SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern 2025 – Complete Guide for All Tiers
The SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern are important topics for anyone preparing for government jobs. If you want to work in ministries or departments under the central government, the SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam is one of the best options.
In this post, we will explain the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern in simple words. This guide will help you understand how the exam works and what steps you need to clear to get selected.
What is the SSC CGL Exam?
The SSC CGL stands for Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level exam. It is held every year to recruit candidates for various Group B and Group C posts in government departments.
This exam is a great opportunity for students who have completed graduation and want a stable government job.
SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern Overview
The SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern follow a step-by-step process. There are four stages (Tiers) in the exam:
Tier I – Preliminary Exam
Tier II – Mains Exam
Tier III – Skill Test/Computer Proficiency Test (if required)
Document Verification
You must pass each stage to move on to the next.
Tier I – Preliminary Exam (Objective Type)
The first stage in the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern is Tier I.
Details of Tier I:
Type: Objective (Multiple Choice Questions)
Mode: Online (Computer-based)
Total Marks: 200
Total Questions: 100
Duration: 60 minutes
Subjects and Marks:
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
Each correct answer gives 2 marks, and for each wrong answer, 0.5 marks are deducted.
Tier II – Mains Exam (Objective Type)
The second stage in the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern is Tier II.
Details of Tier II:
Type: Objective (MCQs)
Mode: Online
Total Papers: 3 (Paper I is compulsory for all)
Breakdown:
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
| I | Quantitative Aptitude + Reasoning + English + GK | 450 (150 per section) | 2 hours 30 mins |
| II | Statistics (For JSO post) | 100 | 2 hours |
| III | General Studies (Finance & Economics – for AAO) | 100 | 2 hours |
Note: Paper II and III are only for specific posts. Most candidates only need to appear for Paper I.
Tier II has negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer in Paper I.
Tier III – Skill Test/Typing Test
This part of the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern is not written. It checks your practical skills.
Two Types of Tests:
DEST (Data Entry Speed Test): You must type 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes.
CPT (Computer Proficiency Test): Tests your knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
These are required only for some posts. You must check your post preferences to know if this stage applies to you.
Final Stage – Document Verification
Once you clear the exams, the final step in the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern is document verification. You must show your original certificates like:
10th and 12th mark sheets
Graduation certificate
Caste certificate (if applicable)
Identity proof
After this, your name will appear in the final merit list if you qualify for all stages.
SSC CGL Selection Pattern – Step-by-Step
Here’s a simple breakdown of the selection pattern:
Apply for the exam on the official SSC website.
Clear Tier I (Prelims).
Pass Tier II (Mains).
If required, appear for Skill Test or CPT.
Attend Document Verification.
Final Merit List is prepared based on marks in Tier I and Tier II only.
Important Notes About the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern
Tier I is just qualifying, but its marks are used in final selection.
Tier II Paper I is compulsory for all posts.
Skill Tests are qualifying in nature, but you must pass them if your post needs it.
The final merit is based on the combined scores of Tier I and Tier II.
How to Prepare for SSC CGL Based on the Exam Pattern?
Now that you understand the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern, let’s see how to prepare:
Start with Basics
Focus on basic grammar, maths formulas, and general knowledge topics.
Practice Daily
Use online quizzes, previous year papers, and mock tests.
Improve Speed
The exam has limited time. Practice solving questions quickly and correctly.
Join a Coaching Institute
Race4Job offers expert coaching, mock tests, and study material to help you crack every stage of the SSC CGL exam.
Why Choose Race4Job for SSC CGL Preparation?
At Race4Job, we understand the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern deeply. Here’s how we help you:
Detailed Exam Strategy
Regular Mock Tests
Personal Doubt Clearing
Latest Study Material
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With our support, you can move confidently through every stage of the SSC CGL exam.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the SSC CGL Exam Pattern and Selection Pattern is the first step toward success. It helps you plan your preparation smartly. Each tier tests different skills, so prepare each section with focus and practice.
Race4Job is always here to guide you. Whether you’re just starting or revising before the final exam, we offer everything you need to succeed.
Start your SSC CGL journey today with a clear path and smart planning.
