Aspiring for a prestigious graduate-level post in the Indian Railways? Understanding the official RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 is your first and most critical step. The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has released the updated syllabus and exam pattern under Centralised Employment Notice (CEN) No. 06/2025.
This syllabus is applicable for all Graduate-level Non-Technical Popular Category (NTPC) posts, including Station Master, Goods Train Manager, Senior Clerk, and Junior Accounts Assistant.
If you are preparing for the RRB NTPC Graduate Level Exam in 2026, this article provides a complete overview of the CBT 1 and CBT 2 patterns, a topic-wise breakdown of the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26, the official marking scheme, and minimum qualifying marks—all based on the notification released on October 20, 2025.
RRB NTPC Graduate 2025-26 Selection Process: A 4-Stage Journey
The recruitment for RRB NTPC Graduate posts involves a comprehensive four-stage selection process designed to identify the most suitable candidates for key railway roles. Your path to securing a job requires clearing the following stages:
- 1st Stage Computer-Based Test (CBT-1) – A common screening test for all applicants.
- 2nd Stage Computer-Based Test (CBT-2) – A post-specific exam for candidates shortlisted from CBT-1.
- Skill Test:
- Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) for Station Master and Traffic Assistant posts.
- Computer-Based Typing Skill Test (CBTST) for Junior Accounts Assistant & Senior Clerk posts.
- Document Verification (DV) & Medical Examination: The final stage for merit-listed candidates.
Your main focus should be to master CBT 1 and CBT 2, which form the foundation of merit-based shortlisting.
RRB NTPC Graduate Exam Pattern 2025-26
A deep understanding of the exam pattern is crucial for structuring your preparation around the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26. The exam is conducted in two computer-based tiers.
1st Stage Computer Based Test (CBT-1)
CBT-1 is the preliminary screening stage, and its pattern is common for all notified posts under CEN 06/2025.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
Key Details for CBT-1:
- Duration: 90 Minutes (120 minutes for PwBD candidates using a scribe).
- Marking Scheme: +1 mark for each correct answer.
- Negative Marking: -⅓ mark will be deducted for every wrong answer.
- Qualifying Nature: (for shortlisting to CBT 2 – 15 times vacancies)
- Minimum Qualifying Marks:
- UR / EWS – 40%
- OBC (NCL) / SC – 30%
- ST – 25%
- PwBD – 2% relaxation
2nd Stage Computer Based Test (CBT-2)
Candidates shortlisted from CBT 1 will proceed to the RRB NTPC CBT 2. The marks from this stage are critical for the final merit list.
| Subject | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
| Mathematics | 35 | 35 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 | 35 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Key Points for CBT 2:
- Exam Duration: 90 minutes (120 minutes for scribe users)
- Question Type: Objective (MCQs)
- Higher Standard: The standard of questions is generally higher than CBT 1.
- Negative Marking: Yes, 1/3 mark will be deducted for each wrong answer.
- Difficulty Level: The standard of questions is higher than in CBT-1.
- Merit-Based: Scores from this stage are used to shortlist candidates for the Skill/Aptitude Test.
RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26: Subject-Wise Topics
The core RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 for both CBT-1 and CBT-2 covers three main subjects. While the topics are the same, the depth and difficulty increase significantly in CBT-2.
1. Mathematics
Tests your numerical aptitude and problem-solving skills.blem-solving skills.
Topics:
- Number System
- Decimals & Fractions
- LCM & HCF
- Ratio & Proportion
- Percentage
- Mensuration (2D & 3D figures)
- Time & Work, Time & Distance
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Profit & Loss
- Elementary Algebra
- Geometry & Trigonometry
- Elementary Statistics, etc.
2. General Intelligence & Reasoning
Evaluates logical, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
Topics:
- Analogies
- Completion of Number & Alphabet Series
- Coding-Decoding
- Mathematical Operations
- Similarities & Differences
- Relationships
- Analytical Reasoning
- Syllogism
- Jumbling
- Venn Diagrams
- Puzzle & Seating Arrangement
- Data Sufficiency
- Statement–Conclusion
- Statement–Course of Action
- Decision Making
- Interpretation of Maps & Graphs, etc.
4. General Awareness
A scoring section that tests your overall knowledge of India and the world.
- Current Events of National and International Importance
- Games and Sports
- Art and Culture of India
- Indian Literature
- Monuments and Places of India
- General Science and Life Science (up to 10th CBSE)
- History of India and Freedom Struggle
- Physical, Social and Economic Geography of India and World
- Indian Polity and Governance- constitution and political system
- General Scientific and Technological Developments including Space and Nuclear Program of India
- UN and Other important World Organizations
- Environmental Issues Concerning India and World at Large
- Basics of Computers and Computer Applications
- Common Abbreviations
- Transport Systems in India
- Indian Economy
- Famous Personalities of India and World
- Government Schemes & Flagship Programs
- Flora and Fauna of India
- Important Government and Public Sector Organisations of India, etc.
Download RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 PDF
Click Here to Download the Official RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 PDF
Download RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 PDF ⮕Skill Test & Aptitude Test (Post-Specific)
After clearing CBT-2, certain posts require an additional test:
1. Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
The CBAT is an assessment stage for candidates who have opted for the Station Master / Traffic Assistant posts.
- Conducted after qualifying CBT 2.
- Candidates shortlisted = 8 times the number of vacancies per community.
- Qualifying Marks: Minimum T-Score of 42 in each test battery — no relaxation for any category.
- Languages: English & Hindi only.
- Negative Marking: None.
