If you are planning to appear in the SSC CHSL 2026 exam, then having a thorough understanding of the complete syllabus and exam pattern is absolutely essential before you start your preparation. The Staff Selection Commission conducts the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) examination every year to recruit candidates for various Group C and Group D posts in different government ministries and departments across India. Knowing what to study, how many questions to expect, and how marks are distributed can literally make or break your chances of success in this highly competitive examination.
In this article, we have compiled the SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 in a very detailed and structured manner, covering both Tier 1 and Tier 2 exams. We have also included the latest exam pattern, subject-wise topics, negative marking rules, skill test requirements, and some important preparation tips so that you dont have to look elsewhere for any information. Whether you are a first-time aspirant or a repeater, this guide will help you plan your study schedule more effectively.
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SSC CHSL 2026 – Exam Overview
Before diving into the detailed syllabus, let us first take a quick look at the overall structure of the SSC CHSL 2026 examination. The exam is conducted in two stages — Tier 1 and Tier 2. Both tiers are computer-based online tests, except for the Skill Test / Typing Test component in Tier 2 which tests practical proficiency.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam Name | SSC CHSL 2026 (Combined Higher Secondary Level) |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer Based Test) |
| Number of Tiers | 2 (Tier 1 and Tier 2) |
| Tier 1 Negative Marking | 0.5 marks per wrong answer |
| Tier 2 Negative Marking | 1 mark per wrong answer |
| Tier 1 Exam Date | July – September 2026 (Tentative) |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
SSC CHSL 2026 Selection Process
The selection process for SSC CHSL 2026 consists of two tiers. Candidates who qualify Tier 1 are shortlisted for Tier 2. The final merit list is prepared on the basis of Tier 2 performance, since Tier 1 serves primarily as a screening round. Let us understand both stages briefly before we explore the detailed syllabus.
| Tier | Type of Exam | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Objective Multiple Choice Questions | Computer Based (Online) |
| Tier 2 | Objective MCQ + Skill Test / Typing Test | Computer Based (Online) |
Tier 2 is divided into three sections with two modules each. Session 1 covers Section 1, Section 2, and Module 1 of Section 3, while Session 2 covers Module 2 of Section 3 (Skill / Typing Test). Both sessions are conducted on the same day.
SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026
The SSC CHSL Tier 1 exam pattern 2026 has remained largely the same in recent years. This is a 60-minute online test consisting of 100 objective type questions carrying 2 marks each, for a total of 200 marks. There are four subjects in the paper — General Awareness, General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. Each subject carries 25 questions worth 50 marks.
Candidates who belongs to the PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) category are given an extended time of 80 minutes to complete the same paper. For every wrong answer, 0.5 marks are deducted from the total score. Unattempted questions carry no penalty.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | 60 Minutes (80 Minutes for PwBD) |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| English Language | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Key Points on How to Cover the Tier 1 Exam Pattern:
Since each section carry equal weightage, you should not neglect any subject during preparation. Many aspirants tend to focus only on Quant and Reasoning while ignoring English or General Awareness, which is a big mistake. English Language and General Awareness are often considered the high-scoring sections if prepared well, as they dont require lengthy calculations. General Intelligence involves both verbal and non-verbal reasoning, so practicing previous year papers regularly is the most effective way to improve your score in this section. For Quantitative Aptitude, focus on speed and accuracy — practicing shortcut methods can save a lot of time during the actual exam.
SSC CHSL Tier 1 Syllabus 2026 – Subject-wise Topics
1. General Awareness Syllabus
The General Awareness section is designed to test a candidate’s knowledge of current events, general knowledge about India and the world, and basic understanding of everyday scientific phenomena. It also covers India’s neighboring countries in terms of history, culture, and economic developments. This section is generally considered scoring if you have been following current affairs regularly.
| Topic Area | Sub-topics Covered |
|---|---|
| History | Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History; Freedom Struggle |
| Geography | Physical Geography of India and World, Rivers, Mountains, Climate |
| Indian Polity | Constitution, Parliament, Judiciary, Panchayati Raj |
| Economic Scene | Indian Economy, Budget, Five Year Plans, Banking |
| General Policy | Government Schemes, Policies, Acts |
| Scientific Research | Science and Technology, Space, Defence |
| Culture | Art, Music, Dance, Literature, Festivals of India |
| Awards and Honours | Bharat Ratna, Padma Awards, Nobel Prize, International Awards |
| Books and Authors | Famous Books, Authors (Indian and International) |
| Sports GK | Major Tournaments, Indian and International Sports, Records |
| Current Affairs | National and International News (last 6-12 months) |
| India and Neighbours | Relations with SAARC countries, Borders, Agreements |
2. General Intelligence and Reasoning Syllabus
This section tests a candidate’s ability to think logically and analytically. It includes both verbal and non-verbal reasoning questions. The questions in this section are generally of moderate to high difficulty level and requires consistent practice to solve them quickly and accurately within the time limit.
