SSC rolls out major reforms: Candidates can now access question papers, responses, and answer keys; check details here

The Staff Selection Commission ( SSC ) has introduced a series of reforms to make its recruitment examinations more transparent, secure, and candidate-friendly. The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions announced on Friday that the measures will be implemented across upcoming examinations scheduled between October 2025 and March 2026.

Candidates can now access papers, responses, and answer keys
A key provision allows candidates to view their question papers, recorded responses, and the correct answers after taking the examination. Officials said the move would help aspirants challenge answer keys with supporting evidence and also enable them to retain copies for personal reference. However, restrictions will remain in place during ongoing multi-shift examinations to ensure that papers from later sessions are not compromised.

To provide authentic study material, the Commission has also decided to publish selected past question papers at regular intervals as official sample sets.

Reduced fees for answer key challenges
In a bid to reduce the financial burden on candidates, SSC has halved the fee for challenging answer keys, from ₹100 to ₹50 per question. Alongside the existing toll-free helpline (1800-309-3063), an online feedback and grievance portal has been launched for quicker resolution of candidate concerns.

Equi-percentile normalisation introduced
One of the most significant measures is the introduction of equi-percentile normalisation. This method evaluates candidates on the basis of their percentile scores rather than raw marks, thereby removing any advantage or disadvantage arising from variation in difficulty levels across exam shifts.

Enhanced exam security measures
The Commission has also tightened exam security. Aadhaar-based authentication has been introduced to prevent impersonation and multiple attempts. Question papers are now transmitted through a secure digital vault, and specialised information technology agencies have been engaged to prevent hacking or malpractice. Officials said exam monitoring has been made stricter, with action being taken against centres and candidates found violating rules.

SSC CGL 2025 Tier-I exam
These measures were applied during the recently concluded Tier-I of the Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGLE) 2025. Nearly 13.5 lakh of the 28 lakh registered candidates appeared across 126 cities and 255 centres in 45 shifts. While some centres reported technical issues, SSC announced that a re-examination will be held on October 14 for affected candidates, who will be notified individually via email and SMS. The process for challenging questions will open on October 15.

Upcoming examinations schedule
Between October 2025 and March 2026, SSC will conduct several major examinations including the Combined Higher Secondary Level Examination (CHSLE), Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS), Junior Engineer (JE), Constable (Delhi Police & Central Armed Police Forces), Sub-Inspector (Delhi Police & CAPFs), and technical cadre examinations of Delhi Police.

For direct communication with aspirants, SSC has also launched its official handle on X (@SSC_GoI). Candidates have been advised to rely only on official announcements and avoid being misled by unverified information circulating online.

(with PTI inputs)