SSC CGL Exam 2026: Tier 1 from tomorrow; check shift timings, documents, exam-day guidelines

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will begin the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) tier 1 examination 2026 tomorrow, September 30. The computer-based examination will be conducted in multiple shifts across designated centres. As per the SSC CGL exam date, the tier 1 will continue until October 30, 2026.

Candidates appearing for the exam should download their SSC CGL 2026 admit card, check the reporting time and examination centre mentioned on it and reach the venue well before the gate-closing time. The SSC CGL admit card download direct link can be accessed on the official website.

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SSC CGL exam timings 2026 for tier 1

The Tier 1 examination is being conducted in four shifts, with each shift lasting one hour. The reported shift timings are:

• Shift 1: 9 am to 10 am
• Shift 2: 11:45 am to 12:45 pm
• Shift 3: 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm
• Shift 4: 5:15 pm to 6:15 pm

Candidates are advised to follow the reporting time and gate-closing time printed on their individual SSC admit card, as these details can vary according to the allotted shift and centre.

SSC CGL Exam 2026: Documents to carry

According to SSC's official instructions, candidates should carry:

• SSC CGL admit card 2026
• One original valid photo ID, such as Aadhaar/e-Aadhaar, passport, driving licence, voter ID, PAN card, government/PSU service ID or school/college ID.
• If the photo ID does not show the date of birth, an original document proving date of birth, such as a Class 10 marksheet or birth certificate.
• PwD/PwBD candidates claiming applicable facilities must carry the required original documents and copies as specified by SSC.

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SSC CGL 2026 exam day guidelines

Candidates should check their SSC CGL 2026 admit card carefully before leaving for the examination. They should verify the SSC CGL exam date, shift, reporting time, centre name and centre address and plan their travel accordingly.

The commission says candidates should not write anything on the SSC CGL 2026 admit card before reaching the centre. The required entries have to be made in the specified space in the presence of the invigilator after the first login. Candidates should also avoid folding, damaging or distorting the barcode area.

Watches, books, paper chits, magazines, mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, headphones, spy cameras, scanners, calculators and storage devices are prohibited inside the examination lab.

SSC further states that candidates may carry a transparent water bottle, while rough-work paper and a pen will be provided in the examination lab. Candidates must undergo frisking and follow instructions issued by examination officials.