Quick Evaluation Overview (TL;DR)
SSC MTS & Havaldar Marks Calculation: The Multi-Tasking Staff and Havaldar examination features two distinct sessions. Session 1 (Math & Reasoning, 40 Qs / 120 M) has zero negative marking and is strictly qualifying. Session 2 (General Awareness & English, 50 Qs / 150 M) carries a -1.00 mark penalty per wrong answer and determines 100% of the final merit list and state allocations.
Complete Guide to SSC MTS & Havaldar Scoring, Sessions & Cutoffs
The SSC Multi-Tasking (Non-Technical) Staff and Havaldar examination is open to 10th-pass candidates across India. The unique two-session examination model requires a distinct strategy for each session to maximize your chances of selection.
Session 1 vs Session 2 Examination Architecture
| Session & Subject | Questions | Maximum Marks | Marks per Right (+) | Penalty per Wrong (−) | Role in Final Selection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Session 1: Numerical & Math Ability | 20 Qs | 60 Marks | +3.00 | 0.00 (No Negative) | Qualifying Only Must achieve ~30% UR, 25% OBC, 20% SC/ST to evaluate Session 2 |
| Session 1: Reasoning Ability | 20 Qs | 60 Marks | +3.00 | 0.00 (No Negative) | |
| Session 2: General Awareness | 25 Qs | 75 Marks | +3.00 | -1.00 (1/3rd Penalty) | 100% Final Merit Decider All-India Rank and state allocations determined out of 150 marks |
| Session 2: English Language | 25 Qs | 75 Marks | +3.00 | -1.00 (1/3rd Penalty) |
Strategic Blueprint for MTS Candidates
- Session 1 Strategy: Attempt all 40 questions. Because there is zero penalty for incorrect answers, leaving questions blank is a strategic error.
- Session 2 Strategy: Maintain disciplined accuracy in General Awareness and English. Each wrong answer deducts 1 full mark from your positive earnings, severely damaging your rank.
The Two-Session Structure: Why Session 1 Has Zero Penalty
SSC MTS & Havaldar features a unique 2-session exam administered in a single 90-minute sitting:
- Session 1 (45 Minutes — 120 Marks): Numerical Ability (20 Qs) and Reasoning (20 Qs). Correct answers earn +3 marks, with 0.00 negative deduction. Purely qualifying (~30% UR / 25% OBC / 20% SC). Candidates should attempt all 40 questions without hesitation.
- Session 2 (45 Minutes — 150 Marks): General Awareness (25 Qs) and English Language (25 Qs). Correct answers earn +3 marks with a strict -1.00 negative penalty. Decides 100% of final merit. Failing Session 1 invalidates Session 2 evaluation.
Havaldar Walking Trials & Physical Standards
Candidates opting for Havaldar in CBIC (Customs/GST) and CBN (Narcotics) must pass physical verification:
- Walking Test: 1,600 meters in 15 minutes for males; 1.0 km in 20 minutes for females. Strictly qualifying.
- Height & Chest (Males): Minimum height 157.5 cm (relaxed by 5cm for ST/Hill regions); Chest 76 cm unexpanded with 5 cm expansion (76-81 cm).
- Height & Weight (Females): Minimum height 152 cm (149.5 cm ST); Weight minimum 48 kg (relaxed by 2kg for ST). (No chest test for females).