SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 – Notification, Vacancies, Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Apply Online
The SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 is one of the most awaited government recruitment drives for 12th pass candidates across India. Conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Examination offers a golden opportunity for aspirants seeking stable central government jobs as Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Data Entry Operator (DEO), DEO Grade A, Postal Assistant (PA), and Sorting Assistant (SA) in various ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for this national-level examination, making it one of the most competitive SSC exams after the 12th standard.
The SSC CHSL 2026 notification is expected to be released in July 2026 on the official website ssc.nic.in. As per the SSC Examination Calendar 2026-27, the online application process will commence shortly after the notification release, and the Tier 1 Computer Based Test (CBT) is tentatively scheduled between July and September 2026. Based on previous year trends, more than 3,000 vacancies are anticipated for the SSC CHSL 2026 cycle. In this comprehensive article, we cover every detail you need to know about SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026, including vacancy details, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, selection process, salary structure, application fee, and step-by-step instructions to apply online.
SSC CHSL 2026 – Overview
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Exam Name | SSC CHSL 2026 (Combined Higher Secondary Level) |
| Official Website | ssc.nic.in |
| Post Names | LDC, JSA, DEO, DEO Grade A, PA, SA |
| Eligibility | 12th Pass (10+2) from a recognized board |
| Age Limit | 18 to 27 years (relaxations applicable) |
| Selection Process | Tier 1 (CBT) + Tier 2 (CBT + Skill/Typing Test) + Document Verification |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Examination) |
| Expected Vacancies | 3,000+ (Tentative) |
| Application Fee | Rs. 100 (Women/SC/ST/PwBD/ESM exempted) |
SSC CHSL 2026 Vacancy Details
The SSC CHSL 2026 vacancy breakdown will be officially released along with the notification PDF. Based on the previous year’s recruitment data, candidates can expect a significant number of vacancies across multiple posts. In SSC CHSL 2025, a total of 3,131 vacancies were announced, while in 2024, there were 3,712 vacancies. The Commission regularly recruits for the following Group C posts under CHSL:
| Post Name | Pay Level (7th CPC) | Pay Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Division Clerk (LDC) | Level-2 | Rs. 19,900 – 63,200 |
| Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) | Level-2 | Rs. 19,900 – 63,200 |
| Postal Assistant (PA) | Level-4 | Rs. 25,500 – 81,100 |
| Sorting Assistant (SA) | Level-4 | Rs. 25,500 – 81,100 |
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) | Level-4 / Level-5 | Rs. 25,500 – 81,100 / Rs. 29,200 – 92,300 |
| DEO, Grade A | Level-4 | Rs. 25,500 – 81,100 |
SSC CHSL Previous Year Vacancy Trend
| Year | LDC / JSA | PA / SA | DEO | Court Clerk | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | TBA | — | TBA | — | 3,131 |
| 2024 | TBA | — | TBA | — | 3,712 |
| 2023 | — | — | — | NA | 1,600 |
| 2022 | 3,185 | 898 | 42 | 601 | 4,726 |
| 2021 | 3,181 | 3,598 | 26 | 88 | 4,893 |
| 2020 | 2,359 | 3,880 | 02 | 56 | 5,789 |
| 2019 | 2,648 | 3,222 | 02 | 917 | 6,789 |
| 2018 | 898 | 2,359 | 02 | NA | 3,259 |
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official SSC website ssc.nic.in for the latest vacancy updates and post-wise distribution once the official notification is released.
SSC CHSL 2026 – Important Dates
| Event | Date (Expected) |
| Notification Release | July 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | July 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | July / August 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment (Online) | July / August 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment (Offline – Challan) | August 2026 |
| Application Form Correction Window | August 2026 |
| Admit Card Release (Tier 1) | 2-3 weeks before the exam |
| SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam Date 2026 | July – September 2026 |
| Tier 1 Answer Key | After the Tier 1 exam |
| Tier 1 Result | October – November 2026 |
| SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Date 2026 | To be announced |
| Tier 2 Result | To be announced |
| Document Verification | To be announced |
| Final Result | To be announced |
Note: All dates are tentative and based on the SSC Examination Calendar 2026-27. Actual dates will be confirmed after the official notification release. Candidates should bookmark the official SSC portal ssc.nic.in/SSCDefault.aspx for real-time updates.
SSC CHSL 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must satisfy all eligibility conditions as prescribed in the official notification before applying for SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026. The eligibility criteria include nationality, educational qualification, and age limit. Failure to meet any criterion may lead to disqualification at any stage of the recruitment process.
Nationality
A candidate must be either
- A citizen of India, or
- A subject of Nepal, or
- A subject of Bhutan, or
- A Tibetan refugee who came over to India before 1st January 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India, or
- A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, and East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.