| Topic | Type |
|---|---|
| Semantic Analogy | Verbal |
| Symbolic / Number Analogy | Non-Verbal / Mixed |
| Figural Analogy | Non-Verbal |
| Semantic Classification | Verbal |
| Symbolic / Number Classification | Non-Verbal |
| Figural Classification | Non-Verbal |
| Semantic Series | Verbal |
| Number Series | Mixed |
| Figural Series | Non-Verbal |
| Venn Diagrams | Logical |
| Space Orientation | Non-Verbal |
| Embedded Figures | Non-Verbal |
| Punched Hole / Pattern Folding & Unfolding | Non-Verbal |
| Figural Pattern Folding and Completion | Non-Verbal |
| Coding and Decoding | Verbal / Mixed |
| Critical Thinking | Logical |
| Problem Solving | Logical |
| Drawing Inferences | Logical |
| Trends | Mixed |
| Word Building | Verbal |
| Symbolic Operations | Mixed |
| Numerical Operations | Mixed |
| Emotional Intelligence | Conceptual |
| Social Intelligence | Conceptual |
3. English Language Syllabus
The English Language section in SSC CHSL Tier 1 focuses on testing a candidate’s command over grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Questions are of a moderate difficulty level and can be mastered with daily reading and practice of grammar rules. This is one of the sections where you can score full marks if prepares properly.
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Spot the Error | Identify grammatical errors in sentences |
| Fill in the Blanks | Fill appropriate word / phrase in blanks |
| Synonyms / Homonyms | Words with same or similar meaning |
| Antonyms | Words with opposite meaning |
| Spellings / Misspelt Words | Identify correctly or incorrectly spelled words |
| Idioms and Phrases | Meaning of common idioms and phrases |
| One Word Substitution | Single word replacing a phrase |
| Improvement of Sentences | Choose better grammatical version of a sentence |
| Active and Passive Voice | Conversion between active and passive voice |
| Direct and Indirect Narration | Conversion of reported speech |
| Shuffling of Sentence Parts | Rearrange jumbled parts of a sentence |
| Shuffling of Sentences in Passage | Rearrange jumbled sentences into coherent paragraph |
| Cloze Passage | Fill in blanks within a given passage |
| Comprehension Passage | Answer questions based on a reading passage |
4. Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
The Quantitative Aptitude section tests a candidate’s numerical ability and problem-solving skills. Questions are based on Class 10th level Mathematics and involves topics from arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, and statistics. Speed and accuracy are very critical in this section, and learning shortcut tricks can significantly boosted your performance.
| Chapter | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Number Systems | Whole Numbers, Decimals, Fractions, Relationship between Numbers |
| Fundamental Arithmetical Operations | Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Square Roots, Averages, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Discount, Mixture and Allegation, Time & Distance, Time & Work, Partnership |
| Algebra | Basic Algebraic Identities, Elementary Surds, Linear Equations Graphs |
| Geometry | Triangles (centres, congruence, similarity), Circles (chords, tangents, angles), Common Tangents |
| Mensuration | Triangle, Quadrilateral, Regular Polygon, Circle, Prism, Cone, Cylinder, Sphere, Hemisphere, Parallelepiped, Pyramid |
| Trigonometry | Trigonometric Ratios, Complementary Angles, Height and Distances, Standard Identities |
| Statistical Charts | Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Bar Diagram, Pie Chart |
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026 – Detailed Subject-wise Breakdown
The SSC CHSL Tier 2 Syllabus 2026 is more comprehensive and carries higher stakes compared to Tier 1. It consists of three sections with two modules each and is conducted in two sessions on the same day. The questions in Section 1, Section 2, and Module 1 of Section 3 are all objective multiple choice type. Module 2 of Section 3 is a practical Skill Test or Typing Test, which is qualifying in nature.
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
| Session | Section | Module | Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session I (2 hrs 15 mins) | Section 1 | Module 1 | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 60 × 3 = 180 | 1 Hour |
| Module 2 | Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | 60 × 3 = 180 | |||
| Section 2 | Module 1 | English Language and Comprehension | 40 | 60 × 3 = 180 | 1 Hour | |
| Module 2 | General Awareness | 20 | 60 × 3 = 180 | |||
| Section 3 | Module 1 | Computer Knowledge | 15 | 15 × 3 = 45 | 15 Minutes | |
| Session II (25 mins) | Section 3 | Module 2 | Skill Test / Typing Test | — | Qualifying | 10–15 Minutes |
Note: Each correct answer carries 3 marks in Tier 2. There is a negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer in Section 1, Section 2, and Module 1 of Section 3.
