RRB NTPC Exam The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts the Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) exam to recruit candidates for various posts like Clerk, Traffic Assistant, Goods Guard, Station Master, etc. Every year, lakhs of candidates apply for this exam due to its good salary, job security, and career growth in Indian Railways. If you are planning to appear for the RRB NTPC Exam, this article will help you understand the exam schedule and provide some useful preparation tips in simple English.
RRB NTPC Exam Schedule 2025 (Expected)
The Railway Recruitment Board releases notifications zone-wise. The exact dates are published on the official RRB website of your zone. Here’s an expected timeline for the RRB NTPC 2025 Exam:
| Event | Expected Date |
| Notification Release | September 2025 (1st week) |
| Online Application Start | September 2025 (2nd week) |
| Application Deadline | October 2025 (2nd week) |
| Admit Card Release | December 2025 |
| CBT 1 Exam Date | January–February 2026 |
| CBT 2 Exam Date | March–April 2026 |
| Skill Test / Typing Test | May 2026 |
| Document Verification & Final Result | June 2026 |
Note: This is a tentative schedule. Always check www.rrbcdg.gov.in or your zone’s RRB site for accurate updates.
Exam Pattern of RRB NTPC
1. Computer Based Test – 1 (CBT-1)
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Total Questions: 100
- Subjects:
- General Awareness – 40 questions
- Mathematics – 30 questions
- General Intelligence & Reasoning – 30 questions
- General Awareness – 40 questions
2. Computer Based Test – 2 (CBT-2)
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Total Questions: 120
- Same subjects but with a slightly higher difficulty level.
3. Skill/Typing Test
- Only for posts like Typist, Junior Clerk.
4. Document Verification & Medical Test
- Final stage before joininPreparation Tips for RRB NTPC Exam
1. Understand the Syllabus Clearly
Before you start preparation, know the syllabus for each section. Stick to the topics mentioned in the official notification. Don’t waste time on irrelevant subjects.
2. Make a Daily Time Table
Prepare a simple daily schedule. Give 2 hours for General Awareness, 1.5 hours for Maths, and 1.5 hours for Reasoning. Stick to this timetable consistently.
3. Use Right Study Materials
Use trusted books like:
- Lucent’s General Knowledge
- RS Aggarwal for Reasoning
- NCERT Maths (Class 6 to 10) for basic concepts
Also, try free mock tests and practice papers available online.
4. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
Read a newspaper or watch news daily. Focus on:
- Government schemes
- Awards
- Railways-related news
- National and international events
Make short notes for quick revision.
5. Focus on Accuracy and Speed
You get only 90 minutes to answer all questions. So, solve questions quickly but correctly. Practice at least 2 mock tests weekly and analyze your performance.
6. Practice Online Mock Tests
Mock tests give a real feel of the exam. Many websites offer free RRB NTPC mock tests. Attempt topic-wise tests also to strengthen weak areas.
7. Stay Motivated and Take Breaks
Study regularly but don’t over-stress. Take short breaks. Do some light exercise or yoga. Stay positive and confident.
8. Revise Regularly
Revision is the key to remembering. Revise formulas, facts, and tricks weekly. Use sticky notes, flowcharts, or mind maps for better retention.
Bonus Tips: For Working or Final-Year Students
If you are working or studying, use early mornings or late evenings to study. Use weekends for full-length mock tests. Even 3-4 hours of regular study can be enough if done smartly.
Final Words
The RRB NTPC exam is a golden opportunity to get a stable government job in Indian Railways. With a proper plan, daily practice, and good study materials, you can definitely crack this exam. Just remember – “Consistency is more important than intensity.” Even 4–5 hours of daily smart study can help you succeed.
