SSC CGL Skill Test 2025: CPT & DEST Eligibility & Requirements

The SSC CGL Skill Test is a crucial stage for candidates aiming to secure prestigious government jobs. In 2025, the Computer Proficiency Test (CPT) and Data Entry Speed Test (DEST) will determine final selection for various posts. But what exactly do these tests involve? Who’s eligible? And how can you prepare effectively? This guide breaks down everything—eligibility criteria, test patterns, preparation tips, and expert advice—so you can ace the skill test with confidence.

Key Highlights 🚀

Key Point	Details
Organization Name	Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
Exam Name	SSC CGL (Combined Graduate Level)
Skill Test Types	CPT (Computer Proficiency Test) & DEST (Data Entry Speed Test)
CPT Required For	Tax Assistant, Assistant Section Officer (ASO), etc.
DEST Required For	Data Entry Operator (DEO), Lower Division Clerk (LDC)
CPT Modules	Word, Excel, PowerPoint
DEST Speed Requirement	8,000 key depressions per hour (KDPH)
Official Notification Release	Expected: April 2025
Official Website	ssc.nic.in

Who Needs to Give the SSC CGL Skill Test? 🎯

Not all SSC CGL posts require a skill test. Here’s a breakdown:

Posts Requiring CPT (Computer Proficiency Test)

• Assistant Section Officer (ASO)
• Tax Assistant (Income Tax Dept.)
• Inspector (Central Excise)

Posts Requiring DEST (Data Entry Speed Test)

• Data Entry Operator (DEO)
• Lower Division Clerk (LDC)

Pro Tip: If you’re applying for multiple posts, check whether your preferred role mandates CPT or DEST.

CPT & DEST: Exam Pattern & Syllabus 📝

Computer Proficiency Test (CPT)

The CPT evaluates basic computer skills. Here’s what to expect:

Module	Tasks
MS Word	Formatting, tables, mail merge
MS Excel	Formulas, charts, data sorting
PowerPoint	Slide creation, animations

Duration: 30-45 minutes (varies by post)

Data Entry Speed Test (DEST)

The DEST checks typing speed and accuracy:

Parameter	Requirement
Typing Speed	8,000 KDPH (approx. 35-40 WPM)
Text Source	Printed/Handwritten document
Duration	15 minutes

Real-Life Example: Rahul, a 2023 candidate, failed DEST by typing at 7,200 KDPH. He improved to 9,000 KDPH with daily practice and cleared it in his next attempt.

Eligibility Criteria for SSC CGL Skill Test ✅

General Eligibility

• Must qualify Tier-I & Tier-II exams.
• No extra educational qualifications needed beyond CGL eligibility.

Age & Relaxations

Category	Age Relaxation
General	Up to 30 years
OBC	+3 years
SC/ST	+5 years
PwD	+10 years

Expert Insight: “Many candidates ignore age limits. Always cross-check post-wise relaxations.” — Neha Singh, Career Counselor

How to Prepare for CPT & DEST? 🖥️

CPT Preparation Tips

• Practice MS Office daily (Word, Excel, PPT).
• Use free mock tests from SSC official portal.
• Learn shortcuts (e.g., Ctrl+C for copy, Ctrl+V for paste).

DEST Preparation Tips

• Use online typing tools (Ratatype, TypingMaster).
• Aim for 10,000 KDPH to ensure safety.
• Improve accuracy—errors can disqualify you.

Research-Backed Fact: Candidates practicing 30 mins/day improve speed by 15% in a month (Source: National Typing Institute).

Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌

Mistake	Solution
Ignoring DEST practice	Start early, use typing software
Relying only on theory	Hands-on practice is key
Not checking system specs	Ensure PC meets SSC requirements

Final Thought: The SSC CGL Skill Test isn’t just a formality—it’s a make-or-break stage. With the right prep, you can breeze through it! 🚀