SSC GD Constable Exam Pattern 2026: Negative Marking & Total Marks

Staff Selection Commission GD 2025 ( SSC GD )

Rupali Pruthi
Updated on Sep 29, 2025 11:59 IST

By Rupali Pruthi, Deputy Manager - Editorial

SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026: The SSC GD Constable exam is conducted online in the computer-based exam (CBE) mode based on the prescribed paper pattern. In the SSC GD 2026 exam, a total of 80 questions are asked, of 2 marks each. The exam carries a total of 160 marks, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer. We have shared below the latest SSC GD Constable exam pattern 2026 in detail. Candidates can check the SSC GD paper pattern 2026 and prepare accordingly for the exam. 

Candidates should know the latest exam pattern so that they can prepare accordingly for the SSC GD. Candidates get to know the overall structure of the exam, like the number of sections, total marks, exam duration, and marking scheme, by going through the SSC GD 2026 exam pattern. 

Also Read: SSC GD Cut-Off
Table of content
  • SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026
  • SSC GD Paper Pattern 2026: Negative Marking
  • SSC GD Syllabus 2026
  • SSC GD Physical Test Pattern for PET & PST
  • SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs
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SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026

The Staff Selection Commission conducts the Constable (GD) in CAPFs, SSF and Rifleman (GD) in Assam Rifles and Sepoy in Narcotics Control Bureau Examination every year for recruitment of candidates to the CAPFs including Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Secretariat Security Force (SSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and Rifleman (General Duty) in Assam Rifles. The SSC GD recruitment is carried out through the Computer-Based Examination (CBE), Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST). The SSC GD paper pattern 2026 differs for all these selection rounds. 

Have a look at the latest SSC GD exam pattern 2026 below for the Computer-Based Exam (CBE). The Commission reduced the number of questions, the time allotted to the paper and changed the marks assigned to each question in the exam pattern.

Sections

Number of questions

Maximum marks

Part A - General Intelligence and Reasoning

20

40

Part B - General Knowledge and General Awareness

20

40

Part C - Elementary Mathematics

20

40

Part D- English/Hindi

20

40

Total

80

160

The SSC changed the exam pattern for the SSC GD Computer-Based Exam (CBE) in 2022 in terms of time duration, the number of questions, the total marks assigned to each question and the negative marking associated with the incorrect answers.

After clearing the SSC GD online exam, candidates are called for SSC GD PET/ PST (Physical Efficiency Test and Physical Standard Test). The SSC GD physical test is conducted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Go through the SSC GD running time below. Also, know the SSC GD physical requirements in terms of height, weight and chest for male and female candidates below. The SSC GD Physical Test details and requirements are mentioned below.

Also Read: SSC GD Eligibility Criteria 2026

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the weightage of SSC GD Constable Exam?
A: 
SSC GD CBE holds weightage of 160 marks. The SSC GD exam pattern was changed in 2022. Earlier, SSC GD CBE held a weightage of 100 marks. The time allotted to the exam is one hour now instead of 90 minutes earlier. The number of questions have been reduced from 100 to 80. The marks allotted to one question have been increased from one to two marks. As a result, the negative marking for incorrect answers increased from 0.25 to 0.50.
Q:   How many questions are there in SSC GD exam?
A: 

As per the latest SSC GD exam pattern, there are a total of 80 questions in the GD Constable exam in MCQ format. The SSC GD paper pattern is summarised as below:

  • Sections:
    • General Intelligence and Reasoning
    • General Knowledge and General Awareness
    • Elementary Mathematics
    • English/Hindi
  • Total questions: 80    
  • Total marks: 160
  • Negative marking: There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer.
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SSC GD Paper Pattern 2026: Negative Marking

There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer. Knowing about the SSC GD negative marking is essential to avoid the deduction of marks and thereby improve the overall score. This way, candidates will be able to strategize their preparation.