SSC CHSL Educational Qualification 2026
| Post | Educational Qualification |
|---|---|
| LDC / JSA / PA / SA | Candidates must have passed 12th Standard (10+2) or an equivalent examination from a recognized board or university. |
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) | Candidates must have passed 12th Standard (10+2) in the science stream with mathematics as a subject from a recognized board or equivalent. Note: Candidates who are appearing in 12th standard are also eligible to apply, but they must possess the required educational qualification on or before the date specified in the notification. |
| DEO Grade A | Candidates must have passed 12th Standard (10+2) in the science stream with mathematics from a recognized board or equivalent. A typing speed of 8,000 key depressions per hour (KDPH) on a computer is required. |
SSC CHSL Age Limit 2026
The SSC CHSL age limit for all posts is 18 years to 27 years as on the date prescribed in the official notification (usually as on 1st January of the recruitment year). Upper age relaxation is applicable for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per Government of India rules.
SSC CHSL Age Relaxation 2026
| Category | Age Relaxation (Upper Limit) |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 years (up to 32 years) |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 years (up to 30 years) |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) | 10 years (up to 37 years) |
| PwBD + OBC | 13 years (up to 40 years) |
| PwBD + SC / ST | 15 years (up to 42 years) |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | 3 years after deduction of military service from actual age |
| Candidates domiciled in Jammu & Kashmir (1.1.1980 to 31.12.1989) | 5 years |
| Widows / Divorced Women / Women judicially separated | Up to 35 years of age |
| Defence personnel disabled in operation during hostilities | 3 years (up to 30 years) |
Note: Age relaxation details are based on the standard SSC CHSL notification norms. Candidates must verify the exact relaxation criteria from the official notification PDF once released.
SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern
The SSC CHSL 2026 examination is conducted in two tiers—Tier 1 and Tier 2, both conducted in online (computer-based test) mode. Understanding the exam pattern is the first step toward effective preparation. Here is the detailed breakdown:
SSC CHSL Tier 1 Exam Pattern 2026
The SSC CHSL Tier 1 is a qualifying and merit-based computer-based examination. It consists of 100 objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) for a total of 200 marks. The duration of the exam is 60 minutes (80 minutes for PwBD candidates eligible for scribe). Each correct answer carries 2 marks, and there is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer.
| Section | Subject | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | General Intelligence | 25 | 50 | 60 minutes (80 minutes for PwBD with scribe) |
| 2 | General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| 3 | Quantitative Aptitude (Basic Arithmetic Skill) | 25 | 50 | |
| 4 | English Language (Basic Knowledge) | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
Key Points for SSC CHSL Tier 1:
- The Tier 1 exam will have sectional timing—candidates must attempt each section within the prescribed time limit.
- The questions will be set in both English and Hindi, except for the English Language section.
- If the exam is conducted in multiple shifts, SSC will normalize scores across shifts to ensure fairness.
- Tier 1 marks are counted in the final merit along with Tier 2 Session I marks.
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Exam Pattern 2026
The SSC CHSL Tier 2 is a comprehensive examination conducted in two sessions on the same day. Candidates who qualify Tier 1 are eligible to appear for Tier 2. The revised Tier 2 pattern (introduced from 2022 onwards) has eliminated the descriptive paper and replaced it with a module-based objective examination. The Tier 2 pattern consists of three sections with two modules each.
Important: In Tier 2 Session I, there is a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer in Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III.
SSC CHSL Tier 2 – Session I
| Session | Section | Module | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session I (2 hours 15 minutes) | Section I | Module 1 | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 60 x 3 = 180 | 1 hour |
| Module 2 | Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | ||||
| Section II | Module 1 | English Language and Comprehension | 40 | 60 x 3 = 180 | 1 hour | |
| Module 2 | General Awareness | 20 | ||||
| Section III | Module 1 | Computer Knowledge Module | 15 | 15 x 3 = 45 | 15 minutes | |
| Total Questions in Session I | 135 | 405 |
SSC CHSL Tier 2 – Session II (Skill Test / Typing Test)
| Session | Section | Module | Subject | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session II | Section III (Module 2) | Part A | Skill Test for DEOs in Dept./Ministry | 15 minutes |
| Part B | Skill Test for DEOs except in Dept./Ministry | 15 minutes | ||
| Part C | Typing Test for LDC / JSA | 10 minutes |
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Skill Test / Typing Test Details:
- Typing Test for LDC/JSA: Candidates must type in English at a speed of 35 words per minute (WPM) or in Hindi at 30 words per minute (WPM). The typing test is qualifying in nature—no marks are awarded, but failing this test results in disqualification.
- DEST for DEO (Department/Ministry): Candidates must type 8,000 key depressions per hour (KDPH) on a computer. This is also qualifying in nature.
