
- Median
- Mode
- Probability
- Standard Deviation
- Statistical Analysis
- Analysis of Variance
- Time Series
- Index Numbers
Candidates who are not appearing for the applicable post do not need to prepare this paper.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Paper III – Finance & Economics
Paper III is applicable to candidates appearing for the relevant Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer posts.
Finance & Accounts
Important topics include:
- Financial Accounting
- Accounting Concepts
- Accounting Conventions
- GAAP
- Single Entry System
- Double Entry System
- Journal
- Ledger
- Trial Balance
- Rectification of Errors
- Manufacturing Account
- Trading Account
- Profit and Loss Account
- Balance Sheet
- Depreciation
- Inventory Valuation
- Bills of Exchange
- Bank Reconciliation Statement
- Non-Profit Organisation Accounts
Economics & Governance
Important topics include:
- Introduction to Economics
- Demand and Supply
- Elasticity
- Consumer Behaviour
- Production and Cost
- Market Structure
- Indian Economy
- National Income
- Poverty
- Unemployment
- Infrastructure
- Economic Reforms
- Money and Banking
- RBI
- Monetary Policy
- Fiscal Policy
- Government Finance
- Budget
- Fiscal Deficit
- Balance of Payments
- FRBM Act
- E-Governance
How to Prepare for SSC CGL 2026?
A good preparation plan does not necessarily mean studying for extremely long hours. What matters is consistent study, regular practice and proper revision.
1. Understand the Syllabus
Before starting, divide every subject into small topics. Mark the areas you are comfortable with and the ones that need more attention.
2. Build Strong Maths Basics
Start with arithmetic and then move towards algebra, geometry, mensuration and trigonometry.
3. Practise Reasoning Daily
Reasoning improves through practice. Try to solve a fixed number of questions every day.
4. Give Regular Time to English
Read regularly and practise grammar, vocabulary and comprehension.
5. Study GK in Small Portions
Instead of trying to finish the entire General Awareness syllabus at once, study a few topics every day and revise them frequently.
6. Start Tier 2 Preparation Early
Don’t wait for the Tier 1 result. The common subjects give you an opportunity to prepare for both stages simultaneously.
7. Solve Previous-Year Questions
Previous-year questions help you understand the question pattern and identify topics that require more practice.
8. Take Mock Tests
Mocks are useful for improving:
- Speed
- Accuracy
- Time management
- Question selection
- Exam confidence
After every mock test, spend time analysing your mistakes.
9. Practise Typing
If DEST applies to your targeted post, make typing practice part of your regular schedule.
Suggested Daily Study Plan
| Activity | Suggested Time |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 2 Hours |
| Reasoning | 1 Hour |
| English | 1.5 Hours |
| General Awareness | 1 Hour |
| Previous-Year Questions/Mock Test | 1 Hour |
| Typing Practice | 15–20 Minutes |
You can adjust the timetable according to your own preparation level. A realistic routine that you follow every day is better than an ambitious timetable that lasts only a few days.
Important SSC CGL Preparation Tips
Don’t Chase Too Many Study Materials
Using too many books and notes can create confusion. Pick reliable material and revise it properly.
Accuracy Comes First
Because the examination has negative marking, avoid unnecessary guesses.
Practise With a Timer
Once your concepts are clear, start solving questions under time pressure.
Revise General Awareness Frequently
Reading GK once is not enough. Regular revision is essential for retention.
Don’t Ignore Computer Knowledge
The section is comparatively small, but proper preparation can make it easier to score.
Prepare for Tier 2 From Day One
This can reduce pressure later and give you more time to improve your Mathematics and English performance.
Infusion Notes Team
The Infusion Notes team consists of 20 educators who regularly share educational content in the blog section, including current affairs, previous year papers, and other study materials for you.
