The SSC CHSL Exam Pattern 2025 is essential for every aspirant aiming to crack the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) examination. Held annually to recruit candidates for posts such as Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Postal Assistant (PA), Sorting Assistant (SA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO), the SSC CHSL 2025 exam requires a thorough understanding of its format. This comprehensive guide brings you 100% accurate and verified information about the SSC CHSL Tier 1 pattern, SSC CHSL Tier 2 pattern, SSC CHSL CBT structure, SSC CHSL skill test, SSC CHSL typing test 2025, SSC CHSL negative marking rules, and the types of questions asked.
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Overview of SSC CHSL 2025 Exam Pattern
The SSC CHSL 2025 examination is held in two key stages:
- Tier 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Objective Type
- Tier 2: Computer-Based Test (CBT) followed by a Skill Test or Typing Test
Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 are compulsory for final selection. In this guide, we provide a detailed breakdown of the SSC CHSL 2025 exam pattern, covering the SSC CHSL CBT structure, question types, negative marking scheme, and the specific requirements for the skill test and typing test. Understanding these elements is crucial for any candidate preparing seriously for the SSC CHSL 2025 recruitment process.
SSC CHSL Tier 1 Pattern 2025
The SSC CHSL Tier 1 pattern 2025 is designed as a computer-based, objective-type test that assesses candidates on their fundamental knowledge and aptitude. This stage includes four sections, with a total of 100 multiple-choice questions, carrying a maximum of 200 marks. The total duration of the exam is 60 minutes for most candidates, while PwD candidates are given 80 minutes.
Key Features of the SSC CHSL Tier 1 Pattern:
- Mode: Online (Computer-Based Test)
- Question Type: Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Total Questions: 100
- Total Marks: 200
- Duration: 60 minutes (PwD candidates get 80 minutes)
- SSC CHSL Negative Marking Rules: 0.50 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer
- Language: Bilingual – English and Hindi (except for the English Language section)
Understanding the SSC CHSL Tier 1 pattern is crucial for strategic preparation, especially with the negative marking system in place.
| Section Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Section I | General Intelligence – 25 Questions, 50 Marks |
| Section II | General Awareness – 25 Questions, 50 Marks |
| Section III | Quantitative Aptitude – 25 Questions, 50 Marks |
| Section IV | English Language – 25 Questions, 50 Marks |
| Total | 100 Questions, 200 Marks, Duration: 60 Minutes (Total) |
The SSC CHSL Tier 1 syllabus 2025 covers a wide range of topics designed to evaluate a candidate’s reasoning ability, general awareness, numerical skills, and English proficiency. The question paper is divided into four key sections, with each section featuring important topics that often appear in the SSC CHSL exam.
SSC CHSL Tier 1 Subject-Wise Question Types:
General Intelligence:
- Includes questions on Analogies, Coding-Decoding, Series, Puzzles, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. These are designed to test your logical and analytical thinking.
General Awareness:
- Covers Current Affairs, History, Geography, Economics, and General Science. Stay updated with national and international news, especially events from the last 6–12 months.
Quantitative Aptitude:
- Includes topics like Number Systems, Percentages, Ratios, Time and Work, Algebra, and Geometry. Focus on accuracy and time management to excel in this scoring section.
English Language:
- This section features Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, and Sentence Correction. A strong grasp of grammar and vocabulary is essential to score high.
Key Notes for SSC CHSL Tier 1:
- Each correct answer carries 2 marks
- 0.50 marks deducted for every incorrect answer (as per SSC CHSL negative marking rules)
- Normalization is applied if the exam is held in multiple shifts
- Tier 1 is qualifying, but its marks count toward the final merit list
Understanding the SSC CHSL Tier 1 exam pattern, along with the section-wise question types and weightage, is crucial for building an effective preparation strategy. Prioritizing high-weightage topics and practicing SSC CHSL previous year papers can give you a significant edge.
SSC CHSL Tier 2 Pattern 2025
The SSC CHSL Tier 2 pattern 2025 is a crucial and advanced stage of the selection process. It consists of a Computer-Based Test (CBT) followed by a Skill Test or Typing Test, all conducted on the same day in two sessions. This stage evaluates not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills, making it a key determinant in the final merit list.
