If you are planning to appear for the SSC CGL exam this year, the very first thing you need to do is go through the complete SSC CGL Syllabus from top to bottom. Without knowing what to study, even the hardest-working candidate ends up wasting time on the wrong topics. The Staff Selection The Commission conducts the Combined Graduate Level Examination every year to recruit eligible candidates for Grade B and Grade C posts across various departments and ministries under the Government of India. The syllabus for 2026 covers both Tier 1 and Tier 2, and understanding every section gives you a clear map to build your preparation around. For detailed job insights, check what types of jobs you get through SSC CGL.
In this blog, we break down the complete SSC CGL Syllabus subject-wise and topic-wise, share the exam pattern for both tiers, and guide you on how to download the official syllabus PDF from ssc.gov.in.
SSC CGL 2026 Syllabus – Quick Overview
Before getting into the detailed breakdowns, here is a quick overview of the exam to give you the full picture at a glance: what types of jobs you get through SSC CGL
| Details | Information |
| Exam Name | SSC CGL 2026 |
| Category | Combined Graduate Level Examination Syllabus |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission |
| Selection Process | Tier 1 (Qualifying) and Tier 2 |
| Tier 1 Subjects | Mathematics, English, General Awareness, and Reasoning |
| Tier 2 Subjects | Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, General Intelligence, English, General Awareness, Computer Proficiency, and Statistics |
| Official Website | www.ssc.gov.in |
Why Downloading the SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 PDF Matters
A lot of students jump straight into studying without downloading the official syllabus PDF first, and that is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. The SSC CGL Syllabus PDF available on the SSC portal is the most accurate and up-to-date source of information about what topics will appear in the exam. The latest syllabus also includes any new changes to the Tier 1 or Tier 2 question paper pattern, subject-wise marks distribution, and skill test details for specific posts.
Having the syllabus in PDF format allows you to create an effective study plan, track the topics you have covered, and ensure that no important chapter is missed during revision. It also helps in structured preparation, especially for competitive exams like SSC where the syllabus is vast and requires regular revision. For complete guidance and coaching support, explore SSC coaching. can download the official SSC CGL Syllabus PDF using the button provided on the SSC portal at ssc.gov.in.
SSC CGL Syllabus PDF Free Download
SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2026 – Tier 1 and Tier 2
Before going into the subject-wise syllabus, go through the exam pattern carefully. Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 of the SSC CGL exam are conducted in computer-based test (CBT) mode.
Tier 1 Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Total Marks |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Time Allowed: 60 minutes (cumulative, no sectional time limit)
Tier 2 Exam Pattern
Paper I — Compulsory for all posts:
| Section | No. of Questions | Total Marks |
| Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 |
| Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 |
| English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 75 |
| Computer Proficiency | 20 | 60 |
| Total (Paper I) | 150 | 450 |
Paper II — Only for JSO (Junior Statistical Officer) and Statistical Investigator Grade-II posts:
| Section | No. of Questions | Total Marks |
| Statistics | 100 | 200 |
SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 for Tier 1
The Tier 1 exam carries 100 questions for a maximum of 200 marks, and candidates get 60 minutes to complete it. Each of the four sections carries 25 questions worth 50 marks. Below is the complete topic-wise breakdown for every section. For structured preparation support, you can check SSC coaching in Assam.
