SSC CGL Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online for 12,256 Group B & Group C Posts

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the notification for the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2026, announcing 12,256 Group B and Group C positions across various central ministries and government departments. Graduates from any recognized discipline can submit their online applications starting May 21, 2026. The online application portal remains open until June 22, 2026, and the Tier-I exam is planned for August-September 2026.

• Recruitment Overview
• Is This Job for You?
• Vacancy Details by Role
• Important Dates & Limits
• Salary Structure by Pay Level
• Selection Criteria
• Required Documents Checklist
• Application Process Steps
• Frequently Asked Questions

Recruitment Overview

Is This Job for You?

You should consider applying if you want to secure a permanent career path in central government administrations, tax departments, investigation agencies, or audit units. Candidates holding a graduation degree who are prepared to study for a competitive, multi-subject online exam can find options spanning different ministries.

You should skip this if you will not finish your graduation by the cutoff date, cannot meet the physical fitness standards necessary for inspector positions (like CBI, Excise, or NIA), or seek local regional assignments, as these positions involve all-India transfer liability.

Vacancy Details by Role

The 12,256 positions are distributed across administrative roles. Assistant Section Officers manage records and file routines in core departments. Inspectors in CBDT/CBIC enforce tax collection and compliance, while Sub-Inspectors assist in intelligence gathering and criminal investigations.

Important Dates & Limits

Salary Structure by Pay Level

Salaries are determined according to the 7th Pay Commission pay matrix levels:

• Pay Level 8: Basic pay ₹47,600 to ₹1,51,100
• Pay Level 7: Basic pay ₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400
• Pay Level 6: Basic pay ₹35,400 to ₹1,12,400
• Pay Level 5: Basic pay ₹29,200 to ₹92,300
• Pay Level 4: Basic pay ₹25,500 to ₹81,100

In addition to basic pay, selected officers are eligible for central government allowances like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Transport Allowance based on the city category of their posting.

Selection Criteria

The recruitment process features the following stages:

1. Tier-I Examination (CBT): A qualifying online test covering Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, and General Awareness. Negative marking of 0.50 per wrong answer applies.
2. Tier-II Examination (CBT): Sectional online exams containing advanced mathematics, reasoning, English, general awareness, computer knowledge, and a Data Entry Speed Test. Scores in this tier determine the final merit rank.
3. Physical/Medical Examination: Mandatory only for specific inspector and investigator posts.
4. Document Verification: Conducted in person by the allocating department upon final selection.

Required Documents Checklist

• Matriculation/Class 10 Marksheet as proof of age
• Graduation Degree Certificate along with semester-wise marksheets
• Category/Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD) if claiming reservation
• Valid Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, driving license, or Voter ID)
• Digital files of passport photograph and signature

Application Process Steps

1. Go to the official website ssc.gov.in.
2. Register yourself on the site to obtain a One-Time Registration (OTR) profile.
3. Log in with your user credentials.
4. Find the Combined Graduate Level Examination 2026 notice and click Apply.
5. Verify the details populated from your registration profile and choose three exam centers.
6. Capture a live photo using your computer’s webcam or the official SSC application. Make sure the background is light and clear.
7. Upload a scanned copy of your signature.
8. Pay the ₹100 fee online (if applicable) and submit the form. Print the confirmation slip for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can final-year students apply for SSC CGL 2026?

Yes, final-year candidates can apply, provided they acquire the essential graduation qualifications on or before the cutoff date specified in the official notification.

2. What is the application fee for female candidates?

All female candidates are exempted from paying the application fee (₹0).

3. Is there negative marking in the CGL exams?

Yes. Tier-I has a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer. Tier-II has a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer in Section-I, Section-II, and Section-III modules.

4. How is the final merit list calculated?

The final merit list is prepared based on the marks scored in the Tier-II examination. Tier-I is qualifying in nature and is not included in the final merit calculation.

5. What are the new rules for photo uploading?

Candidates must capture a live photo through a camera device or the official mobile app. Uploaded pre-saved photos are not accepted.

6. What is the age limit for Assistant Section Officer?

The age limit for ASO positions is generally 20 to 30 years. Standard relaxation rules apply to reserved categories.