Securing a government job in India is a prestigious career choice and is in-demand among crores of applicants in India. However, the eligibility criteria for government jobs can vary based on educational qualifications. Some recruiting bodies usually introduce a certain percentage of marks in academic degrees jobseekers must possess before consideration.
Let’s see vital details on the percentage required for government jobs across various sectors in this article. Check out details on the eligibility criteria of govt jobs based on academic percentage scores and find out how the required percentage can affect a candidate’s chances of selection.
Percentage Requirements for Popular Government Exams
1. Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Exams
The UPSC conducts exams for several govt sectors in India. Common positions in the Police, Forest Services, and civil service are filled through exams and interview sessions organized by UPSC officials.
Educational Qualifications
A candidate must hold a graduate degree from any recognized university to qualify for most UPSC exams. There is usually no fixed percentage requirement for UPSC; however, some positions in Engineering may require candidates to possess stated percentage marks.
Postgraduate Degree
A good percentage in post-graduate degrees can give an edge to candidates in the interview phase, particularly for technical fields. However, there is no explicit percentage requirements for positions that require a postgraduate degree from applicants.
| Exam | Educational Qualification | Percentage Requirement |
| UPSC Civil Services | Graduation in any discipline | No fixed percentage cut-off |
| UPSC Engineering Services | Engineering Degree | Varies by discipline |
| UPSC Combined Medical Services | MBBS or equivalent | No fixed percentage cut-off |
2. Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Exams
The SSC conducts various exams for government jobs that include the:
- Combined Graduate Level (CGL),
- Combined Higher Secondary Level (CHSL), and
- Junior Engineer (JE) exams.
The minimum eligibility criteria vary depending on the position for the SSC CGL. Candidates should have a minimum of 60% marks in their graduation for Group B and C posts. Other posts may require at least 55% marks from candidates in their undergraduate degree.
Candidates sitting for SSC JE exams must have a minimum of 50% marks in their relevant engineering discipline.
| Exam | Educational Qualification | Percentage Requirement |
| SSC CGL (Assistant Audit Officer) | Graduation in any discipline | 55% or above |
| SSC CGL (Group C) | Graduation in any discipline | 60% or above |
| SSC JE | B.E./B. Tech in relevant field | Minimum 50% marks |
3. Public Sector Undertakings (PSU) Exams
PSU jobs like those in ONGC and NTPC often have specific percentage criteria, particularly for engineering graduates.
BHEL/NTPC/ONGC/HPCL
Candidates must have at least 60% marks in their Engineering degree for general category candidates for these exams. The minimum requirement could be relaxed to 50% or 55% for candidates from reserved categories (SC/ST).
GATE
A good percentage in Engineering is required for eligibility for GATE-based PSU jobs. Most PSUs prefer candidates with a minimum of 60% in their B. Tech to consider them for interview rounds.
| PSU Exam | Qualification | Percentage Requirement |
| BHEL | B.E./ B. Tech in relevant field |
Minimum 60% marks |
| ONGC | B.E./ B. Tech in relevant field | |
| NTPC | B.E./ B. Tech in relevant field | |
| GATE (PSU Recruitment) | B.E./ B. Tech in relevant field |
Importance of Percentage for Government Jobs
The percentage of marks in a candidate’s educational qualifications may determine their eligibility for government jobs. This percentage offers an initial screening avenue for recruitment agencies and ensures only the best candidates get access to sit for govt job exams.
Key Reasons Why Percentage Matters
For first-phase job screening
Many govt recruiting authorities use educational percentages as a filter for shortlisting candidates. The filter allows these bodies downsize qualified candidates for govt jobs after interviews or exams.
To assess academic integrity
A good academic record demonstrates the candidate’s discipline and ability to handle the rigorous requirements of the job. Some govt job roles require applicants to maintain certain percentages before handing such individuals essential responsibilities within the public sector.
Eligibility for on-the-job opportunities
Some govt jobs may require candidates to maintain a percentage of marks to access training opportunities and future promotions.
Relaxation in Percentage for Reserved Categories
Government job recruitment policies in India offer relaxation in the percentage requirement for candidates from reserved categories. This is done to promote inclusivity and ensure equal opportunities.
1. Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST)
Candidates from SC and ST categories may receive a relaxation of 5 – 10% in the percentage requirements. For example, SC/ST candidates might be allowed to apply with 50-55% if the general category requirement is 60%. SC/ST candidates are also eligible for age relaxations and other special reservation policies.
2. Other Backward Classes (OBC)
OBC candidates may receive a relaxation of 5% in the minimum percentage requirement. These candidates are eligible for age relaxation and the number of allowed attempts per govt job.
3. Physically disabled candidates
Persons with disabilities (PwD) often have a relaxation of 5% in the percentage requirement just like SC/ST candidates. They also receive age relaxation and are eligible for reservations in specific posts.
| Category | Relaxation in Percentage | Relaxation in Age |
| SC/ST | 5-10% | 5 years |
| OBC | 5% | 3 years |
| PwD | 5% | 10 years |
How to Improve Your Percentage and Chances for Government Jobs
1. Focus on academic performance
Maintaining a strong academic record throughout your education is an easy way to ensure you meet the percentage requirement for government jobs. Focus on scoring well in your undergraduate degree to boost your chances of securing govt jobs that require high percentages during the evaluation of candidates.
2. Pursue higher studies
Consider pursuing higher studies such as a Master’s degree or a Ph.D if your undergraduate percentage does not meet the requirements for a government job. A higher degree can offset a lower undergraduate percentage in certain cases.
3. Appear for exams that don’t have percentage requirements
Several government exams like UPSC do not usually require minimum percentage requirement for undergraduate qualifications. Focus on clearing such exams based on your preparation and knowledge.
Conclusion
The percentage requirement for govt jobs is a much-needed criteria, but it is not the only factor that determines your eligibility. Each exam and position come with its own set of requirements. You must understand these requirements while applying for govt jobs, as it could be crucial to your career prospects in the public sector.
Some exams may have strict percentage cut-offs while others may provide relaxations for reserved categories. Focus on your academic performance and pursue added qualifications where necessary to meet the eligibility criteria.