SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 – Complete Tier 1 & Tier 2 Detailed Topic-Wise Guide

SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 Tier 1 and Tier 2 exam pattern subject wise topics and marking scheme
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SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 – Complete Tier 1 & Tier 2 Detailed Topic-Wise Guide
2026 Cycle — Complete Syllabus for Tier 1 & Tier 2

SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026
Complete Topic-Wise Guide — Tier 1, Tier 2 & Skill Test

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) examination to recruit candidates for Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO) posts across Central Government Ministries and Departments. The exam has two tiers — Tier 1 is a qualifying Computer-Based Test that acts as a gateway, while Tier 2 alone determines your final merit rank. This article provides the complete, verified, topic-wise SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 for both tiers, with the official exam pattern, marking scheme, and subject-wise preparation tips. 📚

📝 Tier 1 — 100 Qs | 200 Marks | 60 Min
📋 Tier 2 — 3 Sections | 6 Modules | 435 Merit Marks
⚠️ Negative Marking: −0.5 (T1) | −1 (T2)
🎯 Posts: LDC | JSA | DEO | DEO Grade A
🌐 ssc.gov.in
🎯
SSC CHSL 2026 — Tier 2 Marks Decide Your Rank. Know Every Topic Before You Open a Book.
Tier 1 is qualifying only. English carries the highest marks in Tier 2 (135 marks, 45 questions). Scroll for the complete subject-wise breakdown of both tiers.
ssc.gov.in →
📝
2
Exam Tiers
📋
100
Tier 1 Questions
📊
135
Tier 2 Questions
⏱️
60 min
Tier 1 Duration
🕐
2+ hrs
Tier 2 Duration
⚠️
−0.5/−1
Negative Marks
01
SSC CHSL 2026 — Exam Overview
ParameterDetails
Conducting BodyStaff Selection Commission (SSC) — ssc.gov.in
Exam Full NameCombined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Examination 2026
Posts OfferedLower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Data Entry Operator (DEO), DEO Grade A (CAG)
Educational QualificationPassed 10+2 (Class XII) or equivalent from a recognised Board/University. For DEO in select ministries: Class XII with Mathematics from a recognised Board.
Age Limit18–27 years. Relaxation: OBC +3 yrs, SC/ST +5 yrs, PwD +10–15 yrs, Ex-Servicemen as per Govt. rules. Refer official notification for cut-off date.
Exam ModeComputer-Based Test (CBT) — both Tier 1 and Tier 2
Exam LanguageEnglish and Hindi — except English Language section which is English only
Number of Tiers2 Tiers — Tier 1 (Qualifying) + Tier 2 (Merit-Deciding + Skill Test)
Tier 1 Structure100 MCQs | 200 Marks | 60 Minutes | −0.50 per wrong answer
Tier 2 Structure3 Sections, 6 Modules | Merit Marks: 390 (Sec 1+2) | −1 per wrong answer
Minimum Qualifying MarksUR: 30% | OBC/EWS: 25% | SC/ST/PwD & others: 20% (applies to Tier 1 and Tier 2 merit sections)
Final Merit BasisTier 2 marks only (Tier 1 scores are qualifying; Computer Knowledge and Skill Test are qualifying)
Official Websitessc.gov.in — All notifications, admit cards, results published here only
📌 The most important thing to understand about SSC CHSL: Your Tier 1 score does not appear in the final merit list. It is purely a gateway exam to filter candidates for Tier 2. Your entire rank — and whether you receive LDC, JSA, or DEO — is decided by Tier 2 performance alone. Invest your preparation time accordingly.
02
Posts Filled Through SSC CHSL 2026
📁
LDC
Lower Division Clerk
Various Central Govt. Ministries & Departments
Typing: 35 WPM (English) / 30 WPM (Hindi)
🗂️
JSA
Junior Secretariat Assistant
Parliament Secretariat & similar bodies
Typing: 35 WPM (English) / 30 WPM (Hindi)
💻
DEO / DEO Grade A
Data Entry Operator
DEO: 8,000 KDPH | DEO Grade A (CAG): 15,000 KDPH
Class XII with Maths required for select DEO posts
📌 Post allocation: Candidates are allotted posts based on their Tier 2 merit rank, post preferences submitted during application, and vacancy availability in each category. LDC/JSA and DEO posts each carry different Skill Test requirements — ensure you check your post-specific typing/data entry standard before the exam.
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SSC CHSL 2026 — Complete Selection Process
1

Tier 1 — Computer-Based Qualifying Examination

A 100-question, 200-mark MCQ exam across four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. Duration: 60 minutes (80 minutes for PwD candidates). Negative marking: −0.50 marks per wrong answer. Tier 1 is qualifying in nature — scores are used only to shortlist candidates for Tier 2 and are not added to final merit. Category-wise cutoffs determine who proceeds to the next stage.

