Predicting the SSC CGL 2017 Tier 1 Cutoff for the OBC Category

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) is well-known for its competitive exams, and the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) exam is one of its most prestigious and sought-after examinations. Every year, lakhs of candidates apply for the SSC CGL, making it one of the most competitive exams in India. In this article, we will discuss the factors that led to the expected cutoff for the SSC CGL 2017 Tier 1 for the OBC (Other Backward Classes) category, based on the level of questions, the number of vacancies, and the overall difficulty level.

Factors Determining the Cutoff

Three primary factors play a crucial role in determining the cutoff for the SSC CGL exam: the difficulty level of questions, the number of questions asked, and the number of vacancies available. Each of these elements has a significant impact on the final cutoff, which directly affects the number of candidates who qualify for the subsequent stages of the exam.

Questions and Difficulty Level

One of the most crucial factors is the difficulty level of questions. The questions in the SSC CGL 2017 Tier 1 were found to be marginally easier compared to previous years. This shift in difficulty level can be attributed to several changes in the exam pattern and the approach of the SSC in framing the questions. The ease with which questions were answered can provide a preliminary indication of the expected cutoff.

Number of Vacancies

The number of vacancies is another critical factor that influences the cutoff. For the SSC CGL 2017, the number of vacancies was approximately 3500, which is significantly lower compared to the previous year. With a reduced number of positions available, the competition among candidates is likely to be stiffer, which in turn can result in a higher cutoff. The fact that the number of vacancies is almost half of what it was in the previous year can be observed as a contributing factor to the potential increase in the cutoff.

Expected Cutoff for Other Backward Classes (OBC) Category

Based on the analysis of these factors, we can predict that the cutoff for the OBC category in the SSC CGL 2017 Tier 1 may be higher than the previous year. The ease of questions and the reduction in the number of vacancies will likely push the cutoff up.

General Category Cutoff

For the general category, the expected cutoff is:

General candidates: 130-135 marks

OBC Category Cutoff

For the OBC category, the expected cutoff is:

OBC candidates: 125-130 marks

SC and ST Categories

The SC (Scheduled Caste) and ST (Scheduled Tribe) categories may have slightly lower cutoffs:

SC candidates: 115-120 marks ST candidates: 100-110 marks

Advice for Aspirants

To have a safer chance of qualifying for the SSC CGL 2017 Tier 1, candidates should aim to correctly answer a minimum of 65 questions. While the expected cutoff for general candidates is above 125-130, for OBC candidates, it is around 120-122. By setting such targets, candidates can work towards improving their performance and securing a spot in the next stage of the examination.

SSC has released the answer key for the CGL 2017 Tier 1, making it possible for candidates to log in and check their answers. By calculating the marks obtained based on the correct answers and negative marking, candidates can get a clear indication of their standing. The link provided by the SSC for checking the answer key can be accessed at _cglet1_. Good luck to all the aspirants on their journey towards achieving their career aspirations through the SSC CGL!

Keywords: SSC CGL 2017, Tier 1 Cutoff, OBC Category, Exam Analysis