SSC GD (General Duty)
The SSC GD (General Duty) Constable Exam is one of the most popular and sought-after exams for candidates aiming to secure a position in the paramilitary forces and various other defence agencies under the Government of India. Conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), the SSC GD exam recruits constables for prestigious organizations such as the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and the Rifleman (GD) in Assam Rifles. The positions offer a promising career path with various allowances, job security, and opportunities for growth in the defence sector.
The SSC GD Constable exam is held annually, and it is open to candidates who have completed their 10th grade from a recognized board. It is an excellent career option for young candidates looking to serve the nation and contribute to national security, with the added benefit of working in highly reputed forces.
Selection Process
The selection process for The SSC GD Constable exam consists of four key stages:
1. Computer-Based Examination (CBT) – Tier I
2. Physical Efficiency Test (PET)/Physical Standard Test (PST)
3. Medical Examination
4. Final Merit List
SSC GD (General Duty) Exam Pattern
Each stage is designed to test the candidate’s physical, mental, and technical skills to ensure they are fit for the rigorous demands of a constable in the defence services. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Computer-Based Examination (Tier I)
The Tier I exam is a computer-based test and serves as the first stage of the selection process. It consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) divided into four sections:
● General Intelligence and Reasoning (25 Questions)
● General Knowledge and General Awareness (25 Questions)
● Elementary Mathematics (25 Questions)
● English/Hindi Language (25 Questions)
Exam Format:
● Total Questions: 100 questions
● Marks: 1 mark per question (Total 100 marks)
● Duration: 90 minutes (1 hour 30 minutes)
● Negative Marking: 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer
The Tier I exam tests a candidate’s reasoning ability, general awareness, basic mathematical skills, and language proficiency. The primary objective is to assess whether the candidate possesses the foundational knowledge and skills required to proceed to the next stages. This exam is held online and is qualifying for the subsequent physical tests.
2. Physical Efficiency Test (PET) / Physical Standard Test (PST)
After clearing the Tier I exam, candidates are required to undergo a Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST). These tests are designed to assess the candidate’s physical fitness and endurance.
Physical Standard Test (PST):
This test evaluates the physical measurements of candidates, such as:
○ Height
○ Chest measurement
○ Weight
○ Vision
Candidates must meet the minimum physical standards set by SSC in terms of height, chest, and weight. There are slight variations in requirements for male and female candidates.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET):
The PET is designed to test the candidate’s physical endurance. It includes tasks like:
● Race: Running a certain distance within a specified time limit.
o Male candidates: 5 km in 24 minutes
o Female candidates: 1.6 km in 8.5 minutes
● Long Jump and High Jump (based on category).
The PET is a pass/fail test, and candidates must clear it to proceed to the next phase.
3. Medical Examination
After clearing both the PET and PST, candidates must undergo a medical examination to ensure they are physically fit for the role. This examination checks for the following:
● Vision standards: Candidates must have correctable vision (glasses or lenses) if required.
● Overall health: Ensuring candidates do not have any physical ailments or deformities that would prevent them from performing their duties efficiently.
The medical standards vary slightly based on the post (e.g., BSF, CISF), but the general health and fitness standards are strict and are necessary to ensure candidates can withstand the physical challenges of the job.
4. Final Merit
List
The final selection is based on a candidate’s performance in Tier I (CBT) and their performance in PET/PST. A final merit list is prepared by the SSC, taking into account the total marks obtained in the Tier I exam along with the physical fitness results.
Candidates who clear the medical examination and meet all the criteria are then selected for the post of Constable (GD) in one of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) or other security forces.
Why Choose SSC GD?
The SSC GD Constable exam provides a unique opportunity to work in Central Armed Police Forces such as BSF, CISF, and ITBP, offering a stable career with a wide range of benefits. The posts come with:
● Salary & Allowances: Competitive salary with various government allowances, such as travel, dearness, and house rent allowances.
● Job Security: Being a government job, it offers long-term job security with a pension scheme and other government benefits.
● Growth Opportunities: There are clear promotion paths in the defence services, with regular chances for career advancement based on seniority, exams, and service.
Moreover, the role of GD Constable offers individuals the chance to serve the nation, contribute to national security, and take part in various tasks like maintaining law and order, disaster management, border security, and counterterrorism activities. The SSC GD exam is ideal for candidates looking for a challenging, respectful, and fulfilling career in the defence sector.
The SSC GD Constable exam is a fantastic opportunity for young individuals looking to serve in one of India’s premier defence forces. With consistent preparation, dedication, and a focus on physical fitness, candidates can successfully clear the exam and secure their position in these prestigious organizations. GICE Academy provides specialized coaching and support to guide aspirants through each stage of the SSC GD exam, from the computer-based test to physical endurance training. With expert guidance, aspirants can confidently take on the SSC GD exam and step into a successful career in the government sector.
