RRB NTPC UG Exam Pattern 2026: Understand the CBT-1 and CBT-2 structure for the Undergraduate (12th Level) recruitment under CEN 07/2026. Check subject-wise questions, marks, duration, negative marking and the role of each examination stage.
RRB NTPC UG Exam Pattern: Quick Overview
| Particular | CBT-1 | CBT-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Mode | Computer Based Test | Computer Based Test |
| Question type | Objective multiple-choice questions | Objective multiple-choice questions |
| Total questions | 100 | 120 |
| Maximum marks | 100 | 120 |
| Standard duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Marks per correct answer | 1 | 1 |
| Penalty per incorrect answer | One-third of a mark | One-third of a mark |
| Subjects | General Awareness, Mathematics, General Intelligence and Reasoning | General Awareness, Mathematics, General Intelligence and Reasoning |
RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 Exam Pattern
CBT-1 is the first-stage screening examination. Candidates answer 100 objective questions carrying 100 marks within the standard duration of 90 minutes. The subject-wise distribution is shown below.
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
General Awareness accounts for the largest indicative share in CBT-1. Mathematics and Reasoning each carry 30 questions. Read all options carefully because an incorrect answer reduces the score.
RRB NTPC UG CBT-2 Exam Pattern
CBT-2 is the second-stage examination for shortlisted candidates. It contains 120 objective questions carrying 120 marks, while the standard duration remains 90 minutes.
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
| Mathematics | 35 | 35 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 35 | 35 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Compared with CBT-1, CBT-2 has 20 additional questions in the same standard time. Normalised CBT-2 marks are used for further shortlisting, subject to the provisions of the notification.
Marking Scheme and Negative Marking
✅ Correct Answer
- Each correct answer earns 1 mark in CBT-1 and CBT-2.
❌ Incorrect Answer
- One-third of a mark is deducted for every incorrect answer in either stage.
➖ Unattempted Question
- An unanswered question earns no marks and does not attract the incorrect-answer penalty.
Raw score formula: Correct answers − (Incorrect answers ÷ 3). For example, 72 correct answers and 12 incorrect answers produce a raw score of 68 marks: 72 − (12 ÷ 3) = 68. This illustration does not calculate normalisation or predict a selection cutoff.
Examination Duration and Additional Time
| Candidate group | CBT-1 | CBT-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard examination duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Candidates eligible for a scribe / compensatory time | Additional time as specified in the official notification | Additional time as specified in the official notification |
Compensatory time is subject to the eligibility and documentation rules in the official notification. Follow the instructions on the admit card and the applicable RRB examination notice.
How CBT-1 and CBT-2 Differ
| Comparison | CBT-1 | CBT-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | First-stage screening | Second-stage examination and further shortlisting |
| General Awareness | 40 questions | 50 questions |
| Mathematics | 30 questions | 35 questions |
| Reasoning | 30 questions | 35 questions |
| Average time per question at standard duration | 54 seconds | 45 seconds |
The average time figures are planning calculations based on total duration divided by total questions. They are not separate sectional time limits. Subject-wise question distribution is indicative; the actual paper may vary as allowed by the notification.
Selection Stages After the Written Tests
- CBT-1
- CBT-2
- Document Verification
- Prescribed Medical Examination
Under CEN 07/2026, the separate Computer Based Typing Skill Test for Accounts Clerk cum Typist and Junior Clerk cum Typist has been removed. Basic computer and typing proficiency is still expected and is assessed after joining. Refer to paragraph 13.0(c) of this notification rather than applying rules from older recruitment cycles.
Important Exam Pattern Points
- Both stages test General Awareness, Mathematics, and General Intelligence and Reasoning.
- CBT-1 has 100 questions; CBT-2 has 120 questions.
- The standard duration is 90 minutes for each stage.
- Each wrong answer attracts a one-third mark penalty.
- Minimum qualifying marks and the final selection cutoff are different concepts.
- Where applicable, RRB normalises marks across examination sessions under its notified procedure.
- Passing a written test alone does not guarantee appointment; document and medical requirements must also be met.
Official Notification and Related Reading
Read Official CEN 07/2026: Examination Provisions in Section 13
Official Railway Recruitment Boards Website
RRB NTPC UG Subject-wise Syllabus 2026
RRB NTPC UG Recruitment 2026 Notification Details
This guide explains the examination pattern for CEN 07/2026. The latest official notification, corrigendum and examination instructions take precedence.
