SSC CGL Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Success

What is SSC CGL 2025?

The SSC CGL (Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level) exam is conducted annually to recruit candidates for various Group B and Group C posts in ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. With 14,582 vacancies announced for 2025, the competition is fierce, with over 20 lakh candidates expected to appear. The exam is conducted in two tiers: Tier 1 and Tier 2, followed by document verification and skill tests for specific posts.

The SSC CGL 2025 notification was released on June 9, 2025, with the Tier 1 exam scheduled from August 13 to 30, 2025, and the Tier 2 exam expected in December 2025.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025: Tier 1 and Tier 2

Understanding the SSC CGL exam pattern 2025 is the first step to strategizing your preparation. The exam is divided into two main stages: Tier 1 (qualifying) and Tier 2 (scoring). Below is a detailed breakdown of the exam pattern for both tiers.

SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2025

• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Nature: Qualifying
• Duration: 60 minutes (80 minutes for visually handicapped candidates)
• Total Questions: 100
• Total Marks: 200
• Negative Marking: 0.50 marks for each wrong answer
• Sections: 4 (25 questions each)

Key Points:

• Tier 1 is a screening test, and its marks are not counted in the final merit list.
• Questions are objective (multiple-choice).
• Focus on speed and accuracy due to the 60-minute time limit.

SSC CGL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2025

• Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
• Nature: Scoring (marks considered for final selection)
• Papers: 3 (Paper 1 is compulsory for all; Paper 2 and Paper 3 are post-specific)
• Negative Marking: 1 mark for wrong answers in Paper 1 (except for Computer and Data Entry modules); 0.50 marks for Paper 2 and Paper 3.

Tier 2 Paper 1 (Compulsory for All Posts)

• Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes (Session 1) + 15 minutes (Session 2)
• Total Marks: 390
• Sections: 3 (Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge, Data Entry)

Key Points:

• Paper 1 is divided into two sessions on the same day.
• Candidates must qualify in all sections of Paper 1.
• The Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) is qualifying in nature.

Tier 2 Paper 2 (Junior Statistical Officer – JSO)

• Subject: Statistics
• Questions: 100
• Marks: 200
• Duration: 2 hours
• Negative Marking: 0.50 marks per wrong answer

Tier 2 Paper 3 (Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer – AAO)

• Subject: General Studies (Finance & Economics)
• Questions: 100
• Marks: 200
• Duration: 2 hours
• Negative Marking: 0.50 marks per wrong answer

Key Points:

• Paper 2 and Paper 3 are only for candidates applying for JSO and AAO posts, respectively.
• Tier 2 marks determine the final merit list.
• Skill tests (e.g., Typing Test or DEST) may be required for specific posts.

SSC CGL Syllabus 2025: Tier 1 and Tier 2

The SSC CGL syllabus 2025 is designed to test candidates’ aptitude, reasoning, language skills, and general knowledge. Below is a subject-wise breakdown for both tiers.

SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus 2025

1. General Intelligence & Reasoning

• Topics: Analogies, similarities and differences, spatial visualization, spatial orientation, problem-solving, analysis, judgment, decision-making, visual memory, discrimination, observation, relationship concepts, arithmetical reasoning, verbal and figure classification, non-verbal series, coding-decoding, syllogism, seating arrangement, puzzles.
• Focus: Verbal and non-verbal reasoning to test logical thinking and quick problem-solving.

2. General Awareness

• Topics: Current affairs, history, culture, geography, economic scene, general policy, scientific research, awards and honors, books and authors, sports, important schemes, static GK.
• Focus: Stay updated with 6-12 months of current affairs and revise static GK regularly.

3. Quantitative Aptitude

• Topics: Number systems, computation of whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percentages, ratio and proportion, average, interest, profit and loss, discount, time and distance, time and work, geometry, mensuration, trigonometry, algebra, data interpretation.
• Focus: Build speed in calculations and practice complex problem-solving.

4. English Comprehension

• Topics: Reading comprehension, cloze test, fill in the blanks, synonyms, antonyms, sentence correction, spotting errors, para jumbles, idioms and phrases.
• Focus: Strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and reading skills.

SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus 2025

Paper 1: Section I – Mathematical Abilities

• Topics: Similar to Tier 1 Quantitative Aptitude but with higher difficulty (e.g., advanced algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry).
• Focus: Practice advanced-level questions and focus on accuracy.

Paper 1: Section I – Reasoning & General Intelligence

• Topics: Similar to Tier 1 Reasoning but with increased complexity (e.g., logical puzzles, critical reasoning).
• Focus: Enhance analytical skills for tougher problems.

Paper 1: Section II – English Language & Comprehension

• Topics: Advanced reading comprehension, active-passive voice, direct-indirect speech, sentence improvement, vocabulary (synonyms/antonyms), error detection.
• Focus: Practice high-level comprehension and grammar exercises.

Paper 1: Section II – General Awareness

• Topics: Similar to Tier 1 General Awareness with deeper focus on current affairs, government schemes, and economic policies.
• Focus: Read newspapers and follow reliable current affairs sources.

Paper 1: Section III – Computer Knowledge

• Topics: Computer basics, software, hardware, networking, internet, MS Office, cybersecurity, database management.
• Focus: Learn fundamental computer concepts and practice MCQs.

Paper 1: Section III – Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)

• Requirement: Typing speed of 8,000 key depressions per hour (qualifying).
• Focus: Practice typing to meet the speed requirement.

Paper 2: Statistics (JSO Post)

• Topics: Collection and representation of data, measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, probability, sampling, correlation, regression, index numbers, time series analysis.
• Focus: Study statistical concepts thoroughly if applying for JSO.

Paper 3: General Studies – Finance & Economics (AAO Post)

• Topics: Financial accounting, economics (micro and macro), Indian economy, government budgeting, taxation, auditing.
• Focus: Brush up on finance and economics fundamentals if targeting AAO.

Preparation Tips for SSC CGL 2025

Here are some practical tips to boost your performance:

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Download the SSC CGL syllabus PDF 2025 from the official SSC website and align your study plan with it.
2. Create a Study Plan: Dedicate time to each subject daily. Focus on weak areas while maintaining strengths.
3. Practice Mock Tests: Solve previous years’ papers and take regular mock tests to simulate exam conditions.
4. Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read newspapers (e.g., The Hindu) and follow monthly current affairs magazines.
5. Improve Time Management: Practice solving questions within time limits to enhance speed and accuracy.
6. Use Quality Study Material: Refer to standard books like R.S. Aggarwal (Quantitative Aptitude), Lucent’s GK, and Wren & Martin (English).
7. Join Online Courses: Enroll in SSC CGL coaching or free resources available on platforms like YouTube or GovJobPrep.com.

Important Dates for SSC CGL 2025

FAQs

1. What is the SSC CGL 2025 exam date?

The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam is scheduled from August 13 to August 30, 2025, and Tier 2 is expected in December 2025.

2. Is there negative marking in SSC CGL 2025?

Yes, there’s a negative marking of 0.50 marks in Tier 1 and 1 mark in Tier 2 Paper 1 (except for specific modules).

3. Can final-year students apply for SSC CGL 2025?

Yes, but they must possess their degree before the document verification stage.

4. Where can I download the SSS CGL syllabus PDF 2025?

Visit the official SSC website (ssc.gov.in) or GovJobPrep.com for the latest syllabus PDF.