The SSC Stenographer 2025 examination is conducted to recruit eligible candidates for Grade C and Grade D stenographer posts in various government ministries and departments. The selection process is streamlined into three major phases: Computer-Based Test (CBT), a Shorthand Skill Test, and Document Verification. Candidates must qualify each stage to be considered for final appointment. The process is transparent and entirely merit-based, with the CBT being the only stage that determines final ranking. Skill and document tests are qualifying but mandatory for eligibility.
Stage
Mode
Purpose
Tier I – CBT
Online
Screening & final merit ranking
Tier II – Skill Test
Offline
Qualifying shorthand ability
Tier III – Verification
Offline
Document and eligibility check
Appointment
Offline
Final post allotment
Stage 1 – Computer-Based Test (CBT)
The CBT is the first stage and also the most crucial, as its marks are used to determine final merit. It is an objective test comprising 200 questions for 200 marks, and candidates have 2 hours to complete it. The paper includes three sections: General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, and English Language & Comprehension. Each correct answer carries 1 mark, and 0.25 marks are deducted for each wrong answer. This stage filters candidates for the shorthand skill test based on cut-off marks released by SSC.
Section
No. of Questions
Marks
Time Allotted
Negative Marking
General Intelligence & Reasoning
50
50
0.25 per wrong
General Awareness
50
50
0.25 per wrong
English Language & Comprehension
100
100
2 hours total
0.25 per wrong
Total
200
200
2 hours
–
Stage 2 – Shorthand Skill Test
Candidates who clear the CBT move on to the Shorthand Skill Test, which is qualifying in nature. This stage assesses the shorthand writing and transcription speed of candidates in either Hindi or English. The dictation is for 10 minutes at a speed of 80 wpm (Grade D) or 100 wpm (Grade C). The transcription time varies depending on the language chosen. Candidates must stay within the permissible error limits: 5% for Grade C and 7% for Grade D for general candidates, with relaxation for reserved categories.
Grade
Language
Dictation Speed
Transcription Time
Max Error Limit
Grade C
English
100 wpm
40 minutes
5%
Grade C
Hindi
100 wpm
55 minutes
5%
Grade D
English
80 wpm
50 minutes
7%
Grade D
Hindi
80 wpm
65 minutes
7%
Stage 3 – Document Verification
Once the skill test is qualified, candidates must undergo Document Verification (DV). This stage ensures that candidates have submitted accurate details and meet all eligibility criteria as per SSC norms. Original documents such as 10th and 12th certificates, caste certificate (if applicable), valid photo ID proof, and PwD certificates are required. Candidates must also bring passport-sized photographs and any other documents specified. Failing to produce valid documents may result in disqualification even if earlier stages are cleared.
Document Type
Description
10th & 12th Certificates
Proof of age and academic qualification
Caste/Category Certificate
For OBC/SC/ST/EWS categories
Disability Certificate (if any)
For PwD quota
Valid Photo ID
Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.
Passport-size Photographs
Recent color photographs
Final Selection and Merit Criteria
The final selection of candidates for SSC Stenographer 2025 is based only on the marks obtained in the CBT. The Shorthand Skill Test and Document Verification are qualifying stages but compulsory. There is no interview involved. Candidates who qualify all stages are then ranked based on their CBT scores, and posts are allotted as per preference and availability. The merit list is prepared after applying reservation and eligibility criteria, making the process completely fair and transparent.
Criteria
Basis
Final Merit List
CBT Score
Skill Test
Qualifying only
Document Verification
Mandatory
Interview
Not applicable
Post Allotment
Based on merit and preferences
Important Dates (Tentative)
The official notification for SSC Stenographer 2025 has already been released. The application window, exam dates, and further stages are expected to follow the below timeline. Candidates should stay updated through official announcements to avoid missing deadlines.