A single-stage objective-type examination divided into two mandatory sessions (Session-I and Session-II) conducted on the same day. Session-I is qualifying in nature with no negative marking. Session-II determines the final merit and has negative marking.
Session-I is qualifying. Marks obtained in Session-II directly determine the final merit list.
Session-I: Mathematics & Reasoning120 marks · 45 minutes
- No negative marking penalty
Session-II: General Awareness & English150 marks · 45 minutes
Shift focus entirely to English and General Awareness as they determine your final merit.
Memorize English vocabulary daily (Synonyms, Antonyms, One-word substitutions, Idioms).
Cover Static GK heavily (Indian folk dances, festivals, census data, important articles of constitution).
Read daily/weekly current affairs focusing on sports, awards, and government schemes.
Solve Chapter-wise PYQs (Previous Year Questions) from TCS conducted SSC MTS exams.
Phase 3: Mocks & Speed ManagementMonths 5-6
Attempt full-length mocks prioritizing accuracy in Session-II due to the harsh 1-mark negative penalty.
Attempt full-length mocks (Session I & II continuously) twice a week.
Analyze errors in Session-II. Do not guess blindly; leaving a question is better than taking a -1 penalty.
Revise short notes for General Awareness and grammar rules.
If applied for Havaldar, ensure you do light brisk walking (1-2 km) a few times a week to stay active.
Exam Details
Concise and stable information snapshot
Overview
SSC MTS is a massive national-level exam recruiting 10th-pass candidates for general central service Group 'C' posts across various ministries and departments. The selection is purely based on a single Computer Based Examination (CBE) divided into two sessions. Candidates applying for the 'Havaldar' post must additionally clear a qualifying Physical Efficiency Test (PET) and Physical Standard Test (PST).
Havaldar in Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
Havaldar in Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN)
Eligibility
Educational QualificationMatriculation (10th Class) Examination or equivalent from a recognized Board
Age Limit18 to 25 years for MTS/Havaldar in CBN | 27 years for Havaldar in CBIC & specific MTS posts (as on 01.08.2025) years
Age RelaxationSC/ST: +5 years | OBC: +3 years | PwBD (Unreserved): +10 years | Ex-Servicemen: +3 years after deduction of military service
NationalityCitizen of India, Subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or a person of Indian origin who has migrated with the intention of permanently settling in India