A major career opportunity has arrived for intermediate-qualified youth aspiring to enter the public sector, as the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) officially commences the online application process for the Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) Examination 2026. This extensive recruitment drive aims to fill approximately 2,536 vacancies across prominent administrative and clerical roles, including Lower Divisional Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO). Eligible candidates can submit their applications online through the official SSC portal at ssc.gov.in until the final deadline of October 7, 2026.

Breakdown of Posts, Educational Qualifications, and Age Limits

The SSC CHSL 2026 recruitment covers multiple government departments with distinct academic prerequisites:

• Positions Offered: Lower Divisional Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO / DEO Grade A).

• Educational Qualification: For most LDC, JSA, and standard DEO posts, applicants must have passed the 12th grade (intermediate) or equivalent from a recognized board. However, for DEO posts within specific ministries such as the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, candidates must have completed 12th grade in the science stream with mathematics as a core subject.

• Age Limits: Applicants must fall within the age bracket of 18 to 27 years as of the designated reference dates, ensuring candidates were born between August 2, 1999, and August 1, 2008. Standard upper-age relaxations apply to candidates belonging to reserved categories in accordance with government guidelines.

Lucrative Pay Scale and 7th CPC Salary Structure

Selected candidates will receive attractive compensation packages aligned with the 7th Central Pay Commission, varying by post and pay level:

• LDC / JSA Posts (Pay Level 2): Monthly salary ranging from Rs 19,900 to Rs 63,200.

• DEO Posts (Pay Level 4 & 5): Monthly salary ranging from Rs 25,500 to Rs 81,100 (Level 4) and extending up to Rs 29,200 to Rs 92,300 (Level 5).

• DEO Grade A (Pay Level 4): Salary structured between Rs 25,500 and Rs 81,100.

Multi-Stage Examination Process

The selection procedure for SSC CHSL 2026 is structured into two comprehensive computer-based tiers:

• Tier-1 Examination: An objective-type test covering English Language, General Intelligence, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Awareness, featuring a negative marking of 0.50 marks for every incorrect response.

• Tier-2 Examination: A rigorous multi-section assessment comprising a computer knowledge test, data entry skill test, or typing test conducted across sessions on the same day for shortlisted candidates.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Apply Online

Candidates can complete their registration by following these simple steps:

1. Visit the official SSC recruitment portal at ssc.gov.in.

2. Complete the initial One-Time Registration (OTR) and log in using your generated credentials.

3. Select and open the application form link for SSC CHSL Examination 2026.

4. Fill in all required personal, academic, and contact details accurately.

5. Upload scanned copies of your passport-sized photograph, signature, and necessary documents.

6. Pay the prescribed application fee online, review your form thoroughly, and submit it before downloading the final confirmation page.