SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026 for Tier 1 and Tier 2, Marking Scheme, Sectional Timing

The SSC CHSL Exam is conducted in multiple stages: Tier 1, Tier 2, Skill/Typing Test, and Document Verification. Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 ae computer based tests and questions are asked in MCQ format. Subjects like GA, Reasoning, Computer Knowledge, Quantitative Aptitude, and English language are tested in SSC CHSL exam.

With the sectional timing now added, candidates must be careful with their time management. Check the subject-wise weightage, marking scheme, negative marking, typing speed requirements, qualifying marks, and preparation tips for the SSC CHSL 2026 exam.

SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2026

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Examination to recruit candidates for posts including LDC, JSA, and DEO. Complete knowledge of the latest exam pattern is required as it is essentials for preparation strategy. The SSC CHSL Pattern consists of negative marking and it is mandatory to obtain qualifying marks in order to qualify.

SSC CHSL Exam: Overview

Check: SSC CHSL Notification 2026 Out

SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026

• The Tier 1 examination consists of 100 questions carrying a total of 200 marks.
• The paper is divided into four sections, with 25 questions in each section.
• Candidates are given 60 minutes to complete the test.
• If the exam is conducted in multiple shifts, the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will use a normalisation process to ensure fairness in the evaluation.

The Schema of Tier-1 is explained in the Table given below:

Note:- For every wrong question, there is a negative marking of 0.5 marks.

Tier 1 Marking Scheme

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026

The Tier 2 Exam is conducted in two sessions. Candidates who clear the Tier 1 examination are eligible to appear for Tier 2.

Session I consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) from various subjects to assess a candidate’s knowledge and comprehension. Session II includes a Typing Test or Skill Test, which evaluates typing speed and accuracy.

Section 1: Mathematical Abilities and Reasoning and General Intelligence.

Section 2: English Language and Comprehension and General Awareness

Section 3: Computer Knowledge Test and Skill Test/ Typing Test

• The questions will be of an Objective type in nature in English, Hindi, and any language opted by the candidates.

Tier 2 Marking Scheme

SSC CHSL Tier 2 Typing/Skill Test

Negative Marking in SSC CHSL Exam

In Tier 1, a negative marking of 0.50 marks is applied for each incorrect answer. In Tier 2, 1 mark is deducted for every wrong response in Section 1, Section 2, and Section 3. Therefore, candidates should attempt questions carefully and avoid random guessing to reduce the impact of negative marking.

SSC CHSL 2026 Minimum Qualifying Marks

The table below outlines the minimum qualifying marks required for Tier-I, Section-I, Section-II, and Section III in the Tier-II Examination.

Tier 1 Vs Tier 2: A Comparison

How the SSC CHSL Final Merit List is prepared?

The final merit list draws only from Tier 2 Section-I and Section-II. Section-III and the Skill/Typing Test in Session II are both qualifying components, candidates must clear them, but the marks scored there aren’t added to the merit score.

Resolution of Tie Cases in SSC CHSL Exam

In case two or more candidates secure the same marks in the SSC CHSL Tier-II Examination, the merit ranking will be determined by applying the following tie-breaking criteria sequentially until the tie is resolved:

How to Sectional Timing Affect SSC CHSL Exam preparation?

With sectional timing in place, the old approach of solving the paper will not work. This changes the entire practice strategy in a few concrete ways:

• Every section, not just the paper overall, needs to be independently exam-ready within its own time limit.
• Weak sections can’t be compensated for by finishing others early.
• Mock practice should be timed section-wise, not just as a full 60-minute paper.
• A skip-and-return habit within each 15-minute time limit helps avoid losing easy questions to time spent on hard ones.