Complete SSC CGL Syllabus 2025 – Section-wise & Tier-wise Breakdown for Effective Preparation

Introduction

Are you aiming for a government job through SSC CGL? You're not alone. Every year, lakhs of aspirants from across India appear for the SSC CGL exam, hoping to secure positions in various ministries and departments under the Central Government. However, the key to cracking this highly competitive exam lies in having a deep understanding of the SSC CGL syllabus.

🏩 What is SSC CGL?

Overview of SSC CGL Exam

SSC CGL stands for Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level Examination. It is one of the most popular exams for graduate students aspiring for Group B and Group C posts in various ministries, departments, and organizations of the Government of India.

The exam is conducted in four tiers, and each tier has a different pattern and purpose. With job roles ranging from Assistant Section Officer to Income Tax Inspector, the opportunities are both prestigious and lucrative.

Eligibility Criteria Snapshot

Education: Bachelor's degree from a recognized university
Age Limit: 18 to 32 years (varies by post with category-wise relaxations)
Nationality: Indian citizens or eligible candidates as per SSC norms

🗓️ SSC CGL Exam Pattern – Tier-Wise Overview

Tier Structure Explained

Tier I – Preliminary: Objective test (online)
Tier II – Mains: Objective test (online)
Tier III – Descriptive paper: Pen and paper mode
Tier IV – Skill test/Computer proficiency and document verification

Weightage of Each Tier

Tier I and Tier II are crucial for selection and merit list
Tier III is qualifying but contributes to final merit in case of tie-breaks
Tier IV is only qualifying in nature but mandatory for selected posts

📚 SSC CGL Tier 1 Syllabus (Prelims)

General Intelligence & Reasoning

Analogy
Coding-Decoding
Series (Number & Alphabet)
Syllogism
Blood Relations
Venn Diagrams
Statement-Conclusion
Mirror/Water Images
Embedded Figures

General Awareness

Static GK (Important Days, Books, National Parks)
History, Geography, Polity
Indian Economy
General Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics basics)
Current Affairs (national & international)

Quantitative Aptitude

Simplification
Number System
Percentage, Profit & Loss
Simple & Compound Interest
Ratio & Proportion
Time, Speed, Distance; Time & Work
Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry
Bar Graphs, Pie Charts, Line Graphs

English Comprehension

Reading Comprehension
Cloze Test
Error Spotting
Fill in the Blanks
Sentence Improvement
Synonyms, Antonyms
One Word Substitution
Idioms and Phrases

📘 SSC CGL Tier 2 Syllabus (Mains)

Paper I – Quantitative Abilities

Covers advanced mathematics
Topics include:
- Advanced Algebra
- Geometry (Mensuration, Circles)
- Trigonometry (Heights & Distances)
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Graphs, Charts)
- Number Series & Time-based calculations

Paper II – English Language and Comprehension

Reading Comprehension (lengthy passages)
Sentence Correction
Active-Passive Voice
Direct-Indirect Speech
Para Jumbles
Vocabulary (usage-based)
Grammar rules and usage

Paper III – General Studies (Finance and Economics) (For Assistant Audit Officer/Assistant Accounts Officer only)

Part A: Finance

Financial Accounting Basics
Book Keeping Principles
Budgeting
Accounting Standards

Part B: Economics

Basic Economic Concepts
Indian Economic Development
Economic Reforms since 1991
Money and Banking
Role of RBI

Paper IV – Statistics (For Junior Statistical Officer only)

Collection & Representation of Data
Measures of Dispersion
Correlation & Regression
Probability Theory
Sampling Theory
Time Series Analysis

✍️ SSC CGL Tier 3 Syllabus (Descriptive Paper)

Format of the Exam

Pen-and-paper based written exam
Total Marks: 100
Duration: 60 minutes (20 mins extra for PwD candidates)

Topics Usually Asked

Essay writing on current events
Application or Letter writing (formal/informal)
Precis writing (rare)

Pro Tips

Follow a structured format (Intro, Body, Conclusion)
Stay updated with daily news for topics
Improve handwriting and grammar

🖥️ SSC CGL Tier 4 – Skill Tests & Document Verification

Data Entry Skill Test (DEST)

Used to test typing skills for Tax Assistants (Central Excise & Income Tax)
2000 key depressions in 15 minutes (English typing)

Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)

For posts like CSS, MEA, etc.
Tests knowledge of:
- MS Word
- MS Excel
- MS PowerPoint

Document Verification

Essential documents:
- Educational certificates
- Caste/Category certificates (if applicable)
- Aadhaar card/PAN card for identity proof
- Disability certificate (for PwD candidates)

📌 SSC CGL Syllabus – Topic-wise Weightage & Question Trends

General Trends Based on Previous Years:

Quantitative Aptitude: High weightage on Geometry & DI
English: Cloze test and error spotting are regular
Reasoning: Series and puzzles dominate
GK: 80% questions from Static GK + Current Events

Marks Distribution

Tier I: 25 marks each section
Tier II:
- Paper I (Quant): 200 marks
- Paper II (English): 200 marks
- Others (If applicable): 200 marks each

🌟 Smart Preparation Strategy Based on Syllabus

How to Prioritise Topics

Focus on high-weightage topics first (Geometry, DI, Comprehension)
Balance between speed and accuracy
Regular revision of formulas and grammar rules

Books & Resources for Each Subject

Quant: RS Aggarwal, Arun Sharma (Advance Maths)
English: Plinth to Paramount, SP Bakshi
GK: Lucent GK, Daily Current Affairs apps
Mock Tests: Testbook, Oliveboard, Adda247

Practice & Revision Tips

Attempt full-length mocks weekly
Analyse wrong answers after every mock
Create formula sheets, vocabulary flashcards

💬 FAQs on SSC CGL Syllabus

Q1. Is the syllabus same every year?
Generally yes, but small modifications are announced in the official notification.

Q2. Can Tier I topics come in Tier II?
Yes, especially in Quant and English. Tier II is deeper but builds on Tier I concepts.

Q3. What changes are expected in SSC CGL 2025 syllabus?
As of now, no major changes announced. Candidates should follow official SSC notifications.

🧠 How a Strong Hold on Syllabus Leads to Selection

Understanding the SSC CGL syllabus thoroughly helps in structured preparation, avoids wasted efforts, and increases chances of selection. Many aspirants make the mistake of studying without a strategy. Don't be one of them. Follow the syllabus, revise regularly, and practice consistently.

Stay focused, believe in yourself, and go win that government job you deserve!

Stay tuned for more preparation tips, mock test strategies, and revision plans. All the best for your SSC CGL 2025 journey!

Complete SSC CGL Syllabus 2025 – Section-wise & Tier-wise Breakdown