SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 & Exam Pattern, Tier 1 and Tier 2 Exam

Preparing for India’s competitive exams becomes much easier when you clearly understand what to study. If you are aiming for Group B or Group C posts in central ministries, knowing the SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 should be your first priority. It gives you a clear direction and helps you avoid wasting time on unnecessary topics.

This guide simplifies the complex exam layers, helping you understand the subjects with ease. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned aspirant, this structured breakdown ensures you focus on high-yield topics to secure your dream government job.

Check Out: PW SSC Books

SSS CGL Syllabus 2026 - Overview

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam to recruit candidates for various ministerial and departmental roles. The selection process of the organization consists of two main stages, which include Tier 1 assessment and Tier 2 assessment. While Tier 1 acts as a qualifying gatekeeper, Tier 2 is where the final merit is largely decided.

Staying updated with the SSS CGL Syllabus 2026 ensures you don't waste time on outdated patterns. Each stage has a specific set of requirements and time limits that you must master.

SSS CGL Exam Pattern 2026

Before looking at the individual topics, you must understand how the exam is structured. The SSC CGL exam pattern has remained consistent in recent years, focusing on a computer-based testing (CBT) model.

Tier 1 Exam Pattern

Tier 1 is mandatory for all candidates. It consists of 100 questions, with 25 questions in each of the four sections. You get 60 minutes to complete the paper. Note that there is a negative marking of 0.50 for every wrong answer.

Tier 2 Exam Pattern

Tier 2 is more rigorous and is conducted in multiple phases. Paper I is compulsory for all posts, while Paper II is specifically for those applying for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) positions.

• Paper I: Includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English Language, General Awareness, and a Computer Knowledge Test.

• Data Entry Speed Test (DEST): A qualifying test to check your typing proficiency.

Check Out - SSC Previous Year Papers

Detailed SSS CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026

The SSS CGL Tier 1 syllabus 2026 is designed to test the basic foundational knowledge of a graduate. Even though it is qualifying in nature, the high cutoff marks mean you cannot afford to take it lightly.

General Intelligence and Reasoning

This section evaluates your logical thinking. It includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning.

• Analogy: Semantic, Symbolic, and Number analogies.

• Classification: Identifying the odd one out in figures or numbers.

• Series: Completing number or alphabetical patterns.

• Coding-Decoding: Deciphering messages based on specific rules.

• Visual Reasoning: Paper folding, mirror images, and embedded figures.

General Awareness

This is the most unpredictable section. It covers everything from history to current events.

• History & Culture: Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian history.

• Geography: Physical geography of India and the world.

• Economic Scene: Basic macroeconomics and Indian budget.

• General Policy & Scientific Research: Basic physics, chemistry, and biology (up to Class 10).

Quantitative Aptitude

The maths section tests your "number sense."

• Arithmetic: Percentages, Profit and Loss, Interest, and Ratio and Proportion.

• Algebra: Basic algebraic identities and elementary surds.

• Geometry: Familiarity with elementary geometric figures and facts.

• Mensuration: Area and volume of triangles, quadrilaterals, and spheres.

English Comprehension

Focus on your ability to understand and use correct English.

• Grammar: Error spotting, fill in the blanks, and sentence improvement.

• Vocabulary: Synonyms, antonyms, and one-word substitutions.

• Reading: Cloze test and short passages.

Comprehensive SSS CGL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026

Once you get through the first stage, your full attention should shift to the SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus 2026. This level goes deeper into the subjects and expects better accuracy and stronger concepts.

Module I of Session I: Mathematical Abilities

This section is quite similar to Tier 1, but the questions are more detailed and slightly tougher. You need to be more careful with calculations and time management.

It mainly focuses on:

• Number Systems: Solving questions based on whole numbers, decimals, fractions, and basic calculations.

• Basic Arithmetic Topics: Chapters like Time and Work and Time and Distance are very important here.

• Trigonometry: Questions on heights and distances, along with standard trigonometric identities.

• Statistics and Probability: Concepts such as mean, median, mode, and simple probability-based problems.

Module II of Session I: Reasoning and General Intelligence

Expect complex puzzles and critical thinking questions here.

• Critical Thinking: Drawing inferences and evaluating arguments.

• Emotional Intelligence: Social intelligence and situational decision-making.

Section II: English Language and General Awareness

The English section in Tier 2 is quite heavy on comprehension.

• English Language: Includes active/passive voice, direct/indirect speech, and shuffling of sentence parts.

• General Awareness: Continued focus on current affairs and static GK.

Check Out: SSC Current affairs Books

SSS CGL Subject Wise Syllabus 2026

To help you organise your study timetable, we have categorised the SSS CGL subject wise syllabus 2026 into high-priority clusters. Focusing on these clusters can help you score maximum marks in less time.

Mathematics: The Scoring Pillar

Maths often scares students, but it is actually the most scoring subject because the answers are definitive.

• Priority 1: Arithmetic (Percentage, Ratio, Average).

• Priority 2: Algebra and Geometry.

• Priority 3: Data Interpretation (Tables and Graphs).

English: The Speed Booster

If your basics are clear, you can finish the English section very quickly, saving time for Maths.

• Grammar Rules: Focus on Subject-Verb Agreement and Tenses.

• Vocabulary: Read daily editorials to improve your word bank.

Reasoning: The Logic Test

Reasoning is all about practice. The more patterns you see, the faster you solve them.

• Syllogism: Logical deduction questions.

• Blood Relations: Family tree puzzles.

How to Use the SSS CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF

While reading this guide is helpful, having a physical or digital copy of the SSS CGL syllabus 2026 pdf is essential. You should use it as a checklist.

• Print the PDF: Keep it on your study desk.

• Tick Mark Topics: As you finish a chapter, tick it off. This provides a sense of accomplishment.

• Map with PYQs: Cross-reference the syllabus with Previous Year Questions (PYQs) to see which topics appear most frequently.

Preparation Tips for the 2026 Exam

Knowing the syllabus is only half the battle. Executing a plan is the other half.

• Start with Basics: Don't jump to short tricks. Understand the concept first.

• Mock Tests: Take at least two mock tests a week during the early stages, increasing the frequency as the exam nears.

• Analyze Mistakes: Spend more time analyzing why you got a question wrong than you spent solving the paper.

• Current Affairs: Stay updated with the last 6–8 months of news before the exam date.

Read More: Prepare SSC CGL with Previous Years Question Paper

SSC CGL study material

SSC CGL study material is an important part of the preparation for the SSC CGL.having the right book not only helps candidates in their preparation but also boost their confidence in the exam. FInd some SSC CGL study material for better learning.

SSC CGL Syllabus FAQs

1. What subjects are included in SSC CGL Syllabus 2026?

Tier 1 has four main subjects – Quantitative Aptitude, English, Reasoning, and General Awareness. In Tier 2, the level is higher and it also includes Computer Knowledge and advanced Maths topics.

2. Is there negative marking in SSC CGL? 

Yes. In Tier 1, 0.50 marks are deducted for each wrong answer. In Tier 2 Paper I, 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.

3. Where can I download the SSC CGL syllabus 2026 PDF?

You can get the official PDF from the SSC website. It’s also available on platforms like Physics Wallah along with extra study material.

4. Is Tier 2 syllabus different from Tier 1?

The subjects are similar, but Tier 2 is more detailed and includes topics like Statistics, Probability, and Computer Knowledge.

5. How should I prepare subject-wise?

Start with your weak areas, clear your basics, and then practice previous year papers. Regular mock tests will help you improve speed and accuracy.