The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially released the complete exam schedule for the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) recruitment test 2026, providing millions of aspirants across India with a clear timeline for their preparations. The announcement covers both Tier 1 and Tier 2 examinations, which together determine eligibility for various group B and group C posts across different ministries and departments of the central government.
The Tier 1 examination, conducted in computer-based mode, serves as the first filtering stage for candidates who wish to apply for positions such as Assistant Section Officer, Inspector, and Sub-Inspector. The tier typically includes questions from quantitative aptitude, reasoning ability, English comprehension, and general awareness. Candidates who clear the cutoff marks set by the commission move on to Tier 2, which is more specialized and includes additional papers depending on the post they are applying for.
According to the schedule, the Tier 1 exam is expected to be held over multiple shifts to accommodate the large number of applicants. The commission usually releases the final dates through an official notification, and candidates are advised to regularly check the SSC portal for updates regarding admit cards and exam centers. The Tier 2 examination is generally scheduled a few months after the completion of Tier 1, allowing candidates sufficient time to prepare for the advanced-level questions that appear in this stage.
This year's CGL exam cycle is particularly significant as it promises vacancies across various desirable government departments. The recruitment process remains one of the most competitive in the country, with lakhs of graduates applying for a limited number of positions. The SSC has also reiterated that the schedule may be subject to change due to administrative or logistical reasons, urging candidates to stay informed through official channels.
