SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF - Detailed Tier 1 & Tier 2 Section-wise Topics
Let's be honest. Preparing for SSC CGL 2026 without knowing the exact syllabus is like shooting in the dark. Here's a simplified, ex-aspirant curated breakdown of every single section, topic-wise question weightage, post salary structures, historical cutoffs, and practical booklists for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 exams. Candidates can practice in an exam-like environment by attempting the free SSC CGL Mock Test series on PerfectRank.
By Amit Kumar (Ex-Excise Inspector)
SSC CGL 2021 Batch • Verified Educator & Mentor
SSC CGL Detailed Syllabus 2026 PDF
Size: 1.4 MB • Format: PDF • Direct offline study checklist
🎥 Video Walkthrough: SSC CGL 2026 Syllabus & Exam Strategy
Watch this detailed strategy guide by top government exam mentors to map out your prep sequence.
1. SSC CGL 2026 Selection Process Flow
Before jumping into topics, you must understand the chronological stages of CGL. Staff Selection Commission evaluates you in three progressive steps:
Tier 1 Prelims (CBT)
Qualifying Stage. 100 MCQs, 200 Marks. Marks are not added to the final merit, but you must clear the cutoff to qualify for Tier 2.
Tier 2 Mains (CBT)
Merit deciding Stage. Compulsory Paper-I (390 Marks) + qualifying Computer knowledge & DEST Typing. (JSO/AAO require separate Paper-II/III).
DV & Medical/Physical
Conducted post-result by respective departments. Meeting physical standards for Excise/CBI is compulsory.
2. SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus & Topic-wise Weightage
Tier 1 consists of 4 parts with 25 questions each. Let's break down the subject cards, question distributions, and full official syllabus topic checklists:
🔢 Quantitative Aptitude (25 Qs, 50 Marks)
- Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit & Loss, SI/CI, Ratio)10-12 Qs
- Algebra & Number System3-4 Qs
- Geometry & Mensuration4-5 Qs
- Trigonometry2-3 Qs
- Data Interpretation (Tables/Graphs)3-4 Qs
🧠 General Intelligence & Reasoning (25 Qs, 50 Marks)
- Analogy & Classification4-5 Qs
- Coding-Decoding & Alphabet Series3-4 Qs
- Blood Relations & Direction Sense2-3 Qs
- Non-Verbal Reasoning (Mirror Images, Paper Folding)3-4 Qs
- Missing Numbers & Mathematical Operators2-3 Qs
🔤 English Comprehension (25 Qs, 50 Marks)
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, OWS)8-10 Qs
- Grammar (Error Spotting, Sentence Improvement)5-6 Qs
- Voice & Narration (Active/Passive, Direct/Indirect)2-3 Qs
- Cloze Test & Reading Passage5 Qs
📰 General Awareness (25 Qs, 50 Marks)
- Static GK (Art, Culture, Dance, Festivals)4-5 Qs
- Indian Polity & Constitution2-3 Qs
- History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern)3-4 Qs
- Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)5-6 Qs
- Current Affairs & Economy4-5 Qs
📋 SSC CGL Tier 1 Detailed Topic-by-Topic Syllabus
Below is the exact detailed checklist of subjects and chapters compiled from the official notification. This is what you actually need to finish to clear the Tier 1 cutoff:
| Subject | Syllabus Section | Detailed Chapters & Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude | Arithmetic | Percentages, Ratio and Proportion, Square roots, Averages, Interest (Simple & Compound), Profit and Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture and Alligation, Time and distance, Time and work. |
| Algebra & Geometry | Basic algebraic identities of School Algebra, Graphs of Linear Equations, Triangle and its centres, Congruence and similarity of triangles, Circle and its chords, tangents, common tangents to two or more circles. | |
| Mensuration, Trig & DI | Triangle, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circle, Cone, Cylinder, Sphere, Hemispheres, Trigonometric ratios, standard identities, Heights and distances, Histogram, Frequency polygon, Bar-diagram & Pie-chart. |
| Subject | Syllabus Section | Detailed Chapters & Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning | Verbal Reasoning | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Semantic Series, Number Series, Figural Series, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Syllogisms, Venn Diagrams, Word Building. |
| Non-Verbal & Critical | Trends, Space Orientation, Space Visualization, Venn Diagrams, Drawing inferences, Punched hole/pattern-folding & unfolding, Figural Pattern-folding and completion, Indexing, Address matching, Date & city matching, Classification of centre codes/roll numbers, Small & Capital letters/numbers coding. |
| Subject | Syllabus Section | Detailed Chapters & Topics |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | Grammar | Spot the Error, Fill in the Blanks, Active/Passive Voice conversions, Direct/Indirect Speech narration, Sentence Improvement. |