Also Read: SSC GD Marks 2026: Check Score Card Download Link

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Which are the important books for SSC GD exam?
A: 

For SSC GD Constable preparation, candidates can refer to the following books: 

Subjects

Authors/ Publications

General Intelligence & Reasoning

BS Sijwali, Indu Sijwali

M K Pandey

R S Aggarwal

S P Bakshi

KD Campus

General Knowledge & General Awareness

KD Campus

Lucent Publication

Mammen Mathew

Quantitative Aptitude

Arihant Publication

R.S. Aggarwal

Neetu Singh

English Comprehension

R S Aggarwal & Vikas Aggarwal

S P Bakshi

Wren & Martin

Q:   What is the marking scheme of SSC GD CBE?
A: 
As per the changed SSC GD exam pattern, the marks allotted to one question are two marks. The SSC GD exam is of total 160 marks containing 80 multiple choice questions (MCQs). There is a negative marking for the incorrect answers. A total of 0.50 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer.
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SSC GD Syllabus 2026

The candidates must prepare each of the topics given in the syllabus. The idea of the exam pattern will help in time management of the paper and the preparation of the syllabus will help in solving the questions. The SSC GD syllabus is given below –

General Intelligence & Reasoning

Questions in this section are basically asked from analogies, similarities and differences, spatial visualization, spatial orientation, visual memory, discrimination, observation, relationship concepts, arithmetical reasoning and figural classification, arithmetic number series, non-verbal series, coding and decoding, etc.

Get the Top Score in DI and Logical Reasoning section of Competitive Entrance Exams with Expert Prep Tips

Click Here

General Knowledge and General Awareness

This section aims to test a candidate’s general awareness. Questions are designed to test candidates’ knowledge of current events.

Also Read: SSC GD Notification

Elementary Mathematics

This paper will include questions on Number Systems, Computation of Whole Numbers, Decimals and Fractions and the relationship between Numbers, Fundamental arithmetical operations, Percentages, Ratio and Proportion, Averages, Interest, Profit and Loss, Discount, Mensuration, Time and Distance, Ratio and Time, Time and Work, etc.

Get the Top Score in the Numerical Ability section of Competitive Entrance Exams with Expert Prep Tips

Click Here

English/ Hindi: Candidates’ ability to understand basic English/ Hindi and comprehension are tested.

Also Read:

Prepare for Competitive Exams with Expert Tips on English Section

Click Here

Also Read:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are SSC GD important topics for General Awareness section?
A: 

Have a look at the SSC GD important topics for General Awareness section:

  • Indian Constitution
  • Geography
  • History
  • Culture
  • Economics
  • General Polity
  • India and its neighbouring countries
  • Scientific Research,
  • Sports, etc.
Q:   What topics to prepare for SSC GD General Intelligence and Reasoning sections?
A: 

Candidates should prepare the following SSC GD General Intelligence & Reasoning topics:

  • Analogies
  • Similarities & Differences
  • Spatial visualization and orientation
  • Visual memory
  • Discrimination
  • Observation
  • Relationship concepts
  • Arithmetical reasoning
  • Figural classification
  • Arithmetic number series
  • Non-verbal series
  • Coding and decoding, etc.
View Syllabus
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SSC GD Physical Test Pattern for PET & PST

Based on the performance in CBT, candidates are shortlisted for PET/PST by SSC. During PET/ PST, candidates are assessed on height parameters. Those qualifying the same will have to undergo PET (race) followed by biometric/technology-aided identification.

SSC GD Running Time 2026: Physical Efficiency Test (PET)

 Category

For Male candidates

For Female candidates

Race

5 kms in 24 minutes

1.6 kms in 8 ½ minutes

For candidates of the Ladakh Region

 Category

For Male candidates

For Female candidates

Race

1 Mile in 6 ½ minutes

800 metres in 4 minutes

Read More:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is the SSC GD physical requirement in terms of height and weight?
A: 

Candidates called to appear for the SSC GD Physical Test 2025 need to fulfill the physical requirements in terms of weight and height. Have a look at the SSC GD Height requirement below:

Category

Height Required

Female Height

157 cms

Male Height

170 cms

However, there is relaxation of SSC GD height for SC/ ST/ Others. Candidates can check the detailed requirement here - https://www.shiksha.com/sarkari-exams/ssc/articles/ssc-gd-physical-test-blogId-161853.

SSC GD Weight Requirement: Candidates’ weight should be proportionate to their height and age as per the medical standards.

 

Q:   Is there any physical test for SSC GD?
A: 

Yes, there is physical test in the SSC GD Constable exam. Candidates who clear the SSC GD exam (CBE) are called to appear for the physical test which is conducted by the CRPF. The SSC GD physical test comprises following process:

  • Candidates need to fulfill SSC GD height/ weight requirement and undergo measurement of height, weight and chest as mentioned in the official notification
  • Candidates need to perform a race within the given SSC GD running time limits.
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SSC GD Exam Pattern 2026 FAQs

Have a look at the SSC GD exam pattern 2026 FAQs below:

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Who prescribes SSC GD exam pattern?
A: 

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) prescribes SSC GD exam pattern. The Commission changed the exam pattern for the  SSC GD Constable exam in the year 2022. The revised and latest SSC GD exam pattern is available at Shiksha's website. Candidates who will be appearing for the SSC GD Constable exam must go through the latest exam pattern. Knowing the exam pattern is essential to understand the structure of the SSC GD question paper.

