SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Comprehensive Guide to Academic Streams & Courses

INTRODUCTION

The SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus serve as the ultimate roadmap for 10+2 students aiming to secure prestigious administrative roles within the Government of India. As we move into the 2026 recruitment cycle, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) continues to refine its evaluation process to ensure candidates possess the right academic foundation.

Whether you are from a Science, Commerce, or Arts background, understanding the specific course modules and stream-specific eligibility is the first step toward success. This guide provides an in-depth breakdown of the Tier-1 and Tier-2 structures, ensuring you are prepared for the latest 2026 updates.

SSC CHSL 2026 Course Overview & Academic Eligibility

The Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) examination is essentially a competitive "course assessment" that tests your proficiency in core secondary-level subjects.

Stream-Wise Eligibility

For the 2026 cycle, the educational qualifications are categorized based on the technicality of the post:

1. General Stream (LDC/JSA): Candidates must have passed the 12th Standard or equivalent from a recognized board. Students from Arts, Commerce, and Science are all eligible.

2. Specialized Science Stream (DEO Grade ‘A’): For Data Entry Operator positions in the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), candidates must have passed the 12th Standard in the Science Stream with Mathematics as a core subject.

   
   

If you are a Class 12 student appearing for boards in 2026, ensure your results are declared before the cutoff date (typically August 2026) to remain eligible.

Detailed SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern (Tier-1)

The Tier-1 exam is a Computer-Based Examination (CBT) consisting of objective-type, multiple-choice questions. It acts as a screening test to filter candidates for the more rigorous Tier-2.

Tier-1 Structure

Section	Subject	No. of Questions	Max Marks	Duration
1	English Language (Basic Knowledge)	25	50	60 Minutes
2	General Intelligence	25	50	(80 Mins for
3	Quantitative Aptitude (Basic Arithmetic)	25	50	PwD)
4	General Awareness	25	50
Total		100	200

• Marking Scheme: Each correct answer earns 2 marks.

• Negative Marking: There is a penalty of 0.50 marks for every wrong answer.

SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus for Tier-2

The Tier-2 exam is the merit-deciding stage. It is conducted in two sessions on the same day. This stage is designed like a professional certification course, testing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Session 1: Objective Modules

• Section I: Mathematical Abilities (30 questions) & Reasoning (30 questions). Total: 180 Marks.

• Section II: English Language (40 questions) & General Awareness (20 questions). Total: 180 Marks.

• Section III (Module I): Computer Knowledge Test (15 questions). This is qualifying but mandatory.

Session 2: Practical Skill Modules

This session involves the Skill Test/Typing Test, which is post-specific.

• Part A: Skill Test for DEOs (15 Minutes).

• Part B: Typing Test for LDC/JSA (10 Minutes).

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Subject-Wise Syllabus Breakdown for 2026

To master the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus, candidates must focus on these high-yield academic topics:

1. Quantitative Aptitude (Mathematics)

This course module focuses on 10th and 12th-grade mathematics.

• Arithmetic: Number Systems, Percentages, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion, Time & Work.

• Algebra: Basic identities, Linear Equations.

• Geometry: Circles, Triangles (Congruence and Similarity), Quadrilaterals.

• Mensuration: Sphere, Hemisphere, Cylinders, Cones.

• Statistics & Probability: Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Simple Probability.

2. General Intelligence & Reasoning

Includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning types:

• Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy.

• Venn Diagrams, Critical Thinking, Emotional Intelligence.

• Social Intelligence, Coding-Decoding, and Word Building.

3. English Language

• Spot the Error, Fill in the Blanks, Synonyms/Antonyms.

• Idioms & Phrases, One-word substitution.

• Active/Passive Voice, Direct/Indirect Narration.

• Cloze Passage and Comprehension.

4. General Awareness

Questions are designed to test the candidate’s knowledge of current events and academic subjects:

• History & Culture: Focus on Indian Heritage.

• Geography & Economics: Indian and Global perspective.

• General Policy & Scientific Research.

Preparation Strategy for 2026 Aspirants

1. Analyze Academic Weightage: Focus on sections like 'Modern Physics' in General Science and 'Data Interpretation' in Maths, which carry significant weight.

2. Mock Tests: Engage in weekly CBT simulations to adapt to the 60-minute time constraint.

3. Skill Development: Do not wait for the Tier-1 results to start typing practice. Aim for 35 w.p.m. in English for LDC posts.

   
   

For the year 2026, the SSC has integrated more "Competency-Based" questions that require application-based thinking rather than rote memorization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the latest SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus?

The SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus consist of a two-tier system. Tier-1 is a 200-mark objective test, while Tier-2 involves three sections covering Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, and a Computer Knowledge Test, followed by a Skill/Typing Test.

Q2. Are there any changes in the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus for Science students?

While the core SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus remain the same for all, Science students with Mathematics have an advantage as they are eligible for the Data Entry Operator (DEO) Grade ‘A’ posts in the C&AG office, which requires specific mathematical proficiency.

Q3. Is the Computer Knowledge Test included in the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus?

Yes, the Computer Knowledge Test is a mandatory module in Section III of Tier-2. Although it is qualifying in nature, you must pass it to be considered for the final merit list under the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus guidelines.

Q4. Does the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus include negative marking?

Yes. In Tier-1, there is a negative marking of 0.50 for each wrong answer. In Tier-2, there is a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer in Section I, Section II, and Module-I of Section III.

Q5. Where can I download the PDF for the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus?

You can download the comprehensive SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus PDF from the official SSC website (ssc.gov.in) or through educational resource portals like College Simplified.

Conclusion

Staying ahead in the 2026 recruitment cycle requires a deep dive into the SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern and Syllabus. By focusing on the specific academic streams and mastering the modular structure of Tier-1 and Tier-2, you can transform your preparation into a successful government career.

Ready to start your journey? Explore more in-depth course guides and stream-specific tips at collegesimplified.in to simplify your path from exams to your dream college or career!