NEW DELHI — The Staff Selection Commission has implemented a significant procedural change for the Combined Graduate Level examination scheduled for 2026, introducing sectional time restrictions for candidates appearing in the computer-based tests at both preliminary and secondary stages.
The Tier 1 examination will feature four distinct segments covering General Intelligence and Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Comprehension, each with designated time allocations. This modification marks a departure from the previous format where aspirants could manage their total examination time across all sections according to their individual preferences. The same sectional timing framework will apply to the Tier 2 papers as well, according to reports.
The Combined Graduate Level examination serves as a crucial recruitment pathway for filling various Group B and Group C positions across Union government ministries and departments. The competitive examination typically attracts millions of aspirants annually, making it among the most sought-after employment tests in the country. The introduction of sectional timing is expected to test candidates' time management abilities more rigorously while ensuring balanced performance across all subject areas.
This policy adjustment aligns with recent trends in competitive examinations where regulatory bodies have moved towards sectional timing to evaluate candidates' proficiency across diverse subjects more comprehensively.