If you have a graduation degree, good typing and shorthand skills, and are looking for a prestigious government job in Chandigarh, here’s a golden opportunity for you. The High Court of Punjab and Haryana has officially announced the recruitment for the post of Steno Typist. This is a direct recruitment drive to fill 25 vacancies on its establishment.
Who Should Apply for This Job?
This recruitment is perfect for:
- Fresh Graduates: If you have a BA, B.Sc, or equivalent degree and are proficient in computers, this is your ideal starting point.
- Experienced Government Employees: There are specific “Departmental Posts” reserved for those already serving in the High Court or District Courts of Punjab, Haryana, or Chandigarh.
- Job Aspirants in Punjab/Haryana/Chandigarh: Especially those belonging to SC/ST/BC categories from these states, as they get significant fee and age relaxations.
- Ex-servicemen and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (Locomotor/Low Vision): There are reserved vacancies and specific relaxations for you.
This job offers a clear career path with the High Court, which is a dream employer for many due to its prestige and job security.
What Does a Steno Typist Do?
In simple terms, your job will involve taking dictation from officials (at a fast speed of 80 words per minute in English shorthand) and then accurately typing it out on a computer. You’ll also need to be comfortable with spreadsheets. It’s a role that requires focus, speed, and accuracy.
Vacancy Details: Post-Wise Breakdown
The total number of vacancies is 25. Here is the category-wise breakdown. Note that this number can change slightly depending on the final merit list.
| Post Name | Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|---|
| Steno Typist | General (Direct) | 13 |
| SC/ST/BC (Direct) | 2 | |
| Ex-Servicemen (Direct) | 1 | |
| PwD (Lower Limb/Low Vision) (Direct) | 2 | |
| Total Direct Posts | 17 | |
| Departmental Posts | 8 | |
| Grand Total | 25 |
Age Limit: Who Can Apply?
Your age will be calculated as of 10th March 2026.
- For Direct Posts:
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years
- For Departmental Posts (Current Employees of Courts):
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 35 years
Age Relaxation (for Direct Posts):
The upper age limit is relaxed for specific categories:
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST/BC (of Punjab, Haryana, UT Chandigarh only) | 3 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | Length of Defence Service + 3 years |
| PwD (Lower Limb/Low Vision with ≥40% disability) | 10 years |
| Court Employees (with min. 2 years service) | Up to 5 years (length of service) |
Important Note: If you are a Court employee belonging to a reserved category, you can choose the relaxation (either the 5 years for service or your category relaxation) that is more beneficial. You cannot combine both.
Important Dates: Mark Your Calendar
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Application Start Date | 17th February 2026 (from 11:59 PM) |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 10th March 2026 (up to 11:59 PM) |
| Date of Exam | To be notified on the website later |
Keep checking the official website regularly for the exam date and admit card.
Salary: What Will You Earn?
The selected candidates will get a salary as per the latest Government of Punjab rules, adopted by the High Court. While the exact pay scale isn’t mentioned in this short notice, a Steno Typist in a High Court typically gets a Pay Matrix Level (around Level-4 or Level-6) with a salary range of approximately ₹25,500 to ₹81,100 (this is an estimate based on standard government pay). This includes Basic Pay + DA + HRA + other allowances, making for a handsome in-hand salary. Plus, you get the benefits of a government job like pension, job security, and allowances.
Selection Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The selection is not just based on a written test. You have to prove your shorthand and typing skills.
- Stage 1: Shortlisting: The High Court may receive thousands of applications. They have the right to use a criteria (like higher marks in graduation) to shortlist candidates for the test. So, having good academic marks is a plus.
- Stage 2: Word Processing/Transcription Test:
- You will be given English shorthand dictation for 5 minutes at a speed of 80 words per minute (w.p.m.) .
- You then have to transcribe that dictation on a computer at a speed of 20 w.p.m.
- Passing Criteria: You cannot make more than 4% mistakes. This is a very strict condition.
- Stage 3: Spreadsheet Test (Qualifying):
- This is a 10-minute test to check your basic spreadsheet skills.
- It is qualifying in nature, meaning you just need to pass it. You must score 40% (4 out of 10 marks) to qualify.
