The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) is set to release the official notification for the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2025 on April 22, 2025. This annual examination aims to recruit candidates for various Group ‘B’ and Group ‘C’ posts across multiple ministries and departments of the Government of India. Aspiring candidates must be well-informed about the exam dates, eligibility criteria, application process, and preparation strategies to enhance their chances of success.
Important Dates for SSC CGL 2025
As per the SSC Exam Calendar 2025-26, the key dates for the SSC CGL 2025 examination are as follows:
- Notification Release Date: April 22, 2025
- Online Application Start Date: April 22, 2025
- Last Date to Apply Online: May 21, 2025
- Tier-I Examination Date: June – July 2025
- Tier-II Examination Date: To be announced
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official SSC website for any updates or changes to the examination schedule.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the SSC CGL 2025 examination, candidates must meet the following criteria:
1. Nationality
- Citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or
- A Tibetan refugee who came over to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling in India, or
- A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries, Vietnam, etc., with the intention of permanently settling in India.
2. Age Limit
- The age limit varies for different posts, generally ranging from 18 to 32 years. Age relaxation is applicable as per government norms for reserved categories.
3. Educational Qualification
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution. Specific posts may have additional requirements, which will be detailed in the official notification.
Application Process
The application process for SSC CGL 2025 is entirely online. Candidates must follow these steps to apply:
1. Registration
- Visit the official SSC website and click on the “Register Now” link under the “Login” section.
- Fill in basic details like name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number to generate a unique registration ID and password.
2. Filling the SSC CGL Application Form
- Log in using the registration ID and password.
- Complete the application form by providing personal, educational, and communication details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specified dimensions.
3. Application Fee Payment
- The application fee is Rs. 100 for general male candidates.
- Female candidates and candidates belonging to SC/ST/PwD/Ex-Servicemen categories are exempted from paying the fee.
- The fee can be paid online via BHIM UPI, net banking, or by using Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, or RuPay credit or debit cards. Alternatively, the fee can be paid in cash at SBI branches by generating an SBI challan.
4. Submission
- Review the SSC CGL Application Form carefully before final submission.
- Submit the form and take a printout of the application form for future reference.
Exam Pattern
The SSC CGL examination comprises four tiers:
Tier-I: Computer-Based Examination (Objective Type)
- Subjects: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Comprehension
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Total Marks: 200 (50 marks per subject)
Tier-II: Computer-Based Examination (Objective Type)
- Paper-I: Quantitative Abilities (200 marks)
- Paper-II: English Language and Comprehension (200 marks)
- Paper-III: Statistics (200 marks) – Only for candidates applying for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO)
- Paper-IV: General Studies (Finance and Economics) (200 marks) – Only for candidates applying for Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer
- Duration: 2 hours for each paper
Tier-III: Descriptive Paper (Pen and Paper Mode)
- Subjects: Essay, Precis, Letter, Application Writing
- Language: English or Hindi
- Total Marks: 100
- Duration: 60 minutes
Tier-IV: Skill Test/Computer Proficiency Test (wherever applicable)
- Data Entry Speed Test (DEST): For Tax Assistants
- Computer Proficiency Test (CPT): For Assistant Section Officer and other posts
Preparation Tips
To excel in the SSC CGL 2025 examination, candidates should adopt a strategic approach:
1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern
- Familiarize yourself with the detailed syllabus and exam pattern to identify important topics and allocate time accordingly.
2. Create a Study Plan
- Develop a realistic and structured study plan covering all subjects. Allocate more time to weaker sections and practice regularly.
3. Practice Previous Year Papers
- Solve previous year question papers to understand the type of questions asked and improve time management skills.
4. Attempt Mock Tests
- Regularly take online mock tests to assess your preparation level and work on weak areas.
5. Focus on Conceptual Clarity
- Strengthen your basics in Quantitative Aptitude and English Language to ensure accuracy and speed.
6. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
- Read newspapers and follow current affairs updates to perform well in the General Awareness section.
7. Maintain a Healthy Routine
- Ensure proper sleep, regular breaks, and a balanced diet to keep yourself focused and motivated.
Conclusion
The SSC CGL 2025 examination is a gateway to prestigious government jobs. Candidates should start their preparation early, stay disciplined, and utilize the available resources effectively. Regular updates on exam notifications, syllabus changes, and preparation strategies can make a significant difference in achieving success in this competitive exam.