The **Staff Selection Commission (SSC)** has released the official notification for the **Grade “C” Stenographers Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE), 2025**. This examination is a significant opportunity for existing government employees seeking career advancement. This **SSC recruitment drive** aims to fill **326 Grade “C” Stenographer posts** in various central government ministries and departments. The application process for the **SSC Stenographer Grade C Recruitment 2026** is strictly online, and eligible departmental candidates are advised to apply within the specified time frame.
The **Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE)** is specifically designed for serving Group ‘C’ or Group ‘D’ staff who meet certain service length criteria within the relevant government cadre. This distinction means the examination is not open to general applicants but rather serves as a promotional pathway for internal candidates. The **SSC** is responsible for conducting this specialized examination to ensure fair and merit-based promotions to the **Stenographer Grade “C”** level, which falls under Pay Level 7 of the 7th Pay Commission.
Prospective candidates must carefully review the official notification to understand the detailed eligibility requirements, application process, and examination scheme. The total number of posts (326) is currently tentative and subject to change based on the final requirements of the participating departments. As the official notification specifies, this examination cycle, officially titled **LDCE 2025**, will likely finalize its recruitment process in the year 2026. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the **SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026** notification details, eligibility, selection process, and important dates for departmental candidates.
Key Highlights of SSC Stenographer Grade C LDCE 2025 Recruitment
The **SSC Grade C Stenographer LDCE 2025** is a crucial examination for government employees aiming for promotion. Here are the key highlights of the recruitment process:
- Exam Name: Grade “C” Stenographers Limited Departmental Competitive Examination, 2025 (LDCE 2025)
- Conducting Authority: Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
- Post Name: Stenographer Grade “C”
- Total Vacancies: 326 (Tentative)
- Nature of Examination: Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (For existing government employees only)
- Application Mode: Online via the official SSC website
- Pay Scale: Pay Level 7 (Rs. 44,900 to Rs. 1,42,400)
- Selection Process: Written Examination (Paper I) followed by Skill Test (Stenography)
Important Dates for SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026
Candidates preparing for the **SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025** must keep track of the following crucial dates. The dates for the written examination and skill test are particularly important for planning preparation strategies.
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release Date | 23 December 2025 |
| Application Start Date | 23 December 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | Not Available (To be updated) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | Not Available (To be updated) |
| Correction Window Dates | Not Available (To be updated) |
| Admit Card Release Date (Paper I) | Not Available (To be updated) |
| Written Examination (Paper I) Date | Not Available (To be updated) |
| Result Date (Paper I) | Not Available (To be updated) |
| Skill Test Date | Not Available (To be updated) |
| Final Result Declaration | Not Available (To be updated) |
Vacancy Details: SSC Grade C Steno Posts 2026
The **SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026** targets a total of 326 vacancies across various ministries and departments in the central government. The final number of vacancies may be adjusted slightly, but the current estimate provides a clear picture of the scale of this promotional opportunity. The specific breakdown of vacancies for different departments and categories will be available in the detailed official notification. Candidates are advised to stay updated with the Sarkari Result All website for real-time changes.
The vacancies for **Grade “C” Stenographer** positions are typically distributed among various central government services, including the Central Secretariat Stenographers’ Service (CSSS), Railway Board Secretariat Stenographers’ Service, Armed Forces Headquarters Stenographers’ Service, and other relevant services/cadres.
Eligibility Criteria for SSC Grade C Stenographer LDCE 2025
Understanding the eligibility criteria is paramount before applying for the **SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025**. This examination has specific departmental requirements that differ significantly from open-market recruitment examinations like the SSC Stenographer Grade C and D Examination. The primary criteria revolve around existing employment status and length of service.
Service and Cadre Requirements
To be eligible for the **Stenographer Grade C LDCE 2025**, an applicant must fulfill the following conditions as per the official notification:
- Existing Employment: The candidate must be a regularly appointed employee in a Group ‘C’ or Group ‘D’ post (excluding Stenographer Grade ‘C’ and ‘D’) within a recognized Central Government Ministry/Department or subordinate office.
