SSC Stenographer 2026 Overview: Notification, Vacancy, Exam Dates, Eligibility & More
Table of Contents
SSC has released the SSC Stenographer Grade C & D 2026 notification, announcing approximately 1,170 (Revised from 731). The online application process was open from 24 April to 15 May 2026, and the Computer-Based Exam is scheduled for July-August 2026. Candidates should keep checking the official SSC website for the admit card and exam city updates.
What is the SSC Stenographer Exam?
The SSC Stenographer Exam is a national-level recruitment exam conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) for Grade C & Grade D stenographer posts in central government departments. It is a common government exam for 12th pass candidates and it doesn’t have Mathematics in the selection process. The selection process will be through a Computer Based Test (CBT) and a shorthand skill test.
SSC Stenographer Highlights 2026
Before getting into the complete details, here is a quick overview of all the things you need to know about the SSC Stenographer exam.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SSC Stenographer Grade C and Grade D Exam 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
| Total Vacancies 2026 | 1,170 (Revised from 731) |
| Qualification | 12th Pass (10+2) from a recognised board |
| Grades Available | Grade C (Group B, Gazetted) and Grade D (Group C, Non-Gazetted) |
| Age Limit | Grade C: 18 to 30 years | Grade D: 18 to 27 years (as on Aug 1, 2026) |
| Shorthand Speed | Grade C: 100 words per minute | Grade D: 80 words per minute |
| Selection Process | CBT (Tier 1) + Skill Test (Tier 2, qualifying only) |
| Exam Mode | CBT (Computer-Based Test) for Tier 1 | Skill Test for Tier 2 |
| Exam Date | July to August 2026 (expected) |
| Notification Date | April 24, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | May 15, 2026 |
| Stenographer Salary | Grade C: Pay Level 7, Rs 44,900 to Rs 1,42,400 | Grade D: Pay Level 4, Rs 25,500 to Rs 81,100 |
SSC Stenographer Grade C and Grade D - What is the Difference?
While filling the SSC Stenographer application form, candidates can choose either Grade C or Grade D or both. Most of the aspirants apply for both to increase their chances of selection, but it is vital to know the difference.
Grade C is a higher salary grade with pay level 7 (basic pay ₹44,900), whereas Grade D is in pay level 4 (basic pay ₹25,500). The skill test difficulty also differs, with Grade C requiring 100 wpm shorthand speed as against 80 wpm for Grade D.
| Feature | Grade C | Grade D |
|---|---|---|
| Group Classification | Group B (Non-Gazetted) | Group C (Non-Gazetted) |
| Pay Level (7th CPC) | Pay Level 6 (₹35,400) or Pay Level 7 (₹44,900)* | Pay Level 4 (₹25,500) |
| Initial Basic Pay | ₹35,400 or ₹44,900 per month | ₹25,500 per month |
| Age Limit | 18 to 30 years | 18 to 27 years |
| Shorthand Dictation Speed | 100 words per minute (wpm) | 80 words per minute (wpm) |
| Transcription Time (English) | 40 minutes | 50 minutes |
| Transcription Time (Hindi) | 55 minutes | 65 minutes |
| Posting Type | Central Ministries, Headquarters, Parliament | Subordinate, Attached, & Regional Govt Offices |
| Paramilitary Posts (e.g., CISF) | Applicable (Recruited through SSC) | Applicable (Recruited through SSC) |
| Promotion Path | Grade C → Private Secretary (PS) → Senior PS → Principal PS | Grade D → Grade C → Private Secretary (PS) |
You can apply for both grades through one application. If you qualify for Grade C, you automatically qualify for Grade D as well, as Grade C has a higher standard. So the best way to play it is to always apply for both grades. Grade C pays more and has more career growth.
SSC Stenographer Notification & Vacancy 2026
The Staff Selection Commission has issued the SSC Stenographer Notification 2026 on 24th April 2026. For all the details like vacancies, eligibility, exam pattern, application process etc you can refer the notification PDF available on ssc.gov.in.
