The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has launched sweeping reforms to enhance transparency and fairness in its recruitment process, allowing candidates to access their question papers, responses, and correct answers after exams.
This landmark change enables aspirants to challenge answer keys with evidence and retain records for personal use, while the objection fee has been reduced from ₹100 to ₹50 per question.
The reforms, introduced ahead of a major examination cycle, also include equi-percentile normalisation, Aadhaar-based authentication, and a digital vault system to ensure security and equity.
Unprecedented Access for Aspirants
In a significant shift, SSC candidates can now view and download their individual question papers, recorded responses, and the official answer keys post-examination. This transparency empowers aspirants, especially those from economically weaker sections, to verify their performance and file informed challenges.
The reduced objection fee of ₹50 per question lowers financial barriers, making the process more inclusive. Additionally, the Commission has launched an online grievance portal alongside its toll-free helpline (1800-309-3063) to ensure faster resolution of queries and complaints.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Access SSC Papers and Challenge Answer Keys
These steps ensure transparency and empower candidates to participate actively in the evaluation process.
1. Use the Grievance Portal for Issues: For technical or procedural issues, use the online feedback portal or call the toll-free helpline (1800-309-3063).
2. Wait for Exam Completion and Result Declaration: After appearing for an SSC exam (e.g., CGLE Tier-I), candidates must wait until the exam cycle for all shifts is complete. The SSC does not release papers during ongoing multi-shift exams to prevent unfair advantage.
3. Log in to the Official SSC Portal: Visit the official SSC website (ssc.gov.in) and log in using your credentials (registration number and password/DOB).
4. Access Question Paper, Response, and Answer Key: Once the review window opens (e.g., October 15 for CGLE 2025), navigate to the “Candidate Response” or “View Question Paper” section. You can download your personalised question paper, your recorded responses, and the provisional answer key.
5. Verify and Prepare Challenges: Compare your responses with the provisional answer key. If you believe an answer is incorrect, gather supporting evidence such as textbook references, official notifications, or expert opinions.
6. Submit Objections via Online Portal: Use the online challenge portal to submit your objections. You can challenge one or more questions, paying ₹50 per question. Ensure your evidence is uploaded in the prescribed format (PDF/image).
7. Track Status and Await Final Key: After the challenge window closes, the SSC evaluates all objections. A final answer key is released, and results are calculated accordingly. Candidates are advised to monitor the official website and their registered email/SMS for updates.
Fair Evaluation Through Normalisation
To address disparities caused by varying paper difficulty across multiple exam shifts, SSC has introduced equi-percentile normalisation. This method evaluates candidates based on percentile scores rather than raw marks, ensuring fairness regardless of which shift they appeared in.
For instance, if one batch faces a tougher paper, normalisation adjusts scores to maintain consistency. This scientific approach minimises bias and strengthens trust in the evaluation process, particularly for high-stakes exams like the Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGLE) 2025, which saw nearly 13.5 lakh candidates appear across 255 centres.
Security and Future Roadmap
Exam integrity is being reinforced through Aadhaar-based authentication to prevent impersonation and multiple attempts. Question papers are now securely transmitted via a digital vault, reducing leak risks, while specialised IT agencies monitor for hacking or malpractice.
Following technical glitches in CGLE Tier-I, a re-exam has been scheduled for affected candidates on October 14, with individual notifications via SMS and email. The challenge window opens on October 15.
Upcoming exams, including CHSLE, MTS, JE, and Delhi Police constable and SI roles, are set between October 2025 and March 2026, all operating under these reformed guidelines.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
These reforms mark a transformative step toward a more accountable and aspirant-friendly public recruitment system. By prioritising transparency, fairness, and security, the SSC is setting a benchmark for other examination bodies. The move not only empowers candidates but also strengthens public confidence in government hiring.
