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The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially unveiled the examination timetable for the NTPC Graduate Level Recruitment 2025. The Computer Based Test–1 (CBT-1) is set to take place from March 16 to March 27, 2026, at various examination centers nationwide.

Significance of the Announcement

This notification provides much-needed clarity for thousands of candidates gearing up for one of India's most competitive railway recruitment exams. The NTPC Graduate Level recruitment aims to fill a total of 5,810 positions for various non-technical roles within the Indian Railways.

Exam City Slip and Admit Card Details

According to the RRB's announcement, candidates can access their exam city information roughly 10 days before their exam date. This exam city slip will assist candidates in planning their travel and accommodation ahead of time.

The RRB NTPC CBT-1 admit card will be available four days prior to 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 without a valid admit card will not be allowed.

Mandatory Aadhaar-Based Biometric Verification

The RRB has mandated Aadhaar-linked biometric verification for all candidates taking the exam. Before entering the exam venue, candidates will undergo biometric authentication linked to their Aadhaar details.

Candidates are advised to carry either their original Aadhaar card or a verified e-Aadhaar printout. Those who have not completed Aadhaar verification should 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 Selection

The CBT-2 (Main Examination) is a critical phase, as the final merit list will be based on CBT-2 scores.

CBT-2 Exam Structure:

• Total Questions: 120


• Duration: 90 minutes


• Negative Marking: One-third mark for each incorrect answer

Performance in CBT-2 will determine post allocation, with high-demand positions like Station Master typically requiring higher cut-off scores.

Final Selection Process

After successfully passing CBT-2, candidates will be invited for:

• Skill Test / Typing Test


• 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 factored into the final merit calculation.

Advice 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.