One common exam for Stenographer Grade C (Group B) and Grade D (Group C) posts in central government ministries and offices across India. A computer-based test decides merit; the shorthand skill test is qualifying.
Important dates
| Notification | 24 Apr 2026 |
|---|---|
| Apply online | 24 Apr – 15 May 2026 |
| Computer Based Test | 9 – 15 Sep 2026 |
| Skill test | After the CBT result (SSC announces the date) |
| Next cycle (2027) | Expected in SSC's 2027-28 calendar; this year's notice came in April |
Eligibility and key facts
| Posts | Stenographer Grade C (146) and Grade D (1,129) — 1,275 in the 2026 cycle |
|---|---|
| Education | 12th pass from a recognised board |
| Age | Grade C: 18–30 years · Grade D: 18–27 years (as on 1 Aug 2026), relaxation for reserved categories |
| Shorthand | 10-minute dictation · 100 WPM (Grade C) · 80 WPM (Grade D) |
| Transcription (English) | Grade C: 40 min (55 with scribe) · Grade D: 50 min (70 with scribe) |
| Pay | Grade C: Level 6 (₹35,400 basic) · Grade D: Level 4 (₹25,500 basic) |
Selection process
- Computer Based Test: Reasoning (50), General Awareness (50), English (100) — 200 marks in 2 hours, 0.25 negative marking. This decides your rank.
- Skill Test in Stenography: dictation for 10 minutes, then transcription on a computer. Qualifying only.
- Document verification.
Skill test
| Dictation | 10 minutes, English or Hindi (as chosen in the form) |
|---|---|
| Speed | 100 WPM (Grade C), 80 WPM (Grade D) |
| Allowed mistakes, UR | 5% (Grade C) · 7% (Grade D) |
| Allowed mistakes, OBC/SC/ST/EWS/ESM/PwBD | 7% (Grade C) · 10% (Grade D) |
Prepare on Steno Daily
- Full SSC-style mock tests (audio once, 40-minute transcription)
- Daily dictations at 80 and 100 WPM
- SSC Stenographer preparation guide
- How skill test mistakes are counted
Questions students ask
Is shorthand needed to apply for SSC Steno?
No certificate is needed. Your shorthand is tested in the skill test after the CBT.
Does the skill test add to my marks?
No. The skill test is qualifying. Merit is decided by the CBT, so English, reasoning and GK matter as much as speed.
Grade C or Grade D: which should I choose?
You can apply for both in one form. Grade C needs 100 WPM and pays more (Level 6); Grade D needs 80 WPM (Level 4).