The SSC Stenographer examination evaluates candidate skills for appointment in Central Government ministries and departments across Grade C and Grade D cadres. With no Quantitative Aptitude section, the test focuses on General Intelligence, General Awareness, and English Language. Understanding past cut-off benchmarks helps aspirants assess their performance and plan subsequent preparation phases effectively.
The overall difficulty level of the SSC Stenographer examination remained Easy to Moderate. The key observations regarding the question paper pattern and candidate performance include:
Overall Difficulty: The paper was balanced and manageable. Candidates reported smooth attempts across both English and General Knowledge / General Studies (GK/GS).
Absence of Quantitative Aptitude: The test structure does not include a Mathematics section, which reduces calculation-heavy fatigue for candidates.
Sectional Timer Introduction: A sectional timer appeared for the first time in this exam cycle. Most candidates adapted well, though some faced minor time-management issues.
Reasoning Section: Certain candidates faced challenges in the Reasoning segment due to lengthy questions and complex seating arrangements.
Also Read: SSC Stenographer vacancy
Past cut-off benchmarks provide a clear baseline to understand qualifying score patterns for Grade C and Grade D posts.
| Year | Post / Grade | Unreserved (UR) | Other Backward Classes (OBC) | Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | Scheduled Caste (SC) | Scheduled Tribe (ST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Grade C | ~130.8 (≈ 131) | 130 | 130 | 115 | 116 |
| Grade D | ~100.9 (≈ 109) | 96 | 91 | 76 | 63 | |
| 2023 | Grade C | 147 (≈ 148) | 145 | 147 | 136 | 128 |
| Grade D | 131 (≈ 132) | 127 | 84 | 103 | 85 | |
| 2025 Benchmark | Grade C | ~148 (Safe: 149) | 148 | 148 | — | — |
| Grade D | ~130 (Safe: 131) | 130 | — | — | — |
The 2022 cut-offs remained lower compared to subsequent cycles. Recent cycles indicate a clear upward shift in qualifying marks across all categories.
Because the paper difficulty remained Easy to Moderate, the overall cut-off is expected to be on the higher side. Candidates whose raw scores align with the projected ranges must begin Shorthand preparation without delay.
(Acceptable Margin of Error: ±2 marks)
| Category | Grade C Expected Range | Grade D Expected Range |
|---|---|---|
| Unreserved (UR) | 144 – 156 | 129 – 141 |
| OBC | 139 – 151 | 124 – 136 |
| EWS | 134 – 146 | 119 – 131 |
| SC | 128 – 141 | 114 – 126 |
| ST | 113 – 127 | 100 – 112 |
Evaluation Factor: Accuracy is more critical than the total number of attempts. A high number of attempts does not ensure qualification if negative marking reduces the final net score.
Candidates planning for other Staff Selection Commission tests should note the upcoming exam timeline:
SSC CGL: The computer-based test begins on 30th September and runs through October.
SSC CHSL: Official dates are pending on the SSC portal. The exam is expected to take place between November and December.
