The HSSC CET (Group C) exam is one of the most important recruitment examinations conducted by the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC). It is designed to streamline the hiring process for various Group C government posts across different departments in Haryana. The Common Eligibility Test (CET) was introduced to bring transparency, reduce multiple examinations, and offer a single-window eligibility system for aspirants across the state.
Every year, lakhs of candidates appear for the HSSC CET (Group C) to qualify for government jobs such as clerks, assistants, inspectors, supervisors, storekeepers, and many other posts. If you are preparing for Haryana government jobs, understanding the exam pattern, eligibility, syllabus, selection process, application procedure, and important updates becomes extremely important.
This detailed 2000-word guide covers everything you need to know about the HSSC CET (Group C) exam in a simple and comprehensive manner.
HSSC CET (Group C) – Eligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Selection Process & Full Details
What is HSSC CET (Group C)?
The Haryana Common Eligibility Test (CET) is conducted by HSSC as a screening exam for recruitment to Group C posts in state government departments. Once candidates qualify the CET, they are shortlisted for further recruitment stages such as skill test, PMT, PST, document verification, or interview, depending on the post.
Key Highlights of HSSC CET (Group C)
- Conducted by: Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC)
- Exam Level: State Level
- Frequency: As per vacancy requirement
- Validity of CET Score: 3 years
- Mode of Exam: Offline (OMR) or Online (CBT)
- Applicable Posts: Various Group C job roles
- Eligibility: 10th/12th/Graduation depending on post
- Selection Process: CET + Post-specific tests
- Job location: Haryana
Importance of HSSC CET (Group C)
The CET simplifies the recruitment system by allowing candidates to appear for one common exam instead of multiple examinations. The CET score becomes the main filtering criterion for shortlisting candidates for Group C vacancies.
Benefits of CET:
- Single exam, multiple job opportunities
- Saves time & money
- Transparent shortlisting process
- Score valid for 3 years
- Merit-based selection
Eligibility Criteria for HSSC CET (Group C)
Eligibility differs depending on the post. However, common criteria include:
1. Nationality
The candidate must be:
- A citizen of India
- A resident of Haryana (for state reservation benefits)
2. Educational Qualification
Educational requirements vary:
| Post Category | Qualification Required |
|---|---|
| Basic entry-level posts | 10th pass |
| Clerical & assistant-level posts | 12th pass |
| Technical and administrative posts | Graduation or equivalent |
Note: Each department may specify additional qualifications (typing skill, diploma, degree, certification, etc.)
3. Age Limit
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Maximum age: 42 years
- Age relaxation:
- SC/ST: +5 years
- OBC: +3 years
- PwD: 10 years
- Ex-Servicemen: As per rules
HSSC CET (Group C) Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide
Follow the steps below to apply:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the HSSC official portal.
Step 2: Registration
- Create an account using a mobile number, email, Aadhaar, and personal information.
Step 3: Fill Application Form
- Add educational details
- Upload documents (photo, signature, certificates)
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
Payment modes: UPI, debit card, credit card, net banking
Step 5: Submit Form
After submission, take a printout for future reference.
Application Fee Structure
| Category | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| General (Male) | ₹500 |
| General (Female) | ₹250 |
| SC/ST/OBC/PwD | ₹250 |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per rules |
(Note: Fees may vary as per official notification.)
HSSC CET (Group C) Selection Process
The selection process mainly involves:
1. CET Written Examination
This is the screening test.
2. Post-specific Test
Depending on the job:
- Skill Test
- Typing Test
- Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
- Physical Screening Test (PST)
- Trade Test
- Interview
3. Document Verification
Final stage before appointment.
4. Merit List
Final merit is prepared based on:
- CET score
- Socio-economic marks
- Post-specific marks
HSSC CET (Group C) Exam Pattern
The CET exam consists of 100 objective-type questions.
