The RRB exam (Railway Recruitment Board Exam) is one of the main exam which give job to Indian Railways. Every Year lakhs of Students appears for this exam and some of them selected to make their career in Indian Railways. RRB exams provide various Technical and Non Technical Jobs in India Railways which we discuss further in this blog. Read this blog till the very end we will cover everything related to RRB Exam 2025. Weather you are appearing first time in the exam or giving the exam again, this guide will serve you ultimate roadmap to cracking the RRB Exam and getting your dream Government Job.
What is RRB Exam?
The RRB Exam is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) to recruit candidates for various technical and non technical job profiles which include Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP), Technician, Junior Engineer (JE), Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC), Group D, and more. India Railways is the biggest Employer in India with over 1.3 Million Employees.
Top Facts About the RRB Exam
India’s Largest Government Employer
The Indian Railways is the largest government employer in India and the eighth-largest employer in the world, with over 1.3 million employees.Lakhs of Applicants Every Year
More than 2 crore candidates apply for RRB exams each year, making it one of the most competitive exams in the country.Multiple Exam Categories
RRB conducts different exams for various posts, including:RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories)
RRB Group D
RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) & Technician
RRB JE (Junior Engineer)
RRB Paramedical
No Exam Fee for Female and Reserved Category Candidates
RRB often waives exam fees or provides partial refunds for:SC/ST/OBC/PWD candidates
Women candidates
(This varies by notification, so always check the latest update.)
No Interview for Most Posts
Most RRB posts (NTPC, Group D, ALP) do not require interviews—selection is based on computer-based tests, skill tests, and physical efficiency tests.Conducted Across 21 RRB Zones
There are 21 RRB zones (e.g., RRB Mumbai, RRB Kolkata, RRB Chennai), each responsible for recruitment in their respective regions.Available in Multiple Languages
RRB exams are conducted in over 13 languages, including Hindi, English, Urdu, Bengali, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Kannada, Odia, Assamese, and Malayalam.Attractive Salary and Benefits
RRB jobs come with:Pay starting from ₹18,000 to ₹35,000/month (excluding perks)
DA, HRA, TA, Pension, and other government allowances
Reservations & Quotas
The Indian Railways provides:SC/ST/OBC reservation
Ex-Servicemen quota
Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota
Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) reservations
Age Relaxation Rules Apply
While the general age limit is 18–33 years, relaxation of up to 10 years is provided for certain categories.Huge Vacancies in a Single Notification
For example, RRB Group D 2019 had over 1 lakh vacancies in a single notification.Exam Conducted in Phases
Due to the sheer volume of applicants, exams like NTPC and Group D are often conducted in multiple phases spread over weeks.
Latest News Updates for RRB Exam
RRB NTPC 2025 CBT 1 is being held from June 5 to June 24, 2025.
Admit cards are available on regional RRB websites (downloadable 4 days before exam date).
Recruitment for 11,558 vacancies (8,113 graduate-level & 3,445 undergraduate-level).
Exam pattern: 100 questions (GA: 40, Maths: 30, Reasoning: 30), 90 minutes, negative marking of 1/3.
Shift 3 exam on June 5 cancelled at one Bihar centre; rescheduled date awaited.
RRB JE 2025 CBT 2 Shift 2 rescheduled from April 22 to June 4, 2025 due to technical issues.
JE recruitment for 7,951 posts (Junior Engineer, Depot Material Superintendent, etc.).
RRB Group D 2025 CBT expected in July–August 2025.
Group D recruitment for 32,438 Level 1 posts.
Over 1.08 crore applicants expected for Group D 2025.
