RRB NTPC Exam

RRB NTPC Exam Pattern 2025

The RRB recruitment process shall involve 1st Stage Computer Based Test (CBT 1), 2nd Stage Computer Based Test (CBT 2), Typing Skill Test/Computer Based Aptitude Test (as applicable) and Document Verification/Medical Examination. Selection is made strictly as per merit, on the basis of the above-mentioned recruitment stages.

The recruitment process will involve the following stages of examination 

1. 1st Stage Computer Based Test (CBT)
2. 2nd Stage Computer Based Test (CBT)
3. Typing Skill Test/Computer Based Aptitude Test (as applicable)
4. Document Verification/Medical Examination

Based on the performance of candidates in the CBT-1 and CBT-2 exam, they would be required to go for the Skill Test/Aptitude Test/Document Verification. There are different tests for candidates appearing for posts such as:

RRB NTPC CBT-1 Exam Pattern

The RRB NTPC CBT-1 exam is the first stage of the selection process and is conducted online as a computer-based test. The exam consists of a total of 100 questions divided into three sections - Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and General Awareness. Each question carries 1 mark, with 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer. The exam is of 90 minutes, while differently-abled candidates get 120 minutes with a scribe. The CBT-1 exam is only qualifying in nature, i.e. its marks are used to shortlist candidates for the next stage, CBT-2.

• Minimum percentage of marks for eligibility in various categories: UR-40%, EWS40%, OBC (Non creamy layer) -30%, SC-30%, ST-25%. These percentages of marks for eligibility may be relaxed by 2% for PwBD candidates in case of a shortage of PwBD candidates against vacancies reserved for them.

• The exam duration for PWD candidates is 120 Minutes.

• There will be negative marking and a 1/3 mark shall be deducted for each wrong answer.

• There is no sectional cutoff.

• The 1st Stage of CBT is of a screening nature and the standard of questions for the CBT will be generally in conformity with the educational standards prescribed for the posts.

• The total no. of candidates to be shortlisted shall be 20 times the community wise vacancies of posts notified against the RRB as per their merit in 1st Stage CBT cum choice of posts.

• The normalized score of 1st Stage CBT shall be used for shortlisting of candidates for 2nd Stage CBT as per their merit.

• Candidates who are shortlisted for 2nd Stage CBT availing the reservation benefits of OBC(NCL)/SC/ST/EWS, PwBD and ExSM shall continue to be considered only against OBC(NCL)/SC/ST/EWS, PwBD and ExSM for all subsequent stages of the recruitment process.

RRB NTPC CBT-2 Exam Pattern

The RRB NTPC CBT-2 is the second stage of the selection process and is also conducted online as a Computer-Based Test. It includes 120 multiple-choice questions covering Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and General Awareness. Each question carries 1 mark, and 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer. The total time duration of the exam is 90 minutes, while PwD candidates with a scribe are given 120 minutes. Unlike CBT-1, the marks scored in CBT-2 are considered for the final merit list, making it a crucial stage of the exam.

• The exam duration for PWD candidates is 120 Minutes.
• A negative marking of 1/3 is there.
• The level of difficulty is higher compared to CBT-1.
• The level of questions will be different for the different level of posts.
• Normalization of marks will be done.

RRB NTPC qualifying marks

To clear the RRB NTPC exam and move to the next stage, candidates must score the minimum marks set by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB). These qualifying marks are different for each category to ensure fairness for all candidates. The details of category-wise qualifying marks are given below.

• UR: 40%
• EWS: 40%
• OBC: 30%
• SC/ST: 25%

Additionally, PwD candidates (Persons with Disabilities) receive a further relaxation of 2% in the qualifying marks for each category, making it easier for them to be considered for the next stage.

RRB NTPC Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)

The RRB NTPC Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) is conducted for candidates applying for the posts of Traffic Assistant and Station Master. This test is taken after clearing CBT-2 and is a critical stage for candidates applying for these specific positions. Below are the details of the CBAT:

• Qualifying marks: The candidates need to secure a minimum Score of 42 marks in each of the test batteries to qualify.
• This is applicable to all candidates irrespective of community or category and no relaxation in the minimum Score is permissible.
• Candidates will have to qualify in each of the test batteries of CBAT for considering them for the post of SM/TA.
• The CBAT shall have questions and answer options only in English and Hindi.
• There shall be no negative marking in CBAT.