Exam Structure
| Section | Weightage |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | 25% |
| Haryana GK | 25% |
| Reasoning | 10% |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 10% |
| English/Hindi | 10% |
| General Science | 10% |
| Computer Knowledge | 10% |
Total Marks → 100 marks
Duration → 1 hour 30 minutes
Negative Marking → No (usually)
Detailed Syllabus for HSSC CET (Group C)
Below is the complete syllabus:
1. General Awareness
- Current events – National & International
- Indian Economy
- Indian Polity
- History & Culture
- Geography
- Sports
- Important Government schemes
2. Haryana GK
- History of Haryana
- Culture & Heritage
- Geography of Haryana
- Politics & Economy
- Sports personalities
- Famous festivals
- Panchayati Raj system
3. Reasoning Ability
- Verbal & non-verbal reasoning
- Analogy
- Series completion
- Blood relations
- Coding-decoding
- Direction sense test
- Classification
4. Quantitative Aptitude
- Number system
- LCM & HCF
- Percentage
- Profit & loss
- Simple & compound interest
- Time & work
- Mensuration
- Simplification
5. English / Hindi Language
- Grammar
- Vocabulary
- Sentence improvement
- Comprehension
- Synonyms & antonyms
6. General Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology basics
- Environmental science
- Scientific research
7. Computer Knowledge
- Basics of computers
- MS Office
- Internet & email
- Hardware & software
- Networking basics
HSSC CET (Group C) Admit Card
The admit card is released before the exam date. It contains:
- Candidate name
- Roll number
- Exam center
- Exam city
- Reporting time
- Instructions
Candidates must carry:
- Admit card
- Valid ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Driving License)
- Passport-size photo
HSSC CET (Group C) Result & Scorecard
After the exam, HSSC releases the result and CET scorecard.
CET Score Validity → 3 years.
The scorecard is used for:
- Shortlisting candidates
- Department-wise recruitment
- Final merit list preparation
Socio-Economic Criteria Marks
Candidates can get up to 10 additional marks based on:
- Family income
- Widow/Orphan status
- No family govt job
- Previous experience in Haryana govt
These marks can significantly increase selection chances.
HSSC CET (Group C) Salary Structure
Salary depends on the post, but most Group C posts fall under:
- Pay Matrix Level: Level 2 to Level 5
- Monthly Salary Range: ₹25,500 – ₹69,100
- Allowances included:
- Dearness allowance
- HRA
- Medical allowance
- Travel allowance
Preparation Tips for HSSC CET (Group C)
- Understand the syllabus thoroughly
- Make a timetable and follow consistently
- Regularly practice Haryana GK
- Solve previous year papers
- Attempt mock tests weekly
- Focus on accuracy as there’s no negative marking
- Revise monthly current affairs
Books for HSSC CET (Group C)
| Subject | Recommended Book |
|---|---|
| Haryana GK | Haryana GK by Manohar Singh |
| General Awareness | Lucent’s General Knowledge |
| Quantitative Aptitude | RS Aggarwal |
| Reasoning | Verbal & Non-verbal Reasoning – RS Aggarwal |
| English | SP Bakshi – Objective English |
| Computer | Arihant Computer Awareness |
Important Documents Required
- Aadhaar card
- 10th/12th certificates
- Graduation degree (if applicable)
- Category certificate
- Domicile certificate (Haryana)
- Photo & signature
- Experience certificate (if any)
Conclusion
The HSSC CET (Group C) exam is a gateway to securing stable and reputed government jobs in Haryana. With a clear understanding of eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus, and selection process, you can easily create an effective study plan. The CET score’s three-year validity gives you multiple chances to apply for various Group C posts without reappearing for the exam every time.
If you are dedicated, consistent, and well-prepared, clearing the HSSC CET (Group C) is entirely achievable. Use this detailed guide to start your exam preparation with confidence.
FAQs – HSSC CET (Group C)
1. What is the validity of the HSSC CET (Group C) score?
The CET score is valid for 3 years, and candidates can apply for multiple recruitments during this period.
2. Is there any negative marking in HSSC CET (Group C)?
Generally, no negative marking is followed, but you must check the official notice for confirmation.
3. Can candidates from other states apply for HSSC CET (Group C)?
Yes, they can apply, but reservation benefits are given only to Haryana residents.
4. What are the qualifying marks for HSSC CET (Group C)?
There are no fixed minimum qualifying marks, but candidates are shortlisted based on merit.
5. How many vacancies come under HSSC CET (Group C)?
Vacancies vary according to departmental requirements and are announced in official notifications.