SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 Notification Out – Apply Online for 2,536 LDC, JSA & DEO Posts
SSC CHSL 2026 brings a major opportunity for 12th-pass candidates seeking Central Government jobs
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 notification for the Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination. The recruitment covers approximately 2,536 tentative Group C vacancies for posts including Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Data Entry Operator (DEO) and DEO Grade ‘A’ in various Central Government departments and offices. The notification was released on 7 September 2026, and eligible candidates can submit their online applications from 7 September to 7 October 2026. (The Times of India)
This recruitment is especially relevant for candidates who have completed Class 12 or an equivalent examination and are looking for a Central Government career without needing a graduation degree for the basic CHSL posts. However, candidates applying for certain DEO/DEO Grade ‘A’ positions have additional subject requirements, so checking the exact post eligibility is essential. (SSC Portal)
Important: The announced 2,536 vacancies are tentative. SSC has stated that updated post-wise and category-wise vacancy details will be released later as information is received from the concerned User Departments. (Physics Wallah)
📌 SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 – Quick Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Organization | Staff Selection Commission |
| Exam Name | Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination, 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | Approximately 2,536 |
| Posts | LDC/JSA, DEO, DEO Grade ‘A’ |
| Job Category | Group C Central Government Jobs |
| Qualification | 12th Pass / Equivalent |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Notification Date | 7 September 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 7 September 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 7 October 2026, 11:00 PM |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 8 October 2026, 11:00 PM |
| Correction Window | 14–16 October 2026 |
| Age Limit | 18–27 years |
| Selection Process | Tier-I, Tier-II, Skill/Typing Test and Document Verification |
| Official Website | SSC |
The application schedule and tentative vacancy figure are reported from the 2026 notification details; SSC will publish further vacancy updates separately. (Physics Wallah)
SSC CHSL Recruitment
SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026
2,536 Tentative Posts
12th Pass Eligible
LDC | JSA | DEO | DEO Grade ‘A’
Last Date: 7 October 2026
SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 Notification 2536 LDC JSA DEO Posts
SSC CHSL Vacancy 2026 – 2,536 Tentative Posts
SSC has announced approximately 2,536 tentative vacancies under CHSL 2026.
The major posts covered by the recruitment are:
Lower Division Clerk (LDC)
Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA)
Data Entry Operator (DEO)
Data Entry Operator, Grade ‘A’
These are Group C posts in various Ministries, Departments, offices and other Government organisations. (Physics Wallah)
Is 2,536 the final number?
No.
The vacancy figure is tentative. SSC has indicated that the final number can change depending on requirements communicated by the concerned departments.
Therefore, candidates should not assume that 2,536 will remain the final post count until SSC publishes the updated vacancy information. (Physics Wallah)
Post-wise vacancy breakup
At the notification stage, SSC has provided the approximate total rather than a complete final category-wise distribution.
| Post | Vacancy Status |
|---|---|
| LDC/JSA | Included |
| DEO | Included |
| DEO Grade ‘A’ | Included |
| Total | Approximately 2,536 |
Updated post-wise and category-wise vacancies are expected to be made available by SSC separately. (Physics Wallah)
SSC CHSL 2026 Eligibility – Who Can Apply?
One of the biggest advantages of SSC CHSL is that the basic eligibility is based on Higher Secondary/12th-standard qualification, rather than graduation.
For most LDC/JSA and applicable DEO posts, candidates must have passed 12th Standard or an equivalent examination from a recognised Board or University. (SSC Portal)
However, there is an important exception.
Educational Qualification for LDC/JSA
Candidates applying for LDC/JSA generally need:
12th Standard pass or equivalent
Qualification from a recognised Board/University
Fulfilment of the prescribed age and other conditions
So, a candidate who has completed Class 12 can consider SSC CHSL without having to complete graduation first.
Educational Qualification for DEO
For most DEO positions, candidates need to have passed 12th Standard or equivalent from a recognised Board/University.
However, certain DEO/DEO Grade ‘A’ posts have a specific requirement of:
12th Standard pass in Science stream with Mathematics as a subject. (SSC Portal)
This distinction is important.
For example, if a candidate has completed:
12th Science + Mathematics
they may satisfy the subject requirement for the specified DEO/DEO Grade ‘A’ positions.
On the other hand, candidates from other streams should carefully check whether the particular post they are applying for requires Science with Mathematics.
SSC CHSL Age Limit 2026
The prescribed general age range for SSC CHSL 2026 is:
18 to 27 years as on 1 August 2026. (Physics Wallah)
Candidates should satisfy the date-of-birth conditions mentioned in the official notification.
