The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has started the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Tier 1 Examination 2026 today, September 30. This computer-based test will be conducted across various centres until October 30, 2026. Candidates must be aware of their exam shift timings, required documents, and exam day instructions to ensure a smooth process.
- The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam is held in four shifts each day.
- Each exam shift lasts one hour.
- Candidates must carry their admit card and valid photo ID to the exam centre.
- Electronic devices and study materials are prohibited inside the exam hall.
- The exam paper has 100 questions across four sections with negative marking.
What Are the SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Shift Timings for 2026?
The SSC CGL Tier 1 exam is conducted in four shifts daily. Each shift lasts one hour. Candidates should check their admit cards for their specific exam date, shift, and reporting time. The general shift timings are:
| Shift | Exam Timing |
|---|---|
| Shift 1 | 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM |
| Shift 2 | 11:45 AM to 12:45 PM |
| Shift 3 | 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM |
| Shift 4 | 5:15 PM to 6:15 PM |
Reporting times and gate closing times may vary by centre and shift. Candidates must follow the timings printed on their admit cards.
What Should Candidates Carry for the SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam?
To enter the exam centre, candidates must bring the following documents:
- Printed copy of the SSC CGL Tier 1 admit card.
- One original valid photo ID such as Aadhaar card, passport, driving licence, voter ID, or PAN card.
- A copy of the photo ID if required as per admit card instructions.
- Recent passport-size photographs, if applicable.
- Any required documents for candidates using scribe facilities.
If the photo ID does not show the date of birth, candidates should carry an original document confirming their birth date.
What Are the SSC CGL Exam Day Guidelines?
Candidates should arrive at the exam centre well before the reporting time mentioned on their admit card. Late arrival may cause delays during entry and security checks.
Before leaving home, candidates must verify their admit card details including exam date, shift, reporting time, centre name, and address. The admit card should be kept safe and candidates should not write on it before reaching the exam centre. Any required entries should be made only as instructed by exam staff.
Which Items Are Not Allowed Inside the SSC CGL Exam Centre?
Candidates should avoid bringing prohibited items inside the exam hall. These include:
- Smartwatches and other watches
- Bluetooth devices
- Books and study materials
- Electronic storage devices
- Spy cameras and scanners
A transparent water bottle may be allowed depending on centre rules. Rough work paper and pens will be provided inside the exam hall.
What Is the SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam Pattern for 2026?
The Tier 1 exam consists of 100 questions totaling 200 marks. The duration is one hour. The paper has four sections:
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| English Comprehension | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each wrong answer.
When Does the SSC CGL Tier 1 Exam 2026 End?
The Tier 1 exam will continue until October 30, 2026. Candidates are assigned different dates and shifts as per their admit cards. The exam is conducted in computer-based mode at designated centres.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the SSC CGL Tier 1 exam timings?
A: The exam is held in four shifts: 9:00 AM–10:00 AM, 11:45 AM–12:45 PM, 2:30 PM–3:30 PM, and 5:15 PM–6:15 PM.
Q: When does the SSC CGL Tier 1 exam start and end?
A: It starts on September 30, 2026, and continues until October 30, 2026.
Q: What documents are required to enter the exam centre?
A: Candidates must carry a printed admit card and an original valid photo ID. Additional documents may be required as per admit card instructions.
Q: What is the duration and structure of the SSC CGL Tier 1 exam?
A: The exam lasts one hour and includes 100 questions from four sections: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
Q: Are mobile phones and electronic devices allowed inside the exam hall?
A: No. Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, headphones, calculators, and other electronic items are prohibited inside the exam centre.
