SSC Selection Post Exam pattern 2026
Stages, sections, marks, duration and negative marking.
Updated 22 October 2026
SSC Selection Post exam pattern 2026
The SSC Selection Post exam pattern is a single online CBT of 100 objective questions worth 200 marks, to be finished in 60 minutes. The four sections carry 25 questions each, with a sectional timer of 15 minutes per section. A wrong answer costs 0.50 marks.
Section-wise pattern
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence | 25 | 50 | 15 minutes |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | 25 | 50 | 15 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | 15 minutes |
| English Language / Comprehension | 25 | 50 | 15 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 minutes |
Marking scheme
| Response | Marks |
|---|---|
| Correct | +2 |
| Wrong | −0.50 |
| Not attempted | 0 |
Level of the paper
| Level | Standard of questions |
|---|---|
| Matriculation | Class 10 |
| Higher Secondary | Class 12 |
| Graduation and above | Graduation |
A candidate who applies for posts at different levels takes the paper for each level.
Selection process
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Computer Based Test | Objective MCQ exam; the main basis of selection |
| Skill test (if required) | Typing, data entry or computer proficiency, depending on the post; qualifying |
| Document verification | Final check of qualification, age and category |
Strategy for the sectional timer
- Since each section closes after 15 minutes, you cannot carry spare time into another section. Practise sectional mocks with a strict 15-minute limit.
- Reasoning and English usually take less time, so aim to attempt nearly all 25 questions in each.
- In Quant, skip long calculations and come back to them within the same section's time.
- With 0.50 negative marking, four wrong answers cost as much as one correct answer earns.
Subject topics are in the SSC Selection Post syllabus, and the answer key tab shows a score calculation.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are in SSC Selection Post?
The CBT has 100 questions, 25 from each of the four subjects, for a total of 200 marks.
What is the negative marking in SSC Selection Post?
0.50 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. Unattempted questions carry no penalty.
What is the duration of the SSC Selection Post exam?
The exam lasts 60 minutes, with a 15-minute sectional timer for each of the four sections.
Is there a skill test in SSC Selection Post?
Only for certain posts, such as those needing typing, data entry or computer proficiency. The skill test is qualifying.
Always check the latest official notification on ssc.gov.in before applying.