Key Features of the SSC CHSL Tier 2 Pattern:
Mode:
- Session 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Session 2: Skill Test or Typing Test, depending on the post applied for
Question Types:
- Objective-type MCQs in most sections
- Descriptive input only in Module 2 of Section 3
Total Marks:
- 405 marks for Session 1
Duration:
- Session 1: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Session 2: 10–15 minutes (duration may vary based on the specific test)
SSC CHSL Negative Marking Rules:
- 1 mark deducted for each incorrect answer in Section 1, Section 2, and Module 1 of Section 3
Language Medium:
- Bilingual (English and Hindi)
- Note: Module 2 of Section 2 is in English only
The SSC CHSL Tier 2 syllabus 2025 is more detailed and application-based. Candidates should prepare thoroughly for both the SSC CHSL Skill Test and SSC CHSL Typing Test format, especially since this stage significantly influences the final selection. A clear grasp of exam timing, negative marking rules, and section-wise format will give you a competitive edge.
| Section Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Section 1 – Module 1 | Mathematical Abilities – 30 Questions, 90 Marks, Duration: 1 Hour |
| Section 1 – Module 2 | Reasoning and General Intelligence – 30 Questions, 90 Marks, Duration: 1 Hour |
| Section 2 – Module 1 | English Language and Comprehension – 40 Questions, 120 Marks, Duration: 1 Hour |
| Section 2 – Module 2 | General Awareness – 20 Questions, 60 Marks, Duration: 1 Hour |
| Section 3 – Module 1 | Computer Knowledge Test – 15 Questions, 45 Marks, Duration: 15 Minutes |
Session 2
| Section Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Section 3 – Module 2 | Skill Test / Typing Test – Duration: 10–15 Minutes |
The SSC CHSL Tier 2 exam pattern is designed to assess both academic proficiency and job-specific skills. The paper is divided into three sections, each covering distinct subjects as per the SSC CHSL Tier 2 syllabus 2025. Understanding the section-wise question types and topic weightage is essential to plan your preparation effectively.
🔹 Section 1:
Mathematical Abilities:
- Focuses on advanced-level problems from Algebra, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Data Interpretation, and other arithmetic topics. Strong calculation skills and conceptual clarity are key here.
Reasoning and General Intelligence:
- Includes Complex Puzzles, Logical Reasoning, Data Sufficiency, and analytical problem-solving. Questions are designed to test a candidate’s critical thinking and pattern recognition skills.
🔹 Section 2:
English Language and Comprehension:
- Tests reading and grammar skills with Reading Passages, Para Jumbles, Synonyms & Antonyms, Sentence Correction, and Vocabulary Usage. Accuracy and time management are crucial.
General Awareness:
- This section features questions on In-depth Current Affairs, Static General Knowledge, and Government Schemes. Regular reading of newspapers and monthly current affairs PDFs is highly recommended.
🔹 Section 3:
Computer Knowledge Test (Qualifying Nature):
- Basic-level questions from MS Office, Email, Internet Usage, and Computer Fundamentals. Though qualifying in nature, it’s mandatory to pass.
Skill Test / Typing Test:
- A practical assessment that evaluates the candidate’s typing speed and accuracy (for DEO, LDC, JSA roles).
- ➤ Detailed SSC CHSL typing test format and skill test guidelines are shared in the next section.
Tip: While Mathematics and Reasoning carry significant marks, don’t ignore the qualifying Computer Knowledge and Typing Tests, as failing them can lead to disqualification despite high scores in other sections.
SSC CHSL Skill Test and Typing Test 2025 (Tier 2 – Session 2)
The SSC CHSL skill test and typing test 2025 form a crucial part of Tier 2 – Session 2 and are qualifying in nature. These tests evaluate a candidate’s typing speed and accuracy—both essential for clerical and data entry roles. The type of test and required speed vary depending on the post applied for, such as Data Entry Operator (DEO) or Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Postal Assistant (PA), and Sorting Assistant (SA).
