SSC CGL 2025 Detailed Syllabus and Exam Pattern
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the SSC CGL 2025 Detailed Syllabus and Exam Pattern for Combined Graduate Level Examination. Candidates preparing for this prestigious examination must understand the complete syllabus and exam pattern to strategize their preparation effectively. This comprehensive guide covers the subject-wise syllabus, mark distribution, examination pattern, and preparation strategy for SSC CGL 2025.
| Exam Name | Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2025 |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam Levels | Tier-I, Tier-II, Tier-III, and Tier-IV |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | Computer Based Test (CBT), Descriptive Paper, Skill Test/Computer Proficiency Test |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
SSC CGL 2025 Important Dates
| Event | Tentative Dates |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | September 2025 |
| Online Application Start Date | September 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | October 2025 |
| Tier-I Exam Date | December 2025 |
| Tier-II Exam Date | February 2026 |
| Tier-III Exam Date | April 2026 |
| Tier-IV Exam Date | May 2026 |
SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025
The SSC CGL 2025 examination will be conducted in four tiers:
Tier-I: Computer Based Examination (Objective Multiple Choice)
| Section | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | 60 minutes |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 minutes |
Note: There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each wrong answer in Tier-I.
Tier-II: Computer Based Examination (Objective Multiple Choice)
| Paper | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper-I | Quantitative Abilities | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper-II | English Language and Comprehension | 200 | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper-III | Statistics (for Statistical Investigator posts) | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
| Paper-IV | General Studies (Finance & Economics) (for AAO/JSO posts) | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
Note: There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in Paper-II and 0.50 marks for each wrong answer in Paper-I, Paper-III, and Paper-IV.
Tier-III: Descriptive Paper (Pen and Paper Mode)
| Mode | Description | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pen and Paper | Essay Writing, Letter/Application Writing, Précis Writing | 100 | 1 hour |
Note: The paper will be conducted in English or Hindi as per the candidate’s choice in the application form.
Tier-IV: Computer Proficiency Test/Skill Test
| Test Type | Applicable For | Nature |
|---|---|---|
| Data Entry Skill Test (DEST) | Tax Assistant posts | Qualifying in nature |
| Computer Proficiency Test (CPT) | Assistant Section Officer, Assistant, Inspector posts | Qualifying in nature |
SSC CGL 2025 Detailed Syllabus
Tier-I Syllabus
1. General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Analogies
- Similarities and differences
- Space visualization
- Spatial orientation
- Problem-solving
- Analysis
- Judgment
- Decision making
- Visual memory
- Discrimination
- Observation
- Relationship concepts
- Arithmetical reasoning
- Figural classification
- Arithmetic number series
- Non-verbal series
- Coding and decoding
- Statement conclusion
- Syllogistic reasoning
2. General Awareness
- History of India
- Indian Culture
- Geography
- Economic Scene
- General Polity
- Indian Constitution
- Scientific Research
- Current Affairs
- Sports
- Books and Authors
- Important Schemes
- Portfolios
- Important Dates
- National & International Organizations
3. Quantitative Aptitude
- Number systems
- Computation of whole numbers
- Decimals and fractions
- Relationship between numbers
- Fundamental arithmetical operations
- Percentages
- Ratio and proportion
- Average
- Interest
- Profit and loss
- Discount
- Mixture and Alligation
- Time and distance
- Time and work
- Basic algebraic identities
- Graphs of linear equations
- Triangle and its various kinds of centers
- Congruence and similarity of triangles
- Circle and its chords, tangents
- Angles subtended by chords
- Common tangents to two or more circles
- Triangle, Quadrilaterals
- Regular polygons
- Right prism, Right circular cone
- Right circular cylinder, Sphere
- Hemispheres
- Rectangular parallelepiped
- Regular right pyramid with triangular or square base
- Trigonometric ratio
- Degree and radian measures
- Standard identities
- Complementary angles
- Heights and distances
- Histogram, Frequency polygon
- Bar diagram & Pie chart
4. English Comprehension
- Reading Comprehension
- Fill in the blanks
- Spellings
- Phrases and Idioms
- One-word substitution
- Sentence Improvement
- Active/Passive Voice
- Direct/Indirect Narration
- Cloze Test
- Error Spotting
- Para jumbles
Tier-II Syllabus
Paper-I: Quantitative Abilities
This paper includes all the topics from the Quantitative Aptitude section of Tier-I but with advanced difficulty level. Additional topics include:
- Data Interpretation
- Data Sufficiency
- Advanced Statistics
- Permutation and Combination
- Probability
Paper-II: English Language and Comprehension
This paper includes all the topics from the English Comprehension section of Tier-I but with advanced difficulty level. Additional topics include:
- Spot the error
- Fill in the blanks
- Synonyms/Antonyms
- Spelling/Detecting mis-spelt words
- Idioms & Phrases
- One-word substitution
- Improvement of sentences
- Active/Passive Voice
- Conversion into Direct/Indirect narration
- Shuffling of sentence parts
- Shuffling of sentences in a passage
- Close passage
- Comprehension passage
Paper-III: Statistics (For Statistical Investigator)
- Collection, Classification, and Presentation of Statistical Data
- Measures of Central Tendency
- Measures of Dispersion
- Moments, Skewness, and Kurtosis
- Correlation and Regression
- Probability Theory
- Random Variable and Probability Distributions
- Sampling Theory
- Statistical Inference
