SSC CGL Typing Test (DEST)

Why English only? From the official notification:

• The bilingual clause excludes the DEST. Objective questions are in English and Hindi — but Section-IV (DEST) is specifically left out.
• There is no medium option in the CGL form. Unlike CHSL, the CGL application has no typing-language field. With no way to opt for Hindi, the test defaults to English.
• The roles are English-based. CGL DEST posts handle English alphanumeric data systems (tax, customs, secretariat).

• PwBD-OH exemption: Orthopedically Handicapped candidates may be exempted from the DEST by submitting the prescribed certificate from the competent Medical Authority (Civil Surgeon of a Government Health Care Institution) declaring them permanently unfit.
• Important limit: This exemption is NOT available for posts that require Computer Proficiency or a higher DEST standard — except the Tax Assistant in CBDT, for which the exemption is allowed. All other PwBD candidates must attempt the DEST.
• Compensatory time: PwBD/PwD candidates eligible for a scribe get an extra 5 minutes in the DEST. VH candidates who opted for a scribe in the written exam are provided a passage reader for the DEST.

Is the SSC CGL typing test in Hindi or English?

The SSC CGL DEST is in English only. There is no Hindi option — the notification excludes the DEST from the bilingual clause and the CGL form has no typing-medium field.

How many key depressions are required in the SSC CGL DEST?

A passage of about 2,000 key depressions in 15 minutes, which is roughly 8,000 key depressions per hour (about 27 WPM).

Is the SSC CGL DEST qualifying or does it add marks?

It is qualifying and adds no marks to merit, but it is mandatory for all posts. If you fail it, you are removed from selection regardless of your written score.

What is the error limit for the SSC CGL DEST?

For general posts: 20% (UR), 25% (OBC/EWS), 30% (SC/ST/PwBD). For higher-standard posts like Tax Assistant and ASO: 5% (UR), 7% (OBC/EWS/SC/ST/ESM), 10% (PwBD).

Is backspace allowed in the SSC CGL DEST?

Yes. Backspace, arrow keys and delete work, so you can correct text you have already typed. You cannot change anything after time is over, and overusing backspace wastes time.

Which SSC CGL posts have the strict DEST standard?

Tax Assistant (CBDT and CBIC), UDC/SSA in the Central Bureau of Narcotics, ASO (CSS/MEA/AFHQ), Inspector (Examiner/Preventive Officer/CGST & Central Excise), Executive Assistant in CBIC, and a few others.

Can I get an exemption from the SSC CGL DEST?

PwBD-OH candidates may be exempted with the prescribed medical certificate, but not for posts requiring Computer Proficiency or a higher DEST standard — except Tax Assistant in CBDT. Other PwBD candidates must attempt the DEST.

Is the SSC CGL DEST the same as the CHSL typing test?

No. CGL uses a Data Entry Speed Test (key depressions, English only). CHSL LDC/JSA uses a WPM typing test that can be taken in English or Hindi.

How is the DEST speed different from WPM?

The DEST counts key depressions (every keystroke, including spaces and punctuation) rather than words, which makes scoring fair across passages with different word lengths.