Updated: 6 November 2026 | Candidate action guide | SSC CGL Tier-I 2026
SSC CGL Tier-I 2026 response sheets and tentative answer keys are available. The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) uploaded the notice on 4 November 2026. Candidates can inspect their recorded answers, compare them with the tentative key and submit objections through the Commission’s online challenge module. The challenge window closes on 7 November 2026 at 9:00 PM; the Commission has stated that late or offline representations will not be entertained.
SSC CGL 2026 answer key: important dates
| Event | Date / time |
|---|---|
| Tier-I examination | 30 September–28 October 2026 |
| Response sheet and tentative answer key uploaded | 4 November 2026 |
| Challenge window opened | 4 November 2026, 9:00 PM |
| Last time to submit challenges | 7 November 2026, 9:00 PM |
| Fee | ₹50 per question/answer challenged |
Official notice and candidate login
Use the SSC official website and locate the notice titled “Uploading of Tentative Answer Keys along with Candidates’ Response Sheet(s) of Combined Graduate Level Examination, 2026 (Tier-I)”, Notice No. HQ-C11018/5/2026-C-1 (E-16368), dated 4 November 2026.
Read the official SSC answer-key notice (PDF). Candidates must log in using their Registration Number and Password to access their own response sheet and the tentative key. Do not use another candidate’s login or share credentials.
How to download and preserve your response sheet
- Open SSC’s official website and sign in with your registered credentials.
- Open the CGL 2026 Tier-I response-sheet/tentative-answer-key notice and its candidate login link.
- Review the shift-wise questions, options, your recorded answers and the tentative key.
- Download and save the response sheet/question paper for personal self-analysis before the access window closes.
- Keep a secure copy and note any Question ID or answer that you believe requires a challenge.
Do not postpone the download. SSC’s 4 November notice says response sheets and tentative answer keys will not be available after the specified time limit; individual requests for later access will not be entertained. This is a short access window, not a permanent scorecard facility.
How to challenge a tentative answer
- Use the online Challenge/Objection Management System linked by SSC.
- Read the Commission’s detailed challenge guidelines dated 10 April 2026.
- Select the question/answer you want to contest and provide a precise, credible supporting reference where required by the module.
- Pay the prescribed ₹50 for each question/answer challenged.
- Submit before 7 November 2026, 9:00 PM, and retain the submission/payment receipt.
Challenges are accepted only through the prescribed online system. The fee is non-refundable under the examination notice. A challenge should be based on a genuine factual or interpretive issue, not merely on disagreement with an expected score.
Why the question order may look different
SSC explains that the challenge module displays a common sequence of questions and options for candidates in a particular shift. During the actual computer-based examination, question and option order could be randomised for individual candidates. The answers selected by each candidate are nevertheless reflected exactly in the challenge module. A different displayed order alone is therefore not evidence that the response sheet is wrong.
Tentative key is not final result
The uploaded key is provisional. SSC will consider representations under its prescribed process before finalising the answer key and subsequent evaluation. A response sheet is a record of answers marked; it is not a result, cut-off or guarantee of qualification. Candidates should not treat unofficial score calculators or coaching-site keys as the Commission’s final decision.
Exam relevance and next steps
For SSC aspirants, revise the difference between a tentative answer key, final answer key, response sheet, scorecard and result. The CGL Tier-I examination was conducted from 30 September to 28 October 2026. For the broader examination pattern, vacancy context and preparation plan, see the SSC CGL 2026 Tier-I exam guide. For other result and answer-key updates, use the Results master page; the SSC Exams Hub brings together exam resources.
Official source
- Staff Selection Commission — official website and notice board
- SSC Notice No. HQ-C11018/5/2026-C-1 (E-16368), dated 4 November 2026 — PDF
Candidate reminder: save your response sheet now, use only the official login and submit any genuine challenge before the deadline. No offline request or late representation will be accepted under the notice.
