The SSC CHSL Exam Pattern is the most significant factor that every candidate needs to know before preparing for the examination. The Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) exam is organized by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) annually for different posts such as Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Postal Assistant, Sorting Assistant, and Data Entry Operator (DEO).
Understanding the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern in detail assists candidates in preparing well and increasing their chances of performing well. In this article, we shall discuss the latest exam pattern, marking scheme, mode of examination, tier-wise structure, and all other key information that aspirants need to be aware of for SSC CHSL 2025.
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2025
The SSC CHSL Exam Pattern consists of two primary tiers – Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 is a computer-based objective test, whereas Tier 2 is a mix of objective and skill-based tests. The candidates must qualify in both tiers to be selected.
Here is a quick overview of the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2025:
| Exam
Tier |
Type of Exam | Mode | Duration | Marks | Subjects Included |
| Tier 1 | Objective
(Multiple Choice) |
Online
(CBT) |
60 Minutes | 200 Marks | General Intelligence, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language |
| Tier 2 | Objective +
Skill/Typing |
Online
+ Test |
2 hours 15 min (plus
Skill/Typing) |
100 Marks + Qualifying | Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, General
Awareness, English, Computer Proficiency |
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Tier 1
The SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Tier 1 is the initial step of the selection process. It is in the form of multiple-choice questions and is held in online mode.
Tier 1 is for the basic aptitude and awareness of the candidate. It is crucial because only those who qualify Tier 1 are eligible for the next round.
Key Highlights of SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Tier 1
- The exam has 100 questions divided into 4 sections.
- Each question carries 2 marks.
- There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for every wrong answer. • The duration of the exam is 1 hour.
Below is the subject-wise breakdown of Tier 1:
| Section | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Duration |
| General Intelligence | 25 | 50 | |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | |
| English Language | 25 | 50 | |
| Total | 100 | 200 | 60 mins |
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Tier 2
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Tier 2 is descriptive in nature and aims at determining both the knowledge base of the applicants as well as their skill levels.
This level is separated into three parts and consists of a skill-based assessment. Only those who pass Tier 1 are eligible to appear for Tier 2.
Key Components of SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Tier 2
Prior to moving into bullet points, let us comprehend that Tier 2 is designed in a manner that tests reasoning, math, English, and basic computer competency. Candidates must also pass typing or skill test, as per the applied post.
- Section 1 (Mathematical Abilities and Reasoning):
o Includes basic arithmetic, number systems, and logical reasoning. o Designed to test problem-solving abilities.
- Section 2 (General Awareness and English Language):
o Tests the candidate’s general knowledge and language proficiency. o Focus on current affairs, grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. • Section 3 (Computer Knowledge and Typing/Skill Test):
o Computer-related basics like MS Office, emails, internet usage.
o Typing test: 35 wpm in English or 30 wpm in Hindi.
o Skill test for DEO: 8,000 key depressions per hour.
| Section | Topics Included | Type | Marks |
| Mathematical +
Reasoning |
Algebra, Arithmetic, Series, Puzzles | Objective | 60 |
| English + General
Awareness |
Vocabulary, Grammar, Current Affairs, History | Objective | 40 |
| Computer & Typing/Skill | Typing Test or Skill Test | Practical | Qualifying |
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Skill Test and Typing Test Details
The SSC CHSL Exam Pattern consists of skill and typing tests, which are qualifying in nature. These are held after Tier 2 for certain posts and are not marked but need to be cleared.
Skill and Typing Test Guidelines
The skill test is mandatory for Data Entry Operator posts while typing test is needed for LDC/JSA/SA.
Let’s understand the details:
Typing Test:
- Speed: 35 wpm in English or 30 wpm in Hindi.
- Duration: 10 minutes.
- Conducted for LDC, JSA, and SA posts.
Skill Test for DEO:
- Data entry speed: 8000 key depressions per hour.
- Based on correct entry of words/key strokes in a given passage.
- Duration: 15 minutes.
Only candidates who meet these speed requirements will be considered eligible for final selection.
SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2025 FAQs
Q1. When will the SSC CHSL 2025 notification be released?
The SSC CHSL 2025 official notification will be released on 27th May 2025.
Q2. What is the application deadline for SSC CHSL 2025?
The last date to apply online for SSC CHSL 2025 is 25th June 2025, with fee payment closing on 26th June 2025.
Q3. When will the SSC CHSL Tier 1 exam be held?
The Tier 1 exam is scheduled to be conducted between July and August 2025.
Q4. Is there negative marking in the SSC CHSL exam?
Yes, there is negative marking. Tier 1 deducts 0.50 marks per incorrect answer, and Tier 2 deducts 1 mark per incorrect answer in objective sections.
Q5. What is required to qualify the Skill Test or Typing Test?
For DEO, a speed of 8,000 key depressions per hour is required. For LDC/JSA/SA, typing speed of 35 wpm in English or 30 wpm in Hindi is needed.