Age relaxation
Applicable relaxation is provided to eligible reserved and other categories according to Government rules.
Candidates should check the official notification for the exact relaxation applicable to their category rather than relying on a generic age-calculator website.
Simple example
Suppose a candidate has completed 12th and is 24 years old on the relevant date. The candidate may satisfy the basic age requirement, subject to the remaining eligibility conditions.
A candidate aged above the prescribed upper limit should check whether any applicable relaxation changes their eligibility.
💰 SSC CHSL Salary 2026 – Pay Scale
SSC CHSL salary depends on the post and the corresponding Pay Level.
The notified pay structure includes Pay Level 2, Level 4 and Level 5. (Oliveboard)
| Post | Pay Level | Pay Scale |
|---|---|---|
| LDC | Level 2 | ₹19,900 – ₹63,200 |
| JSA | Level 2 | ₹19,900 – ₹63,200 |
| DEO | Level 4 | ₹25,500 – ₹81,100 |
| DEO | Level 5 | ₹29,200 – ₹92,300 |
| DEO Grade ‘A’ | Level 4 | ₹25,500 – ₹81,100 |
In addition to basic pay, applicable Government allowances such as DA, HRA and Transport Allowance may be payable according to the applicable rules and posting. Actual take-home salary can therefore vary depending on the post, location and deductions. (Oliveboard)
Important salary point
The figures above are pay scales, not guaranteed in-hand salaries.
For example, an LDC/JSA has a starting basic pay of ₹19,900, but the actual monthly amount received can be different after allowances and deductions.
🏢 SSC CHSL Job Profile – What Work Will You Do?
Understanding the job profile is important before choosing preferences.
LDC/JSA
LDC/JSA work is primarily office and clerical in nature.
Typical responsibilities can include:
Maintaining official records
Handling files and documents
Data entry
Preparing correspondence
Supporting administrative work
Maintaining registers
Assisting senior officers
Handling routine office computer work
The exact responsibilities depend on the department or office where the candidate is posted.
DEO
A Data Entry Operator generally performs computer-based data handling work.
The work can involve:
Entering information into databases
Updating records
Checking data
Preparing computer-generated reports
Maintaining electronic records
Performing data-related office tasks
Therefore, candidates who are comfortable with computers and typing may find the DEO role particularly relevant.
⌨️ SSC CHSL Typing Test and Skill Test
Candidates should not focus only on the written examination.
For applicable posts, Tier-II includes a qualifying Computer Knowledge Test and Skill Test/Typing Test. (IE Education)
LDC/JSA Typing Test
Candidates can choose English or Hindi typing as prescribed in the application.
The reported speed requirement is:
English: 35 words per minute
Hindi: 30 words per minute
These correspond approximately to 10,500 and 9,000 key depressions per hour respectively. (Careers360)
DEO Skill Test
For DEO posts, the skill test measures data-entry speed.
Depending on the post/department, the required speed can be:
8,000 key depressions per hour, or
15,000 key depressions per hour for specified DEO Grade ‘A’ requirements.
The applicable standard should be checked against the exact post in the official notification. (IE Education)
📝 SSC CHSL Application Fee 2026
The reported application fee is:
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC/EWS Male candidates | ₹100 |
| Women candidates | Exempted |
| SC/ST candidates | Exempted |
| PwBD candidates | Exempted |
| Eligible Ex-Servicemen | Exempted |
Online payment methods include the payment options provided through the SSC application system. (Physics Wallah)
Candidates should check the fee shown during the actual application process before making payment.
📅 SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 7 September 2026 |
| Application Starts | 7 September 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 7 October 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Fee Payment | 8 October 2026 |
| Correction Window | 14–16 October 2026 |
| Tier-I Exam | To be notified |
| Tier-II Exam | To be notified |
The application deadline is currently 7 October 2026 at 11:00 PM, while online fee payment remains available until 8 October 2026 at 11:00 PM. (Adda247)
⚠️ Don't confuse application and fee deadlines
A common mistake is assuming that the application deadline and fee-payment deadline are identical.
For CHSL 2026:
Application submission → 7 October 2026
Online fee payment → 8 October 2026
Candidates should complete the entire process well before the deadline.
💻 How to Apply for SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026
Candidates can apply online through the official SSC website.
SSC Official Website – ssc.gov.in
Step 1 – Visit SSC Website
Open the official SSC website.
Step 2 – Complete One-Time Registration
If you do not already have the required registration on the new SSC portal, complete the registration process.
