SSC CGL 2026 Recruitment: 30.66 lakh applications for 12,256 posts, sectional timing implemented for the first time..
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2026 is set to be more competitive than ever before. More than 30.66 lakh candidates from across the country have applied for 12,256 vacant posts in various central government ministries and departments. Over seven lakh candidates have applied from Bihar alone, meaning there will be a contest among approximately 250 candidates for a single post. Sectional timing has been introduced in this recruitment drive, altering the exam pattern. Additionally, candidates who made errors in their applications will have the opportunity to use the correction window from July 1 to July 7.
**Corrections to applications allowed from July 1 to July 7**
The online application process ran from May 21 to June 22, 2026. Candidates whose application forms contain errors can amend them via the correction window between July 1 and July 7. The Commission has advised candidates to thoroughly verify all details before making any changes.
**Exam pattern changed for the first time**
This year, the SSC has introduced sectional timing for the preliminary exam for the first time. The Tier-1 exam will consist of a total of 100 questions divided into four sections. Each section will contain 25 questions, with only 15 minutes allotted to solve them. Once the 15 minutes elapse, the screen will automatically switch to the next section. Two marks will be awarded for each correct answer, while a negative marking of 0.50 marks will apply for each incorrect answer.
**Subject-wise time limits for Tier-2 as well**
Fixed time limits have also been set for different subjects in the Tier-2 exam. Candidates will be given 30 minutes each for 30 questions on Mathematics and Reasoning, 40 minutes for 45 questions on English, and 20 minutes for 25 questions on General Awareness. The Computer Knowledge section will comprise 20 questions to be solved within 15 minutes.
Selection Process and Tentative Exam Dates
The SSC CGL 2026 Tier-1 computer-based examination is likely to be held in August-September 2026, while the Tier-2 examination may take place in December 2026. Candidates will be shortlisted for Tier-2 based on their Tier-1 scores. The final merit list will be prepared solely based on performance in Tier-2 and the post preferences selected by the candidate. Following final selection, the document verification process will be completed by the respective department.
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