SSC CGL 2026: Vacancies Decrease, Competition Intensifies

SSC CGL 2026 Vacancies Update

SSC CGL 2026 Vacancies: Aspirants gearing up for the Staff Selection Commission's Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2026 have encountered a significant hurdle. The SSC has unveiled the final count of vacancies for the CGL Examination 2026. Initially, as per the notification released in May, there were plans to recruit for 12,256 positions. However, after reviewing the vacancy details for Group 'A' and Group 'B' roles from various ministries, only 10,731 vacancies are now available. This adjustment has resulted in a reduction of 1,525 posts, thereby heightening the competition among over 30 lakh candidates involved in the recruitment process.

**Vacancies Cut from 12,256 to 10,731**

The SSC had published the CGL recruitment notification on May 21, 2026, announcing a total of 12,256 vacancies. However, this figure has been revised based on the final data received from various central government ministries and departments. The updated count indicates that recruitment will now occur for 10,731 posts, reflecting a decrease of 1,525 positions during the recruitment process. This final number was disclosed following the receipt of vacancy details from the relevant departments.

**Over 30 Lakh Candidates Registered**

The SSC CGL 2026 is recognized as one of the largest government recruitment initiatives in India. A total of 3,094,823 candidates have submitted their applications online for this recruitment. With the reduction in available positions, the competition for each post has intensified compared to earlier estimates. Consequently, securing a high score in the Tier-1 examination has become even more crucial.

Category-wise Vacancy Distribution
According to the final data released by the SSC, the breakdown of the 10,731 posts by category is as follows:
General (UR) – 4,412
OBC – 2,772
EWS – 1,028
SC – 1,715
ST – 804
Total – 10,731

Most Vacancies in CBIC and CBDT
The highest number of vacancies in this recruitment drive has been allocated to two key central departments: the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). CBIC has announced a total of 3,687 posts, which include 2,366 positions for Inspector (Central Excise), 42 for Inspector (Examiner), 98 for Inspector (Preventive Officer), 340 for Executive Assistant, and 841 for Tax Assistant. Meanwhile, CBDT has a total of 2,421 posts, comprising 595 positions for Income Tax Inspector, 426 for Office Superintendent, and 1,400 for Tax Assistant.

Tier-1 Exam Scheduled from September 30
The SSC CGL 2026 Tier-1 examination is set to take place from September 30 to October 30, 2026. This exam will be conducted entirely online (CBT) across various cities in multiple shifts. Candidates will be able to download their admit cards from the official website four days before their exam date. The admit card will contain details regarding the exam center, shift, and reporting time.

Furthermore, the Tier-2 examination is expected to occur in December 2026. The final merit list will be compiled based on the performance in the Tier-2 exam and the eligibility criteria for the respective positions.