If you’re a graduate in Punjab looking for a stable government job, here’s an opportunity you should know about. The Subordinate Services Selection Board (SSSB), Punjab, has officially announced a recruitment drive for the post of Clerk. This is a Group-C post in various departments of the Punjab government.
This article breaks down the entire notification into simple, actionable points to help you understand the process.
1. Who Should Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity for recent graduates who are proficient in Punjabi and have basic computer skills. If you’re looking for a secure career with a steady income and growth potential, this could be your starting point. The ideal candidate is someone who:
- Holds a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
- Has a mandatory computer certificate.
- Is comfortable typing in both English and Punjabi.
- Has a strong grasp of the Punjabi language.
2. Post & Vacancy Details
The notification is for a “probable” number of vacancies based on requisitions received from various departments until September 30, 2026. This means the total number of posts isn’t fixed yet, but applying early puts you in the pipeline for all upcoming vacancies within that timeframe.
| Post Name | Pay Scale |
|---|---|
| Clerk | Level-2, ₹19,900/- |
3. Age Limit (As of January 1, 2026)
Your age as of January 1, 2026, will determine your eligibility. The basic rule is that you must be at least 18 years old. Here’s the breakdown of the maximum age limits and relaxations:
| Category | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| General (UR) | 37 years |
| SC / BC of Punjab | 42 years |
| Punjab Govt./Central Govt. Employees | 45 years |
| Persons with Disabilities (PwD) of Punjab | 47 years |
| Widows / Divorcees (as per specific rules) | Up to 40 years |
What about Ex-Servicemen (ESM)? The upper age limit for ESM from Punjab is calculated by subtracting their service duration from their actual age. The remaining age must not exceed the category’s upper limit by more than 3 years.
4. Important Dates to Remember
Mark these dates on your calendar. The board will only provide updates on its website, so don’t wait for a letter in the mail.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | February 4, 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | February 13, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | March 6, 2026 |
5. What’s the Salary Like?
The pay scale is Level-2, with a starting basic pay of ₹19,900/-. While the exact in-hand salary will depend on deductions, you can expect a gross monthly salary between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 initially, which includes:
- Basic Pay: ₹19,900/-
- Dearness Allowance (DA): A percentage of basic pay, revised periodically to offset inflation.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Based on the city of posting.
- Other Allowances: As per government rules.
As a government employee, you also get job security, a pension, and annual increments, making it a financially sound career choice.
6. The Selection Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting selected isn’t just about one exam. You’ll need to clear multiple stages. Think of it as a filter:
- Stage 1: The Written Exam (Part A & B)
This is the first major hurdle. It’s an objective-type (MCQ) test.- Part A: Punjabi Language (Qualifying): This paper tests your 10th-standard Punjabi. You must score at least 50% to pass. Your marks here do not count towards the final merit list, but failing it means you are out of the race.
- Part B: Main Exam (Merit-Based): This is the paper that really counts. Your score here will determine your rank. There’s negative marking—1/4th of a mark is deducted for every wrong answer.
- Stage 2: The Typing Test
If you clear the written exam, you’ll be called for a typing test. This is also a qualifying round, meaning you just have to pass it.- You’ll be tested on both English and Punjabi (Unicode Compliant Font Raavi).
- The required speed is 30 words per minute for each language.
- Stage 3: Document Verification (Counselling)
The final step is to show up with all your original documents. The board will verify your age, education, category certificates (like SC, BC, ESM), and your Punjab domicile. If your documents don’t match your application or are found to be invalid, your candidature will be canceled, even if you topped the merit list.
Here’s a simple table to visualize the process:
| Stage | What Happens | Impact on Merit List |
|---|---|---|
| Written Exam (Part A) | 10th-level Punjabi test. | Qualifying only (Need 50% marks) |
| Written Exam (Part B) | Main Objective-type exam. | Determines your merit rank |
| Typing Test | 30 WPM in English & Punjabi. | Qualifying only (Must pass) |
| Counselling | Verification of original documents. | Final confirmation of selection |
7. How to Apply Online: A Simple Guide
The application is only online via the official SSSB Punjab website. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to the Official Website: Navigate to https://sssb.punjab.gov.in and click on the “Apply Online” link for this advertisement.
- Register First: If you’re a new user, click “Registration” to generate your User ID and Password. Keep these safe—you’ll need them to log in later.
- Fill the Form: Log in and carefully fill in your personal, educational, and other details. Pay close attention to your Category Code (e.g., 101 for General, 103 for SC). You will not be able to change this later.
- Upload Documents & Photo: Have scanned copies ready of your:
- Passport-size photo (or use the live capture option).
- Signature.
- 10th, 12th, and Graduation certificates.
- Computer certificate.
- Category certificate (if applicable).
- Pay the Fee: Pay the application fee online. Your application is only considered complete after a successful payment.
- General / Sports / Freedom Fighter: ₹1000/-
- SC / BC / EWS: ₹250/-
- Ex-Servicemen & Dependents: ₹200/-
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): ₹500/-
- Preview and Submit: Before final submission, preview your entire form. Once you click “Submit,” you cannot make any changes. Take a printout for your records.
8. How to Prepare: Practical Tips
- Punjabi is Non-Negotiable: Don’t take Part A lightly. Practice 10th-level Punjabi grammar and comprehension to ensure you score above 50%.
- Master the Typing: Start practicing English and Punjabi typing now. Use online tools to reach a consistent speed of 30 WPM. The Punjabi font is “Raavi,” so get comfortable with it.
- Focus on Part B: Since the merit list is based entirely on this section, dedicate most of your study time here. The exact syllabus isn’t in the notification, but for Clerk exams, it typically covers General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Logical Reasoning, and Basic Mathematics.
- Keep Documents Ready: Get your domicile, caste, and computer certificates in order well before the application date.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. I’m from another state but live in Punjab. Can I apply?
No. The benefit of reservation and the right to apply for this specific recruitment is only for residents of Punjab. You will need a valid Punjab Domicile/Residence Certificate.
2. I have a degree but my computer course is not an ‘O’ Level. Will it be accepted?
Yes, it will be accepted if it is a minimum 120-hour course in Office Productivity or Desktop Publishing applications from a government-recognized or ISO 9001 certified institute.
3. What happens if two people get the same marks in Part B?
In case of a tie, the older candidate will be given preference. If they have the same birth date, the one with higher marks in their Bachelor’s degree will be preferred. If it’s still a tie, your 10th-grade marks will be the deciding factor.
4. I forgot to submit my application before March 6. Can I pay a fine and apply late?
No. The online link will close on March 6, 2026. No applications will be accepted after this date under any circumstances.
5. Is it mandatory to have Punjabi up to the 10th standard?
Yes, it is mandatory to have passed Matriculation (10th) with Punjabi as a subject. Additionally, you must score at least 50% in the Punjabi language paper (Part A) of the written exam.
6. I am an Ex-Serviceman’s dependent. Can I apply under the ESM quota?
Yes, but only if no Self (ESM) candidates are available. The ESM vacancies are first filled by Ex-Servicemen themselves. Only if they are unavailable, the dependent candidates are considered.
7. How will I know when the admit card is out?
You must regularly check the official SSSB Punjab website. They will not send individual notices or letters. Bookmark the site and check it at least once a week.
Important Links
Apply Online: Click here
Official PDF: Click here
Official Website: Click here
Applicants should verify details from the official notification before applying.