- DEST for DEO (Other than Dept./Ministry): Candidates must type 1,500 key depressions in 15 minutes (approximately 200 key depressions per minute).
- The skill test / typing test medium—English or Hindi—should be selected at the time of application and cannot be changed later.
Final Merit Calculation
The final merit for SSC CHSL 2026 will be prepared based on the combined marks of Tier 1 and Tier 2 Session I. The Skill Test / Typing Test in Session II is qualifying in nature only and does not contribute to the final merit score. Candidates must qualify all stages—Tier 1, Tier 2 Session I (objective), and Tier 2 Session II (skill/typing test)—to be considered for final selection.
SSC CHSL 2026 Selection Process
The SSC CHSL selection process 2026 is a multi-stage recruitment procedure designed to evaluate candidates on their aptitude, knowledge, and practical skills. There is no interview in the SSC CHSL recruitment process. The complete selection process is as follows:
Step 1: Tier 1 – Computer-Based Examination (CBT)
The Tier 1 exam is the first stage consisting of 100 objective-type MCQs for 200 marks. It serves as both a qualifying and merit-determining stage. Candidates scoring above the cut-off marks are shortlisted for Tier 2.
Step 2: Tier 2 – Computer-Based Examination + Skill/Typing Test
Tier 2 is conducted in two sessions on the same day:
- Session I: Objective-type CBT consisting of 135 questions for 405 marks covering mathematical abilities, reasoning, English language, general awareness, and computer knowledge.
- Session II: Skill Test or Typing Test based on the post applied for (DEO – DEST; LDC/JSA – Typing Test). This is qualifying in nature.
Step 3: Document Verification (DV)
Candidates who qualify for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 are called for document verification. They must produce original documents along with self-attested photocopies, including educational certificates, category certificates (if applicable), photo IDs, photographs, and other relevant documents as specified in the notification.
Step 4: Final Merit and Allocation
The final merit list is prepared based on the aggregate marks of Tier 1 and Tier 2 Session I. Candidates are allotted posts (LDC/JSA, DEO, PA/SA, etc.) based on their merit rank and post preferences indicated during the application process.
SSC CHSL 2026 Salary & Pay Scale
One of the biggest attractions of SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 is the competitive salary package under the 7th Central Pay Commission (7th CPC). The salary varies depending on the post allocated and the city of posting. SSC CHSL employees also receive various allowances, including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), medical benefits, and pension under the National Pension System (NPS).
Post-Wise Pay Scale
| Post Name | Pay Level | Pay Scale (Rs.) | Starting Basic Pay (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Division Clerk (LDC) / Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) | Level-2 | 19,900 – 63,200 | 19,900 |
| Postal Assistant (PA) / Sorting Assistant (SA) | Level-4 | 25,500 – 81,100 | 25,500 |
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) – Pay Level 4 | Level-4 | 25,500 – 81,100 | 25,500 |
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) – Pay Level 5 | Level-5 | 29,200 – 92,300 | 29,200 |
| DEO, Grade A | Level-4 | 25,500 – 81,100 | 25,500 |
Approximate In-Hand Salary
| Post | City X (Metro) | City Y | City Z |
|---|---|---|---|
| LDC / JSA | Rs. 29,000 – 32,000 | Rs. 25,000 – 28,000 | Rs. 24,000 – 26,000 |
| PA / SA / DEO | Rs. 36,000 – 42,000 | Rs. 32,000 – 36,000 | Rs. 30,000 – 34,000 |
| DEO Grade A | Rs. 40,000 – 48,000+ | Rs. 36,000 – 40,000 | Rs. 33,000 – 37,000 |
Note: In-hand salary figures are approximate and may vary based on the current DA rate, the HRA applicable to the city category, and individual deductions such as NPS (10% of basic + DA), CGHS, and CGEGIS contributions.
In addition to the salary, SSC CHSL employees enjoy benefits such as Leave Travel Concession (LTC), Group Insurance, Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), paid leaves, and regular promotions based on departmental competitive exams.
SSC CHSL 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 100 |
| Women (All Categories) | Nil (Exempted) |
| SC / ST | Nil (Exempted) |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) | Nil (Exempted) |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | Nil (Exempted) |
Mode of Payment: Candidates can pay the application fee through SBI Challan or SBI Net Banking / BHIM UPI / Credit Card / Debit Card. Candidates who choose to pay via Challan must deposit the fee in the SBI branch within the specified dates. Women candidates, SC/ST candidates, PwBD candidates, and ex-servicemen are fully exempted from paying the application fee.
