SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026
Stage-wise SSC CHSL exam pattern: number of questions, marks, duration and negative marking for each stage.
Tier 1
Mode
Computer Based Test (CBT, Online)
Marks
200
Duration
60 minutes
Negative marking
-0.5 per wrong answer
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Language | 25 | 50 |
Shortlisting stage for Tier 2, does not count toward final merit on its own. +2 per correct answer, -0.5 per wrong answer.
Tier 2 - Session I (merit)
Mode
Computer Based Test (CBT, Online)
Marks
405
Duration
2 hours 15 minutes total
Negative marking
-1 per wrong answer on the 4 scored modules; Computer Knowledge Test is qualifying only, no penalty
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 |
| Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | 90 |
| English Language and Comprehension | 40 | 120 |
| General Awareness | 20 | 60 |
| Computer Knowledge Test (qualifying only) | 15 | 45 |
Only the first 4 modules (360 marks) count toward final merit. Computer Knowledge Test (45 marks) is qualifying only and does not add to the merit score, even though it is part of the same 405-mark paper. +3 per correct answer, -1 per wrong answer on the 4 scored modules.
Tier 2 - Session II (qualifying)
Mode
Skill Test or Typing Test
Marks
—
Duration
10-15 minutes
Negative marking
Not applicable, pass/fail only
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Typing Test (LDC/JSA posts) | — | — |
| Skill Test / Data Entry Speed Test (DEO/DEO Grade A posts) | — | — |
LDC/JSA candidates need 35 words per minute in English or 30 words per minute in Hindi. DEO candidates need 8,000 key depressions per hour; DEO Grade A candidates need 15,000 key depressions per hour. Qualifying only, does not add to merit score.