SSC CHSL Notification 2026 out for 2,536 Vacancies; Check Eligibility & Apply Online

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially released the detailed SSC CHSL 2026 Notification on 7 September 2026 on its official website. Through this recruitment drive SSC aims to fill approximately 2,536 tentative vacancies for prestigious Group C positions, including Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO / DEO Grade 'A') across various Central Ministries, Departments, and Constitutional Bodies. 

The online application window is officially open from 7 September to 7 October 2026 (up to 23:00 hrs). Candidates who have qualified their Class 12 (10+2) examination and fall within the age bracket of 18 to 27 years are eligible to apply online. Selection will be conducted through a two-tier Computer-Based Examination (CBT) followed by post-specific Skill and Typing Tests. Aspirants are strongly encouraged to register early via the new OTR system on the official portal to secure their preferred exam cities and avoid last-minute portal rush. 

Major Changes Introduced in SSC CHSL 2026 

The Staff Selection Commission has rolled out several procedural and operational updates in the SSC CHSL 2026 recruitment cycle to enhance exam security and candidate convenience. From major shifts in the Tier-1 computer-based testing format to updated application rules on the new portal, here are the key modifications applicants need to know: 

• 15-Minute Sectional Timers in Tier-1: Tier-1 now features strict sectional timing. Each of the four subjects (General Intelligence, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Awareness) is locked to an individual 15-minute window. Unused time cannot be transferred to another section, and candidates can no longer switch freely between sections during the 60-minute exam.
• Halved Answer Key Challenge Fee: The representation fee for challenging tentative answer keys has been reduced by 50%, coming down from ₹100 to ₹50 per question.
• Single SSC Region Centre Preference: While selecting preferred examination cities, candidates must choose all three exam centres strictly within the same SSC administrative region. Cross-region centre selections are not permitted.
• Extended 3-Day Correction Window: Following the close of the online registration window, candidates will get a 3-day correction period (14 October to 16 October 2026, until 23:00 hrs) to edit permissible fields in their submitted forms.
• Mandatory Live Photo Capture: Under the updated portal (ssc.gov.in), applicants must capture a real-time live photograph via an active webcam or mobile camera against a plain background. Pre-saved gallery uploads are automatically rejected.

SSC CHSL Exam 2026: Quick Overview

The Staff Selection Commission has initiated the online recruitment cycle for the Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination 2026 to fill Group C administrative and clerical posts across central ministries and departments. Before filling out the application form on the official portal, candidates can review the key highlights, eligibility criteria, and examination details summarized below: 

SSC CHSL 2026 Important Dates 

To ensure a seamless registration and exam preparation journey, candidates must keep track of all official deadlines announced by the Staff Selection Commission. Staying updated on the schedule helps applicants avoid last-minute portal technicalities, plan for the application correction window, and align their preparation for the CBT phases. Below is the complete schedule for the SSC CHSL 2026 recruitment drive: 

SSC CHSL 2026 Important Links

Accessing verified links directly from the commission’s unified portal is essential to avoid fraudulent websites and ensure error-free submissions. Candidates can utilize the direct official links provided below to download the notification PDF, complete their One-Time Registration (OTR), review the vacancy breakdown, and download future hall tickets: 

SSC CHSL 2026 Vacancy

The Staff Selection Commission has notified approximately 2,536 tentative vacancies for the 2026 recruitment drive across various Ministries, Attached Departments, Constitutional Bodies, and Tribunals of the Government of India. 

As per the official notification clause, the Commission compiles final vacancies based on requisitions received from user departments. The segregated post-wise (LDC/JSA vs DEO) and category-wise (UR, OBC, EWS, SC, ST, PwBD, ESM) roster will be uploaded separately in PDF format on the Commission’s website under the Tentative Vacancy tab. 

SSC CHSL Eligibility Criteria 2025 

Fulfilling the prescribed eligibility parameters is mandatory for all applicants seeking appointment to Group C posts. Candidates must ensure they meet the criteria regarding nationality, age thresholds, and minimum educational qualifications on or before the specified dates:

Nationality

Candidates must meet the following citizenship criteria to be eligible:

(a) Must be a citizen of India,

(b) Can be a subject of Nepal or Bhutan,

(c) An individual of Indian origin who has relocated from Burma, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Ethiopia, Malawi, Zaire, or Vietnam to permanently settle in India.

Note: Candidates belonging to categories (b) and (c) above are required to possess a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India.

Age Limit (as on 01-08-2026)

Candidates must be between 18 and 27 years of age as of 1 August 2026. This implies that applicants must have been born between 02.08.1999 and 01.08.2008 (inclusive of both dates). 