English Comprehension Syllabus – Tier 1
The English section in the SSC CGL Syllabus tests your command over language skills, grammar, and reading ability. Here are all the topics you need to cover:
| SSC English Syllabus 2026 | |
| English Language | Reading ComprehensionIdioms and PhrasesOne Word SubstitutionSentence CorrectionActive PassiveSpellings CorrectionFill in the BlanksSentence RearrangementSynonyms-AntonymsCloze testSentence ImprovementError Spotting |
General Awareness Syllabus – Tier 1
General Awareness in the SSC CGL Syllabus draws from both static GK and current affairs. Here are all the topics this section covers:
| SSC CGL General Awareness Syllabus 2026 | |
| General Awareness | Important DaysScienceIndia and its neighboring countries, especially about History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General Policy & Scientific ResearchPeople in the NewsSportsStatic GKImportant SchemesPortfolioBooks and AuthorsCurrent Affairs |
General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus – Tier 1
The reasoning section tests your logical thinking and problem-solving ability. The topics covered under General Intelligence in the SSC CGL Syllabus are:
| SSC CGL General Intelligence Syllabus 2026 | |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | ObservationCoding and decodingArithmetic number seriesRelationship conceptsArithmetical reasoningFigural classificationStatement conclusionSyllogistic reasoningSimilarities and differencesSpace visualizationSpatial orientationProblem-solvingAnalysisNon-verbal seriesJudgmentBlood RelationsDecision-makingVisual memoryAnalogies |
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus – Tier 1
Quantitative aptitude is one of the most detailed sections in the SSC CGL Syllabus . Here is a complete list of topics you need to prepare:
| SSC CGL Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus 2026 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | PercentagePartnership BusinessTime and distanceTime & WorkMixture and AlligationDecimalsFractionsQuadrilateralsRegular PolygonsRight PrismRight Circular ConeInterestSphereBasic algebraic identities of School Algebra & Elementary surdsProfit and LossDiscountRelationships between numbersRatio and ProportionSquare rootsComputation of whole numbersRight Circular CylinderTriangle and its various kinds of centresGraphs of Linear EquationsAveragesCongruence and similarity of trianglesCircle and its chords, tangents, angles subtended by chords of a circle, common tangents to two or more circlesComplementary anglesBar diagram & Pie chartTriangleFrequency polygonDegree and Radian MeasuresHemispheresHistogramRegular Right Pyramid with triangular or square baseTrigonometric ratioHeights and DistancesStandard IdentitiesRectangular Parallelepiped |
SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 for Tier 2
The Tier 2 exam carries more weight in the final merit list, so it demands deeper and more focused preparation. Tier 2 consists of two papers. Paper I is compulsory for all candidates, while Paper II is only for those applying for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) and Statistical Investigator Grade-II positions.
Tier 2 – Mathematical Abilities Syllabus (Paper I)
Number Systems: Computation of Whole Numbers, Decimals, and Fractions, and Relationships Between Numbers.
Fundamental Arithmetical Operations: Percentages, Ratios and Proportions, Square Roots, Averages, Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture and Alligation, Time and Distance, and Time and Work.
Algebra: Basic Algebraic Identities of School Algebra and Elementary Surds, and Graphs of Linear Equations.
Geometry: Triangle and its various kinds of centers, congruence and similarity of triangles, and circle and its chords, tangents, angles subtended by chords of a circle, and common tangents to two or more circles.
Mensuration: Right Prism, Triangle, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circle, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder, Sphere, Hemispheres, Rectangular Parallelepiped, and Regular Right Pyramid with Triangular or Square Base.
Trigonometry: Trigonometric Ratios, Complementary Angles, Heights and Distances (simple problems only), and Standard Identities.
Statistics and Probability: Use of Tables and Graphs including Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Bar Diagram, and Pie Chart; Measures of Central Tendency including Mean, Median, Mode, and Standard Deviation; and Calculation of Simple Probabilities.
Tier 2 – General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus (Paper I)
Here are topics for general intelligence and reasoning:
Semantic Analogy, Symbolic Operations, Symbolic and Number Analogy, Trends, Figural Analogy, Space Orientation, Semantic Classification, Venn Diagrams, Symbolic and Number Classification, Drawing Inferences, Figural Classification, Punched Hole and Pattern Folding & Unfolding, Semantic Series, Figural Pattern Folding and Completion, Number Series, Embedded Figures, Figural Series, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Emotional Intelligence, Word Building, Social Intelligence, Coding and Decoding, and Numerical Operations.
Tier 2 – English Language & Comprehension Syllabus (Paper I)
Here are the topics for the English part, so have a look:
Vocabulary, One-Word Substitution, Sentence Structure, Shuffling of Sentences in a Passage, Fill in the Blanks, Synonyms and Homonyms, Shuffling of Sentence Parts, Spellings and Detecting Misspelled Words, Idioms & Phrases, Improvement of Sentences, Antonyms, Active and Passive Voice of Verbs, Conversion into Direct and Indirect Narration, Spot the Error, English Grammar, and Cloze Passage.