- Analysis of Variance
- Time Series Analysis
- Index Numbers
Paper-IV: General Studies (Finance & Economics) (For AAO/JSO)
Finance and Accounts:
- Financial Accounting
- Basic concepts of Accounting
- Financial Management
- Budget, Budgetary Control
- Cost Accounting
- Fundamental principles of Auditing
- Financial Institutions and Markets
Economics and Governance:
- Comptroller & Auditor General of India
- Finance Commission
- Basic concepts of Economics and introduction to Micro Economics
- Theory of Demand and Supply
- National Income
- India’s Foreign Trade
- Economic Planning in India
- Good Governance
- Digital India
- Money Laundering
- GST
Tier-III Syllabus (Descriptive Paper)
The Tier-III paper is a descriptive test designed to test the written skills of the candidates in English/Hindi. The questions will be designed to test the ability of the candidates to write in correct and effective English/Hindi. The topics covered are:
- Essay Writing
- Letter/Application Writing
- Precis Writing
- Reading Comprehension
- Grammar Skills
Tier-IV Syllabus (CPT/DEST)
Computer Proficiency Test (CPT):
- Word Processing
- Spreadsheet Applications
- Presentation Software
Data Entry Skill Test (DEST):
- A speed test of 8,000 key depressions per hour
- Typing test on computer
SSC CGL 2025 Preparation Strategy
1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The first step is to thoroughly understand the exam pattern and syllabus. Know the number of questions, marking scheme, and time allocation for each section.
2. Create a Study Plan
Divide your preparation time equally among all subjects. Allocate more time to your weaker areas while maintaining regular practice for stronger ones.
3. Gather the Right Study Material
Use standard books and online resources for preparation. Some recommended books are:
- Quantitative Aptitude: Quantum CAT by Sarvesh K Verma, Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal
- Reasoning: A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- English: Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi, Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
- General Awareness: Lucent’s General Knowledge, Manorama Yearbook
4. Focus on Basics First
Before diving into complex problems, ensure you have a strong grasp of the fundamentals of each subject.
5. Regular Practice
Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
6. Time Management
Practice solving questions within the allocated time. This will help you manage time effectively during the actual exam.
7. Revision
Regular revision is crucial. Keep revisiting topics you’ve already covered to strengthen your memory.
8. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
For General Awareness, read newspapers, magazines, and follow current affairs websites daily.
SSC CGL 2025 Posts and Their Eligibility
| Post | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Assistant Audit Officer | Bachelor’s Degree in any subject. Desirable: CA/CS/ICWA/M.Com/MBA(Finance) |
| Assistant Section Officer | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
| Assistant Enforcement Officer | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
| Inspector of Income Tax | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
| Inspector (Central Excise) | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
| Inspector (Preventive Officer) | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
| Inspector (Examiner) | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
| Statistical Investigator Grade-II | Bachelor’s Degree with Statistics as one of the subjects |
| Tax Assistant | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
| Sub-Inspector | Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline |
SSC CGL 2025 Vacancy Details
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) is expected to release approximately 10,000+ vacancies for various posts under CGL 2025. The exact number of vacancies will be announced along with the official notification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the age limit for SSC CGL 2025?
A1: The age limit for most posts is 18-32 years with relaxation for reserved categories as per government norms.
Q2: Is there a negative marking in SSC CGL 2025?
A2: Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each wrong answer in Tier-I and 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in Paper-II of Tier-II and 0.50 marks for each wrong answer in Paper-I, Paper-III, and Paper-IV of Tier-II.
Q3: How many attempts are allowed for SSC CGL?
A3: There is no limit on the number of attempts for SSC CGL.
Q4: What is the selection process for SSC CGL 2025?
A4: The selection process includes Tier-I (Computer Based Test), Tier-II (Computer Based Test), Tier-III (Descriptive Paper), and Tier-IV (Skill Test/Computer Proficiency Test).
Q5: Is there any interview for SSC CGL 2025?
A5: No, there is no interview for SSC CGL from 2016 onwards.
Q6: What is the expected salary for SSC CGL posts?
A6: The salary for Group B posts ranges from ₹9,300 to ₹34,800 with a Grade Pay of ₹4,200 to ₹4,800, and for Group C posts, it ranges from ₹5,200 to ₹20,200 with a Grade Pay of ₹1,900 to ₹2,800.
Q7: How can I apply for SSC CGL 2025?
A7: You can apply online through the official website of SSC (ssc.gov.in) when the notification is released.
Q8: What is the application fee for SSC CGL 2025?
A8: The application fee is ₹100 for General/OBC candidates. Female candidates and candidates belonging to SC/ST/PwD/ESM categories are exempted from paying the fee.
Important Points to Remember
- The SSC CGL 2025 notification is expected to be released in September 2025.
- Candidates must check the official website regularly for updates.
- The exam pattern and syllabus might change slightly as per the official notification.
- Prepare a comprehensive study plan covering all sections of the exam.
- Practice regularly with mock tests and previous years’ question papers.
- Stay updated with current affairs for the General Awareness section.
For more details and regular updates about SSC CGL 2025, keep visiting our website.