The 2026 application process includes updated authentication/application requirements, including Aadhaar-based authentication options. (India Today)
Step 3 – Login
Use your registration credentials to enter the SSC candidate dashboard.
Step 4 – Find CHSL 2026
Select the Combined Higher Secondary (10+2) Level Examination, 2026 application.
Step 5 – Enter Details
Fill in:
Personal information
Educational qualification
Category
Examination centre preferences
Other required details
Step 6 – Upload/Complete Photograph Requirements
SSC has introduced updated application requirements including live photograph capture. Candidates should follow the current portal instructions instead of using old CHSL application guides. (India Today)
Step 7 – Review the Application
Check every field carefully.
Pay particular attention to:
Name
Date of birth
Father's/mother's name
Category
Educational qualification
Examination centre
Photograph
Signature and other required details
Step 8 – Pay Application Fee
Pay ₹100 if you belong to a category required to pay the fee.
Step 9 – Submit the Application
Submit the final form before:
7 October 2026, 11:00 PM
Step 10 – Save the Application
Download or save the submitted application details and payment receipt for future reference.
🆕 New SSC CHSL 2026 Application Points
Candidates should pay attention to the updated application procedure.
Reports on the 2026 application process highlight:
Aadhaar authentication option
Live photograph capture
Updated SSC application process
Sectional timing in Tier-I
Revised Tier-II structure
Mangal font requirement for Hindi typing
These changes mean that candidates should follow the 2026 application instructions rather than relying entirely on an older CHSL tutorial. (India Today)
📚 SSC CHSL 2026 Exam Pattern
The SSC CHSL examination is conducted through Tier-I and Tier-II, followed by the applicable skill/typing requirements and document verification.
SSC CHSL Tier-I
Tier-I is a computer-based objective 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 duration is 60 minutes, with sectional timing in the 2026 pattern. (IE Education)
Negative Marking
Tier-I has 0.50 mark negative marking for each wrong answer. (Testbook)
That means candidates should avoid random guessing when they are not reasonably confident.
📖 SSC CHSL Tier-II Exam Pattern
Tier-II is more comprehensive and includes:
Section-I
Mathematical Abilities
Reasoning and General Intelligence
Section-II
English Language and Comprehension
General Awareness
Section-III
Computer Knowledge Test
Session-II
Skill Test for DEO
Typing Test for LDC/JSA
The objective portions of Sections I, II and the Computer Knowledge module carry negative marking, while the Computer Knowledge and Skill/Typing requirements are qualifying in nature. (Testbook)
Tier-II structure at a glance
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Abilities | 30 | 90 |
| Reasoning & General Intelligence | 30 | 90 |
| English Language & Comprehension | 40 | 120 |
| General Awareness | 20 | 60 |
| Computer Knowledge | 15 | 45 |
The applicable skill/typing test is conducted separately in the second session. (Testbook)
🎯 How Should a 12th-Pass Candidate Prepare?
A candidate preparing for SSC CHSL should not wait for the examination date announcement before starting.
A simple preparation structure can be:
Morning – Mathematics
Study:
Percentage
Profit & Loss
Ratio
Average
Time & Work
Time, Speed & Distance
Simple/Compound Interest
Algebra
Geometry
Mensuration
Afternoon – English
Focus on:
Vocabulary
Grammar
Error spotting
Sentence improvement
Cloze test
Reading comprehension
Synonyms/antonyms
Evening – Reasoning
Practice:
Analogy
Series
Coding-decoding
Classification
Blood relation
Direction
Venn diagram
Syllogism
Non-verbal reasoning
Night – General Awareness
Revise:
Current affairs
Indian history
Geography
Polity
Economy
General science
Static GK
Alongside written preparation, candidates applying for LDC/JSA or DEO-related posts should regularly practice typing/data entry.
🇮🇳 A Relatable Example for Aspirants
Consider a hypothetical student named Ravi, who has completed Class 12 from a small town in Odisha.
Ravi initially thinks that government jobs require graduation, but after checking SSC CHSL eligibility he discovers that the examination is designed for the 10+2 level.
Instead of trying to study everything at once, he divides his preparation into four parts:
Maths + Reasoning + English + General Awareness
He then spends 20–30 minutes every day practising typing.
After completing a chapter, he attempts a small mock test instead of simply reading notes again and again.
This is a practical preparation model because SSC CHSL requires both speed and accuracy. The exact result will depend on the candidate's preparation, performance and the Commission's selection process, but a structured daily routine can make preparation more manageable.
Preparation Roadmap
Learn Concepts → Practice Questions → Take Mock Tests → Analyse Mistakes
SSC CHSL 2026 preparation strategy for 12th pass candidates
📑 Documents to Keep Ready
Candidates should keep important documents/details ready before applying.
