The SSC CGL Notification 2026 is expected to be released in March. The Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level exam is a key gateway for government jobs in various central government departments. One common query is, How many attempts can I give for SSC CGL?
This depends on your age, category, and the post you are applying for. Understanding the number of attempts helps candidates plan preparation and career strategies effectively.
How many attempts can I give for SSC CGL?
There is no limit on the number of attempts in the SSC CGL Exam 2026. Candidates can appear for the SSC CGL exam as many times as they wish, provided they meet the age limit and educational eligibility criteria specified in the notification. Since age relaxations vary by category, the effective number of attempts differs for each candidate.
Attempt Free New Interface SSC CGL Mock Test 2025
How many maximum number of attempts for SSC CGL?
The maximum number of attempts in the SSC CGL exam depends on the candidate's category and age. Candidates from different categories, such as Unreserved (UR), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Scheduled Castes (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST), have varying limits on the number of attempts allowed. Age is a critical factor, as the attempts are restricted based on the candidate's age at the time of application.
Attempt SSC CGL Previous Year Paper
What is SSC CGL Attempt Limit?
The number of attempts allowed for the SSC CGL exam varies based on the candidate's age and category. Below is a breakdown of the number of attempts allowed for different posts and age limits:
1. Unreserved (UR) Category
Below are the number of attempts for the Unreserved Category:
| Age Limit | Post | Number of Attempts |
|---|
| 18-27 | Auditor and Various | 9 |
| 18-30 | Inspector (IT) | 12 |
| 18-30 | Assistant Section Officer and Various | 12 |
| 18-32 | Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) | 14 |
| 20-30 | Sub Inspector and Various | 10 |
2. Other Backward Classes (OBC)
Below are the number of attempts for the OBC:
| Age Limit | Post | Number of Attempts |
|---|
| 18-30 | Auditor and Various | 12 |
| 18-33 | Inspector (IT) | 15 |
| 18-33 | Assistant Section Officer and Various | 15 |
| 18-35 | Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) | 17 |
| 20-35 | Sub Inspector and Various | 13 |
3. Scheduled Castes (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST)
Below are the number of attempts for the SC and ST:
| Age Limit | Post | Number of Attempts |
|---|
| 18-32 | Auditor and Various | 14 |
| 18-35 | Inspector (IT) | 17 |
| 18-35 | Assistant Section Officer and Various | 17 |
| 18-37 | Junior Statistical Officer (JSO) | 19 |
| 20-35 | Sub Inspector and Various | 15 |
Attempt a Free CGL Typing Test
What are the factors affecting SSC CGL exam attempts?
When preparing for the SSC CGL exam, several factors can influence the number of attempts you are allowed. Understanding these factors can help you plan your preparation strategy effectively.
| Factor | Details |
|---|
| 1. Age Factor | Direct Link to Age: Number of attempts depends on the candidate's age at the time of applying. Younger candidates usually have more attempts. |
| Impact of Age: Older candidates may have fewer attempts due to upper age limits set for different categories and posts. |
| 2. Position-Specific Limits | Varying Limits by Post: Different SSC CGL job roles have different attempt limits. |
| Inspector Roles: E.g., Inspector in Central Excise – up to 9 attempts for general category. |
| Other Roles: E.g., Inspector & Assistant Section Officer – up to 12 attempts for general category. |
| Reason for Variation: Depends on the nature, demand, and seniority of the post. |
| 3. Career Planning | Setting Realistic Goals: Helps candidates align their effort with the number of available attempts. |
| Managing Time Effectively: Knowing limits aids in planning studies and attempt strategies. |
| Long-Term Strategy: Useful for scheduling study sessions and shaping long-term career plans. |
What are the Key Takeaways from this article?
Below are the key takeaways from this article:
- The SSC CGL 2026 Notification will be released in March, 2026.
- There is no fixed attempt limit in the SSC CGL Exam generally.
- Candidates can appear as many times as they wish, provided they meet the age and educational eligibility criteria.
- The maximum attempts depend on age and category (UR, OBC, SC/ST).
- For UR candidates, attempts range from 9 to 14 based on post and age.
- For OBC candidates, attempts range from 12 to 17 depending on the post.
- For SC/ST candidates, attempts range from 14 to 19 depending on post and age.
- Age relaxations for reserved categories increase the number of attempts.
- Factors affecting attempts include age, category, and post applied for.
- Knowing attempt limits helps in better preparation, career planning, and time management.
Explore All SSC CGL Online Courses