The total number of stenographer vacancies in 2026 is 1170, which is significantly lower than in previous years. Understanding this trend will help you set realistic preparation targets and judge the level of competition.
| Grade | 2024 (Final) | 2025 (Final) | 2026 (Tentative/Revised) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade C | 239 | 15 | 149 |
| Grade D | 1,687 | 246 | 1,021 |
| Total Vacancies | 1,926 | 261 | 1,170 |
The category-wise (UR / OBC / EWS / SC / ST) vacancy breakup, exact numbers for each grade and category will be provided in the official notification PDF.
SSC Stenographer Exam Date 2026
Knowing the exam date is important for timely preparation. The recruitment process includes notification, application, admit card, CBT exam, skill test and final result. The CBT exam is expected to be conducted in July to August 2026. The exact date of the exam will be announced later on the official SSC website.
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Notification Release | April 24, 2026 | Released |
| Application Window Opens | April 24, 2026 | Closed |
| Application Last Date | May 15, 2026 | Closed |
| Correction Window | May 20 to 21, 2026 | Closed |
| CBT Admit Card | July 2026 (expected) | Not Released |
| CBT Exam Date | July to August 2026 (expected) | Upcoming |
| CBT Answer Key | After exam | Not Released |
| CBT Result | After Answer Key | Not Released |
| Skill Test | After CBT Result | Upcoming |
| Final Merit List | After Skill Test | Upcoming |
Candidates could only edit their application details during the correction window (May 20 - 21, 2026). After this window closes no changes are allowed.
SSC Stenographer Eligibility Criteria 2026
The SSC Stenographer 2026 eligibility criteria comprise three main conditions that need to be fulfilled by the candidates: nationality, educational qualification, and age limit. Candidates must meet all the requirements on the cutoff date as specified in the official notification.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian citizen / Nepal / Bhutan / Tibetan refugee (pre-1962) / Person of Indian origin from specified countries |
| Qualification | 12th Pass (10+2) from a recognised board. No specific stream required. |
| Stenographer Eligibility | Must have proficiency in stenography at the required speed (100 wpm for Grade C, 80 wpm for Grade D) |
| Age Limit (Grade C) | 18 to 30 years as on August 1, 2026 (DOB: August 2, 1996 to August 1, 2008) |
| Age Limit (Grade D) | 18 to 27 years as on August 1, 2026 (DOB: August 2, 1999 to August 1, 2008) |
| No. of Attempts | No limit. Apply every cycle as long as you are within the age limit. |
SSC Stenographer Age Limit 2026
The age limit is calculated as of 1 August 2026. Reserved categories have age relaxation by the government as given below:
| Category | Grade C Max Upper Age | Grade D Max Upper Age |
|---|---|---|
| General (UR) / EWS | 30 years | 27 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 33 years | 30 years |
| SC / ST | 35 years | 32 years |
| PwBD (Unreserved / EWS) | 40 years | 37 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 43 years | 40 years |
| PwBD (SC / ST) | 45 years | 42 years |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | 3 years added to baseline after deducting military service* | 3 years added to baseline after deducting military service* |
| Central Govt. Civilian Employees | Up to 40 years of age | Up to 40 years of age (45 for SC/ST) |
| Widows / Divorced Women | Not Applicable (Group B) | Up to 35 years of age (40 for SC/ST) |
An important point about stenographer eligibility is that there is no mention of a specific percentage in the 12th class. Any pass certificate from a recognised board is enough. You do not need Science, Commerce, or Arts specifically. Any stream works
SSC Stenographer Application Process 2026
The ssc stenographer application process 2026 is now closed (application window: 24th April to 15th May, 2026). So here’s what to do when the application opens again for the next recruitment cycle:
- Go to ssc.gov.in and click on ‘One Time Registration’ for new candidates
- Register with your name, date of birth, email address and mobile number. Get your Registration ID
- Login with your Registration ID and password.