📝 Computer-Based Test | Qualifying Stage
2

Tier 2 — Computer-Based Merit Examination (Two Sessions)

The merit-determining stage, conducted in two sessions on the same day. Session 1 covers Section 1 (Mathematical Abilities + Reasoning), Section 2 (English + General Awareness), and Module I of Section 3 (Computer Knowledge — qualifying). Session 2 contains Module II of Section 3 (Skill/Typing Test — qualifying). Negative marking: −1 mark per wrong answer in Sections 1, 2, and Module I of Section 3. Merit is calculated on 390 marks (Sections 1 and 2 only).

📊 Merit-Deciding Stage | 390 Merit Marks
3

Skill Test / Typing Test — Qualifying (Module II, Section 3 of Tier 2)

Conducted as part of Tier 2 Session 2. For LDC/JSA: Typing speed of 35 words per minute in English or 30 words per minute in Hindi on a computer. For DEO: Data Entry speed of 8,000 key depressions per hour (KDPH). For DEO Grade A (CAG): Data Entry speed of 15,000 KDPH. Errors calculated up to 2 decimal places. Candidates must pass the Skill Test to be eligible for final selection — marks do not count in merit.

⌨️ Qualifying Only — No Merit Marks
4

Document Verification & Final Merit List

Candidates shortlisted after Tier 2 are called for document verification. Originals including Class X certificate (age proof), Class XII marksheet, category certificate, and identity documents are verified. The final merit list is prepared solely on Tier 2 Section 1 and Section 2 marks. Post allocation is done based on rank, preference, and available vacancies across categories.

📁 Final Stage — After Tier 2
💡 Merit Strategy: Since only Tier 2 marks count, treat Tier 1 as a barrier to clear — not to max. Among Tier 2 sections, English Language & Comprehension carries the highest weightage at 135 marks (45 questions) — the single most impactful section for rank improvement. Invest preparation time proportionally.
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SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 — Tier 1 & Tier 2
Tier 1 — Qualifying Stage
200 Marks | 60 Minutes
Question TypeMCQ (Objective)
Total Questions100
Total Marks200
Marks / Correct Answer+2
Negative Marking−0.50 per wrong
Duration60 min (80 min for PwD)
Counts in Merit?❌ No — Qualifying only
Tier 2 — Merit Deciding Stage
390 Merit Marks
Question TypeMCQ + Skill Test
Merit Questions130 (Sections 1 & 2)
Merit Marks390 (Sections 1 & 2)
Marks / Correct Answer+3 (most sections)
Negative Marking−1.00 per wrong
Sessions2 sessions, same day
Counts in Merit?✅ Yes — Sections 1 & 2

Tier 1 — Section-Wise Breakdown

SectionSubjectQuestionsMarksDuration
Section 1General Intelligence & Reasoning255060 Minutes
(Combined)
Section 2General Awareness2550
Section 3Quantitative Aptitude2550
Section 4English Language & Comprehension2550
Grand Total — Tier 110020060 Minutes

