SSC CGL Tier 1 Answer Key 2026 Out: Download Response Sheet and Check Objection Window at ssc.gov.in

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) released the tentative answer key and candidate response sheets for the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Tier 1 Examination 2026 on November 4, 2026. Candidates who appeared for the computer-based test conducted between September 30 and October 30, 2026, can access their response sheets on the official portal ssc.gov.in. The commission has opened the online objection window starting at 9:00 PM on November 4, 2026, which remains available until November 7, 2026, at 9:00 PM.

This recruitment cycle aims to fill 10,731 tentative vacancies across various Group B and Group C posts in central government ministries, attached departments, and statutory bodies.

Important Dates and Schedule

Candidates must review their answers and raise challenges before the official deadline expires:

• Tier 1 Computer Based Examination: September 30 to October 30, 2026
• Provisional Answer Key Release Date: November 4, 2026
• Objection Window Opening Time: November 4, 2026 (9:00 PM)
• Objection Window Closing Time: November 7, 2026 (9:00 PM)
• Tier 1 Result Declaration: Expected in December 2026
• Tier 2 Exam Schedule: To be announced on ssc.gov.in

SSC CGL Tier 1 Marking Scheme and Score Calculation

To estimate your raw score from the response sheet, use the official marking formula applied by the commission:

• Correct Answer: +2 marks
• Incorrect Answer: -0.50 marks (negative marking)
• Unattempted Questions: 0 marks

Formula for Raw Score Calculation

Raw Score = (Total Correct Answers x 2) - (Total Incorrect Answers x 0.50)

The exam comprised 100 questions carrying a total of 200 marks across four sections:

| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 50 | | General Awareness | 25 | 50 | | Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 50 | | English Comprehension | 25 | 50 | | Total | 100 | 200 |

Representation and Objection Fee Details

Candidates who find discrepancies or errors in any provisional answer or question can submit an objection through the official portal:

• Challenge Fee: Rs. 50 per question or answer challenged.
• Payment Mode: Online through Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
• Supporting Documents: Applicants must attach valid supporting documentary proof from standard textbooks or official publications while submitting their challenge.
• Non-Refundable: The fee of Rs. 50 per question is non-refundable regardless of the decision on the objection.
• Finality of Key: Objections received after 9:00 PM on November 7, 2026, will not be considered under any circumstances. Subject matter experts will review all representations before releasing the final answer key and normalized results.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Download Answer Key and Response Sheet

Follow these steps to access your response sheet and download your answer key:

1. Visit the official Staff Selection Commission website at ssc.gov.in.
2. Click on the "Login or Register" link at the top right of the homepage.
3. Enter your Registration Number and Password, then submit the captcha code.
4. Once inside your candidate dashboard, locate the link titled "Combined Graduate Level Examination (Tier-I) 2026 - Uploading of Tentative Answer Keys along with Candidates' Response Sheet(s)".
5. Click on the link to generate your individualized question paper and response sheet PDF.
6. The green tick indicates the official correct answer chosen by the commission, while the right-hand panel shows the option you selected during the exam.
7. Save and download the PDF to your device. The commission disables response sheet links once the objection window closes, so keeping a personal copy is essential.

How to Submit Objections Online

If you decide to challenge a question, complete these steps within the portal:

1. In your response sheet viewer, click on "Challenge / Raise Representation".
2. Select the specific question ID you wish to contest.
3. Choose your claimed correct option and write a clear, factual justification.
4. Upload your supporting reference documents in PDF or JPG format as specified.
5. Pay the challenge fee of Rs. 50 per question through the integrated payment gateway.
6. Submit the challenge and note down the challenge reference number.

Official Links

• Official Portal: ssc.gov.in
• Direct Login Page: SSC Candidate Login
• Official Notification Notice: Combined Graduate Level Examination (Tier-I) 2026 Tentative Answer Key Notice on ssc.gov.in

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was the SSC CGL Tier 1 Answer Key 2026 released?

The Staff Selection Commission released the Tier 1 provisional answer key and response sheets on November 4, 2026.

What is the deadline to raise objections against the SSC CGL 2026 Answer Key?

The objection window is open until November 7, 2026, at 9:00 PM. No challenges will be accepted after this cutoff.

How much is the fee to challenge an answer in SSC CGL 2026?

Candidates must pay a non-refundable fee of Rs. 50 for each question or answer challenged.

Is Tier 1 qualifying in nature?

Yes. The Tier 1 examination serves as a screening test to shortlist candidates for Tier 2. Marks scored in Tier 1 determine eligibility for the next stage, but final merit ranking is prepared based solely on Tier 2 performance.

What is the negative marking in SSC CGL Tier 1?

Each incorrect answer attracts a deduction of 0.50 marks. Each correct answer carries 2 marks.