Are you preparing for SSC CGL 2025? Understanding the updated SSC CGL exam pattern is the first smart step toward cracking one of the most competitive government exams in India.
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially released the SSC CGL 2025 notification, with Tier 1 scheduled from 13 August to 30 August 2025. If you’re aiming for Group B or Group C posts, you need to be aware of the Tier 1 and Tier 2 paper pattern, marking scheme, and section-wise weightage to maximize your score.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the latest SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025 in detail—perfect for both beginners and repeat aspirants.
SSC CGL 2025 Exam Highlights
| Exam | Dates | Mode | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 13–30 August 2025 | Online (CBT) | 200 |
| Tier 2 | To be announced | Online (CBT) | 390–790* |
*Varies depending on post preferences (JSO/Statistical Investigator, etc.)
SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025: Tier-Wise Breakdown
The SSC CGL exam is divided into two main tiers. Here’s a simplified breakdown of both:
Tier 1 Exam Pattern (Prelims)
The Tier 1 exam is mandatory for all candidates and includes 100 questions across 4 sections.
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | 60 mins |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 200
- Negative Marking: 0.5 mark per wrong answer
Tier 2 Exam Pattern (Mains)
The Tier 2 exam includes Paper 1 (for all posts) and Paper 2 (only for JSO & Statistical Investigator posts).
Paper 1 Structure
Paper 1 is divided into 2 Sessions:
Session I
| Section | Module | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I | Module I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 1 hour |
| Module II | Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | ||
| Section II | Module I | English Language & Comprehension | 45 | 135 | 1 hour |
| Module II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | ||
| Section III | Module I | Computer Knowledge | 20 | 60 | 15 mins |
Session II
| Module | Subject | Type | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Module II | Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) | Qualifying | 15 mins |
Paper 2 (Only for JSO & Statistical Investigator)
| Paper | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper II | Statistics | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
SSC CGL 2025 Marking Scheme
Understanding how your answers are marked can save you marks in the long run.
| Tier | Correct Answer | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | +2 marks | -0.5 mark |
| Tier 2 Paper 1 | +3 marks | -1 mark |
| Tier 2 Paper 2 | +2 marks | -0.5 mark |
SSC CGL Total Marks 2025
- Tier 1: 200 marks
- Tier 2 Paper 1: 390 marks
- Tier 2 Paper 2 (JSO/Stat. Inv.): 200 marks
- DEST (Typing Test): Qualifying only
Maximum marks: 790 (if you appear for both Paper 1 and 2)
SSC CGL DEST (Typing Test) Pattern 2025
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 15 minutes |
| Passage | ~2000 key depressions |
| Language | English |
| Criteria | Qualifying (no marks but mandatory for selection) |
Why Understanding the Exam Pattern is Crucial
Knowing the exact exam pattern gives you a competitive edge. Here’s how:
* Helps in planning subject-wise preparation
* Enables better time management in mock tests
* Reduces negative marking through awareness
* Builds confidence by removing exam-day surprises
* Improves accuracy by familiarizing with the question format
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The SSC CGL Exam Pattern 2025 has undergone several changes over the years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeater, understanding the updated pattern is crucial for your selection. Now that you’re equipped with the structure, marking scheme, and important highlights — it’s time to plan your preparation like a topper!