In a significant announcement for aspiring government job seekers, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially opened the registration window for the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2025. This year, the SSC aims to fill a remarkable 14,582 vacancies across various Group B and C posts in numerous ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. The notification was released on June 9, 2025, and interested candidates can apply online through the commission’s official website, ssc.gov.in.
This recruitment drive presents a golden opportunity for graduates seeking a stable and rewarding career in the public sector. The application period is relatively short, with the last date for submitting online applications set for July 4, 2025. Candidates are strongly advised to complete their applications well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical glitches. The tentative dates for the Tier 1 Computer-Based Examination (CBE) are scheduled between August 13 and August 30, 2025. A correction window for submitted applications will also be available from July 9 to July 11, 2025.
Key Highlights of SSC CGL 2025:
- Vacancies: A substantial 14,582 vacancies have been announced, encompassing a wide range of positions such as Assistant Section Officer, Inspector of Income Tax, Inspector (Central Excise), Assistant Enforcement Officer, Sub-Inspector (CBI), Auditor, Accountant, and Tax Assistant, among others. These posts are distributed across various pay levels, offering diverse career paths.
- Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for the SSC CGL 2025, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university or institution. The age limit generally ranges from 18 to 32 years, with specific age limits varying for different posts. Age relaxation rules apply as per government norms for reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, PwD, Ex-Servicemen).
- Application Process: The application process is entirely online and consists of two main parts: One-Time Registration (OTR) and filling out the application form.
- Step 1: Registration: New users must first register on ssc.gov.in by clicking on the “New User? Register Now” link. This involves providing basic details to generate a registration ID and password. It is now mandatory for OTR to be Aadhaar-based.
- Step 2: Application Form: After successful registration, candidates can log in using their credentials and proceed to fill out the detailed application form. This includes providing personal, educational, and contact information, selecting preferred posts and exam centers (up to three), and uploading scanned copies of a photograph and signature as per prescribed specifications.
- Step 3: Fee Payment: An application fee of INR 100 is applicable for general category male candidates. Female candidates and those belonging to SC, ST, Persons with Disability (PwD), and Ex-Servicemen (ESM) categories are exempted from paying the fee. The fee can be paid online through various modes like BHIM UPI, Net Banking, credit/debit cards, or via SBI Challan.
- Step 4: Review and Submit: Before final submission, candidates must carefully review all entered details to ensure accuracy. Any discrepancies can be corrected during the designated correction window. It is advisable to take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.
- Selection Process: The SSC CGL selection process typically involves two tiers:
- Tier 1 (Computer-Based Examination): This is a qualifying examination comprising four sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension. It consists of 100 objective-type multiple-choice questions for a total of 200 marks, to be completed in 60 minutes. There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for every incorrect answer.
- Tier 2 (Computer-Based Examination): This tier consists of multiple papers, with Paper I being compulsory for all posts. Paper II is for candidates applying for Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) posts, and Paper III (General Studies – Finance and Economics) for Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer posts. Paper I includes sections on Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning & General Intelligence, English Language & Comprehension, General Awareness, and a Computer Knowledge Test, followed by a Data Entry Speed Test. Negative marking is also applicable in Tier 2.
- Document Verification: Candidates who qualify in both tiers will proceed to the document verification stage, where original documents will be checked against the information provided in the application.
The SSC CGL examination is highly competitive, attracting lakhs of applicants annually. Candidates are encouraged to thoroughly review the official notification on ssc.gov.in for detailed information regarding eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and application procedures. Early preparation and a meticulous application process are key to maximizing the chances of securing one of these coveted government positions.