OSSC CGL eligibility criteria: The Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination conducted by the Odisha Staff Selection Commission (OSSC) is a golden opportunity for candidates who dream of getting a government job in Odisha. Every year thousands of youth prepare to appear in this prestigious examination.
However, in order to succeed in this exam, it is very important to first understand its eligibility criteria. What are the eligibility criteria, educational qualification, age limit and other important things for the OSSC CGL Exam of 2025, let’s know in detail in this article.
What is OSSC CGL?
OSSC CGL is a competitive examination conducted for recruitment to Group ‘B’ and Group ‘C’ posts in various departments of the Government of Odisha. These posts include auditor, inspector, junior assistant and many other posts.
This exam is an important gateway to entry into government service, so it requires proper information and preparation to succeed.
OSSC CGL eligibility criteria 2025: at a glance
In order to apply to the OSSC CGL Exam 2025, candidates must meet certain basic eligibility conditions.
These conditions mainly relate to nationality, educational qualification, age limit and knowledge of Odia language. Let’s understand them in detail:
1. Nationality
First and foremost condition is that the candidate must be a citizen of India. This is a mandatory condition and without this no candidate can apply for this exam.
2. Educational Qualification
The educational qualification for different posts in the OSSC CGL exam may vary, but in general, a bachelor’s degree is mandatory for most posts.
General posts: For most of the Group ‘B’ and ‘C’ posts, candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university or institute. This means that if you have graduated in arts, science, commerce or any other stream, you may be eligible to apply.
Specialist posts: Special qualifications may be required for certain positions. For example, if a position is related to statistics or economics, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the relevant subject may be sought. Candidates are advised to read the official notification carefully for detailed information of the post they are applying for.
In addition, some positions may also require basic computer skills, such as word processing, spreadsheets, and internet use.
3. Age Limit
The age limit is a very important criterion for the OSSC CGL exam. For the 2025 exam, the age will usually be calculated on January 1, 2025.
- The minimum age: The minimum age of the candidates should be 21 years. 1
- The maximum age: The maximum age limit for general category candidates is 38 years. 2
Relaxation in age
As per the Odisha government rules, relaxation in the upper age limit is provided to candidates belonging to various reserved categories. This can be done in the following ways:
- Scheduled Castes (SC) Scheduled Tribes (ST) Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) and Women candidates: Candidates of these categories can get a relaxation of up to 5 years in the upper age limit. This means that they can apply till the age of 43 years.
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): Candidates with disabilities can get a relaxation of up to 10 years in the upper age limit.
- Ex-servicemen: Ex-servicemen are given age relaxation as per the duration of their service.
It is important to note that if a candidate belongs to more than one reserved category, he / she will get the benefit of the most advantageous age relaxation under only one category.
4. Proficiency in Odia language.
Knowledge of Odia language is mandatory for government jobs in Odisha. This is also an important condition for OSSC CGL. Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
Passed Odia as a language subject in the Middle School Examination. or
- Passed HSC or equivalent examination in non-language subjects with Odia as the medium of examination. or
- Should have passed Odia as a language subject in the final examination of class 7 or above from a school / institution recognized by the Government of Odisha or Central Government. or
- Passed an examination in Odia in Middle English School Standard conducted by the Department of School and Mass Education, Government of Odisha.
Also, the candidates should be able to read, write and speak Odia language.
5. Physical fitness.
Candidates must be in good physical and mental health and free from any physical defect that may hinder them from performing their duties efficiently.
Specific physical criteria (such as height, weight, vision) may also be prescribed for certain posts, the details of which will be given in the official notification.
6. marital status.
If the candidate is married, he/she should not have more than one surviving spouse. This rule may be waived in certain circumstances but is generally applicable.
OSSC CGL selection process
The selection process of the OSSC CGL exam usually includes the following steps:
1. Preliminary Examination
It is a screening test in which multiple choice questions are asked. It consists of questions related to general knowledge, reasoning ability, arithmetic and computer / internet awareness. Candidates who qualify this exam will be called for the main exam.
2. Main Written Examination
Candidates who qualify the preliminary exam will have to appear for the main exam. It usually consists of two papers – one based on language (English and Odia) and the other on general studies, arithmetic, computer awareness and reasoning ability. The questions in the main examination can be both objective and short-answer type.
3. Computer skills test
Computer Skill Test is conducted for some specific posts. In this, the computer proficiency of the candidates is evaluated.
4. Document Verification
Successful candidates in the written examinations and skill test (if applicable) are called for document verification.
In this step, the information given by the candidates in the application form and their original documents are matched.
Some important tips for preparation Of OSSC CGL:
Read the official notification: First of all, carefully read the detailed notification of OSSC CGL 2025 to be released on the official website of OSSC. It will contain all the eligibility criteria, application dates, exam pattern and exact course information.
Create a time table: Create a detailed and realistic timetable for exam preparation and follow it strictly.
Practice the old question papers: Solving previous years’ question papers will help you understand the exam pattern and type of questions.
Take a mock test: Giving mock tests regularly will improve your speed and accuracy, and you will be able to handle the pressure of the exam better.
Focus on the Odia language: Odia language knowledge is an important criterion, so pay special attention to it and practice.
Take care of your health: Take care of your physical and mental health while preparing for the exam.
Conclusion
OSSC CGL 2025 exam is a great opportunity for all the candidates who want to secure a respected government post in Odisha.
Properly understanding the eligibility criteria and preparing yourself accordingly is the key to success.
Hope this article has been helpful to you in understanding the OSSC CGL eligibility criteria, educational qualification, age limit and other important aspects.
With hard work, the right direction and a positive attitude, you can definitely achieve your goal.