Tier 2 — Section & Module-Wise Breakdown

SectionModuleSubjectQuestionsMarksMerit?
Section 1
Session 1
Module IMathematical Abilities3090✅ Yes
Module IIReasoning & General Intelligence3090✅ Yes
Section 2
Session 1
Module IEnglish Language & Comprehension45135✅ Yes
Module IIGeneral Awareness2575✅ Yes
Section 3
Session 1 & 2
Module IComputer Knowledge Test1545Qualifying
Module IISkill Test / Typing TestQualifying
Total Merit Marks (Sections 1 & 2 only)130390Sec 1 & 2
📌 Tier 2 merit clarity: Section 1 (180 marks) + Section 2 (210 marks) = 390 marks form your merit score. The Computer Knowledge Test (Module I, Section 3) is mandatory to attempt but is qualifying — not counted in merit. The Skill/Typing Test is also qualifying. Negative marking of −1 mark per wrong answer applies to all of Section 1, Section 2, and Module I of Section 3.
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SSC CHSL Tier 1 — Complete Subject-Wise Syllabus
🧠
Tier 1 — Section 1
General Intelligence & Reasoning
Tests logical thinking, pattern recognition & problem-solving | Both Verbal & Non-Verbal types
25 Qs
50 Marks
Analogies — Semantic, Symbolic & Figural
Similarities & Differences
Space Visualisation & Orientation
Problem Solving & Analysis
Judgement & Decision Making
Visual Memory & Discrimination
Relationship Concepts
Arithmetical Reasoning
Verbal & Figural Classification
Semantic Series & Number Series
Figural Series Completion
Coding & Decoding
Number & Letter Sequences
Symbolic Operations
Venn Diagrams
Seating Arrangements
Blood Relations
Direction & Distance Sense
Matrix Completion
Paper Folding & Cutting
Embedded Figures
Mirror & Water Images
Missing Numbers & Patterns
Puzzles — Ordering & Ranking
Word Building & Jumbled Letters
Statement & Conclusion (basic)
💡 Preparation tip: Reasoning rewards speed in Tier 1. Target under 40 seconds per question. Coding-decoding, series, and analogies appear most frequently. Non-verbal topics like mirror images and paper cutting require visual practice — solve 10–15 of each type daily. In Tier 2, reasoning questions are more advanced — critical reasoning, logical deductions, and complex puzzles appear alongside the standard topics.
🌍
Tier 1 — Section 2
General Awareness
Tests knowledge of current affairs, static GK & general science | Purely memory-based, no calculation
25 Qs
50 Marks
Static General Knowledge
Indian History — Ancient, Medieval & Modern
Indian & World Geography
Indian Polity & Constitution
Indian Economy — basics & Budget
Science — Physics (everyday concepts)
Science — Chemistry (basics)
Science — Biology (human body, ecology)
Art, Culture & Heritage of India
Inventions & Discoveries
Countries, Capitals & Currencies
Important Days & National Symbols
Awards & Honours — National & International
Current Affairs
National & International Events
Government Schemes & Policies
Sports — National & International
Appointments & Key Positions
Books, Authors & Publications
Science & Technology Developments
Summits, Agreements & Conferences
Economic & Financial Developments
Defence & Security News
Environmental & Climate Issues
Indian Parliament & Legislation
Social Issues & Human Development
💡 Preparation tip: Cover at least the last 12 months of current affairs and pair them with static GK. Indian History, Indian Polity, and General Science consistently contribute the highest number of questions across SSC CHSL cycles. Maintain a short-note register for facts, appointments, and awards — review weekly. A good monthly current affairs source combined with a standard GK book is sufficient.
🔢
Tier 1 — Section 3
Quantitative Aptitude
Tests numerical ability & mathematical problem-solving | Class 10 difficulty level in Tier 1
25 Qs
50 Marks
Number Systems & HCF/LCM
Simplification & BODMAS
Percentages
Ratio & Proportion
Average
Simple Interest & Compound Interest
Profit, Loss & Discount
Mixture & Alligation
Time, Speed & Distance
Boats & Streams
Time & Work
Pipes & Cisterns
Square Roots & Cube Roots
Surds & Indices
Basic Algebra — Linear & Quadratic
Geometry — Lines, Angles, Triangles
Circles — Chord, Tangent, Arc properties
Mensuration — 2D (Area & Perimeter)
Mensuration — 3D (Volume & Surface Area)
Trigonometry — Ratios & Identities
Heights & Distances
Data Interpretation — Table & Bar Graph
Data Interpretation — Pie & Line Chart
Permutation & Combination
Probability
Statistics — Mean, Median, Mode
💡 Preparation tip: In Tier 1, the focus is on speed and accuracy at moderate difficulty. Arithmetic topics — Profit/Loss, Simple/Compound Interest, Time & Work, Percentages — are the most frequently tested. Learn mental math shortcuts for these. Mensuration, Trigonometry, and DI become more important in Tier 2 — build conceptual depth here rather than just formula memorisation.
🔤
Tier 1 — Section 4
English Language & Comprehension
Tests grammar, vocabulary, comprehension & language usage | Questions available in English only (no Hindi option)
25 Qs
50 Marks
Reading Comprehension Passage
Cloze Test (Contextual fill-in-the-blanks)
Synonyms
Antonyms
One Word Substitution
Idioms & Phrases
Spotting Errors (Grammar-based)
Sentence Correction & Improvement
Spelling Errors
Active & Passive Voice
Direct & Indirect Speech
Fill in the Blanks (Grammar)
Para Jumbles — Sentence Rearrangement
Phrase & Idiom Meaning
Word Usage in Context
Common Grammatical Errors
💡 Preparation tip: English is the only section answered in English only — no Hindi medium available. In Tier 1, difficulty is moderate. Master Error Spotting, Synonyms/Antonyms, and Cloze Tests first. In Tier 2, English carries 135 marks (45 questions) — the highest-weighted section. Strong English foundations built during Tier 1 preparation pay the biggest dividends in Tier 2. Read English daily, maintain a vocabulary notebook.
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SSC CHSL Tier 2 — Complete Section & Module-Wise Syllabus
S1