- Service Length Requirement: The applicant must have completed a minimum of five years of regular service in their current post. This service length is typically calculated as of a specific date (e.g., 1st January 2025, as per the typical LDCE cycle).
- Specific Cadre Eligibility: The **LDCE** is generally open to employees of specific services or cadres. For instance, employees in the Central Secretariat Stenographers’ Service (CSSS) often have specific regulations governing their eligibility for promotion through this examination.
Age Limit
The age limit for this examination is also defined by departmental rules. The specific maximum age limit is typically set to allow a reasonable window for existing employees to participate in the examination. Detailed information regarding age relaxation for different categories (SC/ST/OBC/Ex-Servicemen) will be provided in the official notification. Candidates should refer to the **SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025** official rules to confirm their eligibility based on age.
Educational Qualification
While the examination is departmental, a minimum educational qualification is often required. Candidates must have passed the 12th Standard or equivalent from a recognized board or university. Additionally, a crucial requirement for all **SSC Stenographer** positions is a proficiency in stenography. While the skill test assesses this proficiency during the selection process, candidates must possess a fundamental understanding of shorthand and typing to successfully compete.
Application Process: How to Apply Online for SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026
The application for the **SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025** is conducted exclusively online through the official website of the **SSC**. Candidates must ensure they follow the step-by-step procedure accurately to avoid rejection of their application. Here is a simplified guide to applying online:
Step 1: Registration (One Time Registration)
First-time applicants must complete the **One Time Registration (OTR)** process on the SSC website (ssc.gov.in). This involves providing basic personal details, contact information, and educational qualifications. A unique Registration Number and password will be generated for future logins. Existing users can skip this step and directly proceed to login.
Step 2: Accessing the Application Form
After successful registration or login, navigate to the "Apply" section on the dashboard. Locate the link for the **Grade “C” Stenographers Limited Departmental Competitive Examination, 2025**. Click on "Apply" to proceed to the application form.
Step 3: Filling the Application Details
Fill in all required information in the application form. This includes personal details, educational qualifications, service details (department, duration of service, cadre), and preferred examination centers. Carefully verify all information before submission.
Step 4: Uploading Documents
Upload scanned copies of required documents, including a recent photograph and signature, in the specified format and size. Ensure the photograph and signature meet the specifications provided in the official notification. Additionally, candidates may need to upload supporting documents verifying their service length and departmental status.
Step 5: Application Fee Payment
Pay the required application fee online through methods such as Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. The application fee for departmental examinations is often nominal or exempt for certain categories. Check the official notification for precise details regarding the fee structure for **SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025**.
Step 6: Final Submission and Printout
After completing the payment, review the entire application form one last time. Submit the form and download a copy of the final application for future reference. It is essential to keep a printed copy of the application form and payment receipt.
Examination Pattern and Selection Process
The selection process for the **SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026** consists of two main stages: a Written Examination (Paper I) and a Skill Test (Paper II). Both stages are mandatory, and candidates must qualify in each to be considered for the final merit list.
Stage 1: Written Examination (Paper I)
The written examination assesses general knowledge, intelligence, and language proficiency. The structure of Paper I typically includes three main sections:
| Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 100 | 100 | 2 Hours (for all sections combined) |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 100 | 100 | |
| English Language and Comprehension | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 300 | 300 | 2 Hours |
There is usually a provision for negative marking for incorrect answers. Candidates must prepare for the written test by focusing on current affairs, logical reasoning, and grammar and vocabulary in English.
Stage 2: Skill Test in Stenography (Paper II)
Candidates who qualify in Paper I based on the cut-off marks set by the SSC will proceed to the skill test. The skill test evaluates the candidate's proficiency in shorthand and typing. The requirements for **Stenographer Grade “C”** are significantly different from Grade “D.”
- Dictation: Candidates will be given a dictation in either English or Hindi (depending on their choice made during application). The dictation will last for 10 minutes.