Merit list will be drawn only from amongst the candidates qualifying in the CBAT, with 70% weightage for the marks obtained in the 2nd Stage CBT and 30% weightage for the marks obtained in CBAT.

RRB NTPC Typing Skill Test (TST)

• Qualifying in nature.
• Eight times the number of vacancies will be called for typing test.
• The candidates should be able to type 30 words per minute (WPM) in English or 25 WPM in Hindi on Personal Computer only without editing tools and spell check facility.

Document Verification (DV)

Based on the performance of candidates in 2nd Stage CBT and based on the performance of candidates in both 2nd Stage CBT and CBAT/Typing Skill Test (as applicable), candidates equal to the number of vacancies will be called for Document Verification as per their merit and options.

RRB NTPC Pattern FAQs

Q1. What is the pattern of RRB NTPC CBT 1?
CBT 1 has 100 questions for 100 marks from General Awareness, Mathematics, and Reasoning. The duration is 90 minutes.

Q2. What is the pattern of RRB NTPC CBT 2?
CBT 2 has 120 questions for 120 marks from General Awareness, Mathematics, and Reasoning. The duration is 90 minutes.

Q3. Is there any negative marking in RRB NTPC exam?
Yes, one-third (1/3) mark is deducted for every wrong answer in both CBT 1 and CBT 2.

Q4. What is the Typing Skill Test in RRB NTPC?
It is for certain posts where candidates must type 30 wpm in English or 25 wpm in Hindi on a computer.

Q5. What is the Aptitude Test in RRB NTPC?
The Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) is for Station Master and Traffic Assistant posts and has no negative marking.

Q6. Will marks be normalized in the RRB NTPC exam?
Yes, marks are normalized to ensure fairness across different shifts.

Q7. What are the qualifying marks in the RRB NTPC exam?
The minimum qualifying marks are 40% for UR/EWS, 30% for OBC, and 25% for SC/ST candidates.

Q8. Does RRB NTPC also conduct interviews for Level 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6?
No, there is no interview in RRB NTPC. Selection is based on CBTs and Typing/Aptitude tests only.

RRB NTPC Syllabus

The RRB NTPC Syllabus is of utmost importance for candidates preparing for the exam. Candidates must be familiar with the detailed RRB NTPC Syllabus of CBT 1 and CBT 2 for good preparation of the exam. It will provide a list of all the important topics for each subject that can be included in the preparation program. The RRB NTPC Syllabus consists of three sections - General Intelligence and Reasoning, Mathematics and General Awareness for both CBT 1 and 2. A thorough understanding of the syllabus is an important milestone to clear the exam.

RRB NTPC CBT 1 Syllabus

RRB NTPC syllabus for CBT 1 is divided into three categories which are as follows - General Awareness, Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude. It is conducted in an online mode. There is a total of 100 questions in this stage out of which 40% are from the General Awareness section. It is significant to look at the detailed RRB NTPC syllabus CBT 1 so that you won’t miss out on any topic while preparing for the exam. RRB NTPC CBT 1 syllabus is given subject-wise in the sections below for your reference.

RRB NTPC Syllabus for Math

The RRB NTPC CBT-1 Math syllabus covers various topics aimed at testing the candidate's numerical ability and problem-solving skills. Below is a detailed description of the important topics under the Math section:

RRB NTPC Syllabus for Reasoning

The Reasoning section of the RRB NTPC CBT-1 exam tests your logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Here is a detailed description of the syllabus for Reasoning in CBT-1:

RRB NTPC Syllabus General Awareness

The General Awareness section is designed to test the candidate's knowledge of current events, general knowledge and basic awareness of various subjects. Here is a detailed description of the syllabus:

RRB NTPC CBT 2 Math Syllabus

The Mathematics section of RRB NTPC CBT 2 is designed to assess the quantitative and analytical skills of the candidates. It covers a wide range of topics commonly asked in competitive exams. Here is a detailed syllabus:

General Intelligence and Reasoning Syllabus for RRB NTPC CBT Stage II

The General Intelligence and Reasoning section of the RRB NTPC CBT Stage II exam is designed to test your ability to think logically, analyze data, and make decisions. The detailed syllabus for this section is as follows:

RRB NTPC CBT 2 General Awareness Syllabus

The General Awareness section of RRB NTPC CBT 2 is important and covers a wide range of topics. To help you prepare thoroughly, here is a detailed description of the syllabus:

RRB NTPC Syllabus FAQs

Q1. What are the subjects in the RRB NTPC Syllabus for CBT 1?
The subjects are Mathematics, General Awareness, and General Intelligence & Reasoning.

Q2. What are the subjects in the RRB NTPC Syllabus for CBT 2?
The syllabus for CBT 2 is the same as CBT 1 — Mathematics, General Awareness, and Reasoning — but with a higher difficulty level.

Q3. How many questions are asked in RRB NTPC CBT 2?
There are 120 questions for 120 marks in CBT 2, and the duration is 90 minutes.

Q4. How many questions are asked in RRB NTPC CBT 1?
CBT 1 consists of 100 questions for 100 marks, with a time limit of 90 minutes.

Q5. What is the difficulty level of the RRB NTPC exam?
The overall difficulty level of the RRB NTPC exam is moderate.

Q6. Is General Science included in the RRB NTPC syllabus?
Yes, General Science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) is part of the General Awareness section.

All the best for your exam preparation!

RRB NTPC Salary

The salary structure of RRB NTPC employees is based on the 7th Pay Commission, and it varies according to the post and level of recruitment. Candidates selected under undergraduate level posts are placed in Pay Level 2, while those recruited under graduate level posts are placed in Pay Levels 4, 5, and 6. The initial basic pay for undergraduate posts like Junior Clerk cum Typist, Accounts Clerk cum Typist, and Trains Clerk starts from around ₹19,900 per month. For graduate level posts such as Goods Guard, Station Master, Senior Clerk cum Typist, and Commercial cum Ticket Clerk, the basic pay ranges between ₹25,500 to ₹35,400 per month depending on the post.

Along with the basic pay, employees receive various allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and other benefits provided by Indian Railways. These allowances significantly enhance the in-hand salary of RRB NTPC employees. For instance, a Station Master with a basic pay of ₹35,400 receives additional allowances, which increase the gross monthly salary considerably. Moreover, the RRB NTPC salary includes additional perks such as job security, pension schemes, medical benefits, and travel concessions for employees and their families.

RRB NTPC Salary: After the 7th Pay Commission

After the 7th Pay Commission, the RRB NTPC salary ranges from ₹19,900 to ₹35,400 depending on the post and level. In addition to the basic pay, employees receive allowances like DA, HRA, and TA, which significantly increase the in-hand salary. The structure ensures financial stability, regular increments, and additional benefits such as pension, medical facilities, and travel concessions.

RRB NTPC Salary Allowances

The railway is famous for giving the most exciting benefits and allowances to its employees. Apart from the Basic Pay, RRB offers several other benefits and allowances. These allowances will depend on the place and post of the employee. Some of the allowances given by the Railways are listed below.

• Dearness Allowance
• House Rent Allowance
• Transport Allowance
• Pension Scheme
• Medical Benefits
• Other Special Allowance

As per the different rules formulated by the government of India The House Rent Allowance (HRA) for different cities is mentioned in the table below:

RRB NTPC City Categories and Classification

The classification of cities for RRB NTPC is based on factors such as population, cost of living, and government guidelines. This division impacts allowances like HRA and TA for employees. Cities are broadly categorized into Class X, Y, and Z. Metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai fall under Class X, while medium-sized cities are placed in Class Y, and smaller towns or rural areas are listed under Class Z.

RRB NTPC In-Hand Salary for Level 2 Pay Scale

For Pay Level 2 posts (like Junior Clerk cum Typist, Accounts Clerk, Junior Time Keeper, etc.), the basic pay starts from ₹19,900. After including allowances, the in-hand salary usually ranges between ₹28,000 and ₹32,000 per month depending on the city of posting.