Section 1 — Mathematical Abilities + Reasoning & General Intelligence

Session 1 | 60 Questions | 180 Marks | Negative Marking: −1 per wrong | Counts in Final Merit

✅ Merit Counts60 Qs | 180 Marks
Section 1 — Module I
Mathematical Abilities
30 Questions90 Marks+3 / −1
  • Number Systems, Fractions, HCF, LCM
  • All fundamental arithmetic operations
  • Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, Partnership
  • Profit, Loss, Discount & Marked Price
  • Average, Mixture & Alligation
  • Time & Work, Pipes & Cisterns
  • Time, Speed & Distance, Trains, Boats
  • Simple & Compound Interest, Instalments
  • Algebra — Linear, Quadratic, Simultaneous
  • Coordinate Geometry (basic)
  • Geometry — Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Circles, Polygons
  • Mensuration — 2D (Area, Perimeter) & 3D
  • Trigonometry — Ratios, Identities, Heights & Distances
  • Statistics — Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation
  • Data Interpretation — Table, Bar, Pie, Line graphs
  • Permutation, Combination, Probability
Section 1 — Module II
Reasoning & General Intelligence
30 Questions90 Marks+3 / −1
  • Analogies — Semantic, Symbolic, Figural
  • Classification — Odd One Out
  • Series — Number, Letter, Figural, Mixed
  • Coding & Decoding
  • Blood Relations
  • Direction & Distance Sense
  • Seating Arrangements (Linear & Circular)
  • Venn Diagrams & Syllogisms
  • Statement — Assumptions & Conclusions
  • Logical Reasoning — Cause & Effect
  • Critical Reasoning & Punch Lines
  • Matrix-based Problems
  • Non-Verbal — Embedded Figures, Paper Folding
  • Mirror & Water Images
  • Counting of Figures
  • Puzzles — Ordering, Ranking, Scheduling
S2

Section 2 — English Language & Comprehension + General Awareness

Session 1 | 70 Questions | 210 Marks | Negative Marking: −1 per wrong | Highest Weightage — Counts in Merit

✅ Merit Counts70 Qs | 210 Marks
Section 2 — Module I
English Language & Comprehension
45 Questions135 Marks+3 / −1English Only
  • Reading Comprehension — Literary & Factual passages
  • Advanced Cloze Test — contextual fill-in
  • Para Jumbles — sentence rearrangement
  • Synonyms & Antonyms (advanced vocabulary)
  • Idioms & Phrases — meaning & usage
  • One Word Substitution
  • Spotting Errors — complex grammar rules
  • Sentence Improvement & Correction
  • Active & Passive Voice (complex sentences)
  • Direct & Indirect Speech (complex)
  • Fill in the Blanks — multiple blanks
  • Spelling Check & Word Usage
  • Sentence Connectors & Conjunctions
  • Inference & Logical Deduction from passage
  • Vocabulary in Context
Section 2 — Module II
General Awareness
25 Questions75 Marks+3 / −1
  • Indian History — detailed coverage, all periods
  • Indian Polity — Constitution, Parliament, Judiciary
  • Indian Economy — GDP, Budget, Banking, RBI
  • Indian & World Geography — physical & political
  • General Science — Physics, Chemistry, Biology
  • Science & Technology developments
  • Environment & Ecology
  • Art, Culture & Literature of India
  • Sports — National & International
  • Awards & Honours — National & International
  • International Organisations (UN, WHO, WTO, etc.)
  • Government Schemes & Policies
  • Current Affairs — rolling last 12 months
  • Books & Authors
  • National Parks, Wildlife & Biosphere Reserves
S3