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, Antonyms, Spelling/detecting misspelled words, Idioms & Phrases, One Word Substitution, Homonyms. | |
| Comprehension | Shuffling of Sentence parts, Shuffling of Sentences in a passage (Para Jumbles), Cloze Passage, Reading Comprehension passages. |
| Subject | Syllabus Section | Detailed Chapters & Topics |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | Social Sciences | Indian History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern), Indian Polity & Constitution, Physical & Indian Geography, Economic Scene (Micro & Macro Economics, Five Year Plans). |
| General Science | Physics (Mechanics, Light, Electricity), Chemistry (Elements, Compounds, Everyday Chemistry), Biology (Human Physiology, Plant & Animal Kingdoms, Diseases & Nutrition). | |
| Static GK & Current | Art & Culture, National & International Awards, Books & Authors, Sports & Trophies, Currencies & Capitals, Daily National and International Current Affairs (last 6-8 months). |
💡 Preparation Tip: General Awareness mein **Static GK (Dance & Festivals)** aur **Science** high weightage chapters hain. In chapter tests ko solve karne ke liye hamare dedicated chapter portal par practice karein: Sports MCQ Test aur Biology Chapter Test.
3. SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus & Section-wise Marks Distribution
Tier 2 is divided into three sections inside Paper-I. Candidates often make the mistake of ignoring Section III (Computer & Skill test) and fail to get selected despite high raw marks.
| Session/Section | Modules & Subjects | Questions | Marks | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I | Module-I: Mathematical Abilities | 30 Qs | 180 Marks | 1 Hour |
| Module-II: Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 Qs | |||
| Section II | Module-I: English Language & Comprehension | 45 Qs | 210 Marks | 1 Hour |
| Module-II: General Awareness | 25 Qs | |||
| Section III | Module-I: Computer Knowledge Module | 20 Qs | 60 Marks (Qualifying) | 15 Mins |
| Module-II: Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) | 1 Task | 15 Mins |
📋 SSC CGL Tier 2 Detailed Subject-wise Syllabus (Mains Level)
Tier 2 demands a much higher conceptual clarity. Pay special attention to advanced math (Statistics/Probability) and critical reasoning statements which were added recently:
| Tier 2 Section | Module | Detailed Mains Syllabus Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Section I (Paper-I) | Mathematical Abilities | Arithmetic & Algebra: Percentages, Averages, Profit & Loss, SI/CI, Partnership, Time & Work, Time & Distance, Linear Equations. Geometry & Mensuration: Similarity, Circles, Chords, Tangents, Prisms, Cones, Cylinders, Pyramids. Trigonometry: Ratios, Heights & Distances, Standard Identities. ★ Statistics & Probability: Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Calculation of Simple Probabilities (Mains Specific). |
| Reasoning & GI | Verbal and Non-verbal Reasoning, analogies, patterns, classification, blood relations, syllogisms. ★ Critical Reasoning: Statement & Assumptions, Course of Action, Cause & Effect, Assertion & Reasoning, Decision Making, and Drawing Inferences. | |
| Section II (Paper-I) | English Language | Grammar, Spot the Error, Active/Passive Voice, Direct/Indirect Narration, Cloze Passages, Sentence Shuffling. ★ Advanced Comprehension: At least 3 detailed passages (combining editorial, fact-based, and narrative themes) to test advanced vocabulary and vocabulary analysis. |
| General Awareness | Detailed questions from Indian History, Constitution & Polity, Geography, Economic Scenes, General Policy, and Scientific Research. Highly focused on current updates and budget details. | |
| Section III (Paper-I) | Computer Knowledge | Computer Basics: CPU, input/output devices, memory organization, backup devices, ports. Software: Windows Operating System basics, MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Internet & Communication: Web browsing, search engines, emails, basic network protocols. Cyber Security: Viruses, worms, malware, trojan horses, firewalls, and basic prevention. |
| Data Entry (DEST) | Typing test requiring candidates to enter about 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes on a computer. (Qualifying in nature, but compulsory). |
💻 Computer Syllabus Checkpoint:
The Computer syllabus comprises: Computer Basics, Software (MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint), Working with Internet and Emails, Basics of Networking and Cyber Security. Practice our special MS Word practice mock tests to ensure you clear the qualifying cutoff!
