Staff Selection Commission - Combined Higher Secondary Level Examination (CHSL) Lower Division Clerk Recruitment 2026

Introduction

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the CHSL 2026 recruitment notification for the post of Lower Division Clerk (LDC). This nationwide recruitment drive fills clerical positions across various Central Government departments and attached offices. Eligible candidates with a 12th pass can apply online before the deadline.

Overview

Eligibility

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility conditions prescribed by the SSC. Key eligibility points are listed below.

• Age Limit: Candidates should be between 18 and 27 years of age as on the cut-off date specified in the notification. Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PwD/Ex-Servicemen as per Government rules.
• Educational Qualification: A candidate must have passed the 12th standard (Senior Secondary) from a recognized board or institution.
• Nationality: Indian citizen. Other nationalities or domicile requirements, if any, will be as per the detailed notification.
• Other Requirements: Candidates must satisfy any regional or language requirements specified for particular posts during document verification or appointment.

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: Not specified in notification (check SSC portal for opening date).
• Last Date to Apply Online: 30 July 2026.
• Admit Card and Exam Dates: Will be released on the SSC website; candidates must regularly check the official portal.

Application Fee

The application fee structure is as follows:

• General / OBC: 7;100 (to be paid online through net banking/debit/credit card or other modes as specified).
• SC / ST / Female / Ex-Servicemen / PwD: Nil (fee exempted).
• Fee once paid will not be refunded under any circumstance. Candidates should retain the payment receipt for future reference.

How to Apply

Follow these practical steps to submit your online application through the SSC website.

• 1. Visit the official SSC website and locate the CHSL 2026 recruitment link.
• 2. Read the full notification PDF carefully for post-wise details, eligibility, and instructions.
• 3. Click on 'Apply Online' and complete the registration by providing name, mobile number, and email.
• 4. Login with your registration ID and fill the detailed application form with personal, educational, and category information.
• 5. Upload scanned documents and photographs as per the prescribed size and format.
• 6. Pay the application fee (if applicable) through the available online modes and take a printout of the fee receipt.
• 7. Review the filled form, submit the application, and download/print the final submitted application for records.

Selection Process

The SSC selection for LDC is merit-oriented and typically includes the following stages:

• Computer Based Examination (Tier-I): Objective multiple-choice test covering General Intelligence, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude and General Awareness.
• Descriptive Paper / Skill Test (Tier-II / Typing Test): Depending on post requirements, candidates may need to appear in a descriptive paper, typing test or skill test.
• Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates must produce original certificates and documents for verification.
• Medical Examination: Final appointment is subject to meeting medical fitness standards where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the last date to apply for SSC CHSL LDC Recruitment 2026?

The last date to submit the online application is 30 July 2026.

Who is exempted from the application fee?

SC, ST, Female candidates, Ex-Servicemen and PwD candidates are generally exempted from the application fee. Check the official notification for exact exemptions.

What minimum educational qualification is required?

Applicants must have passed the 12th standard from a recognized board or institution.

How will the selection be conducted?

Selection is through a Computer Based Examination (Tier-I), followed by Tier-II/Skill test/Typing test as applicable, document verification and medical examination.

Where can I get the official notification and apply?

Visit the official SSC website and the CHSL 2026 recruitment page to download the notification and apply online when the application window opens.