Sectional Timing Implemented in SSC CGL: Math and Reasoning Must Be Completed Within 15 Minutes..
SSC CGL 2026 New Exam Pattern: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has introduced a major change to the rules governing the SSC CGL 2026 examination. This time, sectional timing has been implemented for both Tier-1 and Tier-2 examinations. This means that candidates will no longer be able to utilize the total allotted time for the entire paper at their own discretion. A specific time duration has been fixed for each subject, and questions must be solved within that designated timeframe. A significant highlight of this change is that only 15 minutes will be allotted for challenging sections such as Mathematics and Reasoning—a development that has heightened anxiety among lakhs of aspirants.
**Separate Time Allotment for Each Section**
For the first time in SSC CGL 2026, a rule has been implemented preventing candidates from utilizing the time allotted for one section in another. As soon as the time for a specific section expires, the screen will automatically advance to the next section. Consequently, only those candidates who possess both high speed and a strong command over all four subjects will be able to perform effectively under this new format.
**25 Questions to be Solved in 15 Minutes in the Tier-1 Exam**
In the SSC CGL Preliminary (Tier-1) examination, 25 questions each will be asked from the subjects of Mathematics, English, Reasoning, and General Knowledge. Each section will be allotted a time duration of just 15 minutes. Thus, the total duration of the examination will be one hour. For every incorrect answer, half a mark will be deducted. The greatest challenge is expected to arise in the Mathematics and Reasoning sections, as solving all the questions within such a limited timeframe will not be an easy task.
**Sectional Timing Also Implemented in the Tier-2 Exam**
Sectional timing has now been introduced for distinct sections in the SSC CGL Mains (Tier-2) examination as well. Candidates will be allotted 30 minutes each to solve the 30 questions in Mathematics and Reasoning. For the 45 questions in English, 40 minutes will be provided, while 20 minutes will be allotted for the 25 questions in General Awareness. Additionally, the Computer Knowledge section will comprise 20 questions, for which candidates will have only 15 minutes to provide solutions. Recruitment for 12,256 Posts
Through the SSC CGL 2026, recruitment will be conducted for a total of 12,256 Group ‘B’ and Group ‘C’ posts across various ministries and departments of the Central Government. The online application process for this has already commenced. Candidates may submit their applications until 11:00 PM on June 22, 2026. The deadline for the payment of fees has been set for June 23.
When Will the Tier-1 and Tier-2 Exams Be Held?
According to the Commission, the Tier-1 Computer-Based Examination is likely to be conducted in August–September 2026. Meanwhile, the Tier-2 examination is tentatively scheduled for December 2026. Additionally, a correction window will be opened from June 29 to July 1 to allow candidates to rectify any errors in their applications.
Who Can Apply for These Posts?
Candidates aged between 18 and 32 years are eligible to apply for Group ‘B’ posts, whereas the age limit for Group ‘C’ posts has been set at 18 to 27 years. As in previous years, lakhs of candidates are expected to appear for the examination this time as well. It is worth noting that approximately 28 lakh candidates applied for the SSC CGL in 2025, and over 36 lakh candidates applied in 2024.
How Will the Selection Process Work?
First, candidates will be required to appear for the Tier-1 examination. Subsequently, successful candidates will be called to appear for Tier 2. The final merit list will be prepared based on the performance in Tier-2 and the post preferences selected by the candidates. Once the post preferences have been submitted, no changes can be made to them thereafter.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News18 Hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