4. Specialized Posts Syllabus: Paper II (JSO) & Paper III (AAO)
If you opted for the **Junior Statistical Officer (JSO)** or **Assistant Audit Officer (AAO)**, you'll need to write these additional specialized papers. Check their official content layout:
📊 Paper II: Statistics (For JSO Post)
- Data Collection: Primary & Secondary data classification, Tabulation.
- Central Tendency: Mean, Median, Mode, Geometric Mean, Harmonic Mean.
- Dispersion: Range, Quartile Deviation, Mean Deviation, Standard Deviation.
- Correlation & Regression: Scatter diagram, simple correlation coefficient, regression lines.
- Probability Theory: Classical probability, conditional probability, Bayes theorem, Binomial & Normal distributions.
💼 Paper III: Finance & Economics (For AAO Post)
- Part A: Finance & Accounts (80 Marks): Fundamental principles, Double entry system, Journal, Ledger, Trial Balance, Trading & Profit Loss accounts, Balance Sheet.
- Part B: Economics & Governance (120 Marks): CAG of India, Finance Commission, Theory of Demand & Supply, Inflation, National Income, Budgeting, RBI Role & Monetary policy.
5. SSC CGL 2026 Posts Classification & Pay Scales
Why do lakhs of candidates prepare for this exam? The answer is simple: prestigious posts, high pay scales, and lifetime job security. Here's a breakdown of the official pay scales and basic salaries:
| Post Name | Department | Classification | Pay Level | Basic Salary Scale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) | C&AG | Group 'B' Gazetted | Pay Level 8 | ₹47,600 to ₹1,51,100 |
| Inspector (Central Excise) | CBIC | Group 'B' Non-Gazetted | Pay Level 7 | ₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400 |
| Preventive Officer Inspector | CBIC | Group 'B' Non-Gazetted | Pay Level 7 | ₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400 |
| Assistant Section Officer (ASO) | CSS / MEA | Group 'B' Non-Gazetted | Pay Level 7 | ₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400 |
| Sub-Inspector (SI) | CBI | Group 'B' Non-Gazetted | Pay Level 7 | ₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400 |
| Tax Assistant (TA) | CBDT / CBIC | Group 'C' | Pay Level 4 | ₹25,500 to ₹81,100 |
6. SSC CGL Physical Standards & Eligibility Requirements
But wait, there's more. Knowing the written syllabus isn't everything. For high-profile posts like **Excise Inspector, Preventive Officer, Examiner, and Sub-Inspector in CBI or NIA**, you must clear strict physical measurements and tests. Respective departments conduct these tests after final selection. If you fail to meet them, you're disqualified from that post completely.