- Search for the SSC Stenographer notification and click on ‘Apply Now’
- Enter your personal details, educational qualification and select your grade preference (Grade C / Grade D / Both)
- Upload Your Photograph (20 to 50 KB) & Signature (10 to 20 KB) in JPG Format
- Pay the Application Fee Through Net Banking / UPI / Debit Card
- Review all details carefully and submit. Print the confirmation page and retain it for your records
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS (Male) | Rs 100 |
| Women (all categories) | Exempted - No fee |
| SC / ST candidates | Exempted - No fee |
| Ex-Servicemen | Exempted - No fee |
| PwBD candidates | Exempted - No fee |
| Payment Mode | Net Banking / Debit Card / Credit Card / BHIM UPI |
SSC Stenographer Exam Pattern 2026
The CBT (Tier 1) stenographer exam has 3 sections namely General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness and English Language and Comprehension. The exam duration is 2 hours with a total of 200 questions for 200 marks. For every incorrect answer, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 50 | 50 | 120 min (combined) | 0.25 per wrong |
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 120 min (combined) | 0.25 per wrong |
| English Language and Comprehension | 100 | 100 | 120 min (combined) | 0.25 per wrong |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 2 hours | 0.25 per wrong |
Important points about the exam pattern:
- There is NO Mathematics section in the SSC Stenographer. This is a commonly searched and frequently misunderstood point. The exam does not test Maths at all.
- The English section carries the highest weight (100 questions, 100 marks). However, strong English preparation is the key to this exam.
- The exam is bilingual (Hindi and English) for the Reasoning and GA sections. The English section can only be attempted in English.
- Both Grade C and Grade D candidates appear for the same CBT. Therefore, there is no separate paper.
- The exam is conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode online.
- Scientific calculators, mobile phones, and electronic devices are NOT allowed in the exam hall.
SSC Stenographer Skill Test (Tier 2)
Skill Test is the second and final round of the SSC Stenographer selection process. It is qualifying in nature, i.e., the marks obtained in the Skill Test are not included in the final merit list. Final selection is based on the CBT (Tier 1) score only.
The Skill Test is conducted separately for Grade C and D posts. Candidates are provided with a 10-minute dictation and are required to write it down within the allotted time. The candidates also need to select their medium of transcription (English/Hindi) before the examination.
| Particulars | Grade C (English) | Grade C (Hindi) | Grade D (English) | Grade D (Hindi) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dictation Duration | 10 minutes | 10 minutes | 10 minutes | 10 minutes |
| Shorthand Speed | 100 wpm | 100 wpm | 80 wpm | 80 wpm |
| Transcription Time | 40 minutes | 55 minutes | 50 minutes | 65 minutes |
| Medium of Test | English | Hindi | English | Hindi |
| Qualifying Nature | Yes (Mandatory) | Yes (Mandatory) | Yes (Mandatory) | Yes (Mandatory) |
| Counts in Merit? | No | No | No | No |
SSC Stenographer Selection Process
The SSC Stenographer Selection Process comprises 3 steps: CBT, Skill Test and Document Verification. CBT is the main stage and it determines the final merit list. Candidates short-listed on the basis of CBT cut off are called for skill test. Skill test is qualifying in nature. Final selection will be made on the basis of CBT marks only after document verification.
SSC Stenographer Syllabus 2026
The syllabus of SSC Stenographer consists of three subjects in the CBT i.e General Intelligence and Reasoning (50 marks), General Awareness (50 marks), and English Language and Comprehension (100 marks). Given below is a detailed topic-wise breakup with the expected number of questions and their approximate weightage for each section.
