The full form of SSC is the Staff Selection Commission, which conducts the SSC CGL exam 2025 (Combined Graduate Level) to recruit Group-C and Group-B officers for various ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. The SSC CGL Recruitment 2025 is conducted in two stages: Tier I and Tier II.
A clear understanding of the SSC CGL syllabus will help you prepare for these online exams.
To prepare efficiently for the SSC CGL Exam, candidates must thoroughly understand the SSC CGL syllabus and exam pattern. A clear knowledge of these aspects helps in designing a structured study plan to secure a high score. The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam in a Two-Tier format, with each tier covering different subjects and question types. Below is a detailed breakdown of the SSC CGL 2025 exam pattern, including the mode of examination and types of questions for each stage.
The SSC CGL exam is conducted in multiple tiers, each designed for different roles. All stages are computer-based (online) and follow an objective multiple-choice format, except for a descriptive section in Tier II.
| Tier | Details |
|---|---|
| Tier-I | Objective multiple-choice questions |
| Tier-II | Objective multiple-choice questions |
| Paper-I (General) | Compulsory for all candidates. |
| Paper II (Statistics) | Only for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) applicants. |
| Paper-III (Finance & Economics) | Required for Assistant Audit Officer (AAO) & Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) applicants. |
| Objective multiple-choice questions are mandatory for all candidates. | Included as part of Tier-II Paper-I. |
Tier I is mandatory for all candidates. Tier II consists of three papers: Paper I for all, Paper II for JSO applicants, and Paper III for AAO roles. The entire exam is conducted online in a structured format. Understanding this structure helps in better preparation and effective time management.
The SSC CGL Tier-1 Exam is qualifying in nature and consists of four sections, each containing 25 questions. The total exam duration is 60 minutes, and there is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer. The exam follows the structure below:
| S.No. | Section | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 50 | A total of 60 minutes (1 hour) for the entire exam |
| 2 | General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| 3 | Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| 4 | English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | – | 100 | 200 | 60 minutes |
Candidates should prepare according to this pattern to maximize their scores and qualify for the next stage.
Being aware of the SSC CGL Syllabus 2025 is very important if you want to take up the SSC CGL test. Ensure you clearly understand the important topics involved and the weightage given to the same.
This way, you can plan out your preparation for the exam better and smarter.
The SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus for the General Intelligence & Reasoning section tests a candidate’s logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to analyze patterns. It includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning topics, which help assess the candidate’s quick decision-making skills. Below is the detailed SSC CGL syllabus for General Intelligence & Reasoning:
| Category | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Logical Reasoning | Analogies, Similarities & Differences, Problem-Solving, Judgment, Decision Making, Statement Conclusion, Syllogistic Reasoning |
| Spatial & Visual Ability | Space Visualization, Spatial Orientation, Visual Memory, Observation, Relationship Concepts |
| Numerical Reasoning | Arithmetical Reasoning, Arithmetic Number Series, Figural Classification, Non-Verbal Series |
| Coding & Decoding | Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations |
| Miscellaneous | Discrimination, Pattern Recognition |
Mastering these topics will enhance problem-solving speed and accuracy in the SSC CGL 2025 exam.
The English Language section in SSC CGL Tier-1 is conducted only in English. This section evaluates a candidate’s comprehension skills, grammar, vocabulary, and writing ability. A strong grasp of fundamental language concepts will help in achieving a high score. Below is the detailed SSC CGL syllabus for the English section:
| Category | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Grammar & Structure | Sentence Correction, Error Spotting, Active-Passive Voice, Sentence Rearrangement, Sentence Improvement |
| Vocabulary | Idioms & Phrases, One-word Substitution, Synonyms-Antonyms, Spelling Correction |
| Comprehension Skills | Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Fill in the Blanks |
A solid understanding of these topics will help candidates perform well in the SSC CGL 2025 exam.
The SSC CGL Tier 1 syllabus for the General Awareness section in 2025 evaluates a candidate’s knowledge of current events, history, geography, science, economy, and general studies. This section is essential in assessing a candidate’s understanding of the world and its impact on society. Below is the detailed SSC CGL Tier 1 syllabus for General Awareness.
| Category | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Current Affairs & Events | National & International News, People in News, Important Days, Books & Authors, Sports, Important Government Schemes |
| History & Culture | Indian History, Cultural Heritage, Freedom Movement |
| Geography & Economy | India & Neighboring Countries, Economic Scene, Policies, Trade & Development |
| General Science | Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Scientific Research, Innovations |
| Static GK | Important Portfolios, Major Policies, Indian Constitution, Governance |
A strong grasp of these topics will help candidates perform well in the SSC CGL 2025 exam.