Section 1 – Module 1: Mathematical Abilities
| Chapter | Topics Included |
|---|---|
| Number Systems | Computation of Whole Numbers, Decimals, Fractions, Relationships Between Numbers |
| Fundamental Arithmetical Operations | Percentages, Ratio and Proportion, Square Roots, Averages, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss, Discount, Partnership Business, Mixture & Alligation, Time & Distance, Time & Work |
| Algebra | Algebraic Identities, Elementary Surds, Graphs of Linear Equations |
| Geometry | Triangles (various centres), Congruence & Similarity, Circles, Chords, Tangents, Angles, Common Tangents |
| Mensuration | Triangle, Quadrilaterals, Regular Polygons, Circle, Right Prism, Cone, Cylinder, Sphere, Hemisphere, Rectangular Parallelepiped, Right Pyramid |
| Trigonometry | Trigonometric Ratios, Complementary Angles, Heights and Distances, Standard Identities (sin²θ + cos²θ = 1) |
| Statistics and Probability | Mean, Median, Mode, Standard Deviation, Simple Probabilities, Histogram, Frequency Polygon, Bar Diagram, Pie Chart |
Section 1 – Module 2: Reasoning and General Intelligence
This module is similar to the Tier 1 Reasoning section but of a slightly higher difficulty level. Both verbal and non-verbal reasoning topics are covered. The full list of topics is identical to the Tier 1 reasoning syllabus, with the additional expectation of higher accuracy and speed from the candidate at this stage.
| Topic | Topic |
|---|---|
| Semantic Analogy | Social Intelligence |
| Symbolic / Number Analogy | Symbolic Operations |
| Figural Analogy | Trends |
| Semantic Classification | Space Orientation |
| Venn Diagrams | Number Series |
| Symbolic / Number Classification | Embedded Figures |
| Drawing Inferences | Figural Series |
| Figural Classification | Critical Thinking |
| Punched Hole / Pattern Folding & Unfolding | Problem Solving |
| Semantic Series | Emotional Intelligence |
| Figural Pattern Folding and Completion | Word Building |
| Coding and Decoding | Numerical Operations |
Section 2 – Module 1: English Language and Comprehension
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, Antonyms, Homonyms, One Word Substitution |
| Grammar | Sentence Structure, Active/Passive Voice, Direct/Indirect Narration |
| Spot the Error | Identify grammatical mistakes in sentences |
| Fill in the Blanks | Grammar-based and vocabulary-based blanks |
| Spellings / Misspelt Words | Detect correctly/incorrectly spelled words |
| Idioms and Phrases | Meaning and usage of common idioms |
| Improvement of Sentences | Choose grammatically better alternatives |
| Shuffling of Sentence Parts | Rearrange parts to form correct sentence |
| Shuffling of Sentences in Passage | Para-jumbles based on reading comprehension |
| Cloze Passage | Fill blanks in a given paragraph |
| Comprehension Passage | Read and answer questions based on a passage |
Section 2 – Module 2: General Awareness
| Topic Area | Coverage |
|---|---|
| History | Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian History; Colonial Period |
| Culture | Indian Arts, Literature, Music, Heritage Sites |
| Geography | Physical and Political Geography of India and the World |
| Economic Scene | Indian Economy, Fiscal Policy, Banking System |
| General Policy | Major Government Schemes and Policies |
| Scientific Research | Space Missions, Defence Technology, Scientific Developments |
| India and Neighbours | India’s relations with SAARC nations, border issues, treaties |
| Current Affairs | National and International events from recent months |
Section 3 – Module 1: Computer Knowledge
| Chapter | Topics |
|---|---|
| Computer Basics | Organization of Computer, CPU, Input/Output Devices, Computer Memory, Memory Organization, Backup Devices, PORTs, Windows Explorer, Keyboard Shortcuts |
| Software | Windows Operating System basics, Microsoft Office (MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint) |
| Internet and E-mails | Web Browsing and Searching, Downloading and Uploading, Managing Email Account, E-Banking |
| Networking and Cyber Security | Networking Devices and Protocols, Security Threats (Hacking, Virus, Worms, Trojans), Preventive Measures |
Section 3 – Module 2: Skill Test / Typing Test
The Skill Test or Typing Test is the final component of the SSC CHSL Tier 2 exam and is qualifying in nature. Different posts has different requirements:
| Post | Requirement | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| DEO / DEO Grade ‘A’ (in Ministry/Department) | 15,000 Key Depressions per Hour | ~3700-4000 key depressions in English passage | 15 Minutes |
| DEO / DEO Grade ‘A’ (except Ministry/Department) | 8,000 Key Depressions per Hour | ~2000-2200 key depressions in English passage | 15 Minutes |
| LDC / JSA (Typing Test) | English: 35 WPM or Hindi: 30 WPM | 10 Minutes |
SSC CHSL 2026 Minimum Qualifying Marks
Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks in each stage of the exam to advance further in the selection process. The minimum qualifying percentage differs based on the category of the candidate:
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks |
|---|---|
| UR (Unreserved) | 30% |
| OBC / EWS | 25% |
| SC / ST and all other categories | 20% |
Important Preparation Tips for SSC CHSL 2026
Now that you have a clear picture of the complete syllabus, here are some practical preparation tips that will helps you make the most of your study time:
- Start with the basics: Since the exam is based on Class 10th level topics, ensure your foundational concepts in Math and English are crystal clear before moving to advanced problem types.
