The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially released the SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026 notification on 24 April 2026. If you have passed Class 12 and have been waiting for a solid central government job, this is the moment. A total of 731 vacancies have been announced for Stenographer Grade C and Grade D posts across various ministries, departments, and organizations under the Government of India. At Jobs Guides, we’ve compiled every essential detail — from eligibility and salary to syllabus and how to apply — so you don’t have to search anywhere else.
Recruitment Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
| Advertisement No. | F. No. E1/32/026-C-2 |
| Exam Name | Stenographer Grade C & D Examination 2026 |
| Post Names | Stenographer Grade C (Group B, Non-Gazetted) & Stenographer Grade D (Group C) |
| Total Vacancies | 731 (Tentative) |
| Job Location | All India (Various Ministries & Departments) |
| Apply Mode | Online Only |
| Official Website | ssc.gov.in |
Note: The 731 vacancies are tentative. Category-wise and post-wise breakdowns will be published separately on ssc.gov.in. Check regularly for updates.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 24 April 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | 24 April 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 15 May 2026 (11:00 PM) |
| Fee Payment Last Date | 16 May 2026 (11:00 PM) |
| Application Correction Window | 20 May – 21 May 2026 |
| Computer-Based Exam (CBT) | July – August 2026 (Tentative) |
| Skill Test | To be announced after CBT |
| Admit Card (CBT) | ~10 days before exam on ssc.gov.in |
⚠️ Do not wait for the last date. SSC portals experience heavy traffic near deadlines. Apply early and avoid technical issues.
Eligibility Criteria
🔹 Nationality
A candidate must be:
- A citizen of India, OR
- A subject of Nepal or Bhutan, OR
- A Tibetan refugee who came to India before 1 January 1962 for permanent settlement, OR
- A person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia), or Vietnam for permanent settlement in India
Candidates belonging to categories other than Indian citizens may be admitted to the exam but will receive an offer of appointment only after the Government of India issues the required eligibility certificate.
🔹 Age Limit
| Post | Minimum Age | Maximum Age | Date of Birth Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade C | 18 Years | 30 Years | 02.08.1996 to 01.08.2008 |
| Grade D | 18 Years | 27 Years | 02.08.1999 to 01.08.2008 |
Crucial Date for Age Calculation: 01 August 2026
Age Relaxation
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 Years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 Years |
| PwBD (UR) | 10 Years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 Years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen (UR) | 3 Years after deducting military service |
| Ex-Servicemen (OBC) | 6 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen (SC/ST) | 8 Years |
| Central Govt. Employees (UR) | Up to 5 Years (as per DoPT norms) |
🔹 Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have passed 12th Standard (Intermediate) or an equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University.
- The qualification must be completed on or before 01 August 2026.
- No graduation is required — this makes SSC Stenographer one of the best central government exams for 12th-pass candidates.
Stenography skill is mandatory and will be verified through the Skill Test stage.
Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100 |
| SC / ST | Nil (Exempted) |
| Female Candidates | Nil (Exempted) |
| PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disability) | Nil (Exempted) |
| Ex-Servicemen (ESM) | Nil (Exempted) |
Payment Modes: BHIM UPI, Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card
Fee once paid is non-refundable under any circumstances.
Vacancy Details
| Post | Total Vacancies (Tentative) | Group |
|---|---|---|
| Stenographer Grade C | To be updated | Group B, Non-Gazetted |
| Stenographer Grade D | To be updated | Group C |
| Total | 731 | — |
Important: SSC is still collecting final vacancy figures from User Departments/Ministries. The post-wise and category-wise (UR/OBC/SC/ST/EWS/PwBD) breakdowns will be published on ssc.gov.in separately. Previous year had 1,590 total vacancies (230 Grade C + 1,360 Grade D) for reference.
Salary & Pay Scale (7th Pay Commission)
| Post | Pay Level | Pay Scale | Approximate In-Hand Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stenographer Grade C | Pay Level 6 (as per some sources) / Pay Level 7 | ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400 | ~₹51,000/month |
| Stenographer Grade D | Pay Level 4 | ₹25,500 – ₹81,100 | ~₹36,000/month |
Additional Allowances & Benefits
- Dearness Allowance (DA) — as per government revision
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) — based on city of posting (X, Y, Z category)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Medical Benefits under CGHS
- Provident Fund (PF) and National Pension Scheme (NPS)
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
- Promotion opportunities within the central government service
Grade C is the higher and more sought-after post due to its better pay scale and career growth trajectory.