The SSC CGL Maths syllabus covers topics with difficulty levels up to Class 10th. Candidates must have a strong grasp of basic Arithmetic, Geometry, and mathematical functions to excel in this section. It is important to note that Quantitative Aptitude is a key component in both Tier 1 and Tier 2 of the SSC CGL exam. Below is the list of essential topics as per the official SSC syllabus:
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Discount, Averages, Profit & Loss, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Time & Work, Time & Distance, Mixture & Alligation, Partnership Business |
| Algebra & Geometry | Basic Algebraic Identities, Standard Identities, School Algebra & Elementary Surds, Triangle & Its Centers, Congruence & Similarity of Triangles, Circle and Its Chords, Regular Polygons, Quadrilaterals |
| Mensuration & Trigonometry | Trigonometric Ratios, Heights & Distances, Degree & Radian Measures, Complementary Angles, Right Circular Cone, Right Circular Cylinder, Sphere, Hemisphere, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Prism, Regular Right Pyramid (Triangular/Square Base) |
| Data Interpretation & Graphs | Bar Diagram, Pie Chart, Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Graphs of Linear Equations |
| Miscellaneous | Square Roots, Common Tangents to Two or More Circles, Angles Subtended by Chords of a Circle |
Having a thorough understanding of these topics will help candidates perform well in the Quantitative Aptitude section of the SSC CGL exam.
After completing the preliminary exam, candidates should start preparing for the SSC CGL Tier 2 exam. This stage is conducted online in an objective multiple-choice format, except for Module II (Data Entry Speed Test) of Section III in Paper I. Below is a detailed overview of the SSC CGL Tier 2 syllabus and exam pattern.
The SSC CGL Tier-2 exam is a crucial stage of the selection process and is conducted online. Paper I is divided into two sessions—Session I and Session II—which are held on the same day. All candidates who qualify in Tier-1 must appear for Paper-I. Session I includes Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III, while Session II consists of Module II of Section III. Candidates must qualify in all sections of Paper-I to proceed to the next stage.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the SSC CGL syllabus and exam pattern for Tier 2, including Paper I and Paper II.
| Section | Module | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration | Weightage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I | Module-I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 180 (60×3) | 1 hour | 23% |
| Module-II | Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | – | – | 23% | |
| Section II | Module-I | English Language and Comprehension | 45 | 210 (70×3) | 1 hour | 35% |
| Module-II | General Awareness | 25 | – | – | 19% | |
| Section III | Module-I | Computer Knowledge Test | 20 | 60 (20×3) | 15 minutes | Qualifying |
| Module-II | Data Entry Speed Test | One Data Entry Task | – | 15 minutes | Qualifying |
Paper I evaluates candidates on key subjects, including mathematics, reasoning, English comprehension, and general awareness. Section III assesses computer proficiency and typing speed, both of which are qualifying in nature.
| Paper | Section | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper II | Statistics | 100 | 200 | 2 hours |
Paper II focuses on Statistics and includes 100 questions worth 200 marks. This section is specifically for candidates applying for statistical positions under SSC CGL.
This section evaluates a candidate’s numerical proficiency and number sense. Although similar topics are covered in Tier-1, the difficulty level in Tier-2 is higher. Candidates must strengthen their understanding of key mathematical concepts. Below is the detailed SSC CGL syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude:
| Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Number Systems | Whole Number Computation, Decimals, Fractions, Relationships between Numbers |
| Fundamental Arithmetic Operations | Percentages, Ratio & Proportion, Square Roots, Averages, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture & Alligation, Time & Distance, Time & Work |
| Algebra | Basic Algebraic Identities, Elementary Surds, Graphs of Linear Equations |
| Geometry | Properties of Triangles (Centers, Congruence, Similarity), Circles (Chords, Tangents, Angles, Common Tangents) |
| Mensuration | Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circles, Right Prism, Right Circular Cone & Cylinder, Sphere, Hemisphere, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Regular Right Pyramid (Triangular/Square Base) |
| Trigonometry | Trigonometric Ratios, Complementary Angles, Heights & Distances (Basic Problems), Standard Identities |
| Statistics & Probability | Tables & Graphs (Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Bar Diagram, Pie Chart), Measures of Central Tendency (Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation), Basic Probability |
Candidates should focus on conceptual clarity and problem-solving speed to perform well in this section.
