The SSC JHT 2026 exam pattern consists of two papers held on separate dates. Paper I is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) with objective MCQs. Paper II is a pen-and-paper descriptive test. Candidates must qualify Paper I (minimum cutoff) to have Paper II evaluated.
Paper I – Computer-Based Test (CBT)
| Section | Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Hindi | 100 | 100 | 2 Hours |
| General English | 100 | 100 | |
| Total Paper I | 200 | 200 |
Paper I Marking Scheme
- Correct Answer: +1 mark
- Wrong Answer: −0.25 marks (negative marking applies)
- Unattempted: 0 marks
Paper II – Descriptive (Pen & Paper)
| Component | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Translation: English to Hindi | ~60 | 2 Hours |
| Translation: Hindi to English | ~60 | |
| Essay Writing (Hindi) | ~40 | |
| Précis / Summary Writing | ~40 | |
| Total Paper II | 200 |
Paper II Key Rules
- Paper II is conducted in offline (pen and paper) mode
- Minimum qualifying marks in Paper I are prescribed category-wise by SSC; only qualifying candidates' Paper II is evaluated
- Final merit is determined by Paper II marks alone (Paper I is only qualifying)
- Paper II must be written in Hindi or English as specified per the component (translation must be in target language)
Final Merit Basis
| Stage | Role in Merit |
|---|---|
| Paper I (200 marks) | Qualifying only – used to shortlist candidates for Paper II evaluation |
| Paper II (200 marks) | Merit-determining – final rank based on Paper II score |