👮 Physical Standards for Inspector (Central Excise / Preventive Officer / Examiner)
| Requirement | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 157.5 cm (Relaxable by 5 cm for Gorkhas, Garhwalis, ST etc.) | 152 cm (Relaxable by 2.5 cm for Gorkhas, Garhwalis, ST etc.) |
| Chest / Weight | 81 cm fully expanded (minimum expansion of 5 cm) | 48 kg minimum weight (Relaxable by 2 kg for tribals) |
| Physical Walking Test | 1600 meters in 15 minutes | 1 km in 20 minutes |
| Physical Cycling Test | 8 km in 30 minutes | 3 km in 25 minutes |
🕵️ Physical Standards for Sub-Inspector (CBI & NIA)
| Requirement | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 165 cm (Relaxable by 5 cm for Tribals & Hillsmen) | 150 cm (Relaxable by 5 cm for Tribals & Hillsmen) |
| Chest | 76 cm with expansion | N/A |
| Vision Standards | Distant Vision: 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other. Near Vision: 0.6 in one eye and 0.8 in the other (with or without glasses). | |
7. SSC CGL Tier 1 Historical Cut-Off Trends (Last 5 Years)
Why does this matter? Knowing the cutoff trends helps you understand the safe score threshold you need to target in mock exams. Here are the official category-wise cut-off marks for SSC CGL Tier 1 over the last 5 years:
| Category | 2024 Cutoff | 2023 Cutoff | 2022 Cutoff | 2021 Cutoff | 2020 Cutoff |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UR (General) | 142.23 | 150.04 | 114.27 | 130.18 | 132.37 |
| OBC | 138.12 | 145.86 | 114.27 | 117.87 | 119.23 |
| EWS | 132.89 | 143.44 | 102.35 | 109.64 | 109.21 |
| SC | 118.42 | 126.68 | 89.08 | 94.58 | 100.93 |
| ST | 110.22 | 118.16 | 77.57 | 81.52 | 93.75 |
8. Interactive SSC CGL Study Tracker & Checklist
To make it easier for you, we built a digital study tracker. Simply select a subject tab below and check off chapters as you complete their preparation. Your progress is saved automatically on your browser so you don't lose track when you return!
SSC CGL Syllabus Tracker
Track your chapter-wise study progress. Saved automatically on your browser.
9. Recommended Books & Subject-wise Preparation Strategy
Math Prep
Book: Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal / Pinnacle publications
Focus on mastering concepts first. Practice formulas using PYQs and then speed test using full mocks.
English Prep
Book: Plinth to Paramount by Neetu Singh / Word Power Made Easy
Clear your grammar rules thoroughly. Build vocabulary daily (5 idioms, 5 synonyms, 5 OWS) and practice cloze tests.
Reasoning Prep
Book: Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by Kiran Publications
Focus on critical modules like Coding-Decoding and Number Series. Attempt regular sectional reasoning mocks.
📝 Recommended Free CGL Mock Tests to Attempt
CGL Full-Length Mock Test 1
100 Qs • 200 Marks • 60 Mins. Based on latest 2026 pattern with detailed analysis report.
CGL PYQ Shift Mock Test 2
Real past year shift test under online exam interface constraints.
Quantitative Sectional Test
25 Qs • 50 Marks • 20 Mins. Speed-booster mock for scoring arithmetic & geometry.
📚 Explore Related Blogs & Study Material
How to Prepare for SSC CGL 2026 - Strategic Roadmap
SSC CGL Previous Year Question Papers PDF Download
SSC CGL Cut Off 2025 - Expected Slabs & Normalization
Practice Free Bilingual Mock Tests Now
Attempt full-length mock tests based exactly on the latest 2026 syllabus pattern with timer limits, detailed solutions, and instant reports.
Syllabus & Pattern — FAQs
Is there any change in the SSC CGL Syllabus 2026?+
No major changes have been announced for the 2026 cycle. The exam continues to follow the revised pattern introduced in 2022, consisting of Tier 1 (qualifying) and Tier 2 (merit-deciding) Computer Based Exams.
Is SSC CGL Tier 1 qualifying in nature?+
Yes, Tier 1 is qualifying. Marks obtained in Tier 1 are not added to the final merit list, but you must clear the category-wise cut-off to be eligible for Tier 2.
What is the weightage of the Computer Knowledge section in SSC CGL?+
In Tier 2, the Computer Knowledge Module consists of 20 questions carrying 60 marks. Although it is qualifying in nature, clearing it is mandatory for all posts, and higher cut-offs apply for specific posts like CSS, MEA, and Inspector.
Is there negative marking in SSC CGL Tier 1 and Tier 2?+
Yes. In Tier 1, there is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each wrong answer. In Tier 2, the negative marking is 1 mark for each incorrect response in Section I, Section II, and Section III of Paper-I.
How can I download the SSC CGL Syllabus PDF?+
You can download the official syllabus PDF directly from the SSC website or access the simplified, section-wise PDF tracker here on PerfectRank for free.