SSC MTS & Havaldar Selection Process 2026: PET/PST Requirements Explained

If you are a student aiming for a secure government position in 2026, understanding the academic and physical framework of national-level exams is your first step toward success. The SSC MTS Selection Process 2026 is designed to evaluate both your intellectual aptitude and, for certain roles, your physical endurance. While the Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) roles are purely academic, the Havaldar posts within the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) require candidates to clear specific physical benchmarks.

In this guide, we dive deep into the course-like structure of the 2026 recruitment cycle, focusing on the streams of physical evaluation and the academic syllabus.

Understanding the Academic Stream: CBT 2026

The first phase of the SSC MTS Selection Process 2026 is the Computer-Based Examination (CBT). This is the primary "course" all candidates must pass. In 2026, the exam continues its two-session format:

1. Session I: Covers Numerical and Mathematical Ability and Reasoning Ability. This session is qualifying in nature and has no negative marking.

2. Session II: Focuses on General Awareness and English Language & Comprehension. This session is the merit-deciding factor, where each wrong answer results in a 1-mark penalty.

Pro-Tip: Just as students in technical streams like Printing Engineering focus on specialized modules, SSC aspirants must treat Session II as their core "specialization" since it determines the final ranking.

SSC MTS & Havaldar Selection Process 2026

Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Requirements for 2026

For those choosing the Havaldar stream, the SSC MTS Selection Process 2026 includes a mandatory Physical Efficiency Test (PET). Unlike competitive sports, this is a test of basic endurance.

Gender	Task	Time Limit
Male	1600 Meters Walking	15 Minutes
Female	1 Kilometer Walking	20 Minutes

This PET is qualifying only. You won't get extra marks for finishing faster, but failing to meet the time limit will result in immediate disqualification from the Havaldar post.

Physical Standard Test (PST) Benchmarks

The Physical Standard Test (PST) is the "measurement" phase of the SSC MTS Selection Process 2026. It ensures that candidates meet the physical requirements for field duties in CBIC and CBN.

For Male Candidates:

• Height: 157.5 cm (Relaxable by 5 cm for Garhwalis, Assamese, Gorkhas, and ST members).

• Chest: 81 cm (fully expanded) with a minimum expansion of 5 cm.

For Female Candidates:

• Height: 152 cm (Relaxable by 2.5 cm for specific categories).

• Weight: Minimum 48 kg (Relaxable by 2 kg for specific categories).

Integration of Vocational Interests: Printing Engineering

While preparing for government exams, many students also explore specialized technical streams. For instance, if you are interested in the technical side of document security or government press operations, you might want to look into Printing Engineering.

Check Out These Resources:Printing Engineering Admissions 2026: Course Guide – A detailed look at the 2026 admission cycle.

Printing Engineering Fees 2026: Government vs Private – Understand the academic investment for this stream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is the PET mandatory for all posts in the SSC MTS Selection Process 2026?

No. The PET/PST is only mandatory for candidates who have applied for the Havaldar post in CBIC and CBN. MTS (Non-Technical) applicants only need to clear the CBT.

Q2: Can PwBD candidates get exemptions in the 2026 physical tests?

Yes, candidates with certain benchmark disabilities (like OH or LC) are often exempted from the walking test, provided they meet the medical certificate requirements specified in the 2026 notification.

Q3: What happens if I pass the CBT but fail the PST for Havaldar?

If you fail the physical standards for Havaldar but have a high enough score in the CBT, you will still be considered for the MTS (Non-Technical) posts, provided you opted for them in your preference list.

Q4: Is there a cycling test in the SSC MTS Selection Process 2026?

According to the latest 2026 standards, the primary efficiency task is walking. Cycling, which was part of earlier cycles, is generally no longer required, but candidates should verify the final 2026 official gazette.

Conclusion

Success in the SSC MTS Selection Process 2026 requires a dual focus on academic excellence and physical readiness. Whether you are studying the intricate details of the English language or preparing for the 1600-meter walk, consistency is your greatest asset.

For those looking for alternative technical pathways in 2026, exploring niche fields like Printing or Instrumentation Engineering can provide excellent parallel opportunities.