Upper age relaxations are permissible for reserved categories in accordance with Central Government norms: 

Educational Qualification (as on 07-10-2026)

Candidates who have appeared in their 12th Standard or equivalent examination are eligible to apply. However, they must possess the essential qualifications on or before the cutoff date, i.e., 01-01-2026. For detailed post-wise educational qualifications, refer to the table below:

SSC CHSL Online Application Process 2026

The Staff Selection Commission conducts the registration process entirely online through its official website and the official ‘my SSC’ mobile application. The complete application process has been explained below for your convenience: 

• Part-I: One-Time Registration
• Part-II: Filling of Online Application for Examination

Part-I: One-Time Registration (OTR) Process

• Visit the official website of the SSC and click on Login or Register > Register Now.
• Enter your basic details, including the candidate’s name, parents' names, and date of birth exactly as recorded in your Class 10 Matriculation Certificate. Candidates can opt for Aadhaar Based Authentication for seamless verification.
• Provide a valid, active mobile number and email ID. Both will be verified instantly using separate One-Time Passwords (OTPs).
• Upon OTP verification, your permanent Registration Number and temporary password will appear on the screen and be sent via SMS/Email.
• Log in with the initial credentials, create a new secure password, and save your permanent address and category details to finalize your OTR..

Part-II: Online Application Submission

• Sign in to access your candidate dashboard using your Registration Number and Password.
• Under the "Live Examinations" tab, find Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination, 2026 and click Apply.
• Choose your three preferred examination centres strictly within the same SSC Region. Select your qualifying educational background, medium of CBT, and medium of typing test.
• Stand or sit in a well-lit space with a plain background and capture a real-time live photograph using your webcam or the official 'my SSC' Android mobile app. Ensure you are not wearing spectacles, a cap, or a mask. (Uploading a pre-saved scanned gallery photo is strictly prohibited and leads to rejection of the candidature).
• Upload a clear, horizontally aligned scanned copy of your signature in JPG/JPEG format (file size: 10 KB to 20 KB; dimensions: approx. 6.0 cm × 2.0 cm).
• Thoroughly review all entered details using the "Preview" tool. Check the declaration box, enter the captcha, and submit your form.
• Non-exempted candidates must pay the fee strictly through online gateways.

SSC CHSL 2026 Application Fees

Pay the application fee online only through BHIM UPI, Net Banking, or Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, or RuPay Debit/Credit Cards. The online fee window remains active until 8 October 2026 (23:00 hours). Offline payment options like SBI challan are no longer accepted. 

Documents Required for SSC CHSL Application Form 2026

Candidates should keep the required documents and details ready before filling out the SSC CHSL Application Form 2026. The major documents required during the application process and Document Verification are given below.

Documents Required for Online Application

• Aadhaar Card or Valid Photo ID
• 10th Class Certificate for name and date of birth details
• 12th Class Certificate/Marksheet for educational qualification details
• Active Mobile Number and Email ID
• Live Photograph as required during the application process
• Scanned Signature in the prescribed format
• Category/Disability Certificate, if applicable

Documents Required for Document Verification

Shortlisted candidates must produce the required original documents along with self-attested copies during Document Verification. These may include:

• 10th Class Certificate
• 12th Class Certificate and Marksheet
• Caste/Community Certificate, if applicable
• EWS Certificate, if applicable
• Disability Certificate/UDID Card, if applicable
• Ex-Servicemen documents, if applicable
• Equivalence Certificate, if applicable
• NOC, wherever required
• Name Change Proof, if applicable

Note: Candidates should check the SSC CHSL 2026 Notification for the complete list of documents and prescribed formats.

SSC CHSL 2026 Selection Process

The recruitment process for the Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination 2026 involves a two-stage Computer-Based Examination (CBT) followed by post-allotment Document Verification: 

• Tier-I (Computer-Based Examination): A screening test comprising 100 multiple-choice questions across 4 subjects. Marks scored in Tier-1 are normalized and used strictly to shortlist candidates for the next stage.
• Tier-II (Computer-Based Examination & Skill/Typing Test): The final merit stage. Tier-2 consists of Session-I (Objective Tests in Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, and General Awareness along with a Computer Knowledge Test) and Session-II (Skill/Typing Test).
• Document Verification (DV): Document Verification is no longer conducted by the SSC. As per Para 16.1 of the notification, DV is carried out directly by the respective allotted User Ministries / Departments after the declaration of final results.

Important: Minimum qualifying cut-off in Tier-I, as well as Sections I, II, and III of Tier-II, is 30% for UR, 25% for OBC/EWS, and 20% for all other reserved categories. Final merit is determined strictly on aggregate marks in Section-I and Section-II of Tier-II, subject to qualifying the Computer and Skill tests.

SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme

The SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 is divided into two phases: Tier I and Tier II. The SSC CHSL Tier 1 exam is a qualifying exam, whereas the SSC CHSL Tier 2 exam determines the final selection. The tables below explain the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026.

SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam Pattern (With 15-Minute Sectional Timers) 

Candidates can check the details SSC CHSL Exam Pattern for Tier 1 here:-

1. The Tier-I examination will comprise 100 objective-type multiple-choice questions, carrying a total of 200 marks. 
2. Each correct response will be awarded 2 marks. 
3. A penalty of 0.50 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer
4. Medium: Available in English, Hindi, and 13 opted regional languages. 

