The Railway NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) Exam 2025 is one of the most sought-after exams for aspirants looking to secure a government job in the Indian Railways. The NTPC recruitment process is conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) for various positions such as Junior Clerk, Station Master, Goods Guard, Typist, Commercial Apprentice, and Traffic Assistant.
This article will provide you with a detailed guide on important dates, eligibility criteria, selection process, and preparation tips for the Railway NTPC Exam 2025.
1. Railway NTPC 2025 Important Dates
The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) will release the official notification for Railway NTPC 2025 on its official website (https://www.rrbcdg.gov.in/). Here are the expected dates:
| Event | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | March 2025 |
| Online Registration Start Date | April 2025 |
| Last Date for Application | May 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | June 2025 |
| CBT 1 Exam Date | July-August 2025 |
| CBT 2 Exam Date | October 2025 |
| Skill Test/Typing Test | December 2025 |
| Document Verification | January 2026 |
| Final Result Declaration | February 2026 |
(Note: These are tentative dates, and candidates should check the official RRB website for updates.)
2. Eligibility Criteria for Railway NTPC 2025
Before applying for Railway NTPC Exam 2025, candidates must meet the following eligibility conditions:
Educational Qualification
- For Graduate Posts: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- For Undergraduate Posts: Minimum qualification is 10+2 (Higher Secondary) from a recognized board.
Age Limit
- For Undergraduate Posts: 18 to 30 years
- For Graduate Posts: 18 to 33 years
- Age Relaxation: SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), PwD (10 years)
3. Selection Process for Railway NTPC 2025
The selection process for Railway NTPC 2025 consists of multiple stages:
Stage 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT 1)
- Total Questions: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Subjects: General Awareness, Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Negative Marking: 0.33 marks deducted for each wrong answer
Stage 2: Computer-Based Test (CBT 2)
- Total Questions: 120
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Subjects: General Awareness, Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Negative Marking: 0.33 marks deducted for each wrong answer
Stage 3: Skill Test/Typing Test (Applicable for Typist and Clerk Posts)
- Candidates applying for Junior Clerk & Typist posts must qualify for the typing test.
- Typing Speed Requirement:
- English: 30 words per minute (wpm)
- Hindi: 25 words per minute (wpm)
Stage 4: Document Verification
Candidates who clear CBT 2 and skill tests (if applicable) will be called for document verification.
Stage 5: Medical Examination
Candidates must pass a medical fitness test conducted by Indian Railways.
4. Railway NTPC 2025 Exam Pattern
CBT 1 Exam Pattern
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Negative Marking: 0.33 marks for each wrong answer
CBT 2 Exam Pattern
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
| Mathematics | 35 | 35 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 | 35 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Negative Marking: 0.33 marks deducted for each incorrect answer
5. Railway NTPC 2025 Syllabus
General Awareness
- Current affairs (national & international)
- Indian history, culture, geography, and economy
- Railways-related facts & policies
- Sports & important days
Mathematics
- Number system & simplifications
- Percentage, Profit & Loss
- Time & Work, Speed & Distance
- Data interpretation
- Ratio & Proportion
General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Coding-decoding
- Blood relations
- Analogy & Classification
- Alphabet & number series
- Logical reasoning
6. Preparation Tips for Railway NTPC 2025
1. Understand the Exam Pattern
- Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and exam pattern to create an effective study plan.
2. Focus on General Awareness
- Read daily newspapers and stay updated with current affairs.
- Follow government schemes and railway-related news.
3. Strengthen Mathematics & Reasoning
- Practice problem-solving techniques for quick calculations.
- Use shortcuts for reasoning questions to save time.
4. Attempt Mock Tests & Previous Papers
- Solve mock tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
- Analyze mistakes and improve on weak areas.
5. Follow Standard Study Material
- Refer to NCERT books and railway exam preparation guides.
7. Railway NTPC 2025 Salary & Benefits
The salary for Railway NTPC posts varies based on the job role. Below is an estimated salary range:
| Post | Pay Scale (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Junior Clerk | ₹19,900 – ₹63,200 |
| Commercial Apprentice | ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400 |
| Station Master | ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400 |
| Goods Guard | ₹29,200 – ₹92,300 |
Additional Benefits:
- Job security & pension benefits
- Free travel passes for employees & family
- Medical facilities & railway quarters
- Promotions & career growth opportunities
Conclusion
The Railway NTPC Exam 2025 is a fantastic opportunity for candidates seeking a government job in Indian Railways. With proper planning, preparation, and practice, aspirants can clear the exam and secure a stable career.
If you are interested in applying, start your preparations early, stay updated with official notifications, and give your best effort in the Railway NTPC 2025 Exam.