Types of RRB Exam
The Railway Recruitment Board(RRB) conduct exam for various posts every year, and Every post have different eligibility criteria, vacancies, syllabus and requirements. Here are the various posts-
Summary Table
| Exam Type | Qualification Needed | Roles Offered | Key Stages of Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| RRB NTPC | 12th Pass / Graduate | Clerk, Station Master, Accountant | CBT 1, CBT 2, Skill Test |
| RRB Group D | 10th Pass / ITI | Helper, Track Maintainer | CBT, PET, Document Verification |
| RRB ALP/Tech | ITI / Diploma | Assistant Loco Pilot, Technician | CBT 1, CBT 2, Aptitude (ALP), DV |
| RRB JE | Diploma / B.Tech | Junior Engineer, DMS, CMA | CBT 1, CBT 2, Document Verification |
| RRB Paramedical | Medical Degrees/Diplomas | Nurse, Pharmacist, Lab Staff | CBT, Document Verification |
RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories)
Target Role: Commercial Apprentice, Traffic Assistant, Station Master, Goods Guard, Senior Clerk cum Typist, Junior Account Assistant, etc.
Eligibility: 12th pass and Graduates
Exam Levels:
- CBT-1 (Preliminary)
- CBT-2 (Mains)
- Typing Skill Test/ Computer Based Aptitude Test(for certain posts)
Highlight: It is one of the most popular RRB exam with over lakhs of applicants appears every year. Most jobs under NTPC are desk based and administration based.
RRB Group- D
Target Role: Track Maintainer Grade 4, Helper/ Assistant in various departments(Electrical, Mechanical, Science and Technology) , Assistant Pointsman etc.
Eligibility: 10th grade Pass or ITI from recognized institutions by NCVT/SCVT.
Exam Levels:
- Computer Based Test
- Physical efficiency Test
- Medical test & Document Verification
Highlight: Group D involves jobs like physical labor and field work. It is suitable for candidates whow ant secure government job with basic qualifications.
RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) & Technician
Target Roles: Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP), Technician (various trades)
Eligibility: Matriculation + ITI or Diploma in Engineering
Selection Process:
- CBT 1
- CBT 2
- Computer-Based Aptitude Test (for ALP only)
- Document Verification
Highlights: These roles are technically demanding and involve operating or maintaining locomotives and railway equipment.
RRB JE (Junior Engineer)
Target Roles: Junior Engineer, Depot Material Superintendent, Chemical & Metallurgical Assistant
Eligibility: Diploma or Degree in Engineering
Selection Process:
- CBT 1
- CBT 2
- Document Verification & Medical Examination
Highlights: Ideal for candidates with a technical background. These posts are engineering-centric and involve design, development, and maintenance tasks.
RRB Paramedical Categories
Target Roles: Staff Nurse, Pharmacist, Lab Assistant, ECG Technician, Health & Malaria Inspector, etc.
Eligibility: Varies depending on the post (generally related to specific medical/nursing degrees or diplomas)
Selection Process:
- Single-stage CBT
- Document Verification & Medical Test
Highlights: These are specialized roles in the health services sector of the Indian Railways. Job security and pay scales are attractive for medical professionals.
Eligibility Criteria for RRB Exam
Before applying to RRB exam it is crucial to check the eligibility criteria and if the candidate meets it or not. The eligibility criteria defined by Railway Recruitment board and it vary depending on the job type. Below are the eligibility criteria-
Nationality/ Citizenship
Candidate must fulfill one of the following nationality requirments-
- Must be a Indian Citizen OR
- Subject of Nepal or Bhutan OR
- A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanently settling here OR
- A person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam with the intention of settling in India permanently.
Note: Non-Indian citizens must possess a certificate of eligibility issued by the Government of India.
Age Limit (as on Notification date)
The minimum age and maximum age limits differ depending on the exam category:
| Exam Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age (General Category) |
|---|---|---|
| RRB Group D | 18 years | 33 years |
| RRB NTPC (UG Level) | 18 years | 30 years |
| RRB NTPC (Graduate) | 18 years | 33 years |
| RRB ALP & Tech | 18 years | 30 years |
| RRB JE | 18 years | 33 years |
Age Relaxation(Upper Age Limit)
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy) | 3 years |
| PwBD (UR) | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | Up to 3 years (after deduction of service period from age) |
Note: Always refer to latest RRB Notification.
Read a complete guide on UR Category Here.
Educational Qualification
The educational qualification depends on the post you applied for different posts, different requirements are there-
Group D
Minimum qualification: 10th Pass (Matriculation) or ITI from institutions recognized by NCVT/SCVT.
NTPC (Undergraduate Level)
Minimum qualification: 12th Pass (HSC or equivalent)
NTPC (Graduate Level)
Minimum qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in any stream from a recognized university.
ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot)
Minimum qualification: 10th + ITI or Diploma in Engineering from recognized institutions.
Technician
Minimum qualification: 10th + ITI in relevant trade OR Diploma in Engineering (depends on the post).
JE (Junior Engineer)
Required qualification: Diploma or Degree in Engineering (relevant discipline).
Paramedical Posts
Minimum qualification: Relevant medical degree/diploma, such as GNM, B.Pharm, DMLT, etc., depending on the post.
Some Useful Tips
- All Candidate should meet all the required requirements before filling the application form.
- Candidates should have all needed and supportive documents if they want to avail reservation or any other eligibility requirement.
- Ensure the name and other details should be same in all documents.
RRB NTPC and Group D Exam Pattern & Syllabus
The RRB Exam are structured to evaluate candidates Aptitude, Reasoning, General Awareness and Physical Abilities(if applicable). Here is the breakdown and exam pattern-
Stage 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT 1)
This is the preliminary screening round and is common for all candidates.
Subjects:
Mathematics
General Intelligence and Reasoning
General Awareness
Total Questions: 100
Duration: 90 minutes
Negative Marking: 1/3rd mark deducted for each wrong answer
Stage 2: Computer-Based Test (CBT 2)
This stage is post-specific and has a slightly higher difficulty level.
Subjects (same as CBT 1) but with more in-depth questions:
Mathematics (higher-level numerical aptitude)
Reasoning (complex logic and analytical reasoning)
General Awareness (static GK + current affairs)
Total Questions: 120
Duration: 90 minutes
Negative Marking: 1/3rd for each incorrect response
Skill Test / Typing Test / Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
This is applicable only for certain posts and is qualifying in nature.
a. Typing Skill Test
Applicable for Clerk-cadre posts in NTPC. Candidates must type:
30 WPM in English or 25 WPM in Hindi on a computer.
b. Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
Required for Traffic Assistant & Station Master posts under NTPC.
c. Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Only applicable for Group D aspirants. The test includes:
For Male Candidates:
Lift and carry 35 kg weight for 100 meters in 2 minutes
Run 1000 meters in 4 minutes and 15 seconds
For Female Candidates:
Lift and carry 20 kg for 100 meters in 2 minutes
Run 1000 meters in 5 minutes and 40 seconds
Note: PET is only qualifying it’s marks not added in result.
Common Syllabus and Topics
| Subject | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | – Number System- Decimals & Fractions- Profit and Loss- Percentage- Time and Distance- Time and Work- Algebra- Geometry & Mensuration- Ratio & Proportion- Simple & Compound Interest |
| General Awareness | – Current Affairs (National & International)- Indian History & Culture- Geography (World & Indian)- Indian Polity & Constitution- Economy and Budget- Science & Technology- Railway-Related Knowledge- Sports and Awards- Environmental Issues |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | – Analogies- Coding-Decoding- Blood Relations- Direction Test- Logical & Analytical Reasoning- Puzzles & Seating Arrangement- Syllogism |
How to apply for RRB Exam?
RRB Exam application and form filling process is totally Online. Candidates can apply through online official website, here is teh complete Step by Step process to apply for RRB Exam-
Step 1: Visit the Official RRB Website
Go to the official Railway Recruitment Board portal:
www.rrbcdg.gov.in
This is the central portal, but you can select your respective RRB zone (e.g., RRB Mumbai, RRB Chennai, RRB Kolkata, etc.) based on your location or preference.
Step 2: Select Your RRB Zone
Choose the appropriate RRB zone from the homepage. This determines where your exam center and document verification process will be held. Make sure you pick the correct zone according to your domicile or choice.
Step 3: Register Online
Click on ‘New Registration’ and fill in your:
Full Name (as per official documents)
Date of Birth
Mobile Number and Email ID (active and accessible)
Aadhaar Number (if applicable)
Category (UR/SC/ST/OBC, etc.)
A registration number and password will be generated and sent to your email/SMS.
Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form
Log in with your credentials and complete the detailed application:
Academic qualifications
Preferences for posts
Language choice for exam
Exam center city preference
Double-check the information before proceeding.
