SSC Stenographer Eligibility Criteria 2026: Age Limit, Qualification, Apply Online

SSC Stenographer Eligibility Criteria 2026

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released the official notification for the recruitment of Stenographer Grade C and Grade D posts for the year 2026. Aspiring candidates must carefully review the SSC Stenographer Eligibility Criteria 2026 before applying online. This comprehensive guide covers educational qualification, age limit, age relaxation, nationality, skill test requirements, and the application process. With 731 vacancies on offer, this is a golden opportunity for 12th pass candidates seeking a stable government job. Read on to ensure you meet all eligibility conditions.

Overview of SSC Stenographer Recruitment 2026

Educational Qualification for SSC Stenographer 2026

Candidates must have passed 12th standard (10+2) or equivalent examination from a recognized Board or University as on the cut-off date mentioned in the official notification. Original mark sheets and certificates will be verified during document verification. Final year students are not eligible to apply; only those who have passed the 12th exam on or before 01.08.2026 can apply.

Age Limit for SSC Stenographer Grade C and Grade D

Age Relaxation for SSC Stenographer 2026

Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Eligibility

Ex-Servicemen means a person who has served in any rank (combatant or non-combatant) in the Regular Army, Navy, or Air Force of the Indian Union. It also includes personnel of the Territorial Army and other specified categories who fulfill the conditions laid down by the Government of India. Ex-Servicemen get age relaxation and are eligible for reservation as per rules. However, sons/daughters/dependents of ex-servicemen are not eligible for age relaxation under the ESM category.

Number of Attempts

There is no limit on the number of attempts for the SSC Stenographer examination. Candidates can appear as many times as they want, provided they continue to satisfy the age limit and other eligibility criteria.

Nationality / Citizenship Criteria

A candidate must be either:

• A citizen of India, or
• A subject of Nepal or Bhutan, or
• A Tibetan refugee who came over to India before 1st January 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India, or
• A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.

Candidates other than Indian citizens must produce a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India.

Skill Test Requirements (Stenography Speed)

The Skill Test is qualifying in nature:

• Grade C: 100 words per minute (w.p.m.) dictation
• Grade D: 80 words per minute (w.p.m.) dictation

Candidates must transcribe the dictated passage on computer within the given time.

Application Fee

The application fee for General/OBC candidates is ₹100. SC/ST/PwD/Women candidates are exempted from fee payment. Fee can be paid online through net banking, credit card, debit card, or UPI.

Selection Process

The selection process consists of three stages:

1. Computer Based Examination (CBE) – Objective type questions covering General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Awareness, and English Language.
2. Skill Test (Stenography) – Qualifying in nature; dictation at prescribed speed.
3. Document Verification – Verification of educational certificates, age proof, category certificates, etc.

Important Dates

• Notification Release Date: April 2026
• Online Application Start Date: April 2026
• Last Date to Apply: 15-05-2026
• Exam Date: To be announced

How to Apply Online for SSC Stenographer 2026

1. Visit the official website ssc.gov.in
2. Click on the “Apply” link for SSC Stenographer 2026.
3. Register using a valid email ID and mobile number.
4. Fill the online application form carefully with personal, educational, and other details.
5. Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and required documents.
6. Pay the application fee (if applicable) online.
7. Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.