This section tests both verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills, assessing a candidate’s logical thinking, problem-solving ability, and intelligence in various scenarios. Below is the structured SSC CGL syllabus for Reasoning:
| Category | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Analogies | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic/Number Analogy, Figural Analogy |
| Classification | Semantic Classification, Symbolic/Number Classification, Figural Classification |
| Series & Patterns | Semantic Series, Number Series, Figural Series |
| Logical & Abstract Reasoning | Space Orientation, Trends, Drawing Inferences, Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving |
| Diagrams & Figures | Venn Diagrams, Embedded Figures, Punched Hole/Folding & Unfolding, Figural Pattern Folding & Completion |
| Intelligence & Aptitude | Emotional Intelligence, Social Intelligence, Word Building |
| Coding & Operations | Coding-Decoding, Numerical Operations, Symbolic Operations |
| Other Topics | Additional reasoning-based topics as per exam requirements |
Candidates must practice different reasoning patterns regularly to improve accuracy and speed in solving logical problems.
This section evaluates a candidate’s fluency, grammar, and comprehension skills in English. It includes vocabulary, sentence structure, and reading comprehension. The comprehension part is designed to test how quickly candidates understand given texts, including both literary and current affairs-based passages. Below is the structured SSC CGL syllabus for English:
| Category | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, Homonyms, Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases, One-word Substitution, Spelling Corrections |
| Grammar & Sentence Structure | English Grammar, Sentence Formation, Spotting Errors, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Improvement |
| Verbs & Voice | Active & Passive Voice, Direct & Indirect Speech |
| Sentence & Passage Arrangement | Shuffling of Sentence Parts, Shuffling of Sentences in a Passage |
| Reading Comprehension | Cloze Passage, Comprehension Passage (includes at least one literary piece and others based on current affairs or editorials) |
Candidates must focus on improving their vocabulary, grammar rules, and comprehension skills to perform well in this section.
The SSC CGL Syllabus for this section evaluates a candidate’s general awareness, covering current affairs, scientific concepts, historical events, and economic developments. Questions will focus on general science, societal applications, and recent events.
| Category | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| India & Neighboring Countries | History, Culture, Geography, Economy, General Policy, Scientific Research |
| Science & Technology | Basic Science and its Everyday Applications |
| Current Affairs | National & International Events |
| Books & Authors | Famous literary works and their authors |
| Sports | Major tournaments, records, and achievements |
| Government Schemes | Important welfare schemes and policies |
| Important Dates & Events | National and International significant days |
| Portfolio | Key government officials and their positions |
| People in News | Prominent personalities and their contributions |
Candidates should stay updated with news, government policies, and scientific advancements to excel in this section.
The Statistics section in the SSC CGL Tier-2 syllabus assesses a candidate’s proficiency in data interpretation, probability, and statistical analysis. It covers topics such as data collection methods, probability theories, correlation, regression, and time series analysis. Candidates should have a strong understanding of statistical tools and techniques commonly applied in real-world scenarios.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Data Collection & Presentation | Types of data (Primary & Secondary), data collection methods, tabulation, graphs, charts, frequency distribution. |
| Measures of Central Tendency | Mean, median, mode, quartiles, deciles, percentiles. |
| Measures of Dispersion | Range, quartile deviation, mean deviation, standard deviation, relative dispersion. |
| Moments, Skewness & Kurtosis | Types of moments, relationship, skewness & kurtosis measures. |
| Correlation & Regression | Scatter diagrams, correlation coefficients, regression lines, Spearman’s rank correlation, multiple regression. |
| Probability Theory | Probability concepts, definitions, conditional & compound probability, Bayes’ theorem. |
| Random Variables & Distributions | Types of sampling (random, stratified, cluster, systematic, etc.), sampling errors, and sample size determination. |
| Sampling Techniques | Meaning, types, construction issues, base shifting, cost of living index, and applications. |
| Statistical Inference | Point & interval estimation, methods of estimation (moment, likelihood, least squares), hypothesis testing (Z, t, Chi-square, F tests). |
| Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) | One-way & two-way classification data analysis. |
| Time Series Analysis | Components of time series, trend analysis, seasonal variations. |
| Index Numbers | Meaning, types, construction issues, base shifting, cost of living index, and applications. |
Candidates should focus on statistical concepts, formulas, and real-world applications to perform well in this section.