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern (With Internal Subject Timers) 

SSC CHSL Tier 2 will be conducted in two separate sessions on the same day. Session I features dedicated internal subject timers for both Sections I and II: 

1. Marking Scheme: +3 marks per correct answer; 1 mark penalty for every wrong answer in Section I, Section II, and Section III.
2. Candidates must clear all sections of Tier-II to be considered qualified.
3. Section IV, which includes the Skill Test or Typing Test, will be qualifying in nature and conducted during Session II.

SSC CHSL Exam Syllabus 2026

Check the detailed syllabus for SSC CHSL Tier-I and Tier-II in the tables below.

SSC CHSL 2026 Admit Card & Exam City Slip 

The SSC CHSL 2026 Admit Card and Exam City Slip will be released by the Staff Selection Commission on its official website, ssc.gov.in. The Exam City Intimation Slip is generally released around 10 days before the exam, while the Admit Card is usually available 2 to 3 days before the examination. 

Candidates can follow the steps below to download their SSC CHSL 2026 Admit Card: 

1. Visit the official SSC website at ssc.gov.in.
2. Log in using your Registration Number and Password.
3. Click on the Admit Card section and select SSC CHSL 2026.
4. Click on the Admission Certificate link.
5. Download the admit card and check the exam shift, reporting time, centre address and important instructions carefully.

Note: Candidates who have not completed Aadhaar-based authentication should report to the examination centre 2 hours before the gate-closing time with an original, valid photo identity proof.

SSC CHSL Answer Key 2026 

The SSC CHSL Answer Key 2026 will be released by the Staff Selection Commission on its official website after the examination. Candidates can download the answer key and, if required, submit objections within the specified time period by following the prescribed process.

Candidates can follow the steps given below to download the SSC CHSL Answer Key 2026:

1. Visit the official SSC website at ssc.gov.in.
2. Click on the Answer Key section available on the homepage.
3. Find and click on the SSC CHSL Answer Key 2026 link.
4. Log in using the required Registration Number and Password.
5. The SSC CHSL Answer Key and response sheet will appear on the screen.
6. Download the answer key and save it for future reference.

How to Raise Objections Against SSC CHSL Answer Key 2026

Candidates who find any discrepancy in the provisional answer key can submit their objections online within the prescribed time limit. An objection fee of Rs. 100 per question is applicable, which is non-refundable.

1. Visit the official SSC website and log in to the answer key portal.
2. Select the question against which you wish to raise an objection.
3. Submit the relevant details and supporting information as required.
4. Pay the prescribed Rs. 100 objection fee per question.
5. Submit the objection and keep a copy of the confirmation for future reference.

Note: Objections submitted through letters, applications, emails or any other mode will not be accepted. The Commission will examine the representations received within the stipulated period before finalising the answer key. Its decision regarding the answer key will be final.

SSC CHSL Result 2026

SSC CHSL Exam 2026 Result will be declared by the Staff Selection Commission after the exam is conducted. Candidates will be able to download the result by visiting the official website of the Commission and following the below-mentioned steps:-

Step 1: Begin by visiting the official Staff Selection Commission website.

Step 2: On the homepage, locate the "Result" option in the Quick Links section.

Step 3: Select the "SSC CHSL" option by clicking on the corresponding tab.

Step 4: Look for the link titled "Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination, 2025.”

Step 5: Click on the "Result" link associated with the mentioned examination.

Step 6: The SSC CHSL Result 2025 will be presented in PDF format. Download and preserve the PDF file for future reference.

Step 7: To locate your name and roll number in the merit list, utilize the CTRL-F function for a quick search within the PDF. If your name and roll number appear in the PDF, you are shortlisted.

SSC CHSL 2026 Cut-Off Marks 

The SSC CHSL Cut-Off 2026 will be released by the Staff Selection Commission along with the result for the respective examination stage. The cut-off marks are determined based on factors such as vacancies, number of candidates, exam difficulty and normalized scores. 

Candidates should note that the minimum qualifying marks and the actual cut-off marks are different. The minimum qualifying percentage is 30% for UR, 25% for OBC/EWS and 20% for SC/ST/PwBD/ESM candidates. However, the actual cut-off required for shortlisting is generally higher and may vary depending on the examination stage and category. 

Candidates can check the SSC CHSL Cut-Off 2026 by following the steps given below: 

• Visit the official SSC website.
• Go to the Result section on the homepage.
• Find the SSC CHSL 2026 Result notice for the respective examination stage.
• Open the result PDF to check the category-wise and post-wise cut-off marks.
• Download the PDF and save it for future reference.

SSC CHSL 2026 Salary Structure (7th CPC)

Recruited personnel are placed in central pay scales with applicable allowances including DA, HRA, and Transport Allowance: