SSC CGL vs CHSL – Which One Should You Prepare For?

Every year, lakhs of aspirants across India apply for Staff Selection Commission (SSC) exams. Among the most popular are SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level) and SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level). Both exams offer secure government jobs, good salaries, and future growth opportunities.

However, one common question that beginners face is: "SSC CGL vs CHSL – which one should I prepare for?" The confusion is natural. While both exams are conducted by SSC and have overlapping subjects, there are significant differences in eligibility, exam pattern, job profiles, and career growth.

In this article, we'll break down the difference between SSC CGL and CHSL in detail. By the end, you'll have a clear idea about which is better – SSC CGL or CHSL – based on your qualification, career goals, and long-term aspirations.

Basic Difference

Before comparing deeply, let's understand the basic difference between SSC CGL and CHSL:

SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level)

Conducted for graduates
Offers Group B and Group C posts
Popular posts: Income Tax Inspector, Assistant Section Officer, Excise Inspector
Higher responsibility roles

SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level)

Conducted for 12th-pass candidates
Offers Group C and clerical-level posts
Popular posts: LDC, DEO, Postal Assistant, Court Clerk
Entry-level positions

Key Point: The biggest difference is that CGL is a graduate-level exam with higher-ranked posts and responsibilities, while CHSL is for 12th-pass aspirants with entry-level clerical positions. So, your educational qualification is the first deciding factor between the two.

Eligibility Criteria

SSC CGL Eligibility

Education: Graduation in any discipline
Age Limit: 18 to 32 years (varies by post)
Other Requirements: Certain posts require specific subject knowledge

SSC CHSL Eligibility

Education: 12th standard (10+2) from recognized board
Age Limit: 18 to 27 years
Other Requirements: For DEO posts, 12th with Science & Maths required

Comparison: If you're still in school or recently passed 12th, CHSL is your gateway. If you're a graduate (or will graduate soon), CGL is the better choice with higher pay and career growth. This is why many aspirants first appear for CHSL after 12th to gain experience, and later attempt CGL after graduation.

Exam Pattern Comparison

Though both exams are conducted by SSC, their exam structure differs in terms of difficulty and tiers.

SSC CGL Exam Pattern

I Tier I (Prelims): Online; Reasoning, Quant, GA, English (100 questions, 200 marks)
II Tier II (Mains): Online; includes multiple papers based on post
III Skill Test/Document Verification: For specific posts

Difficulty Level: Moderate to High

SSC CHSL Exam Pattern

I Tier I: Same subjects as CGL – Reasoning, Quant, GA, English (100 questions, 200 marks)
II Tier II: Online descriptive/skill-based test (Typing Test for LDC/DEO/Assistant)
III Skill Test/Document Verification: Mandatory for DEO/LDC

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Comparison: CGL has a longer process with more advanced topics. CHSL has a shorter process, easier for beginners. If you're just starting after 12th, CHSL is less overwhelming. But if you're a graduate, CGL offers a more challenging and rewarding exam structure.

Job Profile & Salary Comparison

The job profile and salary are the most significant differences between SSC CGL and CHSL.

SSC CGL Jobs

Posts: Income Tax Inspector, Assistant Section Officer, Sub-Inspector (CBI), Excise Inspector, Auditor, etc.
Starting Salary: ₹40,000 – ₹65,000 (depending on post & city)
Work Profile: Administrative, investigative, or desk jobs with significant responsibilities
Career Growth: Faster promotions; opportunities to reach Gazetted Officer level

SSC CHSL Jobs

Posts: Lower Division Clerk, Data Entry Operator, Postal/Sorting Assistant, Court Clerk
Starting Salary: ₹25,000 – ₹35,000 (depending on post & city)
Work Profile: Clerical/typing/data entry; less responsibility compared to CGL
Career Growth: Slower promotions; may remain clerical unless departmental exams are cleared

Comparison: If you're looking for a higher salary, faster promotions, and administrative authority, SSC CGL is the clear winner. If your immediate need is a stable job after 12th, CHSL provides early entry into government service, but growth is slower. In simple terms: CGL = Higher posts with better perks. CHSL = Early start with basic roles.

Competition Level

SSC CGL Competition

Applicants: Around 30–35 lakh per year
Vacancies: 7,000–10,000 (varies)
Cut-offs: Higher (General category cut-off often crosses 130–150 marks)

SSC CHSL Competition

Applicants: Around 25–30 lakh per year
Vacancies: 4,000–5,000 (varies)
Cut-offs: Lower than CGL (usually around 120–135 marks for General)

Competition Insight: While both are highly competitive, CGL attracts more graduates and serious aspirants, making it tougher. CHSL is relatively easier but still requires strong preparation to beat lakhs of competitors.

Which is Better for You?

So, which is better – SSC CGL or CHSL? It depends on your qualification and career goal:

Choose SSC CGL If:

You're a graduate
You want higher salary and faster promotions
You prefer administrative roles with authority

Choose SSC CHSL If:

You're a 12th-pass student
You need an early government job
You're okay with entry-level clerical positions

Some aspirants even attempt both exams – CHSL for early entry and CGL later for higher posts.

Conclusion

Both SSC CGL and SSC CHSL are excellent opportunities, but the right choice depends on your qualification, career goals, and patience. CGL offers better salary, career growth, and respect, while CHSL offers an early entry after 12th.

Whichever you choose, the most important step is to start preparation today.

Ready to choose your SSC path?

At Courage Library, we provide structured notes, mock tests, and study plans for both CGL and CHSL.

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