SSC CGL Recruitment 2026 Explained — Vacancy Details, Dates & Application Steps

The Staff Selection Commission has officially released the highly anticipated recruitment notification for the Combined Graduate Level Examination 2026. This recruitment drive aims to fill an impressive 12,256 vacancies across various prestigious Group B and Group C administrative positions within several ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India. For graduates seeking a secure, respected, and progressive career in the public sector, this is one of the most significant employment opportunities of the year.

The online application window opened on May 21, 2026, and eligible candidates can submit their forms until June 22, 2026. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details regarding the recruitment process, including important dates, registration fees, age limits, educational qualifications, department-wise post details, and a step-by-step application walkthrough.

SSC CGL 2026 Important Dates

Staying updated with the official schedule is crucial to ensure you do not miss any critical deadlines. The table below outlines the complete timeline for the SSC CGL 2026 recruitment process, from the commencement of applications to the tentative exam dates.

Application Fee and Correction Charges

Candidates must pay the required registration fee to complete their application. The commission also provides a correction window for candidates who make mistakes during the initial submission, subject to specific modification charges. The payment can be made through online modes such as Debit Cards, Credit Cards, Net Banking, or UPI.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria set by the Staff Selection Commission. This includes specific age limits and educational qualifications calculated as of the designated cut-off dates.

1. Age Limit (As of August 1, 2026)

The general age limit for candidates applying for the SSC CGL 2026 recruitment ranges from 18 to 32 years. However, the exact age requirement varies depending on the specific post and department. Age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, PwD, and Ex-Servicemen) as per the prevailing government regulations.

2. Educational Qualifications

The educational qualifications required for various posts under the Combined Graduate Level Examination are detailed below:

Department-Wise Post Details

The SSC CGL recruitment is highly sought after because it offers placements in some of the most influential ministries and executive bodies of the Indian Government. Below is a list of prominent departments and the respective posts filled through this examination:

• Indian Audit and Accounts Department (under C&AG): Assistant Audit Officer, Assistant Accounts Officer
• Central Secretariat Service (CSS): Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Intelligence Bureau (IB): Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Ministry of Railways: Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Armed Forces Headquarters (AFHQ): Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY): Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT): Inspector of Income Tax
• Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC): Inspector (CGST & Central Excise), Inspector (Preventive Officer), Inspector (Examiner)
• Directorate of Enforcement (ED): Assistant Enforcement Officer
• Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI): Sub Inspector
• Indian Coast Guard: Assistant / Superintendent

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online

Candidates must submit their applications exclusively through the official portal of the Staff Selection Commission. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth registration process:

1. One-Time Registration (OTR): If you are a new user, visit the official SSC website and complete the One-Time Registration by providing your basic personal details, contact number, email address, and valid identity proof.
2. Login: Once registered, log in to the portal using your newly generated Registration Number and Password.
3. Select the Exam: Navigate to the "Apply" section and select the "Combined Graduate Level Examination 2026" link.
4. Fill the Application Form: Enter your educational credentials, choose your preferred examination centers, and select post preferences carefully.
5. Upload Documents: Upload a clear, recently taken passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of your signature in the prescribed dimensions and file format.
6. Fee Payment: Pay the application fee of ₹100 (if applicable) using any of the integrated online payment methods.
7. Final Submission: Review all the entered information thoroughly to avoid errors. Submit the application form and take a printout of the confirmation page for future reference.