Who is eligible for SSC CHSL?

Qualification, age limit and category relaxation for SSC CHSL, from the official notification.

Part of the SSC CHSL hub · conducted by Staff Selection Commission.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Both SSC MTS and SSC CHSL accept 12th-pass candidates, but CHSL has a hidden advantage for graduates in Tier 2. Check the table below to see if you meet the basic requirements.

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) sets different eligibility rules for each exam. SSC MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff) is open to anyone with a 12th-pass certificate. SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level) also requires 12th pass as the minimum, but graduates get preference in the second stage (Tier 2 exam). If you have not finished your degree, MTS is the safer choice.

Education requirement: Both exams accept 12th-pass candidates from any stream (Science, Commerce, Arts). SSC does not ask for a specific subject. If you have a diploma or bachelor's degree, you can still apply to both, but CHSL Tier 2 has separate cutoff marks for graduates, which are usually higher than for 12th-pass candidates.

Age limit: You must be between 18 and 27 years old for SSC MTS. For SSC CHSL, the age range is 18 to 27 years as well. SSC allows age relaxation for reserved categories: OBC candidates get 3 years extra, SC/ST candidates get 5 years extra, and candidates with disabilities get up to 10 years extra, as per SSC official notification rules.

Nationality: You must be an Indian citizen. SSC does not accept applications from non-citizens or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) holders.

Physical standards: SSC MTS has no official height or vision requirement published. SSC CHSL also has no blanket physical standard rule, though some posts under Ministry of Defence or Ministry of Railways may have specific requirements mentioned in the detailed notification. Check the official SSC website (ssc.nic.in) for your chosen post before applying.

From SSC MTS vs SSC CHSL: Which Exam Should You Attempt First? (2024 Guide)