SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025 for Tier 1 and Tier 2

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025 for Tier 1 and Tier 2:- The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the detailed SSC CGL 2025 notification, announcing 17,727 vacancies for various Group B and C posts. The SSC CGL exam pattern 2025 consists of two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 is mandatory for all candidates, while Tier 2 includes three papers. Paper 1 is compulsory for all posts, Paper 2 is for candidates applying for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) in the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, and Paper 3 is for those applying for the Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer positions.

The SSC CGL pattern follows a structured format to examine candidates effectively. Tier 1 is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) covering General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. It consists of 100 questions for 200 marks, with a negative marking of 0.50 marks per incorrect answer. Check out the below article for detailed SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025 for Tier 1 and Tier 2.  

SSC CGL 2025

Check out the below table for SSC CGL 2025 overview:- 

SSC CGL Exam Pattern for Tier 1

The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam pattern helps check a candidate’s basic skills for government jobs. It is an online test with four sections: Reasoning, General Awareness, Maths, and English. The exam is only qualifying, so the marks will not be added to the final result, but candidates must score the cut-off marks to move to Tier 2. Check out the SSC CGL Exam Pattern for Tier 1:- 

SSC CGL Exam Pattern for Tier 2

The SSC CGL Tier 2 exam pattern follows the SSC CGL new pattern and is more detailed. It is an online test with three papers. Paper 1 is for all candidates. Paper 2 is only for those applying for the JSO post, and Paper 3 is for those applying for the AAO post. The final selection is based on the marks scored in this stage. Check out the below table for SSC CGL Exam Pattern for Tier 2:- 

SSC CGL Syllabus 2025

The SSC CGL syllabus includes all the topics candidates need to study for the exam. Tier 1 has four sections: Reasoning, General Awareness, Maths, and English. Tier 2 is more detailed, with Paper 1 for all candidates, Paper 2 for those applying for the JSO post, and Paper 3 for the AAO post.

Preparation Tips for SSC CGL Tier 1

1. Understand the SSC CGL Exam Pattern

Before starting preparation, candidates must be familiar with the SSC CGL pattern. Tier 1 is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) with 100 questions for 200 marks, covering four sections. Each wrong answer results in a 0.50 mark deduction.

 2. General Intelligence & Reasoning

This section tests a candidate’s logical thinking and problem-solving skills. Questions are mostly based on patterns and logical sequences.

•  Practice topics like puzzles, coding-decoding, seating arrangements, and analogy.

• Solve at least 20-30 reasoning questions daily to improve speed and accuracy.

3. General Awareness

A strong command of current affairs and general knowledge is essential for scoring high in this section. Focus on both static GK and recent events.

•  Read newspapers and monthly current affairs magazines for the latest updates.

• Revise important topics from history, geography, polity, economy, and science.

4. Quantitative Aptitude

This section requires fast calculations and a clear understanding of mathematical concepts. Topics include arithmetic, algebra, trigonometry, and data interpretation.

•  Learn shortcuts and tricks to solve mathematical problems quickly.

• Solve previous year questions to understand the CGL exam pattern.

5. English Comprehension

A good vocabulary and grammar knowledge help in scoring well in this section. It includes reading comprehension, sentence correction, and error spotting.

•  Improve grammar skills by practicing sentence formation and reading newspapers.

• Memorise synonyms, antonyms, idioms, and one-word substitutions.

6. Practice Mock Tests & Previous Year Papers

Regular practice helps in time management and accuracy. Mock tests simulate the real exam environment and highlight weak areas.

•  Take at least two mock tests weekly and analyse mistakes.

• Solve previous year question papers to understand question trends.

Check Out: Yearly Current Affairs Magazine January to December 2024

Preparation Tips for SSC CGL Tier 2

1. Paper 1: Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge & DEST

This paper is compulsory for all candidates and tests multiple skills. It includes advanced-level maths, reasoning, and English comprehension, along with basic computer knowledge and typing skills.

•  Focus on advanced mathematics like algebra, trigonometry, and data interpretation.

• Improve typing speed for the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) section.

2. Paper 2: Statistics (For JSO Candidates)

Candidates applying for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) post must have a strong grip on statistical methods and data analysis.

•  Revise probability, mean, median, variance, and standard deviation regularly.

• Practice numerical problems daily to improve speed and accuracy.

3. Paper 3: Finance & Economics (For AAO Candidates)

This paper is for candidates applying for the Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) and Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) posts. It covers basic finance, auditing, and economic concepts.

•  Study financial management, accounting principles, and economic terms.

• Refer to NCERT books and online resources for finance and economics.

4. Take Full-Length Mock Tests

Mock tests for Tier 2 help candidates adapt to the difficulty level and exam pattern.

•  Attempt full-length mocks at least once a week to track progress.

• Work on weak areas and improve time management.

Read More: SSC CGL Previous Year Question Papers PDFs for Tier 1 & 2 Exam

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025 FAQs

1. What is the SSC CGL exam pattern 2025?
The SSC CGL exam pattern 2025 consists of two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 is a qualifying exam, while Tier 2 is considered for final selection.

2. Is the SSC CGL Tier 1 exam compulsory for all candidates?
Yes, Tier 1 is mandatory for all candidates. It consists of four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.

3. How many papers are there in SSC CGL Tier 2?
The SSC CGL Tier 2 exam has three papers:

• Paper 1: Compulsory for all posts.

• Paper 2: For candidates applying for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) post.

• Paper 3: For candidates applying for the Assistant Audit Officer (AAO)/Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) post.

4. Will there be negative marking in SSC CGL 2025?
Yes, there is negative marking in both tiers:

• Tier 1: 0.50 marks deducted for each incorrect answer.

• Tier 2: 1 mark deducted in Paper 1 and 0.50 marks deducted in Papers 2 & 3 for wrong answers.

5. Is the SSC CGL Tier 1 exam qualifying in nature?
Yes, Tier 1 is only qualifying. The marks scored are not counted in the final selection. Only Tier 2 marks are considered for the final merit list.