RRB NTPC Exam Pattern 2025 – Detailed Structure for CBT 1, CBT 2, and CBAT Exams

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RRB NTPC

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially released the RRB NTPC Notification 2025, announcing 11,558 vacancies under Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC). These posts are open for both graduate and undergraduate candidates. If you’re aiming for a stable government job in Indian Railways, this recruitment offers an incredible chance. To succeed, it’s crucial to know the RRB NTPC Exam Pattern 2025 inside and out. So let’s break it down stage by stage.

Stages

The selection process is split into multiple steps. Every candidate starts with CBT 1, which is qualifying in nature. Then comes CBT 2, the main scoring round. After that, depending on the post applied for, you’ll have to appear for a Typing Skill Test (TST) or a Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT). Finally, there’s Document Verification followed by a Medical Test.

Here’s how the exam journey looks:

  1. Computer Based Test 1 (CBT 1)
  2. Computer Based Test 2 (CBT 2)
  3. Typing Skill Test (TST) or Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
  4. Document Verification
  5. Medical Examination

CBT1

The CBT 1 is the first stage and only acts as a screening test. Your score here won’t count in the final merit list, but it’s your ticket to CBT 2. Here’s what the exam format looks like:

SectionQuestionsMarksTime
General Awareness4040
Mathematics3030
General Intelligence & Reasoning303090 minutes
Total100100

Important notes:

  • All questions are multiple choice.
  • There is negative marking of 1/3rd mark for every wrong answer.
  • No deduction for unattempted questions.
  • Around 20 times the number of vacancies will be shortlisted for CBT 2.

CBT2

CBT 2 is where the real competition begins. This is both a screening and scoring round. Your marks here directly impact your final merit position. It has a slightly tougher pattern than CBT 1.

SectionQuestionsMarksTime
General Awareness5050
Mathematics3535
General Intelligence & Reasoning353590 minutes
Total120120

This round also includes negative marking of 1/3rd mark per incorrect answer. Scores are normalized to ensure fairness across shifts.

Typing

Certain posts require a Typing Skill Test. This test checks your typing speed and accuracy without using editing tools or spell check. Here’s the requirement:

LanguageTyping Speed Requirement
English30 words per minute
Hindi25 words per minute

Candidates must use Kruti Dev or Mangal font for Hindi. No relaxation in speed is provided, except for PwBD candidates with valid exemption certificates.

CBAT

If you’re applying for the post of Station Master, you’ll face the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT). To qualify, you must score a minimum T-score of 42 in each test battery. This cut-off applies equally to all categories—no exceptions.

Posts

Here’s a quick breakdown of which tests are required for each post:

Graduate Level:

PostLevelSkill Test
Goods Train Manager5None
Senior Clerk cum Typist5Typing Skill Test
Junior Account Assistant cum Typist5Typing Skill Test
Chief Commercial cum Ticket Sup.6None
Station Master6CBAT

Undergraduate Level:

PostLevelSkill Test
Junior Clerk cum Typist2Typing Skill Test
Accounts Clerk cum Typist2Typing Skill Test
Trains Clerk2Typing Skill Test
Commercial cum Ticket Clerk3None

Marking

The marking system is straightforward:

  • +1 for every correct answer
  • -1/3 for every wrong answer
  • No penalty for unattempted questions
  • Normalization applies to all stages conducted in multiple shifts

This standardization ensures fairness for every candidate, no matter which shift they appear in.

Getting through RRB NTPC 2025 isn’t just about studying hard—it’s about knowing the exam inside out. Each stage filters candidates more strictly, so plan your preparation according to the post you’re targeting. Stay updated, stick to the syllabus, and practice mock tests. Your journey to Indian Railways starts with mastering this exam pattern.

FAQs

How many stages are in RRB NTPC exam?

There are 5 stages including CBT 1, CBT 2, skill tests, DV, and medical.

What is the RRB NTPC CBT 1 duration?

The total duration of CBT 1 is 90 minutes.

Is CBT 1 score used for final merit?

No, CBT 1 is only qualifying and doesn’t count for final merit.

What is the typing speed for RRB NTPC?

30 wpm in English or 25 wpm in Hindi is required.

Is there negative marking in CBT exams?

Yes, 1/3 marks are deducted for every wrong answer.

Ehtesham Aarif

Ehtesham Arif is a content writer from Sitamarhi, Bihar, with a focus on education and career-related content. Since 2022, he has been writing informative articles, especially for students, covering topics like exam preparation and career guidance. Currently pursuing Interior Design at Galgotias University, Ehtesham’s academic background adds depth to his writing, making it reliable and insightful. His work is always well-researched and fact-checked, offering practical advice to help readers navigate their educational journeys.

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