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SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level)

The SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level) exam is one of the most sought-after competitive examinations in India, conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). It aims to recruit candidates for various Group B and Group C posts in different ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. Below is a comprehensive overview of the SSC CGL exam, including its purpose, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, preparation strategies, and more.

1. Purpose of the Exam

The SSC CGL exam is conducted to fill various posts, which include but are not limited to:

  • Assistant Audit Officer
  • Assistant Accounts Officer
  • Junior Statistical Officer
  • Income Tax Inspector
  • Excise Inspector
  • Customs Inspector
  • Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) Inspector
  • Sub-Inspector in Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
  • Various other posts in government departments

2. Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria to apply for the SSC CGL exam:

a. Educational Qualification

  • Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution. The specific qualifications may vary depending on the post applied for, particularly for specialized positions like the Junior Statistical Officer.

b. Age Limit

  • The age limit varies by post. The minimum age is generally 18 years, and the maximum age can go up to 30 years or more, depending on the position. The age relaxations for reserved categories are as follows:
    • OBC: 3 years
    • SC/ST: 5 years
    • PWD: 10 years
    • Ex-Servicemen: As per rules
    • Others: As per government norms

3. Exam Pattern

The SSC CGL exam consists of four tiers:

a. Tier-I: Computer-Based Examination

  • Type: Objective type (multiple-choice questions)
  • Subjects:
    • General Intelligence and Reasoning (25 questions, 50 marks)
    • General Awareness (25 questions, 50 marks)
    • Quantitative Aptitude (25 questions, 50 marks)
    • English Comprehension (25 questions, 50 marks)
  • Total Questions: 100
  • Total Marks: 200
  • Duration: 60 minutes

b. Tier-II: Computer-Based Examination

  • Type: Objective type (multiple-choice questions)
  • Subjects:
    • Quantitative Abilities (100 questions, 200 marks)
    • English Language and Comprehension (100 questions, 200 marks)
    • Statistics (for Junior Statistical Officer, 100 questions, 200 marks)
  • Total Marks: 400 (200 for each subject)
  • Duration: 120 minutes (for each paper)

c. Tier-III: Descriptive Paper

  • Type: Pen and paper-based
  • Subject: Essay/Letter/Application Writing
  • Total Marks: 100
  • Duration: 60 minutes

d. Tier-IV: Skill Test/Document Verification

  • Skill Test: Required for certain posts like Data Entry Operator (DEO). Candidates must achieve a specific speed (8,000 key depressions per hour).
  • Document Verification: Candidates must present their original documents for verification.

4. Syllabus

The syllabus for each tier is as follows:

a. Tier-I Syllabus

  • General Intelligence and Reasoning: Logical reasoning, analytical ability, series completion, analogies, etc.
  • General Awareness: Current events, general knowledge, history, geography, polity, etc.
  • Quantitative Aptitude: Number systems, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, etc.
  • English Comprehension: Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, sentence correction, etc.

b. Tier-II Syllabus

  • Quantitative Abilities: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, statistics, and data interpretation.
  • English Language and Comprehension: Understanding of English language, vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills.
  • Statistics: Descriptive statistics, probability, statistical distributions, and more (only for the Junior Statistical Officer post).

c. Tier-III Syllabus

  • Essay Writing: Topics may include social issues, current affairs, etc.
  • Letter/Application Writing: Formal letters, applications, requests, etc.

5. Preparation Tips

  • Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the structure and syllabus for each tier.
  • Create a Study Plan: Develop a comprehensive study schedule based on strengths and weaknesses.
  • Practice Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock tests to improve time management and accuracy.
  • Revise Regularly: Maintain a revision schedule for essential topics and concepts.
  • Stay Updated: Keep abreast of current affairs and general knowledge, especially for the General Awareness section.

6. Application Process

  • Online Application: The application process is conducted online through the official SSC website.
  • Application Fee: There is usually an application fee (which may vary), with exemptions for certain categories.
  • Important Dates: Candidates should keep track of notification dates, application deadlines, and exam dates.

7. Result and Cut-off

  • After the completion of the examination, SSC releases the results along with the cut-off marks for each tier. Candidates must achieve the minimum cut-off to qualify for the next stage.
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