The RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) exam is one of the most sought-after recruitment drives in India, offering thousands of railway jobs. If you’re aiming for Tickets Clerk, Commercial Apprentice, or Station Master, understanding the selection process is crucial. The 2025 cycle includes CBT 1, CBT 2, and a Typing Test, with strict cutoffs and skill assessments. Let’s break it down with real-life examples, expert insights, and official updates—so you know exactly what to expect!
Key Highlights 📌
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | RRB (Railway Recruitment Board) |
| Exam Name | NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) |
| Posts Covered | Ticket Clerk, Station Master, Commercial Apprentice |
| Selection Stages | CBT 1, CBT 2, Typing Test/Skill Test |
| CBT 1 Duration | 90 minutes |
| CBT 2 Duration | 90-120 minutes (varies by post) |
| Typing Test | Required for certain posts (e.g., Clerk) |
| Final Merit | Based on CBT 2 + Skill Test (if applicable) |
| Official Website | rrbcdg.gov.in |
RRB NTPC Selection Process 2025: Step-by-Step
1. CBT 1 (Computer-Based Test 1) 🖥️
The first hurdle is CBT 1, a screening test that filters candidates for CBT 2.
Exam Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| General Awareness | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
- Negative Marking: ⅓ for wrong answers.
- Qualifying Marks: Varies by category (UR: ~40%, OBC/SC/ST: ~30-35%).
Pro Tip: “Focus on speed and accuracy—CBT 1 is all about clearing the cutoff,“ says Rahul Mehta, a 2023 NTPC qualifier.
2. CBT 2 (Computer-Based Test 2) 📝
Only those who clear CBT 1 move to CBT 2, which is more advanced.
Exam Pattern (Post-Wise)
| Post | Sections | Total Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Clerk | Maths, Reasoning, GA | 120 |
| Station Master | Additional General Science | 120 |
- Difficulty Level: Higher than CBT 1.
- Time Management: Crucial—many aspirants fail due to poor pacing.
Real-Life Example: Priya Sharma (2024 candidate) says, “I practiced mock tests daily to improve my speed for CBT 2.”
3. Typing Test/Skill Assessment ⌨️
Certain posts (like Junior Clerk) require a typing test in English/Hindi.
Requirements
| Language | Speed (Words/Minute) |
|---|---|
| English | 30 WPM |
| Hindi | 25 WPM |
- Qualifying, Not Merit-Based: You just need to pass.
- Tools Allowed: Regular keyboard (no shortcuts).
Expert Insight: “Start practicing typing early—it’s often overlooked,” advises Neha Gupta, RRB Trainer.
Previous Year Cut-Off Trends 📊
Here’s how cutoffs looked in 2023 (expected to be similar in 2025):
| Category | CBT 1 Cutoff (Out of 100) | CBT 2 Cutoff (Out of 120) |
|---|---|---|
| UR | 72-75 | 85-90 |
| OBC | 65-68 | 78-82 |
| SC | 60-62 | 70-75 |
| ST | 55-58 | 65-70 |
Note: Cutoffs vary by region—check your RRB zone’s official notice.
Preparation Tips for RRB NTPC 2025 🎯
1. Master the Basics First
- Maths: Focus on Profit-Loss, Time-Speed, Algebra.
- Reasoning: Practice Puzzles, Syllogism, Coding-Decoding.
2. Mock Tests Are Key
- Take 2-3 mocks weekly to track progress.
- Analyze mistakes—don’t just solve papers.
3. Stay Updated on Current Affairs
- Follow newspapers, monthly magazines.
- Railway-specific GK (e.g., new train launches).
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
| Mistake | Why It’s Bad |
|---|---|
| Ignoring CBT 1 prep | Many think CBT 2 is harder, but failing CBT 1 means no next stage. |
| Neglecting Typing Practice | Last-minute cramming won’t help—build muscle memory. |
| Over-relying on shortcuts | CBTs test fundamentals, not tricks. |
Final Thought: The RRB NTPC 2025 selection process is competitive but manageable with the right strategy. Start early, stay consistent, and you’ll crack it! 🚀
Shreya Reddy is a freelance writer specializing in exam results and admit cards. With a background in Psychology and 4+ years of experience, Shreya enjoys creating informative content for students. She loves reading novels.