- Speed Requirement (Grade C): The speed of dictation for **Grade “C” Stenographer** is generally higher than for Grade “D.” For Grade “C,” the dictation speed is typically 100 words per minute (wpm).
- Transcription: After the dictation, candidates must transcribe the notes using a computer. The time allowed for transcription varies depending on the chosen language (English or Hindi).
Candidates must achieve high accuracy in both shorthand and transcription to qualify for the final merit list. The skill test is crucial for determining suitability for the **Grade “C” Stenographer** role.
Salary Structure and Career Progression
A successful promotion through the **SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025** offers significant financial and career benefits. The position of **Stenographer Grade “C”** falls under Pay Level 7 of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC). The approximate salary structure for a Grade “C” Stenographer includes:
- Pay Scale: Rs. 44,900 – Rs. 1,42,400
- Basic Pay: Rs. 44,900
- Allowances: In addition to basic pay, employees receive various allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Travel Allowance (TA), and others, depending on the city of posting.
- Gross Salary: The initial gross salary for a newly promoted **Grade “C” Stenographer** in a major city (like Delhi) can range between Rs. 70,000 to Rs. 80,000 per month.
Career progression for a **Grade “C” Stenographer** typically leads to higher administrative positions within the government hierarchy, such as Private Secretary or higher-grade administrative roles, through subsequent departmental examinations and seniority. The **SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026** is therefore a vital stepping stone in a government employee's career path.
Important Links and Resources
For detailed information regarding the **SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025**, candidates must refer to the official notification and apply through the designated portal. The **Sarkari Result All** website provides timely updates and direct links for convenience. We encourage candidates to use the following links:
- Official Notification PDF: Link to be updated upon release (available on Sarkari Result All and ssc.gov.in)
- Apply Online Link: Link to be updated upon release (available on Sarkari Result All and ssc.gov.in)
- SSC Official Website: ssc.gov.in
- Sarkari Result All Website: www.sarkariresultall.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to common questions about the **SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026** and the **LDCE 2025** process.
What is the difference between SSC Stenographer Grade C and SSC Stenographer Grade C (LDCE)?The **SSC Stenographer Grade C** examination that most people refer to is the open competition exam for all eligible candidates (12th pass). The **SSC Stenographer Grade C (LDCE)** is the **Limited Departmental Competitive Examination**, which is only for existing central government employees who meet specific service length criteria (typically 5 years). The LDCE serves as a promotional examination for internal candidates.
Can a new applicant apply for the SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026?No, this particular recruitment drive, specifically the **LDCE 2025**, is strictly limited to existing central government employees. If you are not currently employed in a Group C or Group D post in a central government ministry or department, you are not eligible to apply for this specific examination. New applicants should apply for the regular SSC Stenographer examination when released.
What is the minimum service length required to be eligible for the LDCE 2025?Based on the typical rules for departmental examinations, candidates must have completed a minimum of five years of regular service in their current Group C or Group D post. This service length calculation date will be specified in the official notification.
What is the skill test requirement for SSC Grade C Stenographer?For **SSC Stenographer Grade C**, the skill test requires a higher proficiency compared to Grade D. The dictation speed required is typically 100 words per minute. Candidates must transcribe the dictated passage accurately to qualify.
Are the vacancies for SSC Grade C Steno Recruitment 2026 confirmed?The notification states that the **326 posts** are tentative. The number of vacancies may be subject to change based on the final requirements of the user departments/ministries. The final count will be released by the **SSC** before the final result declaration.
How important is the skill test in the selection process for Grade C Steno LDCE?The skill test is absolutely critical for the **Stenographer Grade C** position. While Paper I (Written Exam) determines who progresses to the skill test, a candidate's final ranking and selection heavily depend on their performance and accuracy in the skill test (Paper II). Proficiency in shorthand and typing is non-negotiable for this role.
Where can I find the official notification for the SSC Grade C Steno LDCE 2025?The official notification is available on the official website of the **Staff Selection Commission (SSC)** at ssc.gov.in. It is also available on job update portals like **Sarkari Result All** (www.sarkariresultall.in) under the latest government jobs section.