The SSC CGL examination is structured into two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Mastering the comprehensive SSC CGL syllabus for both tiers is essential for developing a strategic and high-scoring study plan. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the curriculum based on the latest official exam pattern.
SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026
The SSC CGL 2026 Tier-1 exam comprises 4 core sections: Quantitative Aptitude, General Intelligence & Reasoning, English Language, and General Awareness. The paper features 100 objective-type questions (25 per section) totaling 200 marks. Candidates have 60 minutes to complete the test, with a penalty of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer.
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
- Computation of whole numbers
- Decimals
- Fractions
- Relationships between numbers
- Profit and Loss
- Discount
- Partnership Business
- Mixture and Alligation
- Time and distance
- Time & Work
- Percentage
- Ratio & Proportion
- Square roots
- Averages
- Interest
- Basic algebraic identities of School Algebra & Elementary surds
- Graphs of Linear Equations
- Triangle and its various kinds of centres
- Congruence and similarity of triangles
- Circle and its chords, tangents, angles subtended by chords of a circle, common tangents to two or more circles
- Triangle
- Quadrilaterals
- Regular Polygons
- Right Prism
- Right Circular Cone
- Right Circular Cylinder
- Sphere
- Heights and Distances
- Histogram
- Frequency polygon
- Bar diagram & Pie chart
- Hemispheres
- Rectangular Parallelepiped
- Regular Right Pyramid with triangular or square base
- Trigonometric ratio
- Degree and Radian Measures
- Standard Identities
- Complementary angles
General Intelligence and Reasoning Syllabus
- Analogies
- Similarities and differences
- Space visualization
- Spatial orientation
- Problem-solving
- Analysis
- Judgment
- Blood Relations
- Decision making
- Visual memory
- Discrimination
- Observation
- Relationship concepts
- Arithmetical reasoning
- Figural classification
- Arithmetic number series
- Non-verbal series
- Coding and decoding
- Statement conclusion
- Syllogistic reasoning
English Language Syllabus
- Idioms and Phrases
- One Word Substitution
- Sentence Correction
- Error Spotting
- Fill in the Blanks
- Spellings Correction
- Reading Comprehension
- Synonyms-Antonyms
- Active Passive
- Sentence Rearrangement
- Sentence Improvement
- Cloze test
General Awareness Syllabus
- India and its neighbouring countries, especially about History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General Policy & Scientific Research
- Science
- Current Affairs
- Books and Authors
- Sports
- Important Schemes
- Important Days
- Portfolio
- People in the News
- Static GK
SSC CGL Topic-wise Weightage
Below is the topic-wise weightage for the SSC CGL Tier 1 2026 exam, derived from recent year trends. Since the syllabus remains consistent, these topics are critical for your success. Review these key areas to prioritize your preparation effectively.
English Language Topic-wise Weightage
| Topics | Expected Questions |
| Fill in the Blanks | 2-3 |
| Sentence Improvement | 2-3 |
| Error Spotting | 2-3 |
| Synonyms / Antonyms | 3-4 |
| Idioms & Phrases | 1-2 |
| One Word Substitution | 2-3 |
| Cloze Test | 3-5 |
| Reading Comprehension | 5-6 |
| Active / Passive Voice | 1-2 |
| Direct / Indirect Speech | 1-2 |
Reasoning Ability Topic-wise Weightage
| Topics | No. of Questions |
| Analogy | 2 to 4 |
| Coding-Decoding | 3 to 4 |
| Number Series/Alpha-Numeric Series | 2 to 3 |
| Seating Arrangement | 2 to 3 |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | 1 to 2 |
| Blood Relations | 1 to 2 |
| Mathematical Operations | 1 to 2 |
| Syllogism | 1 to 2 |
| Direction Sense | 1 to 2 |
| Venn Diagram | 1 to 2 |
| Odd One Out | 1 to 2 |
| Miscellaneous (e.g., word formation, dictionary sequence, counting figures) | 1 to 3 |
Quantitative Aptitude Topic-wise Weightage
| Topics | No. of Questions |
| Profit & Loss | 2 to 3 |
| Time and Work | 1 to 2 |
| Percentages | 1 to 2 |
| Simple & Compound | 1 to 2 |
| Time, Speed & Distance | 1 to 2 |
| Averages | 1 to 2 |
| Ratio & Proportion | 1 to 2 |
| Algebra | 2 to 3 |
| Geometry | 2 to 3 |
| Mensuration | 1 to 2 |
| Trigonometry | 1 to 2 |
| Data Interpretation | 1 to 2 |
| Number System | 1 to 2 |
| Miscellaneous (e.g., simplification, surds, indices) | 1 to 2 |
General Awareness Topic-wise Weightage
| Topics | No. of Questions |
| Current Affairs | 5 to 7 |
| History | 2 to 3 |
| Geography | 2 to 3 |
| Polity | 2 to 3 |
| Economics | 1 to 2 |
| General Science | 4 to 6 |
| Static GK | 3 to 5 |
| Miscellaneous (Computer Basics, Abbreviations) | 1 to 2 |
SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026
The Mains (Tier 2) examination is a computer-based objective test, with the exception of the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) in Module II of Section III. Below, we detail the updated SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus and marking scheme.
