Introduction
The wait is over. The Staff Selection Commission has officially announced the dates for the SSC CGL Tier 2 2025 examination. This is the final and most critical stage of the recruitment process.
Unlike Tier 1, which was just qualifying, every single mark you score in Tier 2 will determine your final rank and the post you get.
Important Links
Exam Schedule & Admit Card
The Tier 2 examination will be conducted over two days.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Tier 2 Exam Date | 18th & 19th January 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | Expected by 14th January 2026 |
| City Intimation | 1st Week of January 2026 |
Important: The Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) will be conducted on the same day as the written exam (Paper 1).
Detailed Exam Pattern (Paper 1)
Paper 1 is compulsory for all posts. It is conducted in two sessions on the same day.
Session 1 (2 Hours 15 Minutes)
| Section | Module | Subject | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section I | I | Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 1 Hour |
| II | Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | ||
| Section II | I | English Language | 45 | 135 | 1 Hour |
| II | General Awareness | 25 | 75 | ||
| Section III | I | Computer Knowledge | 20 | 60 | 15 Mins |
Session 2 (15 Minutes)
| Section | Module | Subject | Task | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section III | II | Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) | 2000 Key Depressions | 15 Mins |
Key Points:
- Negative Marking: There is a negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer in Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III.
- Computer Knowledge: This section is qualifying in nature but mandatory.
- Merit List: Final merit is based on marks out of 390 (Section I + Section II).
The Game Changer: English & GK
Many aspirants spend 80% of their time on Math and Reasoning. However, look at the weightage:
- Math + Reasoning: 180 Marks
- English + GK: 210 Marks
English and General Awareness carry more weightage than Math and Reasoning combined. Yet, these are the subjects most students neglect.
To maximize your score in these high-weightage sections, use the Scoreclever App. Its spaced repetition technology ensures you retain vocabulary and current affairs facts until the exam day.
Typing Test (DEST) Rules
- Duration: 15 Minutes.
- Task: Type a passage of approximately 2000 key depressions.
- Accuracy:
- UR: 20% error allowed.
- OBC/EWS: 25% error allowed.
- SC/ST: 30% error allowed.
- Nature: Qualifying only. Marks are not added to merit.
Conclusion
With the exam scheduled for January 18-19, 2026, you have limited time left. Focus on revision, especially for English and General Awareness, as these sections will decide your rank. Ensure you practice typing daily to clear the DEST module comfortably.