- Weightage for Final Merit: 70% of CBT 2 marks + 30% of CBAT marks.
- Candidates must present a Vision Certificate (Annexure VII) at the CBAT venue.
- For official sample CBAT patterns, guidelines, and mock tests, candidates must visit the RDSO’s official website.
Official Mock Test & Guidelines:
👉 Visit RDSO Website → Directorates → Psycho Technical Directorate → “Candidate’s Corner”.
2. Typing Skill Test (CBTST)
Applicable for Junior Accounts Assistant cum Typist and Senior Clerk cum Typist.
- Typing requirement:
- 30 words per minute in English OR
- 25 words per minute in Hindi
- Qualifying Nature – Marks not added to merit.
- Candidates called = 8 times vacancies per community.
- Conducted on PC (without editing or spell-check tools).
- Hindi Fonts: Kruti Dev & Mangal.
- PwBD Exemption: Blindness/Low Vision, Cerebral Palsy or Loco Motor Disability ≥ 40% – must upload medical certificate (Annexure V(H)).
- Merit prepared from CBT 2 scores of qualified/exempted candidates.
5 Powerful Preparation Tips for RRB NTPC 2025-26
- Prioritise General Awareness: With 40 (CBT 1) and 50 (CBT 2) questions, General Awareness is a high-impact area. Focus heavily on Current Affairs and General Science (GS).
- Practice Speed Maths: The Mathematics section covers core arithmetic. Practice daily to improve speed and accuracy, especially in Time & Work and Interest problems.
- Master Reasoning Puzzles: Dedicate time to solve complex Puzzles, Syllogism, and Data Sufficiency questions, as these are typically time-consuming in the exam.
- Mock Tests are Essential: Regularly attempt full-length RRB NTPC Mock Tests based on the updated pattern to simulate the exam environment and manage the 90-minute time constraint.
- Target Negative Marking: Since 1/3 mark is deducted for wrong answers, focus on accuracy over blind guessing. Only attempt questions you are reasonably sure about.
For the latest updates on the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26, exam date, admit cards, and official notifications — stay tuned to GovtJobsNet.com.
Stay focused, study smart, and best of luck with your RRB NTPC journey!
RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26?
The RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 comprises three key sections — General Awareness, Mathematics, and General Intelligence & Reasoning. This syllabus applies to all graduate-level NTPC posts such as Station Master, Goods Train Manager, Senior Clerk, and Junior Accounts Assistant. Both CBT 1 and CBT 2 follow the same syllabus, though CBT 2 involves higher difficulty and deeper conceptual testing.
Q2. Is the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 the same for CBT 1 and CBT 2?
Yes. The syllabus for CBT 1 and CBT 2 is identical. However, the CBT 2 exam is designed with a greater level of complexity and a higher number of questions. This makes it the key stage for candidate shortlisting for Skill and Aptitude Tests.
Q3. How many questions are asked in the RRB NTPC Graduate CBT 1 and CBT 2 exams?
In CBT 1, there are 100 questions: 40 from General Awareness, 30 from Mathematics, and 30 from Reasoning. In CBT 2, there are 120 questions: 50 from General Awareness, 35 from Mathematics, and 35 from Reasoning.
Q4. What is the exam duration and negative marking in the RRB NTPC Graduate exam?
The duration of both CBT 1 and CBT 2 is 90 minutes (or 120 minutes for PwBD candidates using a scribe). Each correct answer awards one mark, while ⅓ mark is deducted for every incorrect response as negative marking.
Q5. What are the minimum qualifying marks for RRB NTPC Graduate 2025-26?
The minimum qualifying marks in CBTs are:
- UR / EWS – 40%
- OBC (NCL) – 30%
- SC – 30%
- ST – 25%
PwBD candidates receive a 2% relaxation in the qualifying marks.
Q6. How can I download the official RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 PDF?
You can download the official RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 PDF from the official RRB website or directly from the “Download PDF” section on this page. It includes the updated subject-wise syllabus and exam pattern details.
Q7. Is there any change in the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 compared to previous years?
The core structure of the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 remains consistent with the previous year. However, question distribution and CBT 2 difficulty levels have been slightly revised under CEN No. 06/2025 to match the latest recruitment standards.
Q8. What is the weightage of General Awareness in the RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26?
General Awareness holds the highest weightage in the RRB NTPC Graduate exam. It carries 40 marks in CBT 1 and 50 marks in CBT 2, making it the most crucial and scoring section for candidates.
Q9. What are the skill tests conducted after CBT 2 in RRB NTPC Graduate 2025-26?
After CBT 2, eligible candidates must appear for either:
- Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) – for Station Master and Traffic Assistant posts
- Typing Skill Test (CBTST) – for Junior Accounts Assistant and Senior Clerk posts
The type of skill test depends on the post applied for.
Q10. How can I prepare effectively for the RRB NTPC Graduate Exam 2025-26?
Focus on General Awareness for maximum marks, practice speed-based Mathematics, and strengthen Reasoning areas like puzzles and syllogisms. Take regular mock tests, analyze mistakes, and minimize negative marking by answering with confidence. Following the official RRB NTPC Graduate Syllabus 2025-26 is essential for success.
Q11. Where can I find the latest updates about RRB NTPC Graduate 2025-26?
Stay updated with official notifications, exam dates, and results through the RRB official website or visit GovtJobsNet.com for verified updates, PDFs, and expert preparation guides.
Ameer M, founder of GovtJobsNet.com, helps job seekers with accurate govt job updates and exam tips. | அரசு வேலை வழிகாட்டி, நம்பகமான தகவல்களை வழங்குபவர்.