Section 3 — Computer Knowledge + Skill Test / Typing Test

Session 1 (Module I) + Session 2 (Module II) | Both modules are qualifying — marks do NOT count in merit

⚠️ Qualifying Only15 Qs + Skill Test
Section 3 — Module I (Session 1)
Computer Knowledge Test
15 Questions45 MarksQualifying+3 / −1
  • Computer Fundamentals — Hardware & Software
  • Input & Output Devices
  • Storage Devices (HDD, SSD, Pen Drive, etc.)
  • Operating Systems — Windows basics
  • MS Word — formatting, tools, features
  • MS Excel — formulas, functions, charts
  • MS PowerPoint — slides, presentations
  • Internet basics — Browsers, URLs, Search Engines
  • Email — Composition, Attachments, Etiquette
  • Networking — LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • Cybersecurity — Viruses, Malware, Worms, Trojans, Firewalls
  • Keyboard Shortcuts (Windows & MS Office)
  • Number Systems — Binary, Decimal, Hexadecimal
  • Basic Database Concepts
Section 3 — Module II (Session 2)
Skill Test / Typing Test
QualifyingNo Merit Marks
  • For LDC / JSA: Typing Test on Computer
  • English Typing: 35 Words Per Minute (WPM)
  • Hindi Typing: 30 Words Per Minute (WPM)
  • Language chosen during application is final
  • For DEO: Data Entry Speed Test
  • 8,000 Key Depressions Per Hour (KDPH)
  • Test duration: 15 minutes on printed passage
  • For DEO Grade A (CAG): Data Entry Speed Test
  • 15,000 Key Depressions Per Hour (KDPH)
  • Errors calculated to 2 decimal places
  • Candidates must carry written exam Admit Card
  • Bring Aadhaar / valid Government Photo ID
⌨️ Skill Test Tip: Many candidates lose their seat at the Skill Test despite strong written exam scores. For LDC/JSA, aim for 40+ WPM consistently before the exam day to have a comfortable buffer against exam-day nerves. Practice daily on a standard QWERTY keyboard. For Hindi typing, check the SSC notification for the prescribed font — practise exclusively on that font and layout.
07
Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy for SSC CHSL 2026
🧠
Reasoning — Speed is Everything
Reasoning rewards fast, accurate pattern recognition. Start with high-frequency topics: series, analogies, coding-decoding, and blood relations. Set a personal target of solving 25 Reasoning questions in under 15 minutes. For Tier 2, shift focus to logical reasoning, syllogisms, and critical reasoning alongside non-verbal topics. Solve PYQs topic-wise before moving to full mocks.
🌍
GK — Consistency, Not Cramming
General Awareness cannot be crammed in a week. Build the habit of reading current affairs daily for 20–30 minutes. Use a dedicated GK notebook for facts, appointments, and awards — review it weekly. Focus on Indian History, Polity, and Science for static GK, which consistently contributes the most questions. Cover at least the last 12 months of current affairs before the exam.
🔢
Maths — Shortcuts + Deep Concepts
Learn Vedic Maths shortcuts for multiplication, percentage conversions, and ratio problems. Arithmetic (Profit/Loss, SI/CI, Time & Work, Percentage) forms the majority of questions in Tier 1 — master these first. For Tier 2, Geometry, Coordinate Geometry, and DI carry higher weightage — invest time building conceptual clarity here rather than formula-memorisation. Solve 10 DI sets daily in the final 4 weeks.
🔤
English — Your Tier 2 Rank Maker
English has the highest marks in Tier 2 at 135 marks. Read English newspapers daily — The Hindu or Indian Express. Practice 2 comprehension passages per day. For grammar, master Error Spotting (Subject-Verb Agreement, Tenses, Articles, Prepositions). Build vocabulary using mnemonic techniques — target 10 new words daily. Consistent practice of Cloze Tests and Para Jumbles yields significant score improvement.
💻
Computer Knowledge — 2 Focused Weeks
Computer Knowledge in Tier 2 has only 15 questions and is qualifying — dedicate 2 focused weeks near the exam. Cover MS Office basics (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), networking fundamentals, cybersecurity terms, and number systems. These 15 questions can be answered correctly with basic conceptual clarity. Don't over-invest time here — use it for English and Maths instead.