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload the following documents as per the prescribed format:
Recent passport-size photograph (in color, white background)
Scanned signature
Category certificate (if applicable)
Disability certificate, NOC, etc., if applicable
Make sure the files meet the size and format guidelines (JPG/JPEG/PDF).
Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee can be paid through:
Net banking
Debit/Credit card
UPI or mobile wallets
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC | ₹500 |
| SC/ST/PWD/Female/Ex-S | ₹250 (refundable after CBT 1) |
Note: Keep the payment receipt for reference.
Step 7: Submit the Application
After payment, review your application. Once satisfied:
Click “Final Submit”
Save and print the confirmation page and application form
You’ll receive a confirmation via SMS/email. No changes can be made after final submission, so review everything carefully.
Important Tip
Always apply before the last date mentioned in the official notification to avoid technical glitches or last-minute server issues.
Best Books for RRB Exam Preparation
To crack RRB exams it’s important to have Correct study Material. On our Research based here are some important books for RRB Exam-
Summary-
| Subject | Book Name | Author/Publisher | Why Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations | R.S. Aggarwal | Covers all basic to advanced concepts; includes MCQs and solved examples |
| Fast Track Objective Arithmetic | Rajesh Verma | Ideal for quick tricks and time-saving problem-solving techniques | |
| Reasoning Ability | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | Comprehensive guide with all types of reasoning questions |
| Lucent Reasoning | Lucent Publications | Useful for bilingual (Hindi/English) learners; good for practice | |
| General Awareness | Lucent’s General Knowledge | Lucent Publications | Covers history, polity, science, geography, and static GK |
| Manorama Yearbook | Malayala Manorama Group | Great for yearly updates and background knowledge | |
| Pratiyogita Darpan (Monthly) | PD Group | Best for monthly current affairs and government scheme updates | |
| Previous Year Papers | RRB NTPC/Group D Solved Papers | Kiran Prakashan / Arihant | Practice real exam-level questions with detailed solutions |
| Mock Tests (Online) | RRB Online Mock Tests | Testbook, Gradeup, Oliveboard, Adda247 | Full-length and sectional mock tests, quizzes, and performance analysis tools |
Important Tips
- Don’t forget to solve at least last 10 Years PYQs. Don’t miss it
- Combine book-based preparation with daily mock practice and current affairs revision. Balance all three sections to increase your overall score.
RRB Exam Salary – Post-wise Pay Scale, In-Hand Salary & Allowances
Here is the salary details of different Indian Railways Posts-
RRB NTPC Salary (Non-Technical Popular Categories)
| Post | Level | Initial Pay (₹) | Approx. In-Hand Salary (₹) | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Clerk cum Typist | 2 | ₹19,900 | ₹28,000 – ₹31,000 | Non-Technical |
| Accounts Clerk cum Typist | 2 | ₹19,900 | ₹28,000 – ₹31,000 | Finance/Admin |
| Junior Time Keeper | 2 | ₹19,900 | ₹28,000 – ₹31,000 | Time Office |
| Trains Clerk | 2 | ₹19,900 | ₹28,000 – ₹31,000 | Operating |
| Commercial cum Ticket Clerk | 3 | ₹21,700 | ₹31,000 – ₹35,000 | Commercial |
| Senior Clerk cum Typist | 5 | ₹29,200 | ₹40,000 – ₹44,000 | Admin/Clerical |
| Junior Account Assistant | 5 | ₹29,200 | ₹40,000 – ₹44,000 | Finance |
| Station Master | 6 | ₹35,400 | ₹50,000 – ₹55,000 | Operations/Control |
| Commercial Apprentice | 6 | ₹35,400 | ₹50,000 – ₹55,000 | Commercial |
| Traffic Assistant | 4 | ₹25,500 | ₹35,000 – ₹40,000 | Operations |
RRB ALP & Technician Salary (Assistant Loco Pilot)
| Post | Basic Pay (₹) | In-Hand Salary (₹) | Other Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assistant Loco Pilot | ₹19,900 | ₹33,000 – ₹38,000 | DA, HRA, TA, Night Duty & Overtime Pay |
| Technician | ₹19,900 | ₹31,000 – ₹36,000 | Job-specific allowances & annual bonus |
Promotion for ALP:
ALP → Sr. ALP → Loco Inspector → Loco Pilot → Chief Loco Inspector
RRB Group D Salary
