Mumbai, June 30: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has reported a significant rise in competition for the Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGL) 2026. Over 30.66 lakh candidates have applied for 12,256 vacancies across various ministries and departments of the central government, resulting in approximately 250 applicants vying for each position.
For the first time, sectional timing will be implemented in this recruitment process, altering the exam pattern. Candidates will have the opportunity to make corrections to their application forms from July 1 to July 7.
The online application process was open from May 21 to June 22, 2026. Candidates who have made errors in their application forms can rectify them during the correction window. The commission has advised applicants to thoroughly check all information before making any changes.
New Paper Added in Tier-2:
– Paper 1 – Mandatory for all candidates.
– Paper 2 – For Junior Statistical Officer/Statistical Investigator positions.
– Paper 3 – For Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) and Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) positions (Finance & Economics subject).
Minimum Qualifying Marks:
– UR: 30%
– OBC, EWS: 25%
– Others: 20%
Selection for Tier-2 will be based on Tier-1 performance. The Tier-1 computer-based exam is expected to take place in August-September 2026, while Tier-2 is scheduled for December 2026. Candidates will be shortlisted for Tier-2 based on their Tier-1 scores.
The final merit list will be prepared based on Tier-2 performance and the preferences of the positions chosen by the candidates. After the final selection, the respective departments will complete the document verification process.
Last year, the Tier-1 exam was conducted from September 12 to September 26, 2025, while Tier-2 took place on January 18 and 19, 2026.
Importance of SSC CGL:
The SSC CGL is one of the most prestigious graduate-level recruitment examinations in India, facilitating recruitment for Group B and Group C positions across various ministries, departments, and organizations.