The SSC CGL 2026 notification is officially out at ssc.gov.in for a massive 12,256 vacancies across 40 Group B and Group C posts. Released on 21 May 2026, the SSC CGL 2026 recruitment is the biggest graduate-level Staff Selection Commission cycle live right now, and with the Tier 1 exam expected in August–September 2026, the preparation window is closing fast. If you registered before the 26 June 2026 deadline, this is your moment to lock in a serious study plan.
At Govt. Exam Gurukul — part of the Ready For Exam family — we track every official notice so you never prepare on rumours. Here is the complete, verified breakdown of the SSC CGL 2026 recruitment and exactly how to prepare.
SSC CGL 2026 Notification: Key Highlights
| Particular | Detail |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam | Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2026 |
| Notification Released | 21 May 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 12,256 (Group B & C posts) |
| Application Window | Closed on 26 June 2026 |
| Tier 1 Exam | August–September 2026 (expected, as per official notice) |
| Tier 2 Exam | December 2026 (expected) |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
SSC CGL 2026 Vacancies and Posts
The 12,256 vacancies span roughly 40 popular posts, including some of the most sought-after jobs in central government:
- Assistant Section Officer (ASO) in central ministries
- Income Tax Inspector (CBDT)
- Central Excise / GST Inspector (CBIC)
- Sub-Inspector in CBI
- Auditor and Accountant (CAG, CGDA)
- Tax Assistant and Junior Statistical Officer
These roles offer strong pay scales, job security and clear promotion ladders — which is exactly why competition is intense and smart preparation matters more than long hours.
SSC CGL 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university. Statistical posts (Junior Statistical Officer / Statistical Investigator) require Mathematics or Statistics as a subject at graduation or 12th level, as specified in the official notice.
Age Limit: The age band varies by post — generally 18–30 years, 20–30 years, or 18–32 years depending on the role — calculated as on 1 August 2026. Standard age relaxation applies for SC/ST, OBC, PwD and Ex-servicemen categories as per government norms.
SSC CGL 2026 Exam Pattern
The selection process runs in two computer-based tiers:
- Tier 1: 100 questions, 200 marks, 60 minutes — General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude and English Comprehension (25 questions each). Negative marking of 0.50 per wrong answer.
- Tier 2: A multi-paper stage covering Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge and a Data Entry Speed Test for relevant posts.
For the complete section-wise breakup and marking scheme, see our detailed SSC CGL Syllabus 2026-27 page.
How to Prepare for SSC CGL 2026 in the Final Stretch
With Tier 1 expected in August–September 2026, you have a short, high-leverage window. Here is the Govt. Exam Gurukul playbook:
- Master speed in Quant and Reasoning. These two sections decide your Tier 1 score. Drill shortcut techniques daily rather than chasing new topics.
- Make General Awareness a daily habit. Static GK plus current affairs from the last 8–10 months is where most aspirants lose easy marks.
- Take full-length mocks on an NTA-style engine. Real exam-day stamina comes only from timed, computer-based practice. Try our NTA-spec CBT mock engine to simulate the real interface.
- Practise daily. Consistency beats cramming — solve a fresh set every single day and review every mistake.
Our All-Access Pass bundles unlimited mocks, daily practice papers and the CBT engine so you can prepare end-to-end for just ₹399/year. To plan around every upcoming exam, bookmark our Govt Exam Calendar 2026-27.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many vacancies are there in SSC CGL 2026?
SSC CGL 2026 has been notified for 12,256 vacancies across around 40 Group B and Group C posts, as per the official notification released on 21 May 2026 at ssc.gov.in.
When will the SSC CGL 2026 Tier 1 exam be held?
The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam is expected to be held in August–September 2026. The exact date and admit card release will be announced separately on ssc.gov.in, so candidates should check the official website regularly.
What is the age limit for SSC CGL 2026?
The age limit varies by post, generally ranging from 18 to 32 years, calculated as on 1 August 2026. Category-wise age relaxation applies as per government rules. Always confirm the exact band for your target post in the official notification.
Is the SSC CGL 2026 application still open?
No. The application window closed on 26 June 2026. If you have already registered, focus fully on Tier 1 preparation and watch ssc.gov.in for your admit card.