SSC MTS Exam Pattern 2026 – Complete Session-Wise Structure &

The SSC MTS 2026 exam pattern consists of two computer-based sessions conducted on the same day. The pattern was revised by SSC in 2022, replacing the old Paper 1 + Paper 2 (descriptive) format with the current two-session objective format. This change benefits candidates who were weak in descriptive English, as the entire exam is now objective-type.

Session 1 is 45 minutes long and covers two subjects: Numerical & Mathematical Ability (40 questions, 60 marks) and Reasoning Ability & Problem Solving (40 questions, 60 marks). Total: 80 questions, 120 marks. The key feature of SSC MTS is no negative marking — every question should be attempted. Each correct answer in Session 1 carries 1.5 marks for Numerical Ability and 1.5 marks for Reasoning.

Session 2 follows Session 1 on the same day (after a break) and is also 45 minutes long. It covers English Language & Comprehension (25 questions, 37.5 marks) and General Awareness (25 questions, 37.5 marks). Total: 50 questions, 75 marks. Each correct answer carries 1.5 marks. Again, no negative marking applies.

The combined score of both sessions (120 + 75 = 195 marks) determines the final merit. Normalisation is applied across different shifts to account for difficulty variation. The normalised combined score is the sole basis for preparing the final merit list and post allocation.

Time management is the biggest challenge in SSC MTS. With 80 questions in 45 minutes (Session 1), candidates have approximately 34 seconds per question. In Session 2, with 50 questions in 45 minutes, candidates have 54 seconds per question. Session 2 provides more time per question because English comprehension passages require reading time. Practice speed-solving techniques: (1) Skip time-consuming calculation questions initially, attempt all easy ones first; (2) In reasoning, figure-based questions can be solved visually in 15–20 seconds; (3) In GK, you either know the answer or you don't — spend maximum 15 seconds per question.

Cut-off trends from recent years suggest that General category candidates typically need 130–140 out of 195 to qualify. SC/ST cut-offs are lower at 105–120. OBC cut-offs fall between 120–130. These figures vary by year and total vacancies. The absence of negative marking means high scores are common, pushing cut-offs upward.

For PwD candidates (VH, HH, OH), compensatory time of 15 minutes per session is provided, making the total time 60 minutes per session. Scribes are allowed for candidates with disabilities affecting writing speed, with an additional 5 minutes per session.