SSC CGL CBN Inspector Exam Pattern Overview 2025

SSC CGL CBN Inspector Exam Pattern 2025: The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) Inspector post under the SSC CGL recruitment is one of the most important positions offered by the Staff Selection Commission. The selection process for the CBN Inspector is entirely based on the SSC CGL Examination, which is conducted in two main tiers followed by document verification. It is crucial for candidates to understand the detailed exam pattern before starting their preparation.

This article will help you understand the SSC CGL CBN Inspector Exam Pattern 2025 in a structured manner by covering each tier, the subjects involved, number of questions, marking scheme, duration, and qualifying requirements.

SSC CGL CBN Inspector Exam Pattern 2025

The SSC CGL CBN Inspector Examination is conducted in two main stages: Tier 1 and Tier 2. Both tiers evaluate a candidate’s proficiency in key subjects such as Mathematics, English Language, General Awareness, and Reasoning Ability.

Tier 1 serves as a qualifying stage, and the marks obtained in this tier are not considered in the final merit list. However, it is essential for candidates to clear Tier 1 to become eligible for the next stage.

Tier 2 plays an important role in the selection process, as it directly impacts the final ranking. For the CBN Inspector post, Paper 1 of Tier 2 is compulsory for all candidates. The final selection is made solely based on the marks scored in Tier 2, making it the most important phase in determining the eligibility and ranking of candidates in the recruitment process.

Check: SSC CGL CBN Inspector Syllabus

SSC CGL CBN Inspector Tier 1 Exam Pattern

Tier 1 of the SSC CGL selection process is common for all posts including the CBN Inspector. It is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) designed to screen candidates for Tier 2. The exam consists of four sections — Reasoning, GA, Maths, and English. Each section carries equal weight in terms of marks and the number of questions. 

SSC CGL CBN Inspector Tier 2 Exam Pattern 

Candidates who qualify Tier 1 are shortlisted for Tier 2, which is the most important stage of the recruitment process. For the CBN Inspector post, only Paper I of Tier 2 is mandatory. This paper is common to most non-interview posts in SSC CGL, including CBN Inspector.

Tier 2 is also a Computer-Based Test, and it is conducted in two sessions on the same day. The first session includes Mathematical Abilities, Reasoning, English Language, and General Awareness modules. The second session tests candidates on Computer Knowledge and includes a Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). The overall marking scheme of Tier 2 Paper I is as follows:

Candidates should be aware of the negative marking in Tier 2. For the modules under Mathematical Abilities and Reasoning, 1 mark is deducted for every wrong answer in certain modules. The DEST module is qualifying in nature. Candidates are required to type a passage of 2000 key depressions within 15 minutes. Though it does not add to the final score, failure in DEST may lead to disqualification from the final selection.

SSC CGL CBN Inspector Marking Scheme and Negative Marking

Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 of the SSC CGL exam involve negative markings. Understanding the marking scheme is crucial for candidates to manage risk during the exam and avoid unnecessary deductions. Candidates should aim for high accuracy and speed. Practicing SSC CGL previous year's papers and SSC CGL mock tests can help reduce errors and improve time management.

• In Tier 1, for every wrong answer, 0.50 marks are deducted across all sections. This makes accuracy extremely important in this stage, even though it is qualifying in nature.
• In Tier 2, negative marking is differentiated by section: 1 mark is deducted for every wrong answer in certain modules. 

Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) for SSC CGL CBN Inspector

The DEST is a qualifying component of Section III of Tier 2. It evaluates the candidate’s typing proficiency on a computer. Although marks obtained in DEST are not added to the final score, it is a mandatory part of the exam for the CBN Inspector post.

Candidates are required to type a given passage containing approximately 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes. This is meant to assess a candidate's ability to enter data accurately under time constraints. Failure to qualify for DEST may lead to disqualification from the selection process, even if the candidate has scored well in Tier 1 and Tier 2. Therefore, regular typing practice is essential during the preparation period.