RRB NTPC In-Hand Salary for Level 3 Pay Scale

For Pay Level 3 posts (such as Traffic Assistant, Goods Guard, Senior Clerk cum Typist), the basic pay is ₹21,700, and the monthly in-hand salary comes to around ₹31,000 to ₹35,000.

RRB NTPC In-Hand Salary for Level 4 Pay Scale

For Pay Level 4 posts (like Junior Account Assistant cum Typist, Senior Time Keeper), the basic pay is ₹25,500, and the in-hand salary usually falls between ₹35,000 to ₹40,000 per month.

RRB NTPC In-Hand Salary for Level 5 Pay Scale

For Pay Level 5 posts (such as Station Master, Junior Traffic Assistant), the basic pay is ₹29,200, and the in-hand salary can range from ₹40,000 to ₹45,000 depending on location.

RRB NTPC In-Hand Salary for Level 6 Pay Scale

For Pay Level 6 posts (mainly Commercial Apprentice and Traffic Apprentice), the basic pay starts from ₹35,400, with an in-hand salary of around ₹48,000 to ₹55,000 per month.

RRB NTPC Job Profile, Responsibilities

The RRB NTPC job profile includes both Graduate and Undergraduate posts in Indian Railways. These roles involve clerical work, accounts management, ticketing, train operations, goods handling, traffic control, and station management. Responsibilities vary by post, ranging from data entry and customer service to supervising train movement and ensuring passenger safety.

RRB NTPC Responsibility

• Clerk / Typist – Data entry, maintaining records, clerical tasks.
• Junior Accountant / Accounts Clerk – Handling accounts, bills, and financial records.
• Ticket Clerk – Issuing tickets, providing passenger assistance.
• Goods Guard – Monitoring train movement, ensuring safety of goods.
• Station Master – Managing station operations, passenger safety, and train schedules.
• Traffic Assistant – Coordinating train movements and signals.
• Commercial Apprentice – Supervising commercial activities, customer service, and freight operations.

RRB NTPC Promotion

RRB NTPC employees receive promotions based on seniority, departmental exams, and performance. With experience, candidates can move from entry-level clerical and station roles to supervisory and higher administrative posts. For example, a Junior Clerk can be promoted to Senior Clerk, and a Station Master can rise to Station Superintendent or higher grades. Promotions bring higher pay, allowances, and responsibilities within the Indian Railways.

RRB NTPC Eligibility 2025-26

To apply for the RRB NTPC 2025 exam, candidates must meet the prescribed eligibility criteria set by the Railway Recruitment Board. The eligibility is based on nationality, age limit, and educational qualification.

• Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens, or subjects of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before 1st January 1962 with the intention of permanent settlement. Certain other categories as notified by the Government of India are also eligible.
• Age Limit: For Undergraduate level posts, candidates should be between 18 to 30 years, while for Graduate level posts, the age limit is 18 to 33 years (as per the cut-off date mentioned in the notification). Age relaxations are applicable for reserved categories as per government rules.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates applying for Undergraduate posts must have passed 10+2 (Intermediate) from a recognized board, whereas those applying for Graduate posts must hold a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.

RRB NTPC Nationality

As per the RRB NTPC eligibility criteria, a candidate must satisfy any of the following nationality criteria to be allowed to apply for the exam:

• A citizen of India
• A subject of Bhutan or Nepal
• A Tibetan Refugee who came to India before 1st January 1962 with an intention of permanently settling in India
• A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Burma, Pakistan, East African countries of Uganda, Kenya, the United Republic of Tanzania (formerly Tanganyika and Zanzibar), Malawi, Zambia, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam with an intention to permanently settle in India.

RRB NTPC Age Limit (as on 01.01.2026)

There are two age groups in the RRB NTPC exam – Undergraduate (12th standard level) and Graduate level. The age limit for candidates applying for the Undergraduate level as per the RRB NTPC eligibility 2025 is 18 to 30 years, while for the Graduate level, it is 18 to 33 years. This means the minimum age required to apply for the exam is 18 years.

