India Post has released the 3rd merit list for Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) recruitment for 2025, and thousands of candidates across India are eagerly checking if their names appear. With over 40,000+ vacancies spread across different postal circles, this recruitment remains one of the most awaited job opportunities for 10th-pass candidates.
Now that the third merit list is out, candidates are asking the most important question: “Can I get selected with 60%, 70%, or 80% marks in 10th?” In this blog, we’ll break down the GDS selection process, expected cut-off trends, and what lower-percentage candidates can expect from the 3rd merit list.
📌 What is the India Post GDS Merit List?
The India Post GDS merit list is the final list of candidates who are shortlisted for document verification based on their marks in 10th standard (SSC). There is no written exam, and selection is purely based on academic performance and reservation norms.
The third merit list is generally released after considering vacant posts that were not filled in the first and second lists due to document mismatches, non-joining of candidates, or other technical reasons.
📊 What Are the Cut-Off Trends for GDS in 2025?
The cut-off marks vary state-wise and category-wise. However, based on past records and current year trends, here’s a general idea:
| Category | Expected Cut-Off % (General Trend) |
|---|---|
| UR (General) | 85% and above |
| OBC | 80% and above |
| SC | 75% and above |
| ST | 70% and above |
| EWS | 80% and above |
| PwD | 60% and above |
⚠️ Note: Some postal circles in North Eastern states and tribal areas may have lower cut-offs (around 60%–70%).
🎯 Who Has the Best Chance in the 3rd Merit List?
✅ Candidates with 80% and Above:
- Very strong chance of selection if you belong to any category.
- If not selected in 1st or 2nd list, chances are high that your name appears in 3rd list if vacancies still exist in your postal circle.
✅ Candidates with 70%–80%:
- Good chance if you are from OBC, SC, ST, or EWS categories.
- Selection highly depends on your state and postal circle.
- Rural and remote regions may offer better chances at this range.
✅ Candidates with 60%–70%:
- Moderate to low chances in general.
- Better chance only in PwD category or less competitive postal circles.
- May get selected if many higher-ranked candidates didn’t join or were rejected during document verification.
📍 States Where 60%–70% Might Work
Based on previous year trends, candidates with 60%–70% marks have seen selection in the following areas:
- North Eastern states (Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram)
- Tribal regions of Chhattisgarh and Odisha
- Backward districts of Jharkhand and Bihar (for reserved categories)
- Jammu & Kashmir in some circles
However, in high-demand regions like UP, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh, the cut-off rarely goes below 80%.
📋 What to Do if Your Name is in the 3rd List?
If your name appears in the third merit list:
- Download the list and find your registration number and name.
- Wait for SMS/email from India Post with instructions for document verification.
- Prepare the following:
- 10th Marksheet and Certificate
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- PwD Certificate (if applicable)
- Photo ID and Address Proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID)
- Recent passport-sized photos
Report to the mentioned postal office within the specified deadline. Missing the deadline may lead to cancellation of your candidature.
🕵️ What If Your Name Isn’t in the 3rd Merit List?
Don’t lose hope! Here’s what you can do:
- Check your application details to ensure no error in percentage or category selection.
- Wait for further rounds (if any) — sometimes a 4th merit list is released.
- Apply in future GDS cycles – India Post holds recruitments 2–3 times a year.
- Consider other government job exams like SSC MTS, Railway Group D, or State-level clerk recruitments.
🔍 Tips to Improve Selection Chances Next Time
- Score better in 10th (if still in school) – every mark counts.
- Apply in multiple states if eligible.
- Target low-competition circles with fewer applicants.
- Use the correct reservation category and keep all documents updated.
🧾 Final Words
The India Post GDS 3rd merit list 2025 brings fresh hope to candidates across India. If you’ve scored 60%, 70%, or 80%, your chances depend on your category, state, and number of remaining vacancies.
Even if your name doesn’t appear this time, remember: this is a competitive yet recurring recruitment, and with the right strategy, you can succeed in future lists.
Stay positive, keep checking official updates from India Post, and prepare your documents in advance if you’re expecting a call for verification.