- Final Merit List:
- Your final selection rank will be based only on your performance in the Word Processing/Transcription Test. The spreadsheet test is just a pass/fail hurdle.
- Document Verification: Those who qualify will be called via SMS/Email to submit their original documents for verification.
| Stage | What Happens? |
|---|---|
| Shorthand Test | 5-min dictation @ 80 w.p.m. (Passing: <4% errors) |
| Transcription | Type the dictation on computer @ 20 w.p.m. |
| Spreadsheet Test | 10-min qualifying test. Need 40% marks to pass. |
| Final Merit | Based ONLY on performance in the Word Processing Test. |
How to Apply Online? (Step-by-Step Guide)
The application is completely online. Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to www.highcourtchd.gov.in. This is the ONLY official website. Be careful of fake sites.
- Find the Link: Look for the “Recruitment” or “Careers” section and click on the link for “Steno Typist Recruitment 2026”.
- Read the Notice: Before filling the form, read the detailed notice (the PDF you just read) carefully.
- Register: Click on “New Registration”. You will need a valid personal email ID and a mobile number.
- Fill the Form: Enter all your personal details, educational qualifications, and category information accurately. Double-check everything because changes are not allowed after submission.
- Upload Documents: Keep these scanned copies ready:
- Recent Passport Size Photo (on white background, not older than 30 days)
- Your Signature
- Make sure they are in the prescribed format and size.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the application fee online via debit card, credit card, or net banking.
- General & Other State Candidates: ₹1000/-
- SC/ST/BC (Punjab, Haryana, UT Chandigarh): ₹800/-
- PwD & Ex-servicemen: ₹800/-
- Departmental Candidates: ₹1000/-
(Note: Online transaction charges are extra)
- Submit & Print: After payment, submit the form. Take a printout of the completed application form and keep it safe. You will need it for document verification later.
Preparation Tips for the Exam
This exam requires focused practice. Here’s how you can prepare:
- Shorthand is Key: Your entire selection depends on this. Practice English shorthand at 80 w.p.m. religiously. Focus on reducing your error rate. You cannot afford more than 4% mistakes.
- Typing Speed: Practice transcribing on a computer keyboard. You need a steady speed of 20 w.p.m. for the transcription part.
- Spreadsheet Basics: Since the spreadsheet test is qualifying, ensure you know the absolute basics of MS Excel or similar software—simple formulas, data entry, and formatting.
- Accuracy over Speed: While speed is important for dictation, accuracy is what gets you selected. Practice taking dictations of varying difficulty to get used to different voices and topics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply if I am from a state other than Punjab, Haryana, or Chandigarh?
Yes, you can apply. However, you will be treated as a “General Category” candidate. You will not get the benefit of SC/ST/BC reservation or fee relaxation. Your application fee will be ₹1000.
2. I am in the final year of my graduation. Can I apply?
No. You must have passed your Bachelor’s degree (BA/B.Sc or equivalent) by the last date of application, i.e., 10th March 2026. You need to have the degree certificate in hand.
3. Is there any experience required for this job?
No, this is a direct recruitment post. As long as you are a graduate with computer proficiency, you are eligible. No prior work experience is needed.
4. What if I make a mistake in my application form?
Be very careful. Once you submit the form and pay the fee, you cannot change any details. The High Court will not entertain any requests for corrections. Review everything before hitting the submit button.
5. I have a disability other than Lower Limb or Low Vision. Can I apply under the PwD category?
No. For this specific recruitment, the PwD reservation is only for persons with Lower Limb Disability and Low Vision Disability (with at least 40% disability). Candidates with other disabilities will be considered under the General Category.
6. Is there any negative marking?
The notification does not mention negative marking. However, it clearly states that in the main test, if you make more than 4% mistakes, you will be disqualified. So, focus on getting it right.
7. My BC certificate is from Uttar Pradesh. Will I get reservation?
No. The benefit of SC/ST/BC reservation is only for those who have a certificate issued by the State of Punjab, Haryana, or the UT Administration of Chandigarh AND are domiciled there. If your certificate is from another state, you will be considered under the General Category.