SSC CHSL 2026: 2,536 LDC, JSA and DEO posts for 12th pass, apply by 7 October

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) opened the Combined Higher Secondary Level examination 2026 on 7 September, giving 12th-pass candidates the annual route into clerical posts in central ministries and departments. The current vacancy count is 2,536. That figure is tentative and may move once departments confirm their requirements closer to the result.

The vacancies are spread across three posts. Lower Division Clerk and Junior Secretariat Assistant are the same grade under two names, placed at Pay Level 2. Data Entry Operator and DEO Grade A sit at Pay Level 4 and need a faster typing speed at the skill stage. All of them are Group C, all are permanent central government jobs, and postings can be anywhere in India, so read the preference section carefully before you pick departments.

Who can apply

You need a 12th pass certificate from a recognised board by the closing date. Students still waiting for a result can apply only if the result is out before 7 October 2026. The age band is 18 to 27 years counted on 1 August 2026, with the usual relaxation of five years for SC and ST, three years for OBC and ten years for persons with benchmark disabilities. Ex-servicemen get their service period deducted.

The fee is Rs 100 and only male candidates from the unreserved, OBC and EWS groups pay it. Women, SC, ST, PwBD and ex-servicemen candidates pay nothing. Payment is online only and stays open one day beyond the form deadline, until 23:00 on 8 October.

How selection works

Tier I is an objective computer-based test that the Commission expects to hold in December 2026 or January 2027. Those who clear it sit Tier II, which has a longer objective paper plus a typing or data entry module that is qualifying in nature. Document verification comes last. There is no interview at any stage, which is why CHSL draws such large numbers every year.

Points worth noting

One Time Registration on ssc.gov.in is compulsory before you can open the application. If you registered for an earlier SSC exam, the same login works. A correction window will run from 14 to 16 October 2026 and carries a charge, so check the form before you submit rather than relying on it. Keep the printout of the final application; the Commission asks for it at document verification.

The official notice PDF is linked below. Coaching sites carry summaries, but the notice is the only document that settles a doubt about eligibility, post preference or the typing standard.

FAQs

Can I apply for SSC CHSL 2026 if my 12th result is awaited?

Yes, but the result must be declared and the certificate available on or before 7 October 2026.

Is there an interview?

No. The stages are Tier I, Tier II with a skill or typing module, and document verification.

Which posts pay more?

Data Entry Operator posts are higher at Pay Level 4; LDC and JSA are at Pay Level 2.