SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key Released: Everything You Need to Know
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has officially released the SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 answer key, bringing relief and excitement for lakhs of candidates who appeared in the examination. This step marks one of the most important phases in the recruitment process, giving aspirants the opportunity to evaluate their performance, calculate estimated scores, and raise objections if needed.
When Was the SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key Released?
The SSC announced the SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key in the second week of October 2025, shortly after the conclusion of the written examination. The Tier 1 exam for the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025 was conducted across multiple shifts between September 12 and September 26, 2025. For some candidates, a re-examination was held due to technical or logistical issues.
With the release of the provisional answer key, candidates can now log in using their registration number and password to view their responses and the correct answers. Alongside the answer key, SSC has also provided a response sheet, allowing candidates to cross-check each question and response for accuracy.
What the Answer Key Includes
The SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key provides transparency by displaying the following details:
- The correct answers to every question in all sets of the exam.
- The responses submitted by each candidate.
- The marking scheme, where two marks are awarded for every correct answer and 0.50 marks are deducted for each incorrect one.
- The total number of questions attempted and left unanswered.
By reviewing this information, aspirants can calculate their approximate scores before the final results are declared. This helps them predict their chances of qualifying for the Tier 2 examination.
How to Calculate Your Estimated Score
The process of estimating your score is simple. Candidates should follow these steps:
- Count the number of correct answers and multiply them by 2.
- Count the number of incorrect answers and multiply them by 0.5.
- Subtract the total negative marks from the positive marks obtained.
Example:
If a candidate has 120 correct answers and 25 incorrect ones,
→ Positive marks = 120 × 2 = 240
→ Negative marks = 25 × 0.5 = 12.5
→ Estimated Score = 240 – 12.5 = 227.5 marks
This gives an approximate idea of where the candidate stands before the official results are announced.
Raising Objections: The Challenge Window
SSC has opened a specific time window for candidates to raise objections to any answer they believe is incorrect. This window usually remains open for a few days after the answer key is released.
Key points about the objection process:
- Each question can be challenged by submitting a fee of ₹50 per objection.
- The objection must include a valid explanation or reference material supporting the candidate’s claim.
- Once the deadline passes, no further challenges are accepted.
- SSC will analyze all valid objections before preparing the final SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key.
After reviewing objections, SSC publishes a revised and final answer key, which forms the basis for evaluating the Tier 1 results.
Why the Answer Key Is Important
The publication of the answer key ensures transparency and fairness in the examination process. It gives candidates the confidence that their answers are evaluated objectively.
The key benefits include:
- Early insight into potential scores.
- Opportunity to contest doubtful questions.
- Reduced anxiety while waiting for official results.
- Better understanding of weak areas before Tier 2 preparation.
For many aspirants, this stage is a morale booster — it allows them to verify their efforts and plan their next steps accordingly.
Next Step: SSC CGL Tier 2 Examination
Once the objection process ends and the final answer key is published, SSC will announce the Tier 1 results and cut-off marks for various categories — General, OBC, SC, ST, and EWS. Candidates who meet the cut-off criteria will qualify for the Tier 2 exam, December 2025 which carries more weight in the final selection. Tier 2 includes advanced sections like Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, General Studies, and Computer Knowledge, depending on the post. It’s important to note that Tier 1 is only a qualifying stage. The final merit list will be prepared based on performance in Tier 2 and subsequent evaluation stages.
Statistics and Participation
The SSC CGL 2025 examination witnessed a massive turnout. Over 13 lakh candidates appeared across hundreds of centers in India. With nearly 15,000 vacancies announced across Group B and Group C posts in various ministries and departments, the competition is expected to be tough. The large participation shows the continued popularity of SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key as one of India’s most sought-after government job exams.
Tips for Candidates After SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key Release
- Download and Save the Answer Key: Ensure you have a copy for reference before the window closes.
- Verify Carefully: Don’t rush while checking; review each question with patience.
- Challenge Only When Sure: Submit objections only for genuine errors and support them with reliable references.
- Analyze Performance: Use the key to identify your strong and weak sections for future improvement.
- Start Tier 2 Preparation Early: Even if you are confident, begin revising Tier 2 topics immediately — the gap between stages is usually short.
Expected Cut-Off Trends
While the official cut-off will be released with the results, experts predict that the cut-off for General category could range between 145 and 155 marks, depending on the difficulty level of the exam and the number of vacancies. OBC, SC, ST, and EWS categories generally have slightly lower thresholds. These estimates, however, are only indicative and may vary once SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key normalizes scores across all shifts.
Final Thoughts
The release of the SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Answer Key marks a vital turning point for candidates. It reflects SSC’s commitment to maintaining transparency and fairness in the recruitment process. For aspirants, this is not just a document — it’s a moment of clarity. It helps them measure their hard work, make corrections, and prepare confidently for the next phase.
While the provisional scores bring anticipation, the real focus now shifts to Tier 2 preparation, where the competition truly intensifies. In the end, the key takeaway is simple: stay calm, trust your preparation, and keep your focus sharp. The road to success in SSC CGL is not short, but every step — including this answer key release — brings you closer to your dream of a stable and rewarding government career.