Selection Process
The selection process has three stages:
Stage 1 — Computer-Based Test (CBT) ✅ Scoring Stage
Stage 2 — Skill Test in Stenography ✅ Qualifying Stage
Stage 3 — Document Verification (DV) ✅ Final Stage
Final Merit is based entirely on CBT marks. The Skill Test is qualifying in nature — you must pass it, but it does not add to your score. Candidates applying for BRO posts may also face a Pre-Employment Medical Exam and Physical Efficiency Test.
Exam Pattern — Computer-Based Test (CBT)
| Subject | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 50 | 50 | — |
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | — |
| English Language & Comprehension | 100 | 100 | — |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 2 Hours |
Key Points:
- Mode: Online (Computer-Based, Objective MCQ)
- Language: Bilingual (Hindi + English), except English Language section which is in English only
- Negative Marking: –0.25 marks for every wrong answer
- No penalty for unattempted questions
- Duration for PwBD candidates (using scribe): 2 Hours 40 Minutes
Minimum Qualifying Marks in CBT:
| Category | Minimum Qualifying % |
|---|---|
| UR (General) | 30% (60 out of 200) |
| OBC / EWS | 25% (50 out of 200) |
| All Other Categories (SC/ST/PwBD/ESM) | 20% (40 out of 200) |
Skill Test — SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026(Stage 2)
| Criteria | Grade C | Grade D |
|---|---|---|
| Dictation Speed | 100 Words Per Minute (WPM) | 80 Words Per Minute (WPM) |
| Dictation Duration | 10 Minutes | 10 Minutes |
| Transcription Time (English) | 40 Minutes | 50 Minutes |
| Transcription Time (Hindi) | 55 Minutes | 65 Minutes |
| Medium | English or Hindi (chosen at time of application) | English or Hindi |
Skill Test Qualifying Marks:
| Category | Passing Criteria |
|---|---|
| UR / EWS | 40% accuracy in transcription |
| SC / ST / OBC / PwBD / ESM | 35% accuracy in transcription |
Important Points about Skill Test:
- Candidates can opt for English OR Hindi medium — this must be selected during the application and cannot be changed later
- Candidates who opt for Hindi may be required to learn English stenography after appointment, and vice versa, depending on departmental requirements
- The skill test is conducted at SSC regional/sub-regional offices
- Only Grade C qualifiers are tested at 100 WPM; Grade D qualifiers at 80 WPM
- Candidates applying for both Grade C and Grade D posts may be called for both skill tests based on their CBT performance
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Detailed Syllabus
Part 1 — General Intelligence & Reasoning (50 Marks)
This section tests your logical and analytical thinking ability. Key topics include:
- Analogies (Verbal & Non-Verbal)
- Similarities and Differences
- Space Visualization
- Problem Solving & Analysis
- Coding-Decoding
- Number Series & Letter Series
- Blood Relations
- Directions & Distance
- Venn Diagrams
- Syllogisms
- Statement & Conclusions
- Mirror & Water Images
- Embedded Figures, Figure Classification
- Arithmetical Reasoning
Part 2 — General Awareness (50 Marks)
This section tests awareness of current events and general knowledge. Key topics include:
- Current Affairs (National & International — last 6–12 months)
- Indian History & Freedom Struggle
- Indian Geography (Physical, Social, Economic)
- Indian Polity & Constitution
- Indian Economy
- Science & Technology (General)
- Sports & Games
- Books & Authors
- Awards & Honors
- Important Government Schemes
- Static GK (Famous personalities, capitals, currencies, etc.)
Part 3 — English Language & Comprehension (100 Marks)
This is the most important section — it carries 50% of the total marks. Key topics include:
- Reading Comprehension
- Fill in the Blanks
- Error Detection / Spotting Errors
- Sentence Improvement & Correction
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- One Word Substitution
- Idioms & Phrases
- Direct & Indirect Speech
- Active & Passive Voice
- Spelling Correction
- Para Jumbles / Sentence Arrangement
- Cloze Test
- Vocabulary & Word Usage
Strategy Tip: Since English carries 100 marks out of 200, your English preparation directly determines your rank. Prioritize this section without neglecting the other two.