Tier 2 – General Awareness Syllabus (Paper I)
General awareness is part where students find most difficulties, so before diving into the depth, let’s see the topics in the section:
Portfolio, India and its Neighboring Countries especially relating to History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General Policy & Scientific Research, Science, Current Affairs, Books and Authors, Sports, Important Schemes, Important Days & Dates, and People in News.
Tier 2 – Computer Proficiency Syllabus (Paper I)
Computer Basics: Organisation of a Computer, Central Processing Unit (CPU), Input and Output Devices, Computer Memory, Memory Organisation, Backup Devices, PORTs, Windows Explorer, and Keyboard Shortcuts.
Software: Windows Operating System and Basics of Microsoft Office covering MS Word, MS Excel, and PowerPoint.
Working with Internet and E-mails: Web Browsing & Searching, Downloading & Uploading, Managing an Email Account, and e-Banking.
Basics of Networking and Cyber Security: Networking Devices and Protocols, Network and Information Security Threats including Hacking, Virus, Worms, Trojan, etc., and Preventive Measures.
Tier 2 – Statistics Syllabus (Paper II – JSO Post Only)
Collection, Classification and Presentation of Statistical Data: Primary and Secondary Data, Methods of Data Collection, Tabulation of Data, Frequency Distributions, Graphs and Charts, and Diagrammatic Presentation.
Measures of Central Tendency: Mean, Median, and Mode; Partition Values including Quartiles, Deciles, and Percentiles.
Measures of Dispersion: Range, Quartile Deviations, Mean Deviation, Standard Deviation, and Measures of Relative Dispersion.
Moments, Skewness and Kurtosis: Types of Moments and their Relationships, Meaning and Measures of Skewness and Kurtosis.
Correlation and Regression: Scatter Diagram, Simple Correlation Coefficient, Simple Regression Lines, Spearman’s Rank Correlation, Measures of Association of Attributes, Multiple Regression, and Multiple and Partial Correlation for Three Variables.
Probability Theory: Meaning of Probability, Different Definitions of Probability, Conditional Probability, Compound Probability, Independent Events, and Bayes’ Theorem.
Random Variable and Probability Distributions: Random Variable, Probability Functions, Expectation and Variance, Higher Moments, Binomial Distribution, Poisson Distribution, Normal and Exponential Distributions, and Joint Distribution of Two Random Variables (discrete).
Sampling Theory: Population and Sample, Parameter and Statistic, Sampling and Non-Sampling Errors, Probability and Non-Probability Sampling Techniques including Simple Random Sampling, Stratified Sampling, Multistage Sampling, Multiphase Sampling, Cluster Sampling, Systematic Sampling, Purposive Sampling, Convenience Sampling, and Quota Sampling; Sampling Distribution; and Sample Size Decisions.
Statistical Inference: Point and Interval Estimation, Properties of a Good Estimator, Methods of Estimation (Moments Method, Maximum Likelihood Method, Least Squares Method), Testing of Hypothesis, Small and Large Sample Tests, Tests Based on Z, t, Chi-square and F Statistic, and Confidence Intervals.
Analysis of Variance: One-way and Two-way Classified Data Analysis.
Time Series Analysis: Components of Time Series, Determination of Trend Components, and Measurement of Seasonal Variation.
Index Numbers: Meaning, Types, Different Formulae, Base Shifting and Splicing, Cost of Living Index Numbers, and Uses of Index Numbers.
Subject-Wise SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 Summary
Here is a quick subject-wise summary of what the SSC CGL Syllabus covers across both tiers:
Quantitative Aptitude: Covers Arithmetic including Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Data Interpretation. Preparing this subject well builds problem-solving speed for both tiers.
English Language: Covers Grammar Rules, Reading Comprehension, Sentence Structure, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases, and advanced topics in Tier 2 such as Para Jumbles and Cloze Tests.
General Awareness: Focuses on Static GK covering Indian History, Geography, and Polity, along with Current Affairs, Science and Technology, and Economy.
