Understanding the SSC CGL Exam Structure: No Tier 3 or Tier 4 Since 2020

The Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) exam, a significant recruitment drive for various government posts, no longer features tiers 3 and 4 as they did until 2020. If you're preparing for the SSC CGL and are curious about these tiers, it's essential to understand what has changed and the current format of the exam.

Adaptation to Current SSC CGL Structure

Until 2020, the SSC CGL exam consisted of four tiers: Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, and Tier 4. However, post 2020, the commission has revamped the exam structure, simplifying it to only two tiers: Tier 1 and Tier 2.

Details of Tier 1

Tier 1 of the SSC CGL is a qualifying paper designed to assess the basic aptitude and knowledge of the candidates. The paper consists of four sections:

General Intelligence and Reasoning: This section tests the candidates' logical and reasoning abilities without any upper age limit, making it accessible to a wide range of candidates. General Awareness: Questions cover general knowledge, current affairs, and static GK, requiring candidates to stay updated on a variety of topics. Quantitative Aptitude: The section evaluates mathematical skills and problem-solving abilities using general arithmetic, algebra, etc. English Comprehension: This tests the fluency and grammatical competence in English, essential for any government job role.

Details of Tier 2

Tier 2, on the other hand, is a qualifying paper with a higher degree of complexity. It further assesses the candidates' knowledge and capabilities with another two papers:

Quantitative Abilities: This section requires a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and problem-solving techniques, which are further explored beyond the Tier 1 level. English Language Comprehension (Paper II): The second paper in Tier 2 delves deeper into English proficiency, including grammar, comprehension, and the ability to write efficiently.

The Elimination of Tier 3 and Tier 4

With the changes brought in 2020, the SSC CGL tier system now cuts off at Tier 2. Specifically, Tier 3 and Tier 4 no longer exist as separate entities. What happened to these tiers?

Tier 3

Tier 3 of the SSC CGL was a descriptive paper, conducted in pen and paper mode. This section revised your writing skills and creativity. Candidates were required to write essays, précis, and letters using a pen. While the ability to write neatly and concisely is still important, this is no longer a stand-alone test.

Tier 4

Tier 4 was originally a Computer Proficiency Test and a Typing Test. The Computer Proficiency Test was designed to assess the candidates' familiarity with basic computer operations, while the Typing Test evaluated typing speed and accuracy.

Implications and Future Preparations

The changes to the SSC CGL exam structure mean that aspiring candidates need to focus their preparation more precisely. Given the reduced tiers, the key areas to focus on are:

Enhanced Quants and Verbal Ability: With the extra weightage, it is crucial to intensify preparation in these areas. sustained Practice: Regular practice is vital to excel in both the Quants and Verbal sections. Update on Current Affairs: General Awareness questions often cover current affairs, so staying updated is essential.

Concluding Thoughts

While the SSC CGL exam structure has seen significant changes with the elimination of Tier 3 and Tier 4, the core goals of assessing candidates' knowledge and skills have remained the same. For candidates aspiring to join this esteemed examination, understanding the current format and focusing on the right preparation elements will be key to success.

As you embark on your preparation journey, keep an eye on the SSC CGL Official Website for any further updates and changes. Good luck with your preparations!