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SSC CGL Tier 1 2026 is being held from 30 September to 30 October 2026 in computer-based mode across India, including centres in Kerala. The Staff Selection Commission’s Combined Graduate Level exam is filling about 12,256 tentative vacancies in central ministries, departments and offices. This guide covers the exam pattern, answer key process, cut-off expectations and what comes next after SSC CGL Tier 1 2026.
SSC CGL Tier 1 2026 – Key Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting body | Staff Selection Commission |
| Tier 1 dates | 30 September – 30 October 2026 |
| Tentative vacancies | About 12,256 |
| Mode | Computer-based exam |
| Questions | 100 MCQs, 200 marks |
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Negative marking | 0.50 per wrong answer |
| Official website | ssc.gov.in |
Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
As per recent notices, each section has its own timer within the 60 minutes. Questions are in English and Hindi, except the English section.
Answer Key and Result
- SSC releases a provisional answer key with candidates’ response sheets after all shifts are over.
- Candidates can raise objections online by paying the fee per question within the given window.
- The Tier 1 result and cut-off are released later, and qualified candidates move to Tier 2.
Tier 1 is a qualifying/screening stage; final merit is decided by Tier 2 as per the scheme of the notification.
Normalisation
Because the exam runs in many shifts, SSC normalises scores. Your normalised marks may differ slightly from raw marks calculated with the answer key.
What to Do After Your Exam
- Note your expected score with the answer key when released.
- Start Tier 2 preparation immediately: maths, reasoning, English, general awareness and computer knowledge.
- Keep your documents ready for later verification.
Read our SSC MTS 2026 and SSC CHSL Exam Date 2026 guides.
Tier 2 Preparation
Tier 2 is more demanding, with higher-level mathematics, reasoning, English, general awareness and a computer knowledge module, along with skill tests for some posts. Start Tier 2 preparation without waiting for the Tier 1 result. Practise full-length mock tests, revise formulas daily and keep improving typing speed if you are aiming for posts that need it.
SSC CGL Tier 1 2026: Quick Checklist for Candidates
Use this simple checklist to stay on track with SSC CGL Tier 1 2026 updates and avoid last-minute problems.
- Bookmark the official website and check it regularly instead of relying on forwarded messages.
- Keep your registration number, password and date of birth details safe.
- Download admit cards, results and notices as soon as they are released and keep a printed copy.
- Carry an original photo ID and the documents listed in the official notice on exam or verification day.
- Continue preparation for the next stage while waiting for results.
Staying organised in this way helps you make the most of SSC CGL Tier 1 2026 and move confidently to the next stage.
We review and update this SSC CGL Tier 1 2026 guide whenever official notices or rules change. Bookmark this page, share it with friends who need it, and always confirm the latest details on the official website before you take any step.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is SSC CGL Tier 1 2026?
From 30 September to 30 October 2026.
How many vacancies are there?
About 12,256 tentative vacancies.
Is there negative marking?
Yes, 0.50 marks for each wrong answer.
When will the answer key be released?
After all Tier 1 shifts are completed, on ssc.gov.in.
Related: SSC Jobs | Exam Dates
Disclaimer: Kerala Job News is not affiliated with any government department, recruiting body or employer mentioned here. This article is compiled from Staff Selection Commission notices for general information only. Details can change, so always confirm on the official website before you apply or pay any fee. Kerala Job News never charges money for job information.
