SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission – Combined Graduate Level)

The SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission – Combined Graduate Level) exam is one of the most competitive exams in India for recruiting candidates for various government posts in different ministries and departments. The exam is conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC).

Key Details about the SSC CGL Exam:

1. Eligibility Criteria:

   • Age Limit: Generally between 18 to 32 years, depending on the post. Age relaxation is provided for reserved categories (OBC, SC/ST, etc.).
   • Educational Qualification: A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution. Some posts may have specific qualifications or requirements.
   • Nationality: Indian citizens, citizens of Nepal, Bhutan, and certain others are eligible.

2. Selection Process: The exam is conducted in four stages:

   • Tier 1 (Preliminary Exam): An objective-type test consisting of multiple-choice questions. It tests General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
   • Tier 2 (Main Exam): This is also objective in nature and consists of more in-depth questions on subjects like Quantitative Abilities, English Language and Comprehension, Statistics (for certain posts), and General Studies.
   • Tier 3 (Descriptive Paper): A written exam, which involves writing essays, letters, or applications in English or Hindi (depending on the choice made by the candidate).
   • Tier 4 (Skill Test/Document Verification): Depending on the post, this can involve a computer proficiency test (CPT), data entry speed test, or document verification.

3. Syllabus for SSC CGL:

   • Tier 1:
     
     • General Intelligence and Reasoning
     • General Awareness
     • Quantitative Aptitude
     • English Comprehension
   • Tier 2:
     
     • Quantitative Abilities
     • English Language and Comprehension
     • Statistics (for certain posts)
     • General Studies (Economics and Finance) for certain posts.
   • Tier 3:
     
     • Descriptive Paper (Essay writing, letter/application writing)
   • Tier 4:
     
     • Skill Test/Computer Proficiency Test depending on the post

4. Post-Examination:

   • After the successful completion of the exams, candidates are shortlisted based on their performance in each tier.
   • The final selection depends on the combined performance in Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 (and Tier 4 where applicable).

5. Postings Available: The SSC CGL exam recruits for various posts in central government departments such as:

   • Assistant Audit Officer
   • Income Tax Inspector
   • Assistant Section Officer
   • Sub-Inspector (SI) in CBI
   • Junior Statistical Officer (JSO)
   • And more.

6. Salary and Benefits: The salary of SSC CGL officers varies depending on the post, but it generally ranges from ₹35,000 to ₹70,000 per month. There are also other allowances and benefits like HRA, TA, and DA, depending on the posting.

7. Application Process: Candidates must apply online through the SSC website. The notification for the exam typically appears around March/April each year, and the exam usually takes place between July and December.

The SSC CGL exam is very popular among graduates due to the prestige, job security, and career growth opportunities in the government sector.