How to Apply for SSC CHSL 2026 – Step-by-Step Guide
Candidates can apply online for SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 through the official SSC portal. Follow these steps to complete the application process successfully:
Step 1: One-Time Registration (OTR)
Visit the official website ssc.nic.in/apply/ and click on the “Register Now” link. Complete the One-Time Registration by providing your basic details, including name, date of birth, father’s name, mother’s name, mobile number, email ID, and other personal information. Upload your photograph and signature as per the prescribed dimensions. Generate your registration ID and password.
Step 2: Login and Fill Out Application Form
Log in using your registration ID and password. Select the “Combined Higher Secondary Level (10+2) Examination 2026” from the dashboard. Fill in your educational qualification, category, preference of examination centers, and post preferences. Carefully verify all details before submitting.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in JPEG format, 20 KB to 50 KB, 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm) and signature (JPEG format, 10 KB to 20 KB) if not already uploaded during OTR. Ensure the photograph and signature meet the prescribed specifications.
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
Pay the application fee of Rs. 100 (if applicable) through the available online payment modes—SBI Net Banking, BHIM UPI, credit card, or debit card. Alternatively, download the SBI Challan and deposit the fee in any SBI branch within the stipulated dates.
Step 5: Submit and Download Confirmation
Review the entire application form for accuracy, click the “Submit” button, and take a printout of the confirmation page for your records. Save the PDF of the submitted application for future reference. The confirmation page will contain your application number and other important details.
Important Instructions:
- Candidates must have a valid mobile number and email ID that are active throughout the recruitment process.
- The application form can be edited during the correction window if any errors are noticed. A separate fee is charged for form correction.
- Candidates are advised to complete the application process well before the last date to avoid last-minute technical issues.
SSC CHSL 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the SSC CHSL 2026 notification release date?
The SSC CHSL 2026 notification is expected to be released in July 2026 on the official website ssc.nic.in. Candidates are advised to check the SSC portal regularly for the latest updates.
Q2: Who is eligible for SSC CHSL 2026?
Candidates who have passed 12th standard (10+2) or the equivalent examination from a recognized board are eligible to apply. The age limit is 18 to 27 years with relaxations for reserved categories. DEO posts require candidates from the science stream with mathematics.
Q3: How many vacancies are expected in SSC CHSL 2026?
While the exact number will be confirmed in the official notification, based on previous year trends (3,131 vacancies in 2025, 3,712 in 2024), candidates can expect more than 3,000 vacancies for SSC CHSL 2026.
Q4: Is there negative marking in the SSC CHSL exam?
Yes. In Tier 1, there is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer. In Tier 2 Session I, there is a negative marking of 1 mark for each incorrect answer.
Q5: What is the salary of SSC CHSL LDC/JSA?
The LDC/JSA posts are at Pay Level-2 with a basic pay of Rs. 19,900 per month. The approximate in-hand salary ranges from Rs. 24,000 to Rs. 32,000 per month depending on the city category (X, Y, or Z) and applicable allowances.
Q6: What is the SSC CHSL Tier 2 exam pattern?
SSC CHSL Tier 2 is conducted in two sessions—Session I has 135 objective-type questions for 405 marks (Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, and Computer Knowledge), and Session II includes the Skill Test/Typing Test (qualifying in nature).
Q7: Is the typing test mandatory for all SSC CHSL posts?
Yes, the typing/skill test is mandatory for all posts. LDC/JSA candidates must clear the Typing Test (35 WPM English or 30 WPM Hindi), while DEO candidates must clear the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) as per the post requirements.
Q8: Can final-year/appearing students apply for SSC CHSL 2026?
Yes, candidates who are appearing in the 12th standard examination are also eligible to apply provisionally. However, they must possess the required educational qualification on or before the date specified in the official notification. Failure to produce the required qualification at the time of document verification will lead to disqualification.
Conclusion
The SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 presents an excellent career opportunity for 12th pass candidates aspiring for secure and rewarding central government jobs. With a well-structured examination process, competitive salary packages under the 7th CPC, and diverse posting options across India, SSC CHSL remains one of the most sought-after government recruitment exams in the country. Candidates should start their preparation early, focus on both the Tier 1 and Tier 2 syllabi, practice typing regularly, and stay updated with the latest notifications from the official SSC portal.
For more related information, explore these useful resources:
- SSC CGL Syllabus 2026 – Complete syllabus for the SSC CGL exam
- SSC CGL 2026 Notification – Latest SSC CGL notification and details
- SSC GD Constable 2026 Exam City – Check SSC GD exam city intimation
- SSC GD Constable 2025 Final Result – Check the latest SSC GD final result
- Jobs Alerts India – Home – Browse latest government job notifications
For official updates, always refer to the SSC Official Notification Page or the SSC Apply Online Portal. Bookmark this page for the latest updates on SSC CHSL 2026, including notification release, answer keys, results, and cut-off marks.