Section 1: General Intelligence and Reasoning (50 Questions, 50 Marks)
| Topic | Expected Questions | Weightage (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Analogy | 5 to 7 | 12% |
| Number and Alphabet Series | 4 to 6 | 10% |
| Coding and Decoding | 4 to 5 | 9% |
| Blood Relations | 2 to 3 | 5% |
| Direction Sense | 2 to 3 | 5% |
| Venn Diagrams | 3 to 4 | 7% |
| Syllogism | 2 to 3 | 5% |
| Puzzles and Seating Arrangement | 3 to 5 | 9% |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | 4 to 6 | 10% |
| Miscellaneous (odd one out, matrix, word formation) | 6 to 8 | 12% |
| Classification | 4 to 5 | 9% |
| Mathematical Operations | 2 to 4 | 7% |
Section 2: General Awareness (50 Questions, 50 Marks)
| Topic | Expected Questions | Weightage (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Current Affairs (last 4 to 6 months) | 10 to 15 | 25% |
| History (Ancient, Medieval, Modern) | 5 to 7 | 12% |
| Geography (India + World) | 4 to 6 | 10% |
| Indian Polity and Constitution | 4 to 6 | 10% |
| Economy (basic concepts) | 3 to 5 | 8% |
| General Science (Physics/Chemistry/Biology) | 6 to 8 | 14% |
| Static GK (awards, sports, books, events) | 5 to 7 | 12% |
| Computer Basics | 2 to 3 | 5% |
| Environment and Ecology | 1 to 2 | 4% |
Section 3: English Language and Comprehension (100 Questions, 100 Marks)
| Topic | Expected Questions | Weightage (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 15 to 20 | 17% |
| Cloze Test | 10 to 15 | 13% |
| Fill in the Blanks | 8 to 12 | 10% |
| Error Spotting | 10 to 12 | 11% |
| Sentence Improvement | 8 to 10 | 9% |
| Synonyms and Antonyms | 8 to 10 | 9% |
| One Word Substitution | 5 to 7 | 6% |
| Idioms and Phrases | 5 to 7 | 6% |
| Sentence Rearrangement | 5 to 8 | 7% |
| Spelling Correction | 5 to 6 | 6% |
| Active and Passive Voice | 4 to 5 | 4% |
| Direct and Indirect Speech | 3 to 5 | 3% |
SSC Stenographer Admit Card 2026
The SSC Stenographer exam admit card for the CBT will be released on ssc.gov.in about 10 to 15 days before the exam date. Admit card is mandatory to enter the exam centre. Without it you cannot appear for the exam.
How to download the SSC Stenographer admit card:
- Go to ssc.gov.in and select 'Admit Card' tab in the top menu
- Locate the SSC Stenographer 2026 admit card link
- Login with Registration Number & Date of Birth
- Download the admit card PDF and take at least 2 prints on A4 paper
Documents to carry on exam day:
- Printed admit card (colour printout preferred)
- One original Government issued photo ID – Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport or Driving Licence
- One recent passport size photograph matching the one uploaded in the application form
You should arrive at the examination centre 30 minutes before your reporting time. Entry is not allowed after the gate is closed. Read the instructions for the exam day on the back of your admit card carefully before the exam day.
SSC Stenographer Answer Key
The SSC Stenographer answer key will be released on ssc.gov.in within 2 to 3 days after the CBT. Correct answers for all questions of all exam shifts are provided in the answer key. You can predict your score before the result is declared by matching your answers with the official key.
How to raise an objection on the answer key:
- Log in and download question paper and your response sheet from ssc.gov.in
- Compare your answers with the official answer sheet
- If you find any answer wrong, click ‘Raise Objection’ on the portal.
- Objection Fee Rs 100/- per question (Refundable if objection is upheld)
- Send your objection with your reasoned argument within the deadline (generally 2 to 3 days after the answer key is released)
SSC Stenographer Result 2026
The SSC Stenographer result is uploaded in PDF format on ssc.gov.in. It has all the roll numbers of the candidates who cleared the next stage. The CBT Result shows who will be shortlisted for the Skill Test. The final result shows who made it to the merit list after the Skill Test.
