RRB NTPC Graduate Level Recruitment 2025: Exam Schedule and Key Details
RRB NTPC Graduate Level Recruitment 2025 Exam Schedule
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially released the examination timetable for the NTPC Graduate Level Recruitment 2025. As per the latest announcement, the Computer Based Test–1 (CBT-1) is set to take place from March 16 to March 27, 2026, at various examination centers nationwide.
Exam City Slip and Admit Card Information
According to the RRB notification, candidates can access their exam city details around 10 days prior to their exam date. This exam city slip will assist candidates in planning their travel and accommodation ahead of time.
The admit card for the RRB NTPC CBT-1 will be available four days before the exam. Candidates must download their admit cards from the official RRB regional websites and bring a printed copy to the exam center, as entry will be denied without a valid admit card.
Mandatory Aadhaar-Based Biometric Verification
The RRB has mandated Aadhaar-linked biometric verification for all candidates taking the exam. Before entering the examination venue, candidates will undergo biometric authentication linked to their Aadhaar information.
Candidates should carry either:
- Original Aadhaar card, or
- Verified e-Aadhaar printout
Those who have not completed their Aadhaar verification are strongly encouraged to do so promptly. Additionally, candidates must ensure that their Aadhaar status is 'unlocked' on the UIDAI portal to avoid complications during biometric verification.
CBT-1 Exam Pattern Overview
The CBT-1 exam is qualifying in nature, meaning its scores will not contribute to the final merit list. However, passing CBT-1 is essential to progress to the subsequent stage.
CBT-1 Exam Details:
- Total Questions: 100
- Exam Duration: 90 minutes
- Sections:
- Mathematics – 30 questions
- General Intelligence & Reasoning – 30 questions
- General Awareness / Current Affairs – 40 questions
- Negative Marking: 0.33 marks deducted for each incorrect answer
Approximately 15 times the number of vacancies will be shortlisted from CBT-1 for the next phase.
Importance of CBT-2 in the Selection Process
The CBT-2 (Main Examination) is a critical phase, as the final merit list is based on CBT-2 scores.
CBT-2 Exam Structure:
- Total Questions: 120
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Negative Marking: One-third mark for each wrong answer
Performance in CBT-2 will determine the allocation of posts. High-demand positions, such as Station Master, typically have higher cut-off scores compared to other NTPC roles.
Final Selection Process and Merit List Preparation
After successfully passing CBT-2, candidates will be invited for:
- Skill Test / Typing Test, or
- Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) (for specific roles)
This will be followed by Document Verification (DV). The final merit list will be compiled based on CBT-2 and CBAT scores, where applicable. Marks from CBT-1 and typing tests will not be included in the final merit calculation.
Essential Tips for Candidates
Candidates are encouraged to:
- Regularly check the official RRB website for updates
- Download exam city slips and admit cards promptly
- Ensure Aadhaar details are verified and unlocked
- Review the exam syllabus and practice with mock tests
With the exam dates confirmed, aspirants should concentrate on structured revision and effective time management to enhance their chances of success.