The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) is gearing up for a significant technological shift in how it conducts large-scale competitive exams across India. On February 24, 2026, the Commission issued a Request for Information (RFI) to explore advanced technologies for conducting examinations in a fully digital mode.

​This move aims to enhance transparency, security, and scalability as the number of candidates continues to grow.

​Key Objectives of the RFI

​The primary goal of this exercise is "market assessment and technology discovery". The SSC is looking to:

  • ​Understand Emerging Tech: Identify the latest end-to-end solutions for digital exam delivery.

  • ​Assess Feasibility: Evaluate different architectural models, security postures, and cost drivers.

  • ​Plan Future Roadmaps: Build a knowledge base that will inform future pilots, Proof of Concepts (PoCs), and eventual procurement.

​Important Note: This RFI is strictly for information gathering. It is not a tender or a commitment to purchase any specific solution at this stage.

 

What New Exam Modes are Being Explored?

​The SSC is looking beyond the traditional Computer Based Test (CBT). The document highlights several illustrative delivery modes:

  • ​Handheld Devices: Examinations conducted via tablets.

  • ​Hybrid Models: Offline-first systems designed for areas with low or intermittent connectivity.

  • ​Remote Proctoring: AI-assisted or remote human invigilation.

  • ​Innovative Wearables: Exploring the use of devices like Google Glass for exam delivery.

  • ​BYOD: Secure "Bring-Your-Own-Device" models.

​Enhanced Security & Anti-Cheating Measures

​To ensure fairness, the SSC is demanding high-level security features from potential technology providers:

  • ​Identity Verification: Advanced candidate authentication using biometrics and liveness checks.

  • ​Data Integrity: End-to-end encryption for question papers and candidate responses.

  • ​Device Hardening: Using "Kiosk Mode" or lockdown features to prevent candidates from accessing other apps or the internet during the exam.

  • ​Audit Trails: Comprehensive logging and forensic readiness to investigate any incidents of cheating or collusion.

Timeline for Technology Providers

​Organizations such as startups, OEMs, and research institutions interested in responding to this RFI must adhere to the following schedule:

Milestone

Date

RFI Issue Date

February 24, 2026

Clarification Window

Feb 24 to March 03, 2026

Response Submission Deadline

March 17, 2026 (11:59 PM IST)

What This Means for Candidates

​While this is currently a "back-end" administrative process, it signals that the SSC is moving toward more robust and potentially more flexible testing environments. If these technologies are adopted, we might see more diverse testing centers and even more secure, cheat-proof examination cycles in the near future.

​Stay tuned to shortjankari.in for more updates on SSC exam reforms and latest notifications.