- Make a realistic timetable: Divide your daily study hours among all four subjects. Do not ignore any section, because in SSC exams, even a single mark difference can change your rank significantly.
- Practice mock tests regularly: Attempt full-length mock tests at least 3-4 times a week in the last two months before the exam. This builds time management skills and helps you identify your weak areas.
- Revise previous year question papers: SSC CHSL previous year papers gives you a clear idea about the type and difficulty of questions that have been asked in the past. Many questions follows similar patterns across years.
- Stay updated with current affairs: For General Awareness, make it a habit to read a newspaper or follow a daily current affairs source every day. Focus especially on news from the last 6-12 months before your exam.
- Work on your typing speed: If you are targeting the DEO or LDC post, start practicing typing from the very beginning. Use online tools to track your WPM (words per minute) and accuracy regularly.
SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How many tiers are there in the SSC CHSL 2026 exam?
The SSC CHSL 2026 exam consists of two tiers — Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 is a qualifying/screening exam and Tier 2 is the main merit-deciding exam. The final selection is based on Tier 2 performance along with the Skill Test or Typing Test result.
Q2. What is the total number of questions in SSC CHSL Tier 1 exam 2026?
The Tier 1 exam has a total of 100 objective multiple choice questions spread across four subjects — General Awareness, General Intelligence and Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. Each subject has 25 questions carrying 2 marks each, making it a total of 200 marks.
Q3. Is there any negative marking in SSC CHSL 2026?
Yes, there is negative marking in both tiers. In Tier 1, 0.5 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. In Tier 2, 1 mark is deducted for every wrong response in the objective sections. There is no negative marking for unattempted questions in either tier.
Q4. Which subject is considered the high-scoring section in SSC CHSL Tier 1?
English Language and General Awareness are generally considered the most scoring sections in SSC CHSL Tier 1. With proper vocabulary, grammar practice, and regular reading of current affairs, candidates can score very high marks in these two subjects without spending excessive time during the exam.
Q5. What is the duration of the SSC CHSL Tier 1 exam?
The SSC CHSL Tier 1 exam is of 60 minutes duration. However, candidates belonging to the Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) category are given 80 minutes to complete the same exam.
Q6. What are the subjects covered in SSC CHSL Tier 2 exam?
SSC CHSL Tier 2 covers the following subjects across three sections: Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning and General Intelligence (Section 1), English Language and Comprehension, General Awareness (Section 2), and Computer Knowledge along with Skill Test / Typing Test (Section 3). All sections except the Skill/Typing Test are in objective MCQ format.
Q7. What is the Skill Test requirement for DEO posts in SSC CHSL?
For the post of Data Entry Operator (DEO) in a Ministry or Department, the candidate must demonstrate a typing speed of 15,000 key depressions per hour on the computer. The test duration is 15 minutes and consists of a printed English passage of approximately 3,700 to 4,000 key depressions. For DEO posts outside Ministry/Departments, the requirement is 8,000 key depressions per hour.
Q8. Is the SSC CHSL Tier 2 Skill Test or Typing Test qualifying or merit-based?
The Skill Test and Typing Test (Module 2 of Section 3 in Tier 2) is purely qualifying in nature. It does not contribute to the final merit score. Candidates who meet the minimum required speed and accuracy in the test are declared qualified. Final selection is based on the scores obtained in the objective sections of Tier 2 only.
Q9. What is the minimum qualifying marks for UR category candidates in SSC CHSL 2026?
Candidates belonging to the Unreserved (UR) or General category must score at least 30% marks in Tier 1 and Tier 2 (applicable sections) to qualify. For OBC and EWS candidates, the minimum is 25%, and for SC, ST, and other reserved categories, the qualifying mark is 20%.
Q10. Where can I download the official SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 PDF?
The official SSC CHSL Syllabus 2026 PDF can be downloaded from the official website of Staff Selection Commission at ssc.gov.in. The syllabus is usually released along with the official notification. Candidates are advised to always refer to the official document for the most accurate and updated syllabus information.