The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts two prominent examinations: the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) and the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL). Both aim to recruit candidates for various government positions, but they differ in terms of eligibility, exam patterns, job roles, and compensation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for aspirants to make informed decisions about their career paths.
Eligibility Criteria 🎓
- SSC CGL: Requires a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. The age limit varies between 18 to 32 years, depending on the specific post.
- SSC CHSL: Candidates must have completed their 12th standard (Higher Secondary) from a recognized board. The age bracket is 18 to 27 years.
Exam Pattern 📝
While both exams assess candidates through multiple tiers, their structures differ:
- SSC CGL:
- Tier I: Objective test covering General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension.
- Tier II: Comprises multiple papers, including Quantitative Abilities, English Language and Comprehension, Statistics, and General Studies (Finance and Economics).
- Tier III: Descriptive paper in English or Hindi.
- Tier IV: Computer Proficiency Test/Skill Test or Document Verification, depending on the post.
- SSC CHSL:
- Tier I: Objective test with sections on English Language, General Intelligence, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Awareness.
- Tier II: Descriptive paper in English or Hindi.
- Tier III: Skill Test/Typing Test relevant to the post applied for.
Posts Offered 🏢
- SSC CGL: Positions include Assistant Audit Officer, Inspector (Income Tax, Central Excise), Sub-Inspector (CBI, NIA), and various Assistant roles in ministries.
- SSC CHSL: Roles encompass Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), Postal Assistant (PA), Sorting Assistant (SA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO).
Salary Structure 💰
Compensation varies between the two, reflecting the differing responsibilities and required qualifications:
- SSC CGL:
- Pay Levels: Range from Level 4 (₹25,500 – ₹81,100) to Level 8 (₹47,600 – ₹1,51,100), depending on the post.
- Grade Pay: Between ₹2,400 to ₹4,800.
- In-Hand Salary: Approximately ₹30,000 to ₹70,000 per month.
- SSC CHSL:
- Pay Levels: Level 2 (₹19,900 – ₹63,200) and Level 4 (₹25,500 – ₹81,100).
- Grade Pay: Between ₹1,900 to ₹2,400.
- In-Hand Salary: Approximately ₹24,000 to ₹40,000 per month.
Career Growth Opportunities 📈
- SSC CGL: Offers significant promotional avenues, with possibilities to ascend to senior administrative roles over time.
- SSC CHSL: Provides stable government employment with opportunities for advancement, though the promotional trajectory may be more gradual compared to CGL positions.
Key Highlights 🌟
- Organization Name: Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
- Eligibility:
- CGL: Graduation required.
- CHSL: 12th pass required.
- Age Limit:
- CGL: 18 to 32 years.
- CHSL: 18 to 27 years.
- Exam Stages:
- CGL: Four tiers.
- CHSL: Three tiers.
- Job Roles:
- CGL: Inspector, Assistant roles.
- CHSL: Clerical positions like LDC, DEO.
- Salary Range:
- CGL: ₹30,000 to ₹70,000.
- CHSL: ₹24,000 to ₹40,000.
- Career Progression:
- CGL: Faster promotions.
- CHSL: Steady growth.
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Conclusion
Choosing between SSC CGL and SSC CHSL depends on one’s educational qualifications, career aspirations, and readiness to undertake the respective selection processes. Both exams provide avenues to secure esteemed positions within the Indian government, each with its unique set of roles, responsibilities, and growth prospects.

Mufaiz Wani is a Professional content writer with over 5 years of experience crafting engaging and informative educational content. Holding a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mufaiz blends technical expertise with creative writing to deliver articles, guides, and resources to the Students.