SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026: 2,536 LDC, JSA & DEO Vacancies, Eligibility, Salary & Apply Online
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 notification for the Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination, 2026. The recruitment drive is being conducted for various Group C posts, including Lower Divisional Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Data Entry Operator (DEO) and Data Entry Operator Grade ‘A’ in different Ministries, Departments, Offices and organisations of the Government of India.
🔔 Don't miss our latest updates!
Tap the bell icon at the top of this channel to turn on notifications.
According to the notification, approximately 2,536 tentative vacancies have been announced. The final number of vacancies will be determined later after the concerned user departments provide and verify their vacancy details.
The online application process started on 7 September 2026 and eligible candidates can submit their applications until 7 October 2026 at 11:00 PM. The application fee can be paid until 8 October 2026 at 11:00 PM, while the correction window will remain available from 14 October to 16 October 2026.
SSC CHSL is particularly important for candidates who have completed Class 12 and are looking for Central Government employment. Depending on the post and department, selected candidates can receive pay under Pay Level 2, Level 4 or Level 5.
SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Organisation | Staff Selection Commission |
| Examination | Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination, 2026 |
| Advertisement No. | HQ-C1102/5/2026-C-1 |
| Total Vacancies | Approx. 2,536 (Tentative) |
| Posts | LDC/JSA, DEO, DEO Grade ‘A’ |
| Qualification | 12th Pass |
| Age Limit | 18–27 Years |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Start Date | 7 September 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 7 October 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 8 October 2026 |
| Correction Window | 14–16 October 2026 |
| Selection Process | Tier-I & Tier-II |
| Tier-I Exam | To be announced |
| Tier-II Exam | To be announced |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
The vacancies are tentative at this stage. SSC has stated that updated post-wise and category-wise vacancies will be published later after scrutiny of the vacancies reported by the participating departments.
SSC CHSL Vacancy 2026
SSC has announced approximately 2,536 vacancies for CHSL 2026. The recruitment covers the following major posts:
| Post | Pay Level | Pay Scale |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Divisional Clerk (LDC) | Level-2 | ₹19,900–₹63,200 |
| Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) | Level-2 | ₹19,900–₹63,200 |
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) | Level-4 | ₹25,500–₹81,100 |
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) | Level-5 | ₹29,200–₹92,300 |
| Data Entry Operator Grade ‘A’ | Level-4 | ₹25,500–₹81,100 |
The exact number of vacancies for each post and category may change because the 2,536 figure is tentative. Candidates should therefore check the updated vacancy information on the SSC website when it is released.
SSC CHSL Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must satisfy the prescribed educational qualification and age requirements for the examination.
Educational Qualification
For most SSC CHSL posts, candidates must have passed Class 12 or an equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University.
For LDC/JSA, a 12th Standard pass qualification is required.
For most DEO and DEO Grade ‘A’ posts, candidates must also have passed Class 12 or equivalent.
However, certain DEO/DEO Grade ‘A’ posts in specified departments require candidates to have passed 12th Standard in the Science stream with Mathematics as a subject. Candidates should therefore check the post-specific educational qualification before applying.
Candidates appearing for their Class 12 examination can also apply in accordance with the notification, but they must possess the required qualification by the prescribed cut-off date of 7 October 2026.
Age Limit
The prescribed age limit for SSC CHSL 2026 is:
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Maximum age: 27 years
- Age calculated as on 1 August 2026
Candidates should have been born between 2 August 1999 and 1 August 2008, subject to applicable age relaxation.
Age Relaxation
Age relaxation is available to eligible candidates according to Government of India rules.
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| PwBD | Up to 10 years |
| PwBD – OBC | Up to 13 years |
| PwBD – SC/ST | Up to 15 years |
| Eligible Ex-Servicemen | As per applicable rules |
| Central Government Civilian Employees | As per prescribed service conditions |
Candidates claiming age relaxation must possess the required supporting certificate in the prescribed format.
SSC CHSL Salary 2026
SSC CHSL provides different pay levels depending on the post.
LDC/JSA Salary
LDC and JSA posts are placed under Pay Level-2, with a basic pay scale of:
₹19,900–₹63,200
DEO Salary
DEO posts can be placed under Pay Level-4 or Pay Level-5, depending on the department and post:
- Pay Level-4: ₹25,500–₹81,100
- Pay Level-5: ₹29,200–₹92,300
DEO Grade ‘A’ Salary
DEO Grade ‘A’ is placed under Pay Level-4, with a pay scale of:
₹25,500–₹81,100
In addition to basic pay, selected employees receive admissible allowances and benefits according to the rules applicable to their department and place of posting.
The actual in-hand salary will depend on allowances, deductions, posting location and other applicable government rules.