Paper I is mandatory for all qualified candidates and is conducted in two sessions on a single day. Session I covers Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III. Session II is dedicated to Module II of Section III. Candidates are required to meet qualifying standards across all sections of Paper I.
| Paper 1 Exam Pattern | ||||||
| Sections | Module | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration | Weightage |
| Section I | Module-I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 60*3 = 180 | 1 hour | 23% |
| Module-II | Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | 23% | |||
| Section II | Module-I | English Language and Comprehension | 45 | 70*3 = 210 | 1 hour | 35% |
| Module-II | General Awareness | 25 | 19% | |||
| Section III | Module-I | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 | 20*3 = 60 | 15 minutes | Qualifying |
| Module-II | Data Entry Speed Test | One Data Entry Task | 15 minutes | Qualifying | ||
| Paper 2 Exam Pattern | ||||||
| Paper | Section | No. of question | Maximum Marks | Duration | ||
| Paper II | Statistics | 100 | 200 | 2 hours | ||
Module I of Session I of Paper I (Mathematical Abilities):
This section evaluates numerical ability and quantitative reasoning. While similar in nature to Tier 1, the Tier 2 quantitative questions are designed to be more advanced and analytical. We recommend focusing on the following core topics to sharpen your speed and accuracy.
| Topics | Sub-topics |
| Number Systems |
|
| Fundamental arithmetical operations |
|
| Algebra |
|
| Geometry |
|
| Mensuration | |
| Trigonometry |
|
| Statistics and probability |
|
Module-II of Section-I of Paper-I (Reasoning and General Intelligence):
The reasoning section covers both verbal and non-verbal logic, testing analytical capabilities through diverse question formats including:
| Module-II of Section-I of Paper-I (Reasoning and General Intelligence) |
|
Module-I of Section-II of Paper-I (English Language And Comprehension):
Fluency in English is assessed through grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Building a strong foundation in these areas is crucial for high performance. The reading comprehension component tests your ability to interpret information and respond effectively to complex situational passages.
| Module-I of Section-II of Paper-I (English Language And Comprehension) |
|
Module-II of Section-II of Paper-I (General Awareness):
The General Awareness section evaluates your knowledge of current events, environmental issues, and scientific applications relevant to everyday life. It tests the analytical perspective expected of a well-informed candidate, covering diverse subjects:
| Module-II of Section-II of Paper-I (General Awareness) |
|
Module-I of Section-III of Paper-I (Computer Proficiency):
| Topics | Sub-Topics |
| Computer Basics | Organization of a computer, CPU, Input/Output Devices, Memory, Backup Devices, Ports, Windows Explorer, Keyboard Shortcuts |
| Software | Windows OS basics, MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint |
| Internet and e-mails | Web Browsing & Searching, Downloading & Uploading, Managing an E-mail Account, e-Banking |
| networking and cyber security | Networking devices and protocols, Network and information security threats (like hacking, virus, worms, Trojan etc.) and preventive measures |
SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus- Paper 2 (Statistics)
While Statistics can be challenging for many, consistent conceptual clarity and repetitive practice are the keys to success. Below is the structured SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus for the Statistics module-
| SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus- Paper 2 (Statistics) | |
| Subject | Topics |
| 1. Collection, Classification and Presentation of Statistical Data | Primary and Secondary data, Methods of data collection; Tabulation of data; Graphs and charts; Frequency distributions; Diagrammatic presentation of frequency distributions. |
| 2. Measures of Central Tendency | Common measures of central tendency – mean median and mode; Partition values- quartiles, deciles, percentiles. |
| 3. Measures of Dispersion- Common measures of Dispersion | range, quartile deviations, mean deviation and standard deviation; Measures of relative dispersion. |
| 4. Moments, Skewness and Kurtosis | Different types of moments and their relationship; the meaning of skewness and kurtosis; different measures of skewness and kurtosis. |
| 5. Correlation and Regression | Scatter diagram; simple correlation coefficient; simple regression lines; Spearman‟s rank correlation; Measures of association of attributes; Multiple regression; Multiple and partial correlation (For three variables only). |
