What is the SSC CGL Typing Test?
The SSC CGL Typing Test is officially called the Data Entry Speed Test (DEST). It is part of Tier-II (Section IV of Paper-I, Session II) and tests whether a candidate can accurately enter text at a reasonable speed on a computer — a core requirement for clerical, assistant, and tax-related posts under CGL.
The test involves typing a passage of approximately 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes. SSC does not evaluate typing in words per minute — key depressions are the only official metric.
Is the Typing Test Mandatory for SSC CGL?
Yes. DEST is mandatory for all SSC CGL posts. However, it is qualifying in nature only — the marks you score in DEST have no effect on your final merit ranking. You only need to clear the minimum qualifying standard set by SSC to remain eligible for post allocation.
SSC CGL Typing Test Speed Requirement
SSC does not publish a WPM (words per minute) figure for the CGL DEST. Any WPM conversion you see on coaching sites or blogs is unofficial. The only officially defined criteria is completing approximately 2000 key depressions within the 15-minute window with acceptable accuracy.
Posts like Tax Assistant (CBIC & CBDT) and Upper Division Clerk (UDC) / Senior Secretariat Assistant (SSA) carry higher expectations in terms of accuracy, but the qualifying threshold structure is the same across all CGL posts.
SSC CGL Typing Test – Duration & Key Details (Official)
| Component | Language | Duration | Official Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) | English | 15 minutes | Evaluation based on key depressions, not WPM |
| Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) | Hindi | 15 minutes | Same structure; no separate Hindi duration defined |
| DEST for PwBD (with scribe) | English / Hindi | 20 minutes | Additional 5 minutes compensatory time |
| Passage Length | — | — | Approx. 2000 key depressions |
SSC CGL Typing Test Rules
Formatting and Conduct Rules
SSC provides on-screen and center-level instructions during DEST. Candidates must follow all formatting, navigation, and submission rules defined by the SSC examination system. Any deviation may lead to disqualification from the skill test.
Mistakes Allowed
SSC does not specify an exact error count in the CGL notification. The evaluation methodology and error tolerance are communicated separately by SSC on its official website before the exam.
What Keyboard is Used in SSC CGL Typing Test?
Standard English QWERTY keyboards are provided at exam centers. Candidates cannot bring personal keyboards. The typing interface is the computer system provided at the venue.
SSC CGL Typing Test for Which Post?
DEST applies to all SSC CGL posts. The posts where typing accuracy matters most include:
- Tax Assistant (CBIC & CBDT)
- Upper Division Clerk (UDC) / Senior Secretariat Assistant (SSA)
- Other posts where regular computer data entry is part of the job role
SSC CGL Posts Without Typing Test
There is no SSC CGL post that completely excludes DEST. Only PwBD (OH) candidates certified as permanently unfit for typing by a competent medical authority may receive an exemption — and even this does not apply to computer-intensive posts.
SSC CGL vs SSC CHSL Typing Test
These two exams use different models. SSC CGL uses a key-depression-based DEST (qualifying only), while SSC CHSL uses a WPM-based typing test with defined speed criteria for English (35 WPM) and Hindi (30 WPM). Do not apply CHSL speed standards when preparing for CGL — the structure is different.
- SSC CGL: Key-depressions-based DEST — qualifying only, no merit weight
- SSC CHSL: WPM-based test — language-specific speed requirements
How to Practice for SSC CGL Typing Test
Since DEST is qualifying, the goal is to reach the threshold — not to top the chart. Focus on:
- Practicing in 15-minute sessions to build stamina and focus
- Improving accuracy first, then building speed gradually
- Getting comfortable with long passage typing (300–400 words per session)
- Using exam-pattern passages that match the SSC CGL previous year typing test paragraph style
Each test on this page is timed to 15 minutes and structured to approximate the actual SSC CGL DEST passage length and format. Start with any test in the list above — your result screen shows key depressions per minute so you can track your progress.
SSC CGL Typing Test – Frequently Asked Questions
How much typing speed is required for SSC CGL?
SSC does not define a WPM requirement. Candidates must complete around 2000 key depressions in 15 minutes, as evaluated by SSC's system. Any WPM figure cited elsewhere is unofficial.
Is the typing test qualifying or scoring in SSC CGL?
The DEST is strictly qualifying. It contributes nothing to your final merit score — you only need to clear the minimum standard set by SSC.
Can I clear SSC CGL with slow typing speed?
Yes — if you meet the minimum qualifying standard. Since DEST is not merit-based, crossing the threshold is enough. Regular practice helps ensure you stay well above it.
Is the SSC CGL typing test in Hindi or English?
Both languages are used across different exam cycles. The specific language setting for your center is communicated by SSC Regional Offices before the exam date.
Does SSC CGL have a separate typing test date?
DEST is conducted on the same day as the Tier-II objective paper, in Session-II. There is no separate date for it — it is part of the Tier-II schedule.
Are there previous year typing test paragraphs for SSC CGL?
SSC does not officially release previous year DEST paragraphs. All 200+ tests on this page are built to match the difficulty, length, and subject matter of exam-style passages — giving you realistic practice close to the actual test pattern.