For the first time, SSC CHSL aspirants can decide when and where they take their exam. The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has introduced a new feature for the CHSL 2025 Tier 1 exam, allowing candidates to select their exam city, date, and shift.
The exam begins November 12, 2025, and this move is being seen as one of SSC’s biggest reforms to date.
Key Takeaways
- Self-slot selection window: October 22–28, 2025
- Tier 1 exam starts: November 12, 2025
- Total vacancies: 3,131 (announced June 23, 2025)
- Expected applicants: 20–25 lakh candidates
- City intimation slip: Early November 2025
- Admit cards: 4–5 days before the exam
- Tier 2 exam: February–March 2026
What’s New In SSC CHSL 2025
The SSC Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL) exam recruits for Group C posts such as Lower Divisional Clerk (LDC), Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA), and Data Entry Operator (DEO) in central government offices.
The new self-slot selection system lets candidates choose their preferred exam city (from the three options selected during registration), along with the date and shift. This marks the first time in SSC’s history that students can customize their exam schedule.
If you miss the slot selection window, you’ll be treated as unwilling to appear, so it’s crucial to act within the given dates.
Why This Change Matters
This update is a big relief for outstation students who earlier faced problems with far-off exam centers. Social media reactions show clear approval, with many calling it a “student-friendly move.” However, since slots are limited, SSC will assign available centers once your preferred ones are full.
Candidates choosing regional language papers may have fewer shift options, so planning early is important.
How To Choose Your Exam Slot
- Visit ssc.gov.in and log in using your registration number and password.
- Check available slots for your three preferred cities.
- Pick your date and shift, then submit and save the confirmation page.
SSC will soon publish a detailed PDF guide with screenshots to help candidates navigate this process easily. Once you submit, no changes are allowed, so double-check before finalizing.
Exam Pattern And Marking Scheme
| Stage | Details | Marks / Duration | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 (CBT) | 100 MCQs on General Intelligence, English, Quant, and General Awareness | 200 marks / 60 min | 0.50 per wrong answer |
| Tier 2 | MCQs + Descriptive (Essay/Letter) + Skill Test (Typing) | 405 marks / ~2.5 hrs | 1 mark per wrong MCQ |
There is no interview round. Final selection depends on Tier 2 scores. The expected Tier 1 cutoff for the General category is around 140–150 marks, slightly lower for reserved categories.
Current Trends Among Aspirants
Candidates on social media are sharing study tips and last-minute preparation plans.
- Top study platforms: Free mock tests on Testbook and Adda247, YouTube crash courses, and Telegram study groups.
- Important areas: Algebra and geometry in Quant, vocabulary in English, and current affairs like sports awards for General Awareness.
- Pro Tip: Aim for 80–85% accuracy to reduce the impact of negative marking.
Educators also note positive changes in SSC’s approach, such as Aadhaar-based verification and a reduced objection fee of ₹50 per question, which have cut fake registrations by about 20%.
Final Preparation Tips
With only a few weeks left, focus on:
- Attempting full-length mock tests daily
- Revising NCERT basics for core subjects
- Following trusted educators for guidance
This self-slot selection feature gives you more control over your exam journey. Use this advantage to plan smartly and stay ahead. As one aspirant said, “Extra time is a blessing use it to get better.”
Get ready, stay focused, and give your best in SSC CHSL 2025.
