Table of Contents
Candidates preparing for the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam should have a thorough understanding of the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 for both tiers. Being familiar with the exam structure, such as the number of sections, total questions, marking scheme, negative marking, and time duration, is essential for effective preparation.
This clarity helps aspirants plan strategically, focus on important topics, and manage time efficiently during the exam. A strong understanding of the exam pattern not only boosts confidence but also increases the chances of scoring well and qualifying for the next stage.
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the SSC CHSL 2026 examination in two stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2, both of which are held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. Each stage follows a different exam structure and marking scheme, making it important for candidates to understand the pattern and requirements of both tiers for effective preparation. An overview of Tier 1 and Tier 2 is provided below, followed by a detailed explanation of each stage.
| Tier | Details | Mode |
| Tier I | Objective (MCQ) Type Test (Total 200 Marks) | Computer-Based Test/Online Test |
| Tier II |
|
SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026
According to the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026, the Tier 1 examination consists of 100 questions carrying a total of 200 marks. The paper is divided into four sections, with 25 questions in each section, and candidates are given 60 minutes to complete the test. If the exam is conducted in multiple shifts, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will use a normalisation process to ensure fairness in the evaluation.
The sections asked in the SSC CHSL Tier-I Exam are:
- General Knowledge
- Quantitative Aptitude
- General Reasoning
- English Comprehension
The Schema of Tier-1 is explained in the Table given below:
| Sections | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 | A cumulative time of 60 minutes (80 minutes for disabled/physically handicapped Candidates) |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Note:- For every wrong question, there is a negative marking of 0.5 marks.
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
The SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern has been revised and is now conducted in two sessions. Candidates who clear the Tier 1 examination are eligible to appear for Tier 2. Session I consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) from various subjects to assess a candidate’s knowledge and comprehension.
Session II includes a Typing Test or Skill Test, which evaluates typing speed and accuracy. Having a clear understanding of both sessions is crucial for effective preparation and better performance in the examination.
Section 1: Module I: Mathematical Abilities and Module II: Reasoning and General Intelligence.
Section 2: Module I: English Language and Comprehension and Module II: General Awareness
Section 3: Module I: Computer Knowledge Test and Module II: Skill Test/ Typing Test
| SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 Tier 2 | ||||||
| Session | Section | Modules | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Time |
| Session I (2 hours and 15 minutes) | Section 1 | Module-1 | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 1 hour |
| Module-2 | Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | |||
| Section 2 | Module-1 | English Language and Comprehension | 40 | 90 | 1 hour | |
| Module-2 | General Awareness | 20 | 90 | |||
| Section 3 | Module-1 | Computer Knowledge Module | 15 | 45 | 15 minutes | |
| Total | 135 | 405 | (2 hours and 15 minutes) | |||
| Session II
(Skill Test/Typing Test) (Qualifying Only)
|
Section 3 | Module-2 |
Part A- Skill Test for DEOs in Department/ Ministry |
— | — |
15 minutes |
| Part B: Skill Test for DEOs except in the Department/ Ministry | — | — | 15 minutes | |||
| Part C: Typing Test for LDC/ JSA | — | — | 10 minutes | |||
- The questions will be of an Objective type in nature in English, Hindi, and any language opted by the candidates.
Check: SSC CHSL Result 2026
SSC CHSL Negative Marking
In Tier 1, a negative marking of 0.50 marks is applied for each incorrect answer. In Tier 2, 1 mark is deducted for every wrong response in Section 1, Section 2, and Module I of Section 3. Therefore, candidates should attempt questions carefully and avoid random guessing to reduce the impact of negative marking.
SSC CHSL Skill Test 2026
For the posts of Data Entry Operator, DEO in the Office of the C&AG, and LDC/JSA and PA/SA. In the table below, we have discussed the SSC CHSL Post-Wise Skill Test 2026 details.
| Post | Data Entry Speed | Duration | Document Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Entry Operator | 8,000 Key Impressions per hour | 15 minutes | English document with 2000-2200 strokes/key depressions |
| DEO in the Office of the C&AG | 15,000 key depressions per hour | 15 minutes | Printed matter in English with about 3700-4000 key depressions |
| LDC/JSA and PA/SA | 10,500 key depressions per hour | 15 minutes | Printed matter in English with about 9000 key depressions/hour |
SSC CHSL Resolution of Tie Cases
In the event of a tie in the scores of candidates appearing in the Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations, the merit ranking will be determined by applying the following criteria sequentially until the tie is resolved:
- Total marks of the Tier-II Examination.
- Total marks in Tier-I Examination.
- Date of birth, with the elder candidates, was placed higher.
- Alphabetical order in which the first names of the candidates appear.
SSC CHSL 2026 Minimum Qualifying Marks
The table below outlines the minimum qualifying marks required for Tier-I, Section-I, Section-II, and Module-I of Section III in the Tier-II Examination.
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks |
| UR | 30% |
| OBC/EWS | 25% |
| All Categories | 20% |


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