Reasoning: Covers Analogies, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Syllogism, Series Completion, and advanced reasoning concepts in Tier 2.
Topic-Wise and Chapter-Wise SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 – Tier 1 vs Tier 2
Here is a side-by-side comparison of topics across Tier 1 and Tier 2 for each section:
| Section | Tier 1 Topics | Tier 2 Topics |
| General Intelligence / Reasoning | Logical Reasoning, Puzzles, Coding-Decoding, Syllogism | Advanced Reasoning, Puzzles, Decision Making, Data Arrangements, Coding-Decoding |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistics | Advanced Math, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Data Interpretation, Statistics |
| General Awareness | Static GK, Current Affairs, Polity, Economy, Geography, Science | Current Affairs, General Science, Polity, Economy, Finance, General Studies |
| English | Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, Sentence Formation | Advanced Grammar, Vocabulary, Cloze Test, Para Jumbles, Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting |
| Computer Proficiency | Not asked in Tier 1 | Computer Basics, Internet, MS Office, Networking, Cybersecurity |
| Statistics | Not asked in Tier 1 | Asked only for JSO post—Measures, Dispersion, Probability, Sampling Theory, Inference |
| General Studies (Finance & Economics) | Not asked in Tier 1 | Asked only for Finance/Audit post—Accounts, Economics, Governance, Monetary Policy |
Conclusion
Going through the complete SSC CGL Syllabus before you begin your preparation is not just a good habit, it is the foundation of a winning strategy. From Tier 1’s four core sections to Tier 2’s detailed papers on mathematical abilities, English, reasoning, general awareness, computer proficiency, and Statistics, the syllabus covers a wide range of topics that require consistent and focused study.
Download the official syllabus PDF from ssc.gov.in, mark out the topics you need to cover, and build a chapter-wise study plan around it. Cover the high-scoring topics first, revise regularly with short notes, and take mock tests throughout your preparation to track your progress. Whether you are appearing for Tier 1 alone or aiming all the way to Tier 2, knowing the syllabus inside out is what separates prepared candidates from the rest.
Stay consistent, refer to the latest syllabus for every subject, and take your preparation one topic at a time. With the right plan and enough practice, clearing SSC CGL 2026 is absolutely within your reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How can I effectively prepare for the General Awareness section of SSC CGL 2026?
The General Awareness section in the syllabus focuses more on Static GK than on current affairs, so your preparation should reflect that balance. Start by covering Indian history, geography, polity, science, and economy from reliable standard books. At the same time, stay updated with current affairs by reading a newspaper daily and using good current affairs apps that provide weekly and monthly capsules. Making short notes for important facts, dates, and events helps a lot during revision. Avoid cramming, instead, build connections between topics so that the information sticks longer. If you prepare this section consistently for two months before the exam, you can finish it in under ten minutes on exam day and use that saved time for quantitative aptitude.
Q2. How should I manage my time during the SSC CGL Tier 1 exam?
Time management in Tier 1 is very important because you only get 60 minutes for 100 questions across four sections. A good approach is to start with the section you are most confident in, which is usually General Awareness or English, and finish it quickly. Then move on to reasoning and save quantitative aptitude for last. As a general rule, try not to spend more than 20 minutes on English, 10 minutes on general awareness, 15 minutes on Reasoning, and 25 minutes on quantitative aptitude. If you get stuck on any question, skip it immediately and come back later if time allows. Practicing mock tests regularly under timed conditions is the best way to train yourself for this kind of time pressure before the actual exam.
Q3. Is there negative marking in the SSC CGL exam?
Yes, the SSC CGL exam does carry negative marking, and every candidate must keep this in mind while attempting the paper. For every wrong answer, 0.25 marks are deducted from your total score. This means that guessing randomly can actually lower your overall score rather than help it. The best approach is to attempt only those questions you are reasonably sure about and skip the ones where you have no idea. Over time, as you practice more mock tests and previous year papers, your accuracy naturally improves, which reduces the impact of negative marking on your final score. Stay careful, attempt wisely, and never rush through questions just to increase your attempt count.