| 6. Probability Theory | Meaning of probability; Different definitions of probability; Conditional probability; Compound probability; Independent events; Bayes‟ theorem. |
| 7. Random Variable and Probability Distributions | Random variable; Probability functions; Expectation and Variance of a random variable; Higher moments of a random variable; Binomial, Poisson, Normal and Exponential distributions; Joint distribution of two random variable (discrete). |
| 8. Sampling Theory | Concept of population and sample; Parameter and statistic, Sampling and non-sampling errors; Probability and nonprobability sampling techniques(simple random sampling, stratified sampling, multistage sampling, multiphase sampling, cluster sampling, systematic sampling, purposive sampling, convenience sampling and quota sampling); Sampling distribution(statement only); Sample size decisions. |
| 9. Statistical Inference | Point estimation and interval estimation, Properties of a good estimator, Methods of estimation (Moments method, Maximum likelihood method, Least squares method), Testing of hypothesis, Basic concept of testing, Small sample and large sample tests, Tests based on Z, t, Chi-square and F statistic, Confidence intervals. |
| 10. Analysis of Variance | Analysis of one-way classified data and two-way classified data. |
| 11. Time Series Analysis | Components of time series, Determination of trend component by different methods, Measurement of seasonal variation by different methods. |
| 12. Index Numbers | Meaning of Index Numbers, Problems in the construction of index numbers, Types of index number, Different formulae, Base shifting and splicing of index numbers, Cost of living Index Numbers, Uses of Index Numbers. |
Important Pointers
Tier-I is a compulsory qualifying phase for all posts. Candidates should adopt an integrated approach, preparing for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 simultaneously.
For SSC CGL Tier 2-
- Paper I (Compulsory for all posts)
- Paper II for candidates who apply for the posts of Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
Penalty for wrong answers
- Giving a wrong answer to a question will lead to a deduction of 0.5 marks in the Tier–I exam.
- In Tier II, there will be a negative marking of 1 for each wrong answer in Paper I and Paper II.
SSC CGL Minimum Qualifying Marks
Tier 1 scores are qualifying in nature and are not included in the final merit calculation; however, passing the Tier 1 cut-off is a prerequisite for moving to Tier 2. The minimum qualifying marks vary depending on the candidate's category:
- UR (General): 30%
- OBC / EWS: 25%
- SC, ST, PwD & others: 20%
SSC CGL Syllabus PDF
Download the official SSC CGL syllabus PDF using the link below, or visit the official Staff Selection Commission website at ssc.gov.in and navigate to the CGL notification section.
Click to Download Official SSC CGL Tier 1 & 2 Syllabus PDF
Note: This resource is regularly updated by our expert faculty team based on the latest notifications from the Staff Selection Commission. Bookmark this page for the most accurate exam information!
FAQs
The Tier 1 exam consists of 100 questions (200 marks total), with 25 questions each from Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, English, and General Awareness. The total duration is 60 minutes.
Yes, Tier 1 is strictly qualifying. Final selection and post allocation are based exclusively on your performance in Tier 2, though you must qualify for Tier 1 to proceed.
Based on previous years, Current Affairs typically accounts for 5–7 questions in the General Awareness section of Tier 1, making it a high-yield topic for revision.
The SSC CGL Tier-1 is conducted as a Computer-Based Examination (CBE). It features objective-type multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 60 minutes.
Yes, there is a negative marking scheme: 0.50 marks are deducted for every wrong answer in Tier 1. In Tier 2, there is a penalty of 1 mark for incorrect answers in Paper-II (English) and 0.50 marks for incorrect answers in Paper-I, Paper-III, and Paper-IV.
No, the SSC CGL selection process does not include an interview. Final candidates are selected based on their scores in Tier 1 (qualifying) and Tier 2 (merit), followed by document verification.
Also Read:
- SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Download Tier 1 & Tier 2 Syllabus PDF
- SSC CGL Syllabus 2026: Comprehensive Exam Pattern & PDF Download
- OSSC CGL Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026: Detailed Guide for Prelims & Mains
- BSSC CGL Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026: Detailed Guide for Prelims & Mains
- JSSC CGL Syllabus 2026 & Exam Pattern: Subject-Wise Topics and Marking Scheme
- SSC CGL 2026 Notification: Apply for 12,256 Vacancies, Exam Dates & Eligibility