Q:   How to calculate SSC GD marks?
A: 

With the release of the SSC GD answer key, candidates start searching for the ways to calculate the expected scores in the exam. For the ease of candidates, we have shared here the SSC GD marks calculator process. To calculate the expected SSC GD marks using the answer key, candidates need to mark themselves as per the marking scheme of the exam based on the correct answers given in the official answer key. Have a look at the SSC GD marking scheme including the negative marking:

  • +2 for the correct answer
  • - 0.25 for incorrect answer
Q:   What is the duration of SSC GD exam?
A: 
The SSC GD exam is conducted for a 60-minute duration. Candidates are not given more time to complete the exam. Therefore, it is suggested that candidates should maintain speed and accuracy to attempt the complete SSC GD question paper. Candidates can practice the SSC GD previous years papers to catch hold of their speed while maintaining accuracy.
Q:   What is SSC GD physical running time?
A: 

In the SSC GD PET/ PST exam, candidates need to complete the race within the given running time. The SSC GD running time for males is 5 km in 24 minutes, and for females is 1.6 km in 8 ½ minutes. However, for Ladakh-based candidates, the SSC GD physical running time is 1.6 km in 7 minutes for males and 800 metres in 5 minutes for females. 

For candidates other than those belonging to Ladakh Region.

 Category

For Male candidates

For Female candidates

Race

5 kms in 24 minutes

1.6 kms in 8 ½ minutes

For candidates of the Ladakh Region

 Category

For Male candidates

For Female candidates

Race

1.6 km in 7 minutes

800 metres in 5 minutes

Q:   Is there any negative marking in the SSC GD exam?
A: 

Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer. The SSC GD exam is an objective type exam conducted online as Computer Based Exam (CBE). The marks assigned for the correct answer is 2 marks and the negative marking is 0.25 marks. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions. It is advisable that candidates should avoid the guesswork in the exam as the wrong guess would lower down the overall score.

Q:   What is the eligibility criteria in SSC GD in terms of height?
A: 

Candidates need to fulfill SSC GD physical eligibility in terms of height and weight to get shortlisted for appointment. The SSC GD height requirement is different for male and female candidates. The required SSC GD height for male is 170 cms. On the other hand, the SSC GD Physical height for female candidates is 157 cms. However, there is relaxation in SSC GE Height for SC/ST/others. Have a look at these relaxation norms below:

Relaxation for

Male (Cms)

Female (Cms)

All candidates belonging to Scheduled Tribes 

162.5

150.0

All Scheduled Tribe candidates of North Eastern States (NE States)

157.0

147.5

All Scheduled Tribe candidates of Left Wing Extremism affected districts

160.0

147.5

Candidates falling in the categories of Garhwalis, Kumaonis, Dogras, Marathas and candidates belonging to the States/ UTs of  Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh

165.0

155.0

Candidates hailing from the North-Eastern States of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura

162.5

152.5

Candidates hailing from Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA) comprising of the three Sub-Divisions of Darjeeling District namely Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong and includes the following “Mouzas” Sub-Division of these Districts :
(1)Lohagarh Tea Garden (2) Lohagarh Forest (3) Rangmohan (4) Barachenga (5) Panighata 
(6) ChotaAdalpur (7) Paharu (8) Sukna Forest (9) Sukna Part-I (10) Pantapati Forest-I (11) Mahanadi Forest (12) Champasari Forest (13) SalbariChhatpart-II (14) Sitong Forest (15) Sivoke Hill Forest (16) Sivoke Forest (17) ChhotaChenga (18) Nipania.

157.0

152.5

 

Q:   What are the subjects in the SSC GD exam?
A: 

The SSC GD Computer-Based Examination (CBE) comprises questions from four subjects: General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Knowledge and General Awareness, Elementary Mathematics, and English/ Hindi Language. A total of 80 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are asked in the SSC GD Constable exam. Each question carries 2 marks. There is a negative marking of 0.50 mark for each wrong answer.

