SSC introduces a ‘sliding mechanism’ for qualifying candidates; fix, float options fill maximum vacancies

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has introduced a ‘sliding mechanism’ for vacancy allocation in all departments to qualifying candidates. The new policy ensures optimal filling up of reported vacancies through “fix and float” options. The final result of the SSC recruitment exams 2026 will be based on "unfilled vacancies" due to absenteeism while selecting options at stage 4.

As per the official SSC notice, candidates will be given a time of 10 days for round 1 tentative allocation, in which they will have to visit regional director's office for “stage 4”, comprising Aadhar authentication and exercising of fix and float options.

However, inability to appear at stage 4 would result in the candidate being absent from further processing of vacancy allocation.

Also read UPSC, SSC Exams: Government job seekers demand students’ panel, tight monitoring in appeal to commission, DoPT

SSC has introduced a new option for candidates, as several vacancies are left unfilled each year due to candidates not appearing for DV or not joining departments after selection. Therefore, the new move aims to fill the maximum number of reported vacancies

SSC: Fix, float options for all vacancies

At stage 4, candidates will be required to exercise either a fix or float option. The fix option will indicate acceptance of the tentatively allotted post in round 1 as final, with no further consideration for upgradation.

The float option indicates willingness to be considered for upgradation to a higher-preference post if vacancies become available.

“Only one round of sliding will be conducted for each exam cycle, and no waiting list or additional rounds of reallocation will be undertaken,” the official SSC notice said.

The proposed “sliding mechanism” seeks to maximize vacancy filling, ensure fair and merit-based selection, and minimize unfilled posts due to absenteeism or non-joining within the recruitment cycle.

Also read CCPA slaps Rs 15 lakh fine on Vajirao & Reddy Institute for false UPSC CSE claims; flags repeat violation

Single-sliding allocation round for recruitment

The commission will list vacancies arising due to stage 4 absentees and conduct a single sliding

allocation round for float candidates based on merit-cum-preference. The final result with revised post allotment will be announced, and e-dossiers will be forwarded to the departments for final DV and appointment formalities.

Furthermore, candidates opting for the fix option will not be eligible for any upgradation and, in case of non-joining, the post shall be carried forward to the next recruitment cycle.

Candidates opting for float option will be considered for upgradation, and if upgraded, they must join the newly allotted post; failure to do so will result in forfeiture of the previously and newly allocated posts.