SSC GD 2026: Complete Guide to Obtain Government Job in Uniform
Joining India’s Security Forces through SSC GD Exam
Description
The SSC GD (General Duty) Constable Exam 2026 is the most sought-after government exam in India. It provides an opportunity for lakhs of young men and women to obtain government jobs in central security forces like BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, and more.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find out everything — eligibility, syllabus, salary, selection process, preparation strategy, and how to apply — in easy and practical terms. You’re a student from a village or a city graduate; this post will get you started with SSC GD the correct way.
Now, let’s get started.
What is SSC GD?
SSC GD is the short form for Staff Selection Commission – General Duty. It is a national-level recruitment examination conducted by the Staff Selection Commission to hire constables (General Duty) in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and connected security agencies.
After being selected, candidates work in key security positions under the following forces:
- Border Security Force (BSF)
- Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
- Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
- Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
- Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
- Assam Rifles
- Secretariat Security Force (SSF)
- National Investigation Agency (NIA)
This role involves working at borders, guarding public spaces, and offering national protection. It also provides long-term security and dignity.
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality:
Should be an Indian citizen.
Age Limit (as on 1 January 2026):
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 23 years
Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC: 3 years
- Ex-Servicemen and other groups as per government policies
Educational Qualification:
Should have passed Class 10 (Matriculation) from a recognized board or university.
Physical Standards:
Candidates have to fulfill the height, weight, and chest requirements.
Need to clear running and endurance tests in latter phases.
SSC GD 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
| Event | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|
| Official Notification | November 2025 |
| Application Start | November 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | December 2025 |
| Admit Card Download | February 2026 |
| Computer-Based Exam (CBT) | March 2026 |
| PET/PST | April to May 2026 |
| Final Result | July 2026 |
Note: Final dates will be announced in the official notification. Check updates on ssc.nic.in.
Posts Offered in SSC GD
The SSC GD recruitment offers employment as Constables (General Duty) in the below-given departments:
- BSF Constable
- CISF Constable
- CRPF Constable
- ITBP Constable
- SSB Constable
- Rifleman in Assam Rifles
- Constable in SSF
- Constable in NIA
The posts include border guarding, internal security, public order, and disaster management. The post is ideal for individuals with physical fitness who wish to serve the country.
Salary and Allowances (Detailed Breakup)
SSC GD posts are offered with good salary and allowances under the 7th Pay Commission.
Pay Scale:
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Basic Pay | ₹21,700 – ₹69,100 (Pay Level-3) |
| Grade Pay | ₹2,000 |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | ₹2,520 – ₹6,000 (is location-dependent) |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | ₹9,000 – ₹11,000 approx (according to recent rates) |
| Transport Allowance | ₹1,800 – ₹3,600 |
| Ration & Medical Allowance | As per rules |
| Risk Allowance | For sensitive/danger areas |
Total Monthly In-Hand Salary:
- Urban Areas: ₹30,000 – ₹38,000 (approx.)
- Rural Areas: ₹28,000 – ₹35,000 (approx.)
Additional Benefits:
- Government accommodation (subject to availability)
- Uniform and travel allowance
- Medical facilities for self and family
- Pension after retirement
- Job security with promotions
SSC GD Selection Process (5 Stages)
The selection process is merit-based, fair, and transparent.
- Computer-Based Exam (CBT)
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
- Physical Standard Test (PST)
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List and Document Verification
SSC GD Exam Pattern and Syllabus
Online Computer-Based Test (CBT)
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 20 | 40 |
| General Knowledge & General Awareness | 20 | 40 |
| Elementary Mathematics | 20 | 40 |
| English/Hindi | 20 | 40 |
| Total | 80 | 160 |
Time: 60 minutes
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks for every incorrect response
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
| Gender | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 5 km | 24 minutes |
| Female | 1.6 km | 8.5 minutes |
Physical Standards (PST)
| Category | Height (Male) | Height (Female) | Chest (Male) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/OBC | 170 cm | 157 cm | 80–85 cm |
| SC/ST | 162.5 cm | 150 cm | 76–81 cm |
How to Apply for SSC GD 2026
Simple steps to follow:
- Visit the official website: ssc.nic.in
- Register by entering your basic details.
- Log in and click on “Apply for SSC GD 2026”.
- Enter your personal, educational, and category details.
- Scan and upload your photo and signature.
- Pay the application fee:
- ₹100 for General and OBC
- Free for SC/ST/Women/Ex-servicemen
- Check your application and submit.
- Download a copy of your application for reference.
Best Books and Study Material for Preparation
General Knowledge:
- Lucent’s General Knowledge
- Daily Current Affairs from websites such as Jagran Josh or GKToday
Mathematics:
- Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal
- Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma
Reasoning:
Hindi/English:
- Arihant’s SSC GD Practice Papers
- Previous Year Papers with solutions
Online Practice:
- Testbook
- Adda247
- Gradeup
Practice mock tests on a regular basis to develop speed and accuracy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overlooking physical preparation
- Preparing in the last month
- Not grasping the exam pattern
- Filling incorrect details in the application form
- Not solving previous year papers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can girls apply for SSC GD 2026?
Yes, both male and female candidates can apply.
Q2: Is the SSC GD exam difficult?
It is a competitive exam, but provided you prepare regularly and go through physical training, it is doable.
Q3: What is the career path?
You can get a promotion from Constable → Head Constable → Sub-Inspector → Inspector.
Q4: Are 12th or graduate students eligible to apply?
Yes. Provided you have passed Class 10, you can apply. 12th pass and graduates can also apply.
Q5: Is there an interview in SSC GD?
No. No interview. We are selecting purely on the CBT, PET/PST, and medical test.
Final Words and Motivation
It is not only about getting a salary in a government job through SSC GD. It’s about discipline, pride, security, and service to the nation. If you are ready to work hard, remain fit, and stick to a study regimen, this is your chance to transform your life.
The uniform is not just clothing — it is a symbol of responsibility and respect. You can achieve it, no matter your background.
What to Do After Reading This Guide
- Start your preparation today
- Create a study and fitness routine
- Download previous year question papers
- Bookmark the official SSC website for updates
- Join a Telegram or WhatsApp group for SSC GD aspirants
- Share this guide with friends who are also preparing