The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially issued the notification for the Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination (CHSL) 2026. This central recruitment drive opens online registrations for approximately 2536 vacancies (2,536 posts) across Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO) positions in various central ministries and statutory departments. Eligible 12th pass aspirants can apply through ssc.gov.in until 7 October 2026 (23:00 Hours). Appointees receive central government pay under 7th CPC Level 2 and Level 4 matrices.
SSC CHSL 2026: Post Breakdown and Pay Scales
The 2536 tentative vacancies cover administrative and data entry cadres across Central Government offices:
| Designation | Ministry / Department Allocation | Pay Matrix Level | 7th CPC Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Division Clerk (LDC) / JSA | Central Ministries, Attached & Subordinate Offices | Level 2 | Rs. 19,900 to Rs. 63,200 |
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) | Various Central Government Ministries | Level 4 | Rs. 25,500 to Rs. 81,100 |
| DEO Grade 'A' | Ministries, Comptroller & Auditor General | Level 4 | Rs. 25,500 to Rs. 81,100 |
Selection Process and Exam Pattern
SSC CHSL is administered through two comprehensive testing tiers:
| Examination Tier | Subjects / Sections | Questions / Marks | Duration & Marking Scheme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier-I (CBT Screening) | English (25), General Intelligence (25), Quantitative Aptitude (25), General Awareness (25) | 100 Questions / 200 Marks | 60 Minutes (0.50 negative marking per wrong answer) |
| Tier-II (Mains CBT) | Maths & Reasoning (60 Qs - 180 Marks); English & GA (60 Qs - 180 Marks); Computer Knowledge (15 Qs - 45 Marks) | 135 Questions / 405 Marks | 2 Hours 15 Minutes (1 mark deducted per wrong answer) |
| Tier-II (Skill / Typing) | Part A: Skill Test for DEO (8,000 key depressions/hr); Part B: Typing Test for LDC/JSA (35 wpm English / 30 wpm Hindi) | Qualifying Standard | 15 Minutes (Part A) / 10 Minutes (Part B) |
Previous Years Cutoff Trends and Qualifying Marks
Final merit is synthesized strictly from Tier-II scores (Section-I and Section-II aggregate out of 360 marks), provided candidate clears the qualifying Computer Knowledge Module and Typing Test. Historic Tier-I normalized cutoff patterns reflect high competitiveness:
- Unreserved (UR): Historic Tier-I normalized cutoffs hover around 153 to 157 marks out of 200.
- OBC: Historic Tier-I normalized cutoffs range between 150 and 154 marks.
- EWS: Historic Tier-I normalized cutoffs range between 148 and 152 marks.
- SC / ST: Cutoff scores historically range from 135 to 142 marks (SC) and 125 to 132 marks (ST).
Candidate Guidelines and Aspirant Suggestions
- New SSC Portal (ssc.gov.in): Candidates must complete the updated One-Time Registration (OTR) on ssc.gov.in. Previous registrations on ssc.nic.in are not valid for 2026 recruitments.
- Live Webcam Photo Capture: Uploading scanned photographs is replaced with a live webcam snapshot capture during online application. Ensure lighting is uniform and no caps or glasses are worn.
- Computer Module Preparation: Don't overlook the 15-question Computer Knowledge Module in Tier-II. Even with high scores in Maths and English, failing the computer test results in non-evaluation of merit.
- Application Fee: Fee of Rs. 100/- for male General and OBC candidates; Women, SC, ST, PwBD, and Ex-Servicemen are exempted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last date to apply for SSC CHSL 2026?
The deadline to submit online applications is 7 October 2026 at 23:00 hours on ssc.gov.in.
How many vacancies are available in SSC CHSL 2026?
There are approximately 2536 vacancies across LDC, JSA, and DEO posts in central ministries.
What is the minimum educational qualification?
Candidates must have passed 12th Standard or equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University.
Is there negative marking in Tier-I and Tier-II?
Yes. In Tier-I, 0.50 marks are deducted per incorrect answer. In Tier-II, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer in Sections I and II.
What is the age limit for SSC CHSL posts?
The age limit is 18 to 27 years as on the crucial cutoff date, with standard age relaxation for OBC (3 years) and SC/ST (5 years).