Required Documents
Keep these ready before applying and for the final Document Verification (DV):
- Matriculation (10th) Certificate/Marksheet — for Date of Birth proof
- 12th Certificate/Marksheet — for educational qualification
- Caste Certificate in Government of India format (for SC/ST/OBC candidates)
- EWS Certificate (for EWS candidates, issued by competent authority)
- PwBD Certificate (from designated Medical Authority)
- Ex-Servicemen Discharge Certificate (if applicable)
- NOC from current employer (for Government/PSU employees)
- Recent passport-size photograph (as per SSC specifications)
- Scanned signature (as per SSC specifications)
- Name Change affidavit/gazette notification (if applicable)
- Scribe Certificate (if applicable, for PwBD candidates)
- Valid Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / PAN Card / Passport)
How to Apply Online — Step-by-Step
- Visit the official SSC website: ssc.gov.in
- One-Time Registration (OTR): If you are a new user, complete OTR by entering your basic details — name, parents’ names, date of birth, mobile number, email ID, and Aadhaar number
- After OTR, you’ll receive a Registration ID and Password on your registered email/mobile
- Login using your Registration ID and password/date of birth
- Navigate to “Stenographer Grade C & D Examination 2026” application link
- Fill in the detailed application form — personal details, educational qualification, post preferences (Grade C / Grade D / Both), and exam centre preferences
- Live photograph capture — The new system captures a live photo; ensure you are in a well-lit area with a plain background
- Upload scanned signature as per SSC-specified dimensions and format
- Pay the Application Fee online (if applicable) via UPI / Net Banking / Debit/Credit Card
- Review all details carefully before final submission — errors can lead to rejection at DV
- Print/save the final submitted application form for your records
⚠️ Multiple registrations or more than one application will lead to cancellation of candidature. Do NOT register more than once.
Important Instructions & Rules
- Admission Certificates (Admit Cards) are issued online only — no physical hall ticket will be sent by post
- Possession of mobile phone, Bluetooth device, or any electronic gadget in the examination hall will result in debarment of 3–5 years
- Candidates must keep copies of their application and score sheets for at least 3 years after the final result
- Success in the examination does not guarantee appointment — final appointment is subject to government satisfaction regarding candidate suitability
- Only male candidates are eligible for Stenographer Grade D posts in the Border Roads Organization (BRO), if such vacancies are reported
- Candidates applying for BRO posts must check Physical Efficiency Test and Medical Standards (Annexure-XVI of the notification) — once a post is allotted, it cannot be changed on grounds of failing these standards
- In case of a tie in CBT scores, merit is resolved by: (1) Total CBT marks → (2) Date of birth (older candidate ranked higher) → (3) Alphabetical order of first name
Required Documents Checklist for Online Application
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 10th Marksheet / Certificate | Date of Birth |
| 12th Marksheet / Certificate | Educational Qualification |
| Caste Certificate (GOI format) | SC/ST/OBC benefit |
| EWS Certificate | EWS fee exemption / reservation |
| Passport Photo | Upload during form |
| Signature Scan | Upload during form |
| Aadhaar / Voter ID / PAN | Identity Verification |
Important Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Notification PDF | Click Here |
| SSC Official Website | Click Here |
| Join WhatsApp Channel | Click Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026 notification officially out?
Yes. SSC released the official notification on 24 April 2026 on ssc.gov.in for 731 vacancies.
What is the last date to apply of SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026?
15 May 2026 by 11:00 PM. Fee payment can be done till 16 May 2026.
Can I apply for both Grade C and Grade D in SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026?
Yes. You can indicate your preference for Grade C, Grade D, or both in the online application form.
Is stenography skill mandatory even if I’m good in the written test in SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026?
Absolutely. The Skill Test in Stenography is mandatory for all candidates. Without clearing it, you cannot be selected regardless of your CBT marks.
Can I choose Hindi for the Skill Test in SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026?
Yes, you can choose English or Hindi for the dictation. However, this choice must be made during the application and cannot be changed later. Post-appointment, you may need to learn the other language depending on departmental requirement.
Is there negative marking in the CBT for SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026?
Yes — 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. There is no penalty for skipped/unattempted questions.
What is the in-hand salary after joining in SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026?
Approximately ₹51,000/month for Grade C and ₹36,000/month for Grade D, inclusive of DA, HRA, and other allowances based on city of posting.
When will the CBT exam be held in SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026?
The CBT is tentatively scheduled for July–August 2026. Exact dates will be announced on ssc.gov.in about 10 days before the exam.
Conclusion
The SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026 is one of the finest central government job opportunities available right now for 12th-pass candidates across India. With 731 vacancies, a transparent selection process, an attractive salary structure up to ₹1,12,400 (Grade C), and job security that only a government role can offer — this is a recruitment you genuinely cannot afford to ignore.
The online application window is live right now and closes on 15 May 2026. Don’t wait. Read the official notification, check your eligibility, and submit your application today.
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