| Post | Initial Pay (₹) | In-Hand Salary (₹) | Level | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Track Maintainer Grade IV | ₹18,000 | ₹25,000 – ₹28,000 | Level 1 | Engineering/Operations |
| Helper/Assistant (Various Dept.) | ₹18,000 | ₹25,000 – ₹28,000 | Level 1 | Electrical/Mechanical |
| Assistant Pointsman | ₹18,000 | ₹25,000 – ₹28,000 | Level 1 | Traffic/Operations |
Perks & Allowances
All RRB posts enjoy the following benefits:
Dearness Allowance (DA) – 38% as per latest revision
House Rent Allowance (HRA) – 8% to 24% based on location
Transport Allowance
Night Duty Allowance
Overtime Allowance (OTA)
Medical Benefits – for self and dependents
Pension & Provident Fund Benefits
Preparation Tips to Crack RRB Exam
To clear any exam in Todays time the main thing is required is Smart Study. Because there are lakhs of candidates and a thousands of them selected. So you have to be ahead of your competitors with proper strategy, Consistency, smart work. Here are some important Tips to rememeber-
Understand the RRB Exam Pattern & Syllabus
Before starting your preparation, it’s essential to:
Analyze the latest RRB syllabus and exam pattern (CBT 1, CBT 2, etc.).
Identify sections with high weightage such as General Awareness, Mathematics, and Reasoning.
Understand the negative marking scheme (0.25 marks deduction per wrong answer).
Tip: Prioritize topics like current affairs, arithmetic, logical reasoning, and railway-related general knowledge.
Create a Realistic and Consistent Study Plan
A well-structured timetable is key to balanced preparation.
Allocate time to each subject daily or on alternate days.
Keep weekly goals to stay on track.
Dedicate separate slots for revision and mock test analysis.
Suggested Schedule:
2 hours for Maths
1.5 hours for Reasoning
1 hour for Current Affairs
30 mins revision
Note: No One can study for 12-14 hours, If you are giving 6-7 productive hours daily in a consistent manner it will be enough to crack the exams.
Practice Mock Tests & Previous Year Papers
Practicing full-length mock tests and solving previous year question papers is critical:
Simulates the real exam environment.
Helps improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
Identifies weak areas for improvement.
Use platforms like Testbook, Gradeup, Oliveboard, or Adda247 for RRB mock tests.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs
The General Awareness section is a high-scoring area if prepared well.
Read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express daily.
Follow monthly magazines like Pratiyogita Darpan.
Focus on railway news, government schemes, budget, sports, and international events.
Tip: Make weekly notes for quick revision before the exam.
Revise Regularly – Don’t Just Read, Retain!
Revision is where the real retention happens:
Make concise notes for formulas, static GK, and important facts.
Reserve weekends or alternate days for revision sessions.
Avoid studying new topics in the last 7–10 days before the exam.
Bonus Tip: Use flashcards, apps, or sticky notes for daily mini-revisions
RRB Exam Important Dates
| Event | Date (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | July 2025 |
| Application Start Date | August 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | September 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | October 2025 |
| RRB Exam Date | November – December 2025 |
| Result Announcement | January 2026 |
Conclusion
Government Jobs in India is quite important and competitive, So It’s really important to be confident, to study smart and be consitent to crack it. Remember Every success needs some sacrifice so here you have to sacrifice your comfort zone and do the hard work +smart work to crack it.
All the Best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many attempts are allowed in RRB Exam?
A: There is no limit on the number of attempts, but age eligibility must be met.
Q2: Is RRB Exam conducted every year?
A: Yes, RRB releases recruitment notifications annually or as per vacancies.
Q3: Can final-year students apply for the RRB Exam?
A: No, candidates must have the required qualification at the time of application.
Q4: Is RRB Exam tough?
A: With proper preparation and regular practice, it is achievable. The competition is high, but the syllabus is manageable.
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