⌨️
Typing Test — Daily Practice Non-Negotiable
Many candidates fail the Skill Test after scoring well in the written exam. Practice typing every single day — minimum 30 minutes. Aim for 40+ WPM in English before the exam for a safety buffer. Practice on the same keyboard layout as the exam (QWERTY). For Hindi typing, verify the prescribed font from the official notification and practise exclusively on that font.
📊
Mock Tests — Your Real Simulator
Solve full-length mocks in exam-like conditions: same timing, no breaks. After each mock, analyse every wrong answer — understand why you went wrong, not just what the right answer was. Track accuracy and speed section-wise over time. Time management in CBT exams is a learned skill that takes repeated practice. Fix your weak sections aggressively in the first month, then shift to full mocks.
📅
Time Allocation — Prioritise Tier 2
Spend 40% of total preparation time on English (highest Tier 2 marks). Allocate 30% to Maths, 20% to Reasoning, and 10% to GK + Computer Knowledge. In the final 2–3 weeks, shift entirely to revision and mocks — avoid new topics. For Tier 1, the same subjects apply at a lower difficulty — don't prepare separately; strong Tier 2 preparation automatically clears Tier 1.
08
Official Website — SSC CHSL 2026
📌 All SSC CHSL 2026 notifications, syllabus PDFs, admit cards, answer keys, and results are published exclusively at ssc.gov.in and the respective SSC Regional websites. SSC does not communicate through any other channel. Ignore unofficial links — always verify from ssc.gov.in directly.
09
Frequently Asked Questions — SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026
What subjects are covered in SSC CHSL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026?
SSC CHSL Tier 1 has four sections, each with 25 questions and 50 marks:
  • General Intelligence & Reasoning — Analogies, Series, Coding-Decoding, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, etc.
  • General Awareness — Current Affairs, History, Geography, Polity, Science, Economy, Culture, Awards
  • Quantitative Aptitude — Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Data Interpretation, Statistics
  • English Language & Comprehension — Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Active/Passive Voice, Para Jumbles
Total: 100 questions | 200 marks | 60 minutes | Negative marking: −0.50 per wrong answer. Tier 1 is qualifying — marks not counted in final merit.
+
What is the SSC CHSL Tier 2 exam pattern and syllabus for 2026?
Tier 2 has 3 Sections, 2 Modules each:
  • Section 1, Module I: Mathematical Abilities — 30 Qs, 90 marks
  • Section 1, Module II: Reasoning & General Intelligence — 30 Qs, 90 marks
  • Section 2, Module I: English Language & Comprehension — 45 Qs, 135 marks (highest)
  • Section 2, Module II: General Awareness — 25 Qs, 75 marks
  • Section 3, Module I: Computer Knowledge — 15 Qs, 45 marks (qualifying)
  • Section 3, Module II: Skill/Typing Test (qualifying)
Merit marks = 390 (Sections 1 and 2 only). Negative marking: −1 per wrong in Sections 1, 2, and Module I of Section 3.
+
Does SSC CHSL Tier 1 marks count in the final merit list?
No. SSC CHSL Tier 1 is purely a qualifying/screening stage. Tier 1 marks are used only to shortlist candidates for Tier 2 — they do not appear in the final merit list. Your actual rank is determined entirely by Tier 2 performance in Sections 1 and 2 (390 marks total). The Computer Knowledge Test and Skill Test are also qualifying — they have no merit value. Focus your deepest preparation efforts on Tier 2 subjects, especially English.
+
What is the negative marking in SSC CHSL 2026?
Negative marking in SSC CHSL 2026:
  • Tier 1: −0.50 marks (half mark) per wrong answer. 10 wrong = −5 marks.
  • Tier 2: −1 mark per wrong answer in Section 1, Section 2, and Module I of Section 3. 10 wrong = −10 marks.
  • No negative marking for the Skill/Typing Test (Module II of Section 3).
Tier 2 has double the penalty compared to Tier 1 — attempt only when reasonably confident. Random guessing in Tier 2 will significantly damage your merit score.