SSC CHSL Selection Process 2026
The SSC CHSL selection process consists mainly of two computer-based examination tiers:
- Tier-I
- Tier-II
Candidates must qualify the prescribed stages and meet the relevant cut-offs for final selection. Tier-II also includes mandatory qualifying computer and skill/typing components, depending on the post.
SSC CHSL Tier-I Exam Pattern 2026
Tier-I is an objective-type Computer Based Examination.
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | 25 | 50 |
| General Intelligence | 25 | 50 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 |
| General Awareness | 25 | 50 |
| Total | 100 | 200 |
The total examination duration is 60 minutes, with a sectional timer for each subject. Candidates eligible for the prescribed scribe facility receive the applicable compensatory time.
There is negative marking of 0.50 marks for each wrong answer in Tier-I.
The Tier-I examination is qualifying/screening in nature for progression to Tier-II, and candidates must achieve the prescribed minimum qualifying marks.
SSC CHSL Tier-II Exam Pattern 2026
Tier-II is conducted in two sessions on the same day.
Session-I
Session-I contains the following sections:
Section-I
Mathematical Abilities
- 30 questions
- 90 marks
Reasoning and General Intelligence
- 30 questions
- 90 marks
The combined Section-I carries 180 marks.
Section-II
English Language and Comprehension
- 40 questions
- 120 marks
General Awareness
- 20 questions
- 60 marks
Section-II carries 180 marks.
Section-III
Computer Knowledge Test
- 15 questions
- 45 marks
- 15 minutes
The Computer Knowledge Test is mandatory but qualifying in nature.
Session-II
Session-II contains the applicable Skill Test/Typing Test.
For LDC/JSA candidates, the applicable test is the Typing Test.
For DEO candidates, the applicable Skill Test is conducted according to the post and department.
There is negative marking of 1 mark for each wrong answer in Tier-II Sections I and II and the Computer Knowledge Module.
SSC CHSL Typing Test 2026
Candidates applying for LDC/JSA posts have to qualify the applicable Typing Test.
The prescribed typing speed is:
- English: 35 words per minute
- Hindi: 30 words per minute
The Typing Test is qualifying in nature, but candidates must meet the required standard to remain eligible for final selection.
The medium selected by the candidate during the application process is important, so applicants should carefully choose their typing-test language.
SSC CHSL DEO Skill Test 2026
Candidates selected for DEO posts have to appear for the applicable Data Entry Skill Test.
Depending on the department/post, the prescribed speed can be:
- 15,000 key depressions per hour for specified DEO posts
- 8,000 key depressions per hour for other applicable DEO posts
The Skill Test is qualifying in nature.
SSC CHSL Final Merit 2026
An important aspect of the current examination structure is that the final merit is based on performance in the relevant merit components of Tier-II, subject to qualifying the mandatory Computer Knowledge Test and Skill/Typing Test.
The Computer Knowledge Test and Skill/Typing Test are qualifying components, but candidates must clear them to remain eligible for selection.
Candidates should therefore not focus only on Tier-I preparation. Tier-II preparation is particularly important for the final selection.
SSC CHSL Application Fee 2026
The application fee for SSC CHSL 2026 is ₹100 for candidates who are required to pay the fee.
The following candidates are exempt:
- Women candidates
- SC candidates
- ST candidates
- PwBD candidates
- Eligible Ex-Servicemen
The fee can be paid through online payment methods such as BHIM UPI, Net Banking and eligible debit/credit card options.
The last date for online fee payment is 8 October 2026 at 11:00 PM.
SSC CHSL Important Dates 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 7 September 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | 7 September 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 7 October 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 8 October 2026 |
| Application Correction Window | 14–16 October 2026 |
| Tier-I Exam | To be announced |
| Tier-II Exam | To be announced |
SSC has not yet announced the Tier-I and Tier-II examination dates in the current notification. Candidates should regularly check the official SSC website for the examination schedule.
SSC CHSL Correction Window 2026
Candidates who need to make corrections to their submitted application will be provided a correction window from 14 October to 16 October 2026.
Applicants should fill out the original form carefully rather than relying on the correction facility. Important personal, educational and examination-centre details should be checked before final submission.
Documents Required for SSC CHSL Application
Candidates should keep the following information and documents ready:
- Class 10 certificate for date of birth
- Class 12 certificate/marksheet
- Valid identity proof
- Category certificate, where applicable
- PwBD certificate, where applicable
- EWS certificate, where applicable
- Ex-Servicemen documents, where applicable
- Recent photograph as required by the SSC application system
- Signature and other required application details
SSC has introduced a new online application system, and candidates should carefully follow the instructions displayed on the official portal while completing One-Time Registration and the CHSL application.
