SSC Exam Update: Only Commission-Provided Scribes Allowed for PwBD Candidates, Ends ‘Own Scribe’ Provision

SSC Exam Update: SSC has revised exam rules for PwBD candidates, making it mandatory that scribes be provided only by the Commission. Check notice PDF here

Only Commission-Provided Scribes Allowed for PwBD Candidates, Ends ‘Own Scribe’ Provision

SSC Exam Update: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has announced a major revision in its scribe policy for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) in line with the latest guidelines issued by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. Now, SSC will provide scribes directly to eligible PwBD candidates. This decision has been taken to ensure uniformity, transparency, and fairness in the SSC exam process.

SSC to Provide Scribes for PwBD Candidates in all Upcoming SSC Exams

Until now, PwBD candidates appearing in SSC exams were required to follow the Commission’s scribe procedure, which allowed them to arrange their own scribes. However, with the adoption of the new DEPwD guidelines, the provision of “own scribe” has been discontinued. The revised rules will apply to all the upcoming SSC exams conducted after the issuance of this notice, including those for which the application process has already been completed.

Facilities for PwD Candidates in SSC Written Exams

PwD candidates will be encouraged to write exams independently using technology such as software-enabled laptops, desktops, Braille/large print materials, or recording devices. Exam bodies must provide these facilities in sufficient numbers, covering both Indian languages and English.

Rules for Use of Scribes in SSC Exams

Where required, candidates may still opt for a scribe. In such cases, the examining body will provide scribes from an approved pool within two years of these guidelines. The scribe’s qualification must be two to three academic years below the minimum eligibility for the exam (e.g., for an SSC Graduate-level exam, the scribe must have completed 12th or be in the first year of graduation).

• PwD candidates can use a scribe/reader/lab assistant if required technology is unavailable or they are unable to use it.
• For candidates with blindness, cerebral palsy, or locomotor disability (both arms), the facility will be provided on producing a valid disability certificate/UDID card. For other disabilities, a medical certificate is required.
• Exam bodies will prepare a panel of suitable scribes for each exam.
• In rare cases, candidates may bring their own scribe. They must submit scribe details in the prescribed format.
• Scribe details should be given at the time of application. If not possible, exam bodies must provide an email ID or portal link to submit details within 15 days of application closure.
• Changes in scribes will be allowed at short notice (about a week) in case of emergencies.

Check SSC revised exam rules for PwBD candidates here

Compensatory Time for PwD Candidates

• At least 20 minutes per hour of exam will be given as compensatory time.
• This applies to all eligible PwD candidates with functional writing limitations, whether or not they use a scribe/reader/lab assistant.
• If the exam duration is less than one hour, compensatory time will be provided on a pro-rata basis (calculated proportionally).

Accessible Exam Centres

SSC exam centres must ensure barrier-free access with ramps, lifts, wide corridors, clear signage, audio announcements, and accessible seating, preferably on the ground floor. Staff should be trained in disability etiquette and the use of assistive technology, while medical personnel must be available for emergencies.

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