These may include:
Aadhaar/valid ID details
Class 10 certificate
Class 12 certificate/marksheet
Category certificate, if applicable
PwBD certificate, if applicable
Photograph/live-photo requirements
Signature
Mobile number
Email ID
Educational details
Other information required by the SSC portal
The exact requirements shown during the 2026 online application should be followed.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Waiting until the last day
The deadline is 7 October 2026 at 11 PM. Website traffic and technical issues can create problems near closing time. SSC has repeatedly advised candidates not to wait until the final day. (Staff Selection Commission)
Mistake 2: Ignoring the DEO subject requirement
Some DEO/DEO Grade ‘A’ posts require Science with Mathematics in Class 12. (SSC Portal)
Mistake 3: Practising only written questions
LDC/JSA candidates also need to prepare for the applicable typing test, while DEO candidates have to meet the applicable data-entry skill standard.
Mistake 4: Using old application instructions
SSC has introduced changes to the application process in 2026, including live-photo and authentication-related requirements. (India Today)
Mistake 5: Ignoring sectional timing
Candidates should practise with the 2026 timing structure instead of solving questions without a time limit. (Oliveboard)
🔗 Useful Official Link
Candidates should use the official SSC website for the application and notification.
The SSC website provides access to examinations, notices, application links, candidate services and other official information. (Staff Selection Commission)
❓ SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 FAQs
Q1. How many vacancies are available in SSC CHSL 2026?
Approximately 2,536 tentative Group C vacancies have been announced. (Physics Wallah)
Q2. What is the SSC CHSL 2026 last date?
The last date for submitting the online application is 7 October 2026 up to 11:00 PM. (Adda247)
Q3. What is the last date for fee payment?
The online fee payment deadline is 8 October 2026 up to 11:00 PM. (Physics Wallah)
Q4. What qualification is required?
For LDC/JSA and most applicable DEO positions, candidates need to have passed 12th Standard or equivalent from a recognised Board/University. Certain DEO/DEO Grade ‘A’ posts require Science stream with Mathematics. (SSC Portal)
Q5. What is the age limit?
The general age limit is 18–27 years as on 1 August 2026, subject to applicable relaxations. (Physics Wallah)
Q6. What is the SSC CHSL application fee?
The reported application fee is ₹100 for applicable candidates, while women and specified reserved/exempt categories are exempt according to the rules. (Physics Wallah)
Q7. What is the salary of LDC/JSA?
LDC and JSA are placed in Pay Level 2, with a pay scale of ₹19,900–₹63,200. (Oliveboard)
Q8. What is the salary of DEO?
Depending on the post, DEO positions are placed in Pay Level 4 or Level 5, with pay scales of ₹25,500–₹81,100 and ₹29,200–₹92,300 respectively. (Physics Wallah)
Q9. Is there a typing test?
Yes. The applicable Typing Test for LDC/JSA and Skill Test for DEO are part of Tier-II as qualifying requirements. (Testbook)
Q10. When will the SSC CHSL 2026 exam be held?
The Tier-I and Tier-II examination dates are to be notified by SSC. (Physics Wallah)
Q11. Can a 12th-pass candidate apply without graduation?
Yes, the CHSL recruitment is a 10+2-level examination, subject to the exact educational requirements of the selected post. (Physics Wallah)
Q12. Are the 2,536 vacancies final?
No. They are tentative vacancies, and SSC will provide updated vacancy information later. (Physics Wallah)
🏁 Conclusion
The SSC CHSL Recruitment 2026 provides approximately 2,536 tentative Central Government vacancies for LDC, JSA, DEO and DEO Grade ‘A’ posts. The recruitment is particularly relevant for 12th-pass candidates because graduation is not required for the basic CHSL eligibility, although certain DEO positions have additional subject requirements. (Physics Wallah)
The online application process started on 7 September 2026, and candidates can apply until 7 October 2026 at 11:00 PM. The online fee-payment deadline is 8 October 2026, followed by the correction window from 14 to 16 October 2026. (Physics Wallah)
Salary varies according to the post, with LDC/JSA under Pay Level 2 and DEO posts under Pay Level 4 or Level 5. Candidates should also prepare for the applicable typing or skill test rather than concentrating only on Tier-I. (Oliveboard)
If you are eligible, the practical next step is simple:
Check the official notification → complete SSC registration → verify eligibility → submit the CHSL application → start structured preparation → practise typing/data entry where applicable.
Do not wait until the final day to submit the form.
