West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC)

The West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) is responsible for recruiting teachers and non-teaching staff for government-aided and government-sponsored schools in West Bengal. 

Here’s a summary of key information regarding WBSSC:

Recruitment examinations

• 2nd State Level Selection Test (SLST): This exam is conducted for selecting Assistant Teachers for Classes 9-10 (Secondary) and Classes 11-12 (Higher Secondary) in West Bengal schools.
• Exam Pattern: The written examination consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). There are 60 questions, each carrying 1 mark, to be completed in 1 hour and 30 minutes. There is no negative marking.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Educational Qualification: Generally, applicants need a Graduation or Post-graduation degree with at least 50% marks, along with a B.Ed. degree or a 4-year B.A.Ed./B.Sc. Ed. from an NCTE-recognized institution.
  • Age Limit: The prescribed age limit is 21 to 40 years, with relaxations for reserved categories. 

Application process

• Online Application: Candidates can apply online through the official website, www.westbengalssc.com.
• Required Documents: Ensure all required documents are uploaded in the specified format.
• Application Fee: Fees are typically Rs. 500 for general and OBC categories, and Rs. 200 for SC/ST/PH candidates. 

Current news and developments

• The Calcutta High Court recently upheld an order debarring candidates involved in the 2016 recruitment scam from taking upcoming WBSSC examinations.
• A crucial hearing is scheduled for Monday, July 14th, in the Calcutta High Court regarding new “weightage criteria” introduced by the WBSSC in their fresh recruitment notification. 

Important points to remember

• The 2nd SLST is being conducted almost ten years after the first exam.
• Some teachers who had been appointed through irregular means in the 2016 recruitment are seeking to return to their positions, citing job security, even at a lower salary.
• The application deadline for the SLST exam might be extended, as an application has been submitted to the state government due to issues faced during the application process. If approved, the new deadline could be July 21st.