SSC CGL Prelims Eligibility Criteria 2026

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institute to apply for the SSC CGL 2026 examination. Specific roles have additional requirements:

• Junior Statistical Officer (JSO): Requires a Bachelor's Degree in any subject with at least 60% marks in Mathematics at the 12th standard level, OR a Bachelor's degree in any subject with Statistics as a main subject during all three years/six semesters.
• Statistical Investigator Grade-II: Requires a Bachelor's Degree with Statistics as a primary subject across all three years of the degree course.
• Research Assistant (NHRC): Requires a Bachelor's Degree plus at least one year of research experience in a recognized institution.
• General Posts: A standard Bachelor's Degree in any discipline is sufficient for the vast majority of posts.

The age limit criteria are strictly defined based on the post category. As of 01.08.2026, the age requirements are as follows:

• Age Group 18-27 Years: Primarily applies to various Group C posts such as Auditors, Accountants, Postal Assistants, and Tax Assistants.
• Age Group 18-30 Years: Applies to many Group B posts, including various Assistant Section Officer roles, Inspectors, and Sub-Inspectors.
• Age Group 20-30 Years: Specifically for certain ASO roles and Sub-Inspectors in the CBI.
• Age Group 18-32 Years: Specifically for the Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) post.

Candidates must ensure their date of birth falls within the relevant bracket as of August 1, 2026.

The selection for SSC CGL follows a rigorous multi-tier process to ensure fairness and efficiency:

1. Tier I (Preliminary Examination): A computer-based objective test covering General Intelligence, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English. It is qualifying in nature and helps in shortlisting candidates for the next round.
2. Tier II (Mains Examination): A comprehensive computer-based test comprising various papers (Paper-I is mandatory). Tier II scores are the primary factor for determining the final merit list.
3. Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted candidates must present their original educational and identity documentation to confirm their eligibility as stated during the application process.
4. Final Allotment: The final merit list is generated based on cumulative performance in the required tiers, followed by post allocation based on the candidate's preferences.

• OBC: 3 years
• SC/ST: 5 years
• PwBD (General): 10 years
• PwBD (OBC): 13 years
• PwBD (SC/ST): 15 years
• Ex-Servicemen (General): 3 years
• Ex-Servicemen (OBC): 6 years
• Ex-Servicemen (SC/ST): 8 years
• Central Govt. Civilian Employees (Group B): Up to 5 years (General), 8 years (OBC), 10 years (SC/ST)
• Central Govt. Civilian Employees (Group C): Up to 40, 43, and 45 years respectively.
• Jammu & Kashmir Residents: 5-10 years based on category.
• Widows/Divorced Women: Up to 35-40 years based on category.
• Defence Personnel Disabled in Hostilities: 5-10 years based on category.