How to Apply for SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026
Eligible candidates can apply online through the official SSC website.
Step 1: Visit the Official SSC Website
Open the Staff Selection Commission official website.
Step 2: Complete One-Time Registration
Candidates who are new to the current SSC system should complete the required One-Time Registration (OTR) using their personal details.
Step 3: Log In
Use the registered credentials to access the SSC application dashboard.
Step 4: Select SSC CHSL 2026
Open the application for the Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination, 2026.
Step 5: Enter Required Details
Fill in personal information, educational qualifications, category details and other information requested in the application.
Step 6: Select Examination Preferences
Choose the examination centres and other applicable preferences carefully.
Step 7: Complete Photograph and Signature Requirements
Follow the SSC instructions for the photograph, signature and live photograph requirements wherever applicable.
Step 8: Pay the Fee
Pay the applicable ₹100 examination fee if you are not exempt.
Step 9: Review the Application
Check your name, date of birth, educational details, category, examination centre and other information carefully.
Step 10: Submit and Save
Submit the application before 7 October 2026 at 11:00 PM and save/print the confirmation for future reference.
Important Instructions for SSC CHSL Candidates
Candidates should keep the following points in mind:
- SSC CHSL 2026 has approximately 2,536 tentative vacancies.
- The final vacancy count may change.
- Most posts require Class 12 qualification.
- Certain DEO posts require Science with Mathematics in Class 12.
- The age limit is 18–27 years as on 1 August 2026.
- Age relaxation is available to eligible categories.
- Tier-I consists of 100 questions for 200 marks.
- Tier-I has 0.50-mark negative marking.
- Tier-II is conducted in two sessions.
- Tier-II has 1-mark negative marking in the applicable objective sections.
- The Computer Knowledge Test is mandatory and qualifying.
- The Skill/Typing Test is mandatory for applicable posts and qualifying.
- LDC/JSA candidates need the prescribed typing speed.
- DEO candidates need to qualify the prescribed data-entry speed.
- The application deadline is 7 October 2026.
- Fee payment can be made until 8 October 2026.
- Candidates should use only the official SSC website for the application.
- Tier-I and Tier-II examination dates will be announced separately.
SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 FAQs
How many vacancies are available in SSC CHSL 2026?
SSC has announced approximately 2,536 tentative vacancies for LDC, JSA, DEO and DEO Grade ‘A’ posts. The final vacancy count will be released later.
What is the qualification for SSC CHSL 2026?
Candidates generally need to have passed Class 12 or an equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University. Certain DEO posts require Class 12 Science with Mathematics.
What is the age limit for SSC CHSL 2026?
The age limit is 18 to 27 years as on 1 August 2026, subject to applicable age relaxation.
What is the salary of SSC CHSL posts?
LDC/JSA posts have a pay scale of ₹19,900–₹63,200, while DEO posts have pay scales ranging from ₹25,500–₹81,100 or ₹29,200–₹92,300, depending on the post.
What is the last date to apply for SSC CHSL 2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 7 October 2026 at 11:00 PM.
What is the SSC CHSL application fee?
The application fee is ₹100. Women, SC, ST, PwBD and eligible Ex-Servicemen candidates are exempt from paying the fee.
Is there negative marking in SSC CHSL?
Yes. Tier-I has 0.50 marks negative marking for each incorrect answer. Tier-II has 1 mark negative marking for incorrect answers in the applicable objective sections.
Is the SSC CHSL typing test compulsory?
For candidates applying for posts requiring the Typing Test, it is a mandatory qualifying stage. LDC/JSA candidates generally need 35 WPM in English or 30 WPM in Hindi.
When will the SSC CHSL Tier-I exam be conducted?
The Tier-I examination date has not yet been announced in the current recruitment notification. SSC will communicate the examination schedule separately.
When is the SSC CHSL application correction window?
The application correction window is scheduled from 14 October to 16 October 2026.
Conclusion
The SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 is a major opportunity for candidates who have completed Class 12 and want to enter Central Government service. With approximately 2,536 tentative vacancies for LDC, JSA, DEO and DEO Grade ‘A’ posts, the recruitment covers several Ministries, Departments and offices of the Government of India.
The application process has started from 7 September 2026, and candidates can apply online until 7 October 2026 at 11:00 PM. The basic age requirement is 18–27 years, while the majority of posts require Class 12 qualification. Certain DEO positions have an additional Science-with-Mathematics requirement.
Candidates should also understand that SSC CHSL selection does not end with Tier-I. Tier-II plays an important role in final merit, while the applicable Computer Knowledge Test and Skill/Typing Test must also be qualified. Applicants should therefore begin preparation early and regularly check the official SSC website for updated vacancy details, examination dates and further notices.