RRB NTPC Age Limit for Undergraduate Posts

For RRB NTPC Undergraduate level posts, the age limit is 18 to 30 years. Candidates belonging to reserved categories are eligible for age relaxation as per government rules, details of which are given in the table below.

These are the undergraduate level posts for which the age limit is 18-30 years. Now, let us look at various graduate level posts for which you can apply if you satisfy the age limit criteria.

RRB NTPC Age Limit for Graduate Level Posts

For RRB NTPC Graduate level posts, the age limit is 18 to 33 years. Candidates from reserved categories are eligible for age relaxation as per government norms.

There are age relaxations allowed for different categories of people. As per the RRB NTPC age relaxation norms, the upper age limit is extended by some years for different categories. Let us look at it in detail in the section below.

RRB NTPC Age Relaxation

Under the RRB NTPC eligibility criteria, there are age relaxations allowed for different categories which are listed below for both undergraduate and graduate level posts:

RRB NTPC Educational Qualification

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts the Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) exam to recruit candidates for various posts under Graduate Level and Undergraduate Level (12th Pass) categories. The educational qualification requirement differs for each level, as mentioned below.

1. RRB NTPC Graduate Level Educational Qualification (As on 20 -11 - 2025)

Candidates applying for Graduate Level posts must have a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university or institution as of the closing date of application.

2. RRB NTPC Undergraduate (12th Level) Educational Qualification (As on 27 -11 - 2025)

Candidates applying for Undergraduate Level posts must have passed 10+2 (Intermediate) or its equivalent examination from a recognized board as of the closing date of application.

Note: If a student is a graduate or possesses higher qualifications than the 12th Standard, 50% marks compulsion in Class XII will not be insisted upon you. For example, If a student is a Graduate and has scored 45% in Class XII, 50% marks compulsion in Class XII will not be insisted upon you.

RRB NTPC Graduate Level Vacancy 2025

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced a total of 5,810 graduate-level vacancies under Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) for 2025-26. The table below provides a clear overview of posts and total vacancies for each graduate-level position.

RRB NTPC Graduate Level Zone-Wise Vacancy 2025

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced a total of 5,810 graduate-level vacancies under Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) for the recruitment year 2025-26. These vacancies are distributed across 21 RRB zones, providing significant opportunities for graduates aspiring to join the Indian Railways.

The posts include Station Master, Goods Train Manager, Senior Clerk cum Typist, Junior Accounts Assistant cum Typist, Chief Commercial cum Ticket Supervisor, and Traffic Assistant.

The provided below detailed zone-wise vacancy gives a clear view of vacancies for each graduate-level post across different RRB zones.

RRB NTPC Undergraduate Level Vacancies 2025

The RRB NTPC Undergraduate Level 2025 recruitment offers opportunities for candidates who have completed Class 12th (+2 stage) or its equivalent qualification. The age limit for these posts is 18 to 30 years as of the notification date.

A total of around 3,050–3,058 vacancies have been announced under the Undergraduate category, distributed among several clerical and commercial positions across Indian Railways.

RRB NTPC UG 2025 – Zone-Wise Vacancy

RRB NTPC 2024 Vacancy

RRB NTPC recruitment, undergraduate level posts are designed for candidates who have completed their higher secondary education (12th class) or its equivalent education. These posts generally include clerical and junior level roles within the Indian Railways. Here is a detailed overview of undergraduate level posts for RRB NTPC:

RRB NTPC Graduate Level Posts 2024

RRB NTPC Recruitment 2024 are graduate level vacancies for various posts in Indian Railways. These posts are designed for candidates who have completed their graduation degree and are looking for opportunities in various non-technical categories within the railways. The details of the vacancies are given in the table below:

Zone-wise Vacancies for RRB NTPC Graduate Level Posts

The vacancies 2024 for RRB NTPC Graduate Level posts are distributed across various zones of Indian Railways. Below are the zone-wise details of the vacancies. Indian Railways is offering graduate-level vacancies in 21 different zones.