The SSC CHSL exam is conducted in two distinct online stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 is a qualifying stage with 200 total marks and 0.50 negative marking, while Tier 2 is merit-based, carrying 405 marks with 1 mark negative marking for specific sections.
Tier 1 Examination
Tier 1 is an objective-type, computer-based examination designed to assess general aptitude and English language skills. Candidates must clear this stage to proceed to Tier 2.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence | 25 | 50 | 60 minutes (shared) |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | 60 minutes (shared) |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | 60 minutes (shared) |
| English Language | 25 | 50 | 60 minutes (shared) |
Negative Marking: 0.50 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer in Tier 1.
Tier 2 Examination
Tier 2 is also a computer-based examination, comprising objective-type papers and a Skill Test/Typing Test, depending on the post. This stage determines the final merit list.
| Subject/Module | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Module I: Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 | 60 minutes (shared across Section I & II) |
| Module II: Reasoning and General Intelligence | 30 | 90 | 60 minutes (shared across Section I & II) |
| Module I: English Language and Comprehension | 40 | 120 | 60 minutes (shared across Section I & II) |
| Module II: General Awareness | 20 | 60 | 60 minutes (shared across Section I & II) |
| Module I: Computer Knowledge Test | 15 | 45 | 15 minutes |
| Module II: Skill Test/Typing Test | - | - | 15 (for DEOs) / 10 (for LDC/JSA) minutes |
Negative Marking: 1 mark will be deducted for each wrong answer in Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III in Tier 2.
Marking & Normalization
For multi-shift exams, SSC employs an equipercentile normalization method. This process adjusts raw scores based on percentile ranks within each shift, ensuring fairness across different examination slots. The final merit list is based on the aggregate marks from Section-I and Section-II of the Tier 2 examination, provided candidates qualify Section-III (both modules).
Pattern FAQs
Q1: Is there negative marking in the SSC CHSL exam?
A1: Yes, there is negative marking. In Tier 1, 0.50 marks are deducted for each wrong answer. In Tier 2, 1 mark is deducted for each wrong answer in Section I, Section II, and Module I of Section III.
Q2: What is the total duration for the Tier 1 exam?
A2: The total duration for the Tier 1 exam is 60 minutes (1 hour) for all four sections combined.
Q3: How is the final merit list prepared for SSC CHSL?
A3: The final merit list is prepared based on the aggregate marks scored in Section-I and Section-II of the Tier 2 examination, subject to qualifying Section-III (both modules) of the Tier 2 exam.
Q4: What happens in case of a tie in the final scores?
A4: In case of a tie, the following criteria are used in order: marks in Section I of Tier 2, date of birth (older candidates preferred), and alphabetical order of names.