SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: PET PST Details & Marking Scheme

The SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 includes a Computer-Based Examination (CBE), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Physical Standard Test (PST), Medical Examination and Document Verification. The CBE consists of 80 objective-type questions carrying a total of 160 marks, with 60 minutes allowed to complete the paper. Candidates preparing for the SSC GD Constable Examination 2026 should understand the subject-wise question distribution, negative marking, physical test requirements and selection stages to prepare effectively.

The SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 covers four subjects: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Knowledge and General Awareness, Elementary Mathematics, and English/Hindi. Each section contains 20 questions carrying 40 marks. Candidates should also prepare for the prescribed running test and physical measurements, as qualifying the CBE is necessary for shortlisting to PET/PST, while further selection depends on qualifying the applicable recruitment stages.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: Overview

The SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 specifies the structure, duration, total marks and subjects included in the Computer-Based Examination. The examination is conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) for Constable (GD) posts in CAPFs and SSF, and Rifleman (GD) posts in Assam Rifles.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: Subject-Wise Marks Distribution

According to the SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026, the Computer-Based Examination consists of four parts, with 20 questions and 40 marks allocated to each subject. Candidates should divide their preparation time across all four sections and practise questions according to the prescribed examination structure.

The total examination duration is 60 minutes. Since every question carries 2 marks, candidates should focus on accuracy and time management while attempting the paper. The official notification specifies that all questions are objective multiple-choice questions of matriculation level.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: Marking Scheme and Negative Marking

The SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 follows a marking scheme in which candidates receive 2 marks for each correct answer and lose 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer. Candidates should consider the negative marking rule while attempting questions and avoid making random guesses when they are unsure of an answer.

Candidates can estimate their examination score using the following formula:

Estimated score = (Correct answers × 2) − (Incorrect answers × 0.25)

For example, if a candidate answers 60 questions correctly and 10 questions incorrectly, the estimated score would be 117.5 marks out of 160, assuming the remaining 10 questions are unattempted.

The Commission also normalises CBE marks according to its prescribed procedure. Normalised scores, along with applicable bonus marks for NCC certificate holders, are used to determine merit and cutoff marks. Candidates should refer to the official notification for the applicable rules.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: Exam Language and Important Instructions

The SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 allows candidates to take the Computer-Based Examination in English, Hindi and 13 regional languages specified in the official notification. These languages are Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu.

Candidates should also keep the following examination instructions in mind:

• The examination dates are communicated through the official SSC website.
• There is no provision for re-evaluation or re-checking of CBE scores.
• Tentative answer keys are published after the examination, and candidates can submit representations through the prescribed online process within the specified period.
• The fee for challenging a tentative answer key is INR 50 per question, as stated in the notification.
• Final answer keys and marks are made available on the SSC website after the result declaration.
• Calculators and other electronic gadgets are not permitted inside the examination hall or laboratory.
• Candidates can access the mock test provided in the Candidate's Corner section of the official SSC website.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: Subject-Wise Syllabus

The SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 includes four subjects designed to assess candidates' reasoning ability, general awareness, mathematical skills and basic language comprehension. Candidates should prepare according to the indicative syllabus provided in the official examination notice.

General Intelligence and Reasoning

This section assesses analytical aptitude and the ability to observe and distinguish patterns. Important topics include:

• Analogies, similarities and differences
• Spatial visualisation and spatial orientation
• Visual memory, discrimination and observation
• Relationship concepts
• Arithmetical reasoning
• Figural classification
• Arithmetic number series and non-verbal series
• Coding and decoding

General Knowledge and General Awareness

This section evaluates candidates' awareness of their surroundings, current events and general knowledge. Topics may include:

• Indian history and culture
• Geography
• Economic developments
• General polity and the Indian Constitution
• Sports
• Scientific research
• Current affairs
• India and neighbouring countries

Elementary Mathematics

The mathematics section tests fundamental numerical and arithmetic skills. Candidates should prepare topics such as:

• Number systems and whole numbers
• Decimals and fractions
• Fundamental arithmetic operations
• Percentages
• Ratio and proportion
• Averages
• Interest
• Profit and loss
• Discount
• Mensuration
• Time and distance
• Time and work

English/Hindi

The English/Hindi section tests candidates' understanding of basic English or Hindi and their comprehension ability. Candidates should practise grammar, vocabulary, sentence understanding and basic reading comprehension relevant to their chosen language.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: PET Details and Running Test

Under the SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 selection process, candidates are shortlisted for the Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST) based on their CBE performance. The PET evaluates physical endurance through a running test. Candidates must complete the prescribed distance within the applicable time limit.

Ex-servicemen are exempted from the PET. However, those shortlisted through the CBE must appear for the prescribed measurement of height, chest and weight for record purposes and must qualify the medical examination.

Female candidates are required to submit a self-declaration regarding pregnancy when reporting for PET/PST. The official notification specifies the applicable procedure for candidates who declare pregnancy.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: PST Height and Chest Standards

The Physical Standard Test (PST) under the SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 involves checking candidates' height, weight and chest measurements, wherever applicable. The prescribed standards differ for male and female candidates, and certain categories and regions are eligible for relaxation under the official rules.

SSC GD Height Requirements 2026

The relaxation categories listed above follow the categories specified in the examination notice. Candidates should check the exact eligibility conditions and certificate requirements before claiming a relaxation.

SSC GD Chest Requirements 2026

Chest measurements are not taken for female candidates; however, the notification states that their chest should be well-developed. Weight must be proportionate to height and age according to the applicable medical standards.

Candidates who do not qualify the prescribed height or chest standards may appeal to the designated Appellate Authority on the same day through the Presiding Officer. No appeal is available against the PET race result.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: Medical Examination and Document Verification

Candidates who qualify PET/PST may be shortlisted for the Detailed Medical Examination (DME) and Document Verification (DV). These stages help the authorities verify candidates' medical fitness, eligibility and supporting documents before the final selection process.

Candidates may be required to present the following documents, as applicable:

• Matriculation or Secondary Examination certificate for age, name and educational qualification
• Domicile Certificate or Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC)
• Valid NCC certificate, if applicable
• Certificate from serving defence personnel, where applicable
• Undertaking for ex-servicemen candidates, where applicable
• Prescribed caste certificate for candidates claiming reservation or age relaxation
• Certificate supporting relaxation in height or chest measurements
• Certificate for eligible dependants of riot victims, where applicable
• Nativity or identity certificate for West Pakistani Refugees, where applicable

Candidates should check the official SSC GD examination notice and relevant instructions to confirm the required documents and prescribed formats. The detailed medical examination, any applicable review medical examination, and document verification must be completed according to the recruitment rules.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: Preparation Tips

Candidates preparing for the SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 should combine written-examination preparation with physical training. A structured routine can help improve accuracy, time management and physical endurance.

• Understand the exam pattern: Learn the subject-wise distribution, total marks and negative marking rules.
• Practise mock tests: Attempt timed tests to improve speed and familiarity with the examination format.
• Revise all four subjects: Give regular attention to reasoning, general awareness, mathematics and English/Hindi.
• Analyse mistakes: Identify weak topics and revise questions answered incorrectly.
• Prepare for PET: Build running endurance gradually and allow adequate recovery.
• Check physical standards: Confirm the applicable height, chest and other requirements before the test.
• Keep documents ready: Arrange certificates and supporting documents in the prescribed formats.
• Follow official updates: Use SSC notices for confirmed examination dates, answer keys, results and recruitment instructions.

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs