SSC Advisory 2026 — Restarting or Changing the Exam Computer Is Now Explicitly Barred

Short Information

SSC has issued a standing advisory to every candidate and examination functionary at its computer-based examinations, and it applies to all of them — CGL, CHSL, CPO, Junior Engineer, Stenographer and Selection Post alike. The Commission says it has seen candidates restart, change or otherwise handle exam machines without any genuine technical fault, sometimes with the help of centre staff, and it now prohibits two acts outright: restarting or shutting down the computer, and changing or replacing the computer or monitor. If your machine misbehaves, the only correct move is to report it to the invigilator and let authorised staff act — doing it yourself invites action under the rules of the examination concerned.

Important Dates

Eligibility

• The advisory is addressed to all candidates and to examination functionaries at SSC computer-based examinations.
• SSC says that in previous years computer systems provided for its examinations have been restarted, changed or otherwise handled by candidates without any reported or genuine technical issue, either independently or in coordination with examination staff.
• The Commission takes the view that such unauthorised or unnecessary intervention adversely affects the integrity, security, smooth conduct and fairness of the examination.
• Two activities are now strictly prohibited unless carried out by authorised examination staff following the prescribed procedure — restarting or shutting down the computer system, and changing or replacing the computer or monitor.
• A candidate facing a technical problem before or during the examination must immediately report it to the centre staff, invigilator or authorised examination staff.
• The centre staff or invigilator then assesses the problem and acts where necessary, with the permission of the authorised representative of the Regional Office, the Invigilation Officer or the Centre Coordinator, as applicable.
• A candidate or examination functionary found to have independently engaged in any unauthorised activity faces action under the relevant rules and the notice of the examination concerned.
• The advisory carries number HQ-2004/5/2025-ERM (E-12822) and is dated 7 September 2026.

How to Apply

1. Do not restart or shut down the examination computer under any circumstances, even if the screen freezes.
2. Do not move to another machine or swap the monitor on your own initiative.
3. If something goes wrong with the system, raise your hand and report it to the invigilator straight away.
4. Wait for authorised staff to assess the fault and act — they need permission from the Regional Office representative, Invigilation Officer or Centre Coordinator before making a change.
5. Do not accept an offer from centre staff to restart or change your machine outside that procedure; the advisory treats coordinated unauthorised handling as an offence for both sides.

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