Government jobs in India offer good pay, job security, and respect. Two major exams conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) are SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level) and SSC MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff). If you’re confused about which one to prepare for, this article will help you choose the right one with clear comparisons.
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS
SSC CGL and SSC MTS are two of the most popular government exams in India conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). While both lead to central government jobs, the level of exam, job roles, salary, and eligibility vary greatly. Choosing between the two depends mainly on your educational background and career goals.
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Overview
The Key Highlights of both- SSC CGL Exam 2025 and SSC MTS Exam 2025, including details about the conducting body, official websites, and their primary purposes is tabulated below. This helps set the stage before diving into detailed comparisons.
| Feature | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam Name | Combined Graduate Level (CGL) | Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) |
| Purpose | Recruit graduates for Group B & C posts | Recruit 10th pass candidates for Group C posts |
| Job Type | Officer-level and administrative | Support and clerical staff |
| Exam Frequency | Annual | Annual |
| Official Website | www.ssc.gov.in | www.ssc.gov.in |
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Eligibility Criteria
The first major difference is educational qualification. SSC CGL needs graduation, while SSC MTS only needs a 10th pass certificate.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Qualification | Graduation | Class 10 Pass |
| Age Limit | Usually 18–32 years | 18 – 27 years (varies by post) |
| Academic Background | Any stream (Arts, Science, Commerce) | No stream required |
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Job Profile
The type of work differs a lot. SSC CGL 2025 jobs are more professional, while SSC MTS 2025 roles are supportive and clerical.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Job Type | Administrative & Officer-level roles | Helper & support roles |
| Common Posts | Auditor, Inspector, ASO, Sub-Inspector | Peon, Havaldar, Watchman |
| Department | Ministries, Income Tax, CBI, etc. | Central Board of Indirect Taxes, other offices |
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Exam Pattern
Both of the exams, i.e., SSC CGL 2025 and SSC MTS 2025 are held through Computer Based Examination (CBE) but differ in levels of difficulty and subjects.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Stages of Selection | Tier I & Tier II | CBT + Physical Test (for Havaldar) |
| Number of CBT Tiers | 2 | 1 |
| Subjects | English, Math, Reasoning, GK | English, Math, Reasoning, GK |
| Difficulty Level | Graduate level | 10th standard level |
| Mode | Online (Computer Based Examination) | Online (Computer Based Examination) |
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Salary and Benefits
SSC CGL jobs offer higher salaries and better perks. SSC MTS has a basic salary with fixed allowances.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Salary | ₹25,500 – ₹15,11,000/month | ₹18,000 – ₹22,000/month |
| Grade Pay | Level 4 to 8 | Pay Band-1 + Grade Pay ₹1800 |
| Benefits | HRA, DA, Pension, Medical | HRA, DA, Pension, Medical |
| Promotion Frequency | Faster | Slower |
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Work Pressure
The work environment also plays a key role. SSC CGL 2025 jobs can be more demanding, while SSC MTS 2025 roles are usually fixed-hour and stress-free.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Workload | High, with targets and reports | Light, daily routine tasks |
| Pressure | Moderate to High | Low to Moderate |
| Transfers | Frequent (based on department) | Less frequent |
| Work Timing | May require overtime | Fixed hours (9 – 5 mostly) |
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Career Growth
SSC CGL provides a clearer path for promotions and career development. MTS promotions are possible but take more time.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Promotion Track | Assistant → Section Officer → Under Secretary, etc. | MTS → LDC → UDC → Assistant |
| Chances for Exams (like UPSC) | Higher exposure and motivation | Less exposure |
| Department Exams | Available for faster promotion | Available but limited |
SSC CGL vs SSC MTS: Exam Difficulty
This is important when planning your studies. SSC MTS is easier and quicker to crack, while SSC CGL needs strong preparation.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Level of Questions | Graduation-level reasoning and math | 10th-standard level |
| Competition | High (lakhs of graduates apply) | Medium (lesser-qualified pool) |
| Success Rate | Lower (due to competition) | Slightly higher |
| Time to Prepare | 6 months – 1 year | 3 – 6 months |
What Should You Choose? SSC CGL or SSC MTS
Your decision should depend on your qualification and career goals. Both jobs offer security, but the path and lifestyle are different.
| Criteria | SSC CGL | SSC MTS |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Graduates looking for officer-level posts | 10th pass candidates looking for stable jobs |
| Growth | High | Moderate |
| Pressure | Moderate to High | Low |
| Recommendation | If you’re ready to study and want a high-paying career | If you want an easy entry into govt. jobs |
Conclusion
If you’re a graduate and willing to work hard, go for SSC CGL. If you want a quicker, simpler job with less preparation, go for SSC MTS. In the end, both are government jobs that come with stability and respect.
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