SSC CGL Cut Off 2026: What Score Do You Need?
SSC CGL cutoffs are the minimum marks required to qualify Tier 1 and Tier 2. They are released category-wise (General/EWS, OBC, SC, ST) and post-wise for the final merit list. Understanding cutoff trends helps you set a realistic target score and calibrate how much to prioritise each subject.
SSC CGL Tier 1 Cutoff 2026 (Expected)
| Category | Expected Cutoff (out of 200) |
|---|---|
| General/EWS | 135–145 |
| OBC | 127–137 |
| SC | 112–122 |
| ST | 100–110 |
| PwD | 80–95 |
Note: There is no section-wise cutoff in SSC CGL Tier 1 (unlike Bank PO). Only the overall score matters for Tier 1 qualification — but all 4 sections must be attempted to avoid zero-score elimination.
SSC CGL Tier 1 Previous Year Cutoffs
| Year | General/EWS | OBC | SC | ST |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSC CGL 2024 | 142.50 | 133.75 | 119.50 | 107.25 |
| SSC CGL 2023 | 139.25 | 130.50 | 116.75 | 104.50 |
| SSC CGL 2022 | 136.00 | 127.25 | 113.50 | 101.00 |
| SSC CGL 2021 | 132.50 | 123.75 | 110.25 | 98.00 |
| SSC CGL 2020 | 128.25 | 119.50 | 106.75 | 95.50 |
The consistent upward trend (~3–4 marks increase per year) reflects growing competition as more aspirants prepare with mock tests and online resources. Target 155–160 for a strong safety buffer.
SSC CGL Tier 2 Cutoff 2026 (Expected)
Tier 2 cutoffs are calculated on the aggregate of all Paper 1 sections. The post-wise final cutoff is computed after the interview/document verification stage.
Tier 2 Paper 1 Total Marks: 450 (Mathematical + Reasoning + English + GK + Computer)
| Category | Expected Tier 2 Cutoff (out of 450) |
|---|---|
| General/EWS | 295–320 |
| OBC | 275–300 |
| SC | 248–270 |
| ST | 228–250 |
SSC CGL Post-wise Final Cutoff 2026 (Expected)
The final cutoff determines your post allotment. Higher-preference posts like ASO (MEA), Income Tax Inspector, and CBI SI have higher cutoffs because more candidates choose them as first preference.
| Post | Expected Final Cutoff (Gen, out of 700) |
|---|---|
| Assistant Section Officer (MEA) | 530–555 |
| Assistant Section Officer (MHA) | 510–535 |
| Income Tax Inspector (CBDT) | 525–550 |
| Central Excise Inspector (CBIC) | 510–535 |
| Sub-Inspector (CBI) | 500–525 |
| Assistant Audit Officer | 515–540 |
| Statistical Investigator Gr. II | 480–505 |
| Tax Assistant (CBDT) | 465–490 |
| Upper Division Clerk (UDC) | 450–475 |
Final cutoff = Tier 1 score + Tier 2 score (combined out of 700 for non-JSO/AAO posts).
Why SSC CGL Cutoffs Are Rising
- More aspirants: Over 30 lakh applications per year for ~15,000–20,000 vacancies
- Better preparation tools: Free YouTube coaching, affordable mock test platforms, and daily quiz apps have raised the average preparation level
- Consistent question patterns: Pattern predictability encourages more candidates to prepare intensively
What Score Should You Target in 2026?
Never target the cutoff — target 15–20 marks above it to create a safety buffer against paper difficulty variation:
- Tier 1 target (General category): 155–165 out of 200
- Tier 2 Paper 1 target (General category): 330–360 out of 450
- Final score target for top posts (ASO MEA, IT Inspector): 560–580 out of 700
Tier 1 Score Maximisation Strategy
To reach 155–165, here is the section-wise target distribution:
| Section | Max Marks | Target Score | Time Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 42–46 | 13–15 min |
| General Awareness | 50 | 40–44 | 10–12 min |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 38–44 | 17–20 min |
| English Comprehension | 50 | 40–44 | 13–15 min |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there negative marking in SSC CGL Tier 1?
Yes — 0.50 marks are deducted per wrong answer in Tier 1 (not the 0.25 of Bank PO). This means 2 wrong answers cost you 1 mark. Attempt only when you can confidently eliminate at least 2 options — blind guessing is more costly in SSC CGL than in Bank PO.
What is the SSC CGL normalisation process?
SSC CGL is conducted in multiple shifts across multiple days. To ensure fairness across varying difficulty levels, scores are normalised using a statistical formula before cutoffs are determined. Normalised scores (not raw scores) are used for merit ranking and post allotment.
Can I get a top post with OBC category cutoff?
Yes. OBC category cutoffs are 8–12 marks lower than General category. If your normalised Tier 1 + Tier 2 score crosses the OBC cutoff for ASO MEA or IT Inspector, you will be allotted that post in the OBC category. Reservation applies to specific vacancies in each post.