🔹 Skill Test for Data Entry Operator (DEO)
Candidates applying for the Data Entry Operator (DEO) post must qualify in a data entry speed test.
- Required Speed: 8,000 key depressions per hour (KDPH)
- Test Duration: 15 minutes
- Test Format: Candidates are provided with printed material, which they must enter accurately into a computer. The accuracy of input is measured, and errors are counted up to two decimal places.
This test checks how quickly and precisely a candidate can input data, which is a core requirement for DEO roles.
🔹 Typing Test for LDC, JSA, PA, and SA
Candidates applying for clerical positions such as LDC, JSA, PA, or SA must clear a typing test in either English or Hindi, based on their preference during the application.
Typing Speed Requirement:
- English: Minimum 35 words per minute (equivalent to 10,500 key depressions per hour)
- Hindi: Minimum 30 words per minute (equivalent to 9,000 key depressions per hour)
Test Duration: 10 minutes
- Test Format: Candidates are asked to type a given passage within the time limit. The test is evaluated based on both speed and accuracy.
Key Notes:
- The SSC CHSL skill test and typing test are mandatory for all candidates who qualify Tier 2 (Session 1).
- PwD candidates are provided relaxation in test criteria according to official SSC guidelines.
- Although these tests are qualifying in nature (i.e., their marks are not added to the final score), failing them will lead to disqualification regardless of Tier 1 and Tier 2 marks.
- Mastering typing speed and maintaining a high level of accuracy are essential for clearing this final hurdle in the SSC CHSL 2025 selection process.
SSC CHSL Negative Marking Rules 2025
Understanding SSC CHSL negative marking rules is vital to avoid losing marks:
- Tier 1: 0.50 marks deducted per incorrect answer.
- Tier 2:
1 mark deducted per incorrect answer in Section 1, Section 2, and Module 1 of Section 3.
No negative marking in the Computer Knowledge Test (qualifying) or Skill/Typing Test.
Tip: Attempt only confident answers to minimize negative marking impact.
SSC CHSL CBTesth Structure 2025
The SSC CHSL CBT structure for both tiers emphasizes objective-type questions:
- Tier 1 CBT: 100 MCQs across four sections, testing basic skills.
- Tier 2 CBT: Three sections with two modules each, covering advanced topics and computer knowledge.
- The CBTs are conducted online, ensuring a standardized and efficient testing process.
Minimum Qualifying Marks
- Tier 1: No specific cutoff; marks contribute to the merit list.
- Tier 2: UR: 30%,OBC/EWS: 25%, Other Categories: 20%
- Candidates must qualify all sections of Tier 2 to proceed.
Key Updates in SSC CHSL 2025 Exam Pattern
Based on the official SSC CHSL 2025 notification:
- Tier 1 Duration: Reduced to 60 minutes from 75 minutes.
- Tier 2 Structure: Revamped with three sections and two modules each, focusing on advanced skills.
- Negative Marking in Tier 2: Increased to 1 mark per wrong answer in most sections.
- Skill/Typing Test: Mandatory for all posts, with specific speed requirements.
Why the SSC CHSL Exam Pattern Matters
Understanding the SSC CHSL exam pattern 2025 is the first step toward effective and result-driven preparation. With 3131 SSC CHSL vacancies announced for 2025, competition is expected to be intense. Knowing the complete structure of the exam, including the SSC CHSL Tier 1 pattern, SSC CHSL Tier 2 pattern, CBT format, question types, skill test, typing test 2025, and negative marking rules, can make a significant difference in your preparation strategy.
A clear grasp of the SSC CHSL exam pattern allows candidates to:
- Prioritize high-weightage topics from the SSC CHSL syllabus
- Practice effectively for each section based on its difficulty level
- Manage time wisely during both preparation and the actual exam
- Minimize negative marking by approaching questions strategically
Whether you are targeting the LDC, JSA, PA, SA, or DEO posts, understanding the pattern ensures you're not caught off guard on exam day. It’s not just about studying hard, it’s about studying smart with the right roadmap.
Also Check SSC CHSL Syllabus 2025