SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026: Tier 1 & Tier 2 Exam Pattern, Marking Scheme & Sections
The SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 outlines the complete structure of the Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations, including the number of questions, marks, sections, exam duration, and negative marking. Understanding the latest exam pattern is essential for effective preparation, as it helps candidates manage their time efficiently, focus on important sections, and improve their overall performance. The detailed SSC CHSL Exam Pattern for both tiers is provided below.
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Examination in two stages—Tier 1 and Tier 2. Both tiers are conducted in online mode and include objective-type questions, while Tier 2 also includes a Skill Test or Typing Test for applicable posts. Understanding the latest SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026, including the exam structure, marking scheme, duration, and negative marking, is essential for effective preparation. An overview of the exam pattern for both tiers is provided in the table below.
| Stage / Tier | Type of Examination | Mode of Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Objective-Type Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) | Online |
| Tier 2 | Objective-Type Questions with Skill Test / Typing Test (Post-wise) | Online |
SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026
As per the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026, Tier 1 is an objective-type examination consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions carrying a total of 200 marks. Candidates are allotted 60 minutes to complete the exam, which is divided into four sections with 25 questions and 50 marks each. If the examination is conducted in multiple shifts, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) adopts a normalization process to ensure fairness. The subject-wise distribution of questions, marks, and duration is provided in the table below.
| Section | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 25 | 50 | 60 Minutes (80 Minutes for PwBD Candidates) |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates who qualify in SSC CHSL Tier 1 are eligible to appear for Tier 2. The Tier 2 examination is conducted in two sessions. Session I consists of objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs), while Session II includes a Skill Test or Typing Test, depending on the post applied for. An overview of the SSC CHSL Tier 2 exam pattern is provided below.
| Session | Section / Module | Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session I | Section I | Mathematical Abilities Reasoning & General Intelligence |
30 + 30 = 60 | 180 | 1 Hour (1 Hour 20 Minutes for candidates eligible for a scribe) |
| Section II | English Language & Comprehension General Awareness |
40 + 20 = 60 | 180 | 1 Hour (1 Hour 20 Minutes for candidates eligible for a scribe) |
|
| Section III | Computer Knowledge Module | 15 | 45 | 15 Minutes (20 Minutes for candidates eligible for a scribe) |
|
| Session II | Section IV (Part A) | Skill Test (For DEOs) | — | Qualifying | 15 Minutes (20 Minutes for candidates eligible for a scribe) |
| Section IV (Part B) | Typing Test (For LDC / JSA) | — | Qualifying | 10 Minutes (15 Minutes for candidates eligible for a scribe) |
SSC CHSL Negative Marking
Candidates applying for SSC CHSL 2026 must possess the prescribed educational qualification for the post they are applying for. For most posts, candidates must have passed Class 12 (Higher Secondary) or an equivalent examination from a recognized board. The post-wise educational qualification requirements are provided in the table below.
The SSC CHSL Examination follows a negative marking system in both Tier 1 and Tier 2. Candidates should answer questions carefully, as incorrect responses lead to mark deductions. The negative marking rules are as follows:
- Tier 1: 0.50 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.
- Tier 2 (Sections I, II & III): 1 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.
- There is no negative marking for the Skill Test / Typing Test.
- Focus on accuracy and avoid guesswork to maximize your overall score.
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 Important Facts
Understanding the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 is essential for effective preparation. It helps candidates understand the exam structure, marking scheme, number of questions, and difficulty level, enabling them to plan their study strategy more efficiently. A clear understanding of the exam pattern also helps candidates manage time effectively and focus on important topics to maximize their score.
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026: Key Highlights
- The SSC CHSL Selection Process consists of Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations.
- Tier 1 is an objective-type online examination carrying 200 marks.
- Tier 2 includes objective papers along with a Skill Test or Typing Test for applicable posts.
- There is a negative marking of 0.50 mark in Tier 1 and 1 mark in Tier 2 (Sections I, II & III).
- The Skill Test and Typing Test are qualifying in nature.
- Final selection is based on candidates qualifying all applicable stages as per SSC rules.