Q:   In how many stages is SSC GD exam held?
A: 

SSC GD exam is held in three stages -

  • Computer-Based Examination (CBE)
  • Physical Efficiency Test (PET)/ Physical Standard Test (PST)
  • Detailed Medical Examination (DME)/ Review Medical Examination (RME)

Candidates need to clear all the three stages to get shortlisted for appointment under the SSC GD recruitment drive.

Q:   In which mode is SSC GD exam conducted?
A: 

The SSC GD exam is conducted online in Computer-Based Examination (CBE) mode. On the other hand, the SSC GD Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST) is conducted offline as it involves physical test. The SSC GD physical test is conducted by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on behalf of the CAPFs to test the physical eligibility of candidates.

Q:   Is it mandatory to appear for all stages of SSC GD exam?
A: 

Yes, it is mandatory to appear for all the stages of SSC GD exam- Computer-Based Examination (CBE), Physical Efficiency Test (PET)/ Physical Standard Test (PST) and Detailed Medical Examination (DME)/ Review Medical Examination (RME). Candidates need to qualify the SSC GD CBE by obtaining the cut off marks to get shortlisted for the next round, that is, PET/ PST followed by the DME/ DV round. 

Q:   What is SSC GD syllabus?
A: 

SSC GD syllabus comprises the topics from which questions are asked in the exam. The SSC GD Constable exam is conducted online and comprises 80 questions from:

  • General Intelligence and Reasoning
  • General Knowledge and General Awareness
  • Elementary Mathematics
  • English/Hindi

Candidates must internalize the topics given in the syllabus and prepare each topic separately. Candidates should practice questions based on the topics given in the SSC GD Constable syllabus. The more they practice, the better they can perform in the Computer-Based Exam (CBE).

Q:   What are the important SSC GD topics for Mathematics section?
A: 

Have a look at the important SSC GD important topics of Mathematics section below:

  • Decimals
  • Fractions
  • Problems relating to Number Systems
  • Computation of Whole Numbers
  • Fundamental arithmetical operations
  • Percentages
  • Relationship between Numbers
  • Ratio and Proportion
  • Averages, Interest
  • Profit and Loss
  • Discount
  • Mensuration
  • Time and Distance
  • Ratio and Time
  • Time and Work, etc.
Q:   What is SSC GD Physical Test 2025 date?
A: 

The SSC GD physical date 2025 for the PET/ PST exam was announced by the CRPF. The Physical Efficiency Test (PET)/ Physical Standard Test (PST) of the SSC GD 2025 recruitment exam was carried out from August 20 to September 12, 2025 by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), on behalf of the CAPF. Candidates who qualified the SSC GD Constable exam, that is, CBE (online exam) appeared for the PET/ PST.

Q:   How to Download SSC GD Physical admit card 2025?
A: 

 Candidates can download the SSC GD physical test 2025 admit card by following the steps given below:

  • Visit the official website- rect.crpf.gov.in.
  • Click on the SSC GD admit card 2025 link for PET/ PST.
  • Login using the registration ID and date of birth
  • Download the SSC GD physical admit card.
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SSC GD Exam

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 weeks ago

DUDEKULA MAHENDRA 

D

Dudekula mahendra

Beginner-Level 1

Answered a month ago

Candidates can take the SSC GD mock test by following the steps shared below:

  1. Visit the official website- ssc.gov.in.
  2. Go to the mock test link under the 'For Candidates'.
  3. Choose 'SSC-Mock Test' under the select post tab.
  4. Go through the details and click on the login link.
  5. Enter the password 'ABC1' and lo

...Read more

S

Satyendra Shukla

Beginner-Level 5

Answered a month ago

The SSC GD Constable mock test has been released by the Staff Selection Commission on its official website. Candidates can now take the SSC GD mock test online for free. Candidates can get a better knowledge of time management in the exam by practicing the mock. For more details, candidates can visi

...Read more

U

Upasana Hazarika

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 months ago

The SSC GD full form is Staff Selection Commission General Duty. The complete exam name is SSC GD Constable recruitment, which is a yearly exam conducted at the national level. The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) and the Union Ministry of Home Affairs hold this exam every year for Constable GD, Rif

...Read more

V

Virajita Shukla

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 months ago

In the SSC GD exam, candidates need to give their preferences for posts while filling out the online form. Candidates need to choose seven Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in order of priority. It is compulsory to fill out a total of seven SSC GD post preferences of forces in the application form

...Read more

P

Piyush Bhandari

Beginner-Level 5

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