How to check your result:
- Visit ssc.gov.in and click on the ‘Results’ section
- Search for the SSC Stenographer 2026 result link
- Download the result PDF and find your roll number using Ctrl + F
The SSC normalises the final scores when the exam is conducted in multiple shifts. Your raw score on the exam is converted to a scaled score using a statistical formula in order to compare all candidates on an equal scale.
SSC Stenographer Cut Off 2026
The SSC stenographer cut off is the minimum normalized marks one needs to qualify in each stage. There are two different cutoffs: the CBT cutoff (to be eligible for Skill Test) and the final cutoff (to be on the merit list after Skill Test). The cutoff changes each year based on the total number of applicants, vacancy count and the difficulty of the exam.
Grade C CBT Cutoff (Previous Year Trends)
| Category | 2024 Exam (Declared 2025) | 2023 Exam | 2022 Exam |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 148.58 | 130.70 | 130.70 |
| OBC | 148.58 | 129.05 | 129.05 |
| EWS | 148.58 | 130.70 | 130.70 |
| SC | 138.17 | 114.61 | 114.61 |
| ST | 114.73 | 105.95 | 105.95 |
| PwBD (OH) | 108.57 | 87.90 | 87.90 |
Grade D CBT Cutoff (Previous Year Trends)
| Category | 2024 Exam | 2023 Exam | 2022 Exam |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 130.94 | 108.60 | 108.60 |
| OBC | 130.63 | 96.40 | 96.40 |
| EWS | 117.85 | 90.64 | 90.64 |
| SC | 109.72 | 76.76 | 76.76 |
| ST | 85.13 | 63.40 | 63.40 |
| PwBD (OH) | 86.94 | 40.00 | 40.00 |
These are estimated ranges, based on previous years’ published cutoffs. The cut off for 2026 will be decided on the basis of the difficulty level of this year’s exam and the total number of qualified candidates.
Minimum qualifying marks (to be eligible for Skill Test shortlisting):
| Category | Minimum Marks Required | Out of Total CBT Marks (200) |
|---|---|---|
| UR / EWS | 30% | 60 marks |
| OBC | 25% | 50 marks |
| SC | 20% | 40 marks |
| ST | 20% | 40 marks |
| PwBD | 20% | 40 marks |
| Ex-Servicemen | 20% | 40 marks |
For the SSC stenographer last year cut off in detail, refer to the official SSC result write-up PDF for each year available on ssc.gov.in.
Stenographer Salary 2026
One of the most searched topics regarding this exam is stenographer salary. Here is the city wise in-hand salary breakup for Grade C and Grade D after application of DA, HRA and Transport Allowance. Figures are approximate and are subject to change as DA is revised quarterly.
| Pay Component | X City (Metro) | Y City | Z City (Others) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade C Basic Pay | Rs 44,900 | Rs 44,900 | Rs 44,900 |
| DA (46%) | Rs 20,654 | Rs 20,654 | Rs 20,654 |
| HRA | Rs 10,776 | Rs 7,184 | Rs 3,592 |
| Transport Allowance | Rs 3,600 | Rs 1,800 | Rs 1,800 |
| Grade C Approx. In-hand | Rs 80,000+ | Rs 75,000+ | Rs 71,000+ |
| Grade D Basic Pay | Rs 25,500 | Rs 25,500 | Rs 25,500 |
| DA (46%) | Rs 11,730 | Rs 11,730 | Rs 11,730 |
| HRA | Rs 6,120 | Rs 4,080 | Rs 2,040 |
| Grade D Approx. In-hand | Rs 46,000+ | Rs 42,000+ | Rs 39,000+ |
DA is revised every six months (January & July). The above figures are based on the current DA of 46 per cent. Grade D figures do not include special allowances specific to particular departments such as CISF.
