Significant Reduction in SSC CGL 2026 Vacancies: Key Details for Candidates

The Staff Selection Commission has announced a significant reduction in vacancies for the SSC CGL 2026 examination, dropping from 12,256 to 10,731. This change intensifies competition among over 3 million candidates. The Tier-1 exam is scheduled from September 30 to October 30, 2026, with crucial details about the exam center and timings to be provided in the admit cards. The article provides a comprehensive breakdown of vacancies by category and highlights the departments with the most openings, making it essential reading for all candidates preparing for this competitive exam.

By Ambika Singh Sep 26, 2026, 08:03 IST

Overview of SSC CGL 2026 Vacancies

SSC CGL 2026 Vacancies Update: Aspirants gearing up for the Staff Selection Commission's Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination 2026 have encountered a significant hurdle. The SSC has disclosed the final count of vacancies for the upcoming CGL Examination. Initially, a recruitment of 12,256 positions was announced in May, but after reviewing the vacancy details from various ministries, only 10,731 positions are now available. This adjustment results in a reduction of 1,525 vacancies, heightening the competition among over 3 million candidates participating in the recruitment.

Vacancy Reduction Details

**Vacancies Decreased from 12,256 to 10,731**

The SSC released the CGL recruitment notification on May 21, 2026, initially stating there would be 12,256 vacancies. However, following the final data from various central government ministries and departments, the number of available posts has been revised to 10,731. This means that 1,525 positions have been eliminated from the recruitment process, as confirmed by the Commission based on the latest vacancy details.

Candidate Participation

**Over 30 Lakh Candidates Registered**

The SSC CGL 2026 is recognized as one of the largest government recruitment initiatives in India, with a total of 3,094,823 candidates having applied online. The decrease in vacancies means that competition for each position will be more intense than initially anticipated. Therefore, scoring well in the Tier-1 examination is now more crucial than ever.

Departments with Highest Vacancies

**Major Vacancies in CBIC and CBDT**
The highest number of vacancies in this recruitment drive is allocated to two key central departments: the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). CBIC has announced a total of 3,687 positions, which include 2,366 for Inspector (Central Excise), 42 for Inspector (Examiner), 98 for Inspector (Preventive Officer), 340 for Executive Assistant, and 841 for Tax Assistant. Meanwhile, CBDT has a total of 2,421 posts, including 595 for Income Tax Inspector, 426 for Office Superintendent, and 1,400 for Tax Assistant.

Exam Schedule

**Tier-1 Exam Scheduled from September 30**
The Tier-1 examination for SSC CGL 2026 is set to take place from September 30 to October 30, 2026. This exam will be conducted entirely online (CBT) across various cities in multiple shifts. Candidates can download their admit cards from the official website four days before their exam date, which will include details about the exam center, shift, and reporting time.

Furthermore, the Tier-2 examination is expected to occur in December 2026, with the final merit list being compiled based on the Tier-2 exam results and eligibility criteria for the respective positions.