This section of the SSC CGL Syllabus for the Tier 2 exam is divided into two parts: Finance & Accounts and Economics & Governance. The Finance & Accounts section covers the fundamental principles of accounting, financial statements, and key accounting concepts. Meanwhile, the Economics & Governance section focuses on economic theories, government financial policies, banking, fiscal policies, and India’s economic reforms. Below is a detailed breakdown of the topics covered in each section.
| Part | Subject | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Part A: Finance & Accounts (80 Marks) | Financial Accounting | Nature and scope of financial accounting, its limitations, and basic principles (GAAP). |
| Basic Accounting Concepts | Preparation of manufacturing, trading, and profit & loss appropriation accounts. Balance sheet concepts, the distinction between capital and revenue expenditure. | |
| Financial Statements | Constitutional provisions, roles, and responsibilities. | |
| Depreciation & Inventory Valuation | Methods of depreciation accounting and inventory valuation techniques. | |
| Non-Profit Organisation Accounts | Receipts & Payments and Income & Expenditure accounts. | |
| Bills of Exchange & Ledgers | Understanding bills of exchange and self-balancing ledgers. | |
| Part B: Economics & Governance (120 Marks) | Comptroller & Auditor General of India | Determinants of demand, elasticity, price, income, cross-elasticity, consumer behavior (Marshallian and Indifference curve approach). |
| Finance Commission | Role and functions in government financial management. | |
| Basic Economics & Microeconomics | Definition, scope, nature, and methods of economic study. Key economic problems and production possibility curves. | |
| Theory of Demand & Supply | Determinants of demand, elasticity, price, income, cross-elasticity, consumer behaviour (Marshallian and Indifference curve approach). | |
| Theory of Production & Cost | Factors of production, law of variable proportions, returns to scale. | |
| Market Structures & Pricing | Different market types – perfect competition, monopoly, monopolistic competition, oligopoly, and price determination. | |
| Indian Economy Overview | Role of agriculture, industry, and services, national income concepts, population growth, poverty, and unemployment. | |
| Economic Reforms in India | Reforms since 1991 – liberalization, privatization, globalization, and disinvestment. | |
| Money & Banking | RBI’s role, commercial banks, monetary and fiscal policies, budget deficits, balance of payments. | |
| Fiscal Policies & Governance | Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (FRBM) and the impact of IT on governance. |
This section assesses a candidate’s computer knowledge and practical skills essential for handling digital tasks. It includes fundamental topics such as computer organization, hardware components, software applications, internet usage, email management, and cybersecurity measures. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, networking concepts, and online security threats is crucial for excelling in this section. Below is a structured breakdown of the syllabus.
| Category | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Computer Basics | Components of a computer, CPU, input/output devices, memory organization, backup devices, ports, Windows Explorer, and keyboard shortcuts. |
| Software | Overview of the Windows operating system, and basics of Microsoft Office (MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint). |
| Internet & Email | Web browsing, online searching, downloading, uploading, email account management, and e-banking. |
| Networking & Cybersecurity | Basics of networking, networking devices and protocols, threats like hacking, viruses, worms, and Trojans, along with security measures. |
Here are the recommended resources for your SSC CGL preparation, with the book titles mentioned first:
Clearing the SSC CGL Exam is achievable with a well-structured preparation strategy. To improve your score, visit the official website to access previous years’ papers and take a mock test. This will help identify the sections that need more focus for better performance.
Create a timetable covering all sections, giving more time to sections that you may find tougher. Practice as many questions as possible in each section. Make sure you have adequate time to prepare for your exam.
Make sure you get an idea about the importance and weightage given to each topic, under every section of the SSC CGL Syllabus.
Recommended Read:
Ans. Not everyone finds it that easy to crack SSC CGL on the first attempt. However, with the right strategy and practice, you can manage to achieve a good score.
Ans. Any graduate with a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institute or University can attempt the SSC CGL exam.
Ans. The SSC salary that you can earn depends on the post that you manage to achieve after clearing the SSC CGL. The salary could be anywhere between Rs. 25,500 to 151100.
Ans. The difficulty level of SSC CGL depends on the level of your preparation. If you can plan well to practice and cover all the topics, you should be able to clear the exam on your first attempt.
Ans. Yes, it is possible to crack SSC CGL without joining any coaching center. All you would need is the required study material, a good study plan, and a determination to clear the exam.
Ans. The SSC CGL Syllabus for Tier 1 exam includes four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. Each section assesses different skills, and the exam follows a specific marking scheme.
Editor's Recommendations
Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