+
What is the minimum qualifying marks in SSC CHSL 2026?
Minimum qualifying marks in SSC CHSL 2026 (applies to Tier 1 and merit sections of Tier 2):
  • Unreserved (UR): 30% of total marks
  • OBC / EWS: 25% of total marks
  • All other categories (SC, ST, PwD, Ex-Servicemen, etc.): 20% of total marks
These are minimum thresholds — candidates must score equal to or above these percentages in their respective categories. Clearing the minimum qualifying mark does not guarantee selection — the final cutoff depends on the number of vacancies and competition in each category.
+
What typing speed is required for the SSC CHSL 2026 Skill Test?
Typing and Data Entry requirements vary by post:
  • LDC / JSA: Typing Test at 35 Words Per Minute in English or 30 Words Per Minute in Hindi on a computer. Language chosen during application is final — no changes allowed.
  • DEO (Data Entry Operator): Data Entry speed of 8,000 Key Depressions Per Hour (KDPH) on a printed English passage. Test duration: 15 minutes.
  • DEO Grade A (Office of CAG): Data Entry speed of 15,000 Key Depressions Per Hour (KDPH).
Errors are calculated to 2 decimal places. The Skill Test is qualifying — it does not add to merit score. Candidates must carry their written exam Admit Card to the Skill Test.
+
What posts are filled through SSC CHSL 2026?
SSC CHSL 2026 recruits for:
  • Lower Division Clerk (LDC) — various Central Government Ministries and Departments
  • Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) — Parliament Secretariat and similar bodies
  • Data Entry Operator (DEO) — various offices including EPFO, DGT, and other departments
  • Data Entry Operator Grade A — specifically in the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG). Requires Class XII with Mathematics for select ministries.
Post allotment depends on Tier 2 merit rank and post preference. Actual vacancy numbers will be declared in the official SSC CHSL 2026 notification at ssc.gov.in.
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Which section has the highest marks in SSC CHSL Tier 2 2026?
English Language & Comprehension (Section 2, Module I) carries the most marks in SSC CHSL Tier 2 — 45 questions, 135 marks, which is 34.6% of the total 390 merit marks. The complete Tier 2 merit weightage: Mathematical Abilities — 90 marks (23.1%), Reasoning — 90 marks (23.1%), English — 135 marks (34.6%), General Awareness — 75 marks (19.2%). Invest preparation time proportionally, with English getting maximum attention. Even a 10-mark improvement in English moves you significantly up the merit list.
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What topics are covered in the Computer Knowledge module of Tier 2?
The Computer Knowledge Test (Module I, Section 3, Tier 2) has 15 questions worth 3 marks each (45 marks) — qualifying nature only. Topics covered:
  • Computer Fundamentals — Hardware, Software, Input/Output Devices, Storage
  • Operating Systems — Windows basics, file management
  • MS Office — Word (formatting, tools), Excel (formulas, functions), PowerPoint (slides)
  • Internet — Browsers, URLs, Email, Search Engines
  • Networking — LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, protocols
  • Cybersecurity — Viruses, Malware, Worms, Trojans, Firewalls, preventive measures
  • Keyboard shortcuts, Number Systems (Binary, Decimal, Hexadecimal)
Two focused weeks of preparation is sufficient to clear this module comfortably.
+
Can SSC CHSL Tier 2 be attempted in Hindi?
Yes — SSC CHSL Tier 2 is bilingual (Hindi and English) for most sections. Exception: Module I of Section 2 — English Language & Comprehension — is available in English only. All other sections (Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge) can be attempted in either Hindi or English. Candidates can choose their default language at the start of the CBT and can also switch languages for specific questions during the exam. Choose your comfortable language upfront and stay consistent to avoid confusion during the exam.
Chandan Kumar

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