Other benefits and perks:
- Medical coverage (for self and family) under CGHS (Central Govt. Health Scheme)
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC) for travel to hometown or any place in India once in 4 years
- Annual increments as per 7th Pay Commission
- Contribution from Government to National Pension System (NPS)
- Government accommodation (in some departments) or HRA based on the posting city
SSC Stenographer Work Profile
- Taking dictation from officers, usually at meetings or for correspondence
- Transcription of notes for the preparation of official letters, orders and minutes in a quick and accurate manner
- Maintain files, records and office correspondence for their assigned officer
- Schedule appointments, answer phone calls and manage officer’s calendar
- Preparing and typing reports in the required format
This stenographer's work profile makes it a perfect fit for people who are organised, detail orientated and comfortable with technology. The working hours are fixed (usually 9 AM to 5:30 PM), and the job provides full job security after the probation period.
Career Growth Path for SSC Stenographer
| Stage | Post | How to Reach | Pay Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (Grade D) | Stenographer Grade D | SSC Stenographer exam | Level 4 | Rs 25,500 |
| Promotion 1 | Stenographer Grade C | Departmental exam or seniority | Level 7 | Rs 44,900 |
| Promotion 2 | Personal Assistant (PA) | Experience + departmental exam | Level 7 | Rs 44,900 |
| Promotion 3 | Private Secretary (PS) | 8 to 10 years of service | Level 10 | Rs 56,100 |
| Promotion 4 | Senior Private Secretary | Seniority + performance | Level 11 | Rs 67,700 |
| Top Level | Principal Private Secretary | Long service + clearance | Level 12 | Rs 78,800 |
SSC Stenographer Preparation Tips 2026
With right strategy and daily consistency, it is possible to crack SSC Stenographer exam in 90 days. Candidates should prepare for the CBT and Skill Test together instead of separately.
English and General Awareness carry the maximum weightage in the CBT. Regular practice of shorthand is important to clear the Skill Test. With a well-planned study plan and mock tests, revision and speed practice, you can increase your score and chances of selection significantly.
English and General Awareness carry the maximum weightage in the CBT. Regular practice of shorthand is important to clear the Skill Test. With a well-planned study plan and mock tests, revision and speed practice, you can increase your score and chances of selection significantly.
| Subject | Book Title | Author/Publisher | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | All reasoning types |
| Reasoning | Analytical Reasoning | M.K. Pandey | Puzzles and venn diagrams |
| General Awareness | Lucent's General Knowledge | Lucent | Static GK |
| GA (Current) | Monthly Current Affairs Digest | Any platform | Last 6 months events |
| English | Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi (Arihant) | Grammar + vocab |
| English | Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Vocabulary building |
SSC Stenographer Mock Tests and Previous Year Papers
The most important step in preparing for the exam is to take regular SSC Stenographer mock tests. Mock tests replicate the CBT environment, enhance your time management skills and reveal your exact level of preparation. Take at least 15 to 20 full-length mock tests before the exam.
Solving previous year papers of the SSC Stenographer is one of the best preparation strategies. PYPs show you the exact type of questions, which topics repeat year after year, and how much time to spend on each section in the real exam.
FAQs About SSC Stenographer Exam 2026
No, the SSC Stenographer exam does not include Mathematics. The CBT consists of English Language, General Awareness, and General Intelligence & Reasoning only.
Candidates must have passed Class 12th (10+2) from a recognised board to apply for SSC Stenographer Grade C and Grade D posts.
Yes, the Skill Test is qualifying only. Final merit and selection are based entirely on CBT marks.
SSC Stenographer Grade C salary ranges from approximately Rs 70,000 to Rs 80,000+, while Grade D salary is around Rs 39,000 to Rs 46,000+, depending on the posting city and allowances.
Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer in the CBT examination.
There is no limit on the number of attempts for the SSC Stenographer. Candidates can apply until they reach the prescribed age limit.
Yes, candidates can choose either Hindi or English as the language for the Skill Test according to their preference.