Are you still checking frequently when the RRB NTPC exam 2025 will be held? You're not alone. Knowing the exact RRB NTPC 2025 exam dates is crucial in planning your preparation and avoiding last-minute panic.

The RRB NTPC CBT 1 Examination is scheduled to be held from June 5 to June 24, 2025, in multiple shifts.

In this blog, you’ll learn more about the shift timings, where and how to check the exam date, and unlock useful exam day and preparation tips. 

What is the RRB NTPC Exam?

RRB NTPC stands for Railway Recruitment Board Non-Technical Popular Categories. The Indian Railways conducts this recruitment exam to fill non-technical graduate and undergraduate-level posts in various departments. 

The rigorous recruitment process involves multiple stages, including:

• Computer-based Tests: The RRB NTPC 2025 exam will be held in two stages: CBT 1 and CBT 2. 
• RRB NTPC CBT 1 will be held from June 5 to June 24, 2025, and will serve as a screening test to shortlist candidates for CBT 2. 

Only applicants with accepted applications will be allowed to appear for RRB NTPC 2025 CBT 1, and those who qualify will move on to the next stage.

Note: The CBT 1 and CBT 2 exams will have a negative marking of -0.25 for each incorrect answer.

• Skill Tests (Typing Skill Test or Computer-Based Aptitude Test, as applicable): Candidates must also take the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) to be considered for positions like Traffic Assistant and Assistant Station Master (ASM). A Typing Skill Test (TST) is required for positions such as Junior Accounts Assistant cum Typist and Senior Clerk cum Typist. These two tests are just meant for qualifying purposes.
• Document Verification: Document verification (DV) will be required for candidates who meet the requirements based on their Stage-II CBT and CBAT/TST performance. 
• This step involves confirming the legitimacy of a candidate's identity documents, educational credentials, and other relevant records to determine their eligibility for the position.
• Medical Examination: During the final step of the RRB NTPC recruitment process, candidates' fitness levels are evaluated to ensure they can fulfill the role's responsibilities. 
• This examination consists of general physical health, hearing, and vision tests. Only candidates who complete the medical exam can be appointed to the Railway NTPC positions.

Job Roles and Salary

The RRB NTPC Salary 2025 offers a pay structure, several perks, and allowances, including House Rent, Medical, Dearness, and Travel allowances, as per the 7th Pay Commission. 

The salary varies based on the role and level, as well as whether the individual is a graduate or an undergraduate. Below, we’ve provided the post-wise basic salary details for candidates to understand their earnings.

Candidates Applied for the RRB NTPC Exam 2025

The RRB NTPC exam 2025 application process has been closed. 

Candidates who have filled out the form will be eligible to appear in the exam. 1.21 crore candidates have applied for the RRB NTPC 2025 exam this year. Given the vast number of candidates, you can expect a high cut-off.

Pro Tip: If you've applied, don’t wait for the exam date announcement. By now, you must have achieved a certain exam preparation level. Now, take mock tests and focus on shortcut techniques.

Worried about clearing RRB NTPC in one go? Join ICS Institute for Competitive Examinations, Dharwad, for expert guidance, mock tests, and proven techniques to boost your RRB NTPC performance.

With over 1.2 crore applicants in the race, knowing the exact zone-wise and post-wise vacancies becomes even more important to sharpen your focus and set realistic expectations. Let’s break it down.

RRB NTPC Recruitment Exam 2025: Vacancy Breakdown

RRB NTPC has released two notices for undergraduate and graduate-level positions, totalling 11558 vacancies. 

The first notification (CEN 05/2024) was released on September 13, 2024, for 8,113 graduate-level openings, and the second (CEN 06/2024) was released on September 20, 2024, to fill 3,445 undergraduate-level openings. 

RRB NTPC Zone-wise Vacancy

First, let’s look at the zone-wise vacancy distribution.

Note: Vacancies are further categorized by reservation (UR, SC, ST, OBC, EWS) for both Graduate and Undergraduate posts.

Now, let’s understand the post-wise vacancy distribution.

RRB NTPC Vacancy (Graduate Posts)

RRB NTPC Vacancy (Undergraduate Posts)

Now, let’s look at sample cut-offs for previous years’ RRB NTPC CBT exams.

RRB NTPC 2021 CBT-1 Cut-Offs

For RRB Bengaluru, which caters to Karnataka aspirants, the 2021 RRB NTPC CBT 1 cut-off for Level 6 aspirants was:

For the CBT 2, Level 6 aspirants, the category-wise cut-offs in 2022 were: 

With an idea of the number of vacancies and probable cut-offs, it’s equally important to know where you can find the official exam schedule and keep track of important updates for RRB NTPC 2025.

Where to Check the Railway RRB NTPC Exam Schedule?

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has released the exam schedule for the Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) Computer-Based Test 1 (CBT 1) for the Graduate level for the 2025 recruitment cycle.

Candidates must visit their respective regional RRB websites to view the NTPC CBT 1 exam schedule.

Pro Tip: The RRB may also send notifications via registered email or SMS, so ensure your contact information is up to date.

The second stage of the RRB NTPC exam (CBT 2) will be conducted a few months after the results of the preliminary exam are announced.

RRB NTPC Exam Shift Timings

The CBT 1 exam will be conducted in three shifts. Below, we have provided the reporting, gate closing, and exam timings for all shifts for your reference.

RRB NTPC City Intimation Slip and Admit Card

All applicants whose applications are accepted will receive their RRB NTPC City Intimation Slip from the board ten days before the test. 

Candidates can prepare their travel plans for the exam day using the details on this city intimation slip, which include the exam city, date, and centre location. You can download it from the official RRB link using your registration details.

The admit card is typically released four days before the exam date. It will contain your details, such as your name, registration number, photograph, and exam centre details, as well as the exam language and other relevant information. 

Download RRB NTPC Admit Card 2025

Once you know where to check your schedule and shift timing, and have downloaded your admit card, the next step is to understand what to expect on exam day, from entry rules to allowed items. Let’s walk you through the key exam day guidelines.

RRB NTPC Exam Date 2025: Exam Day Guidelines

To ensure a smooth and fair examination process, you must follow these essential guidelines on the day of the RRB NTPC 2025 exam:

• Admit Card & Photo ID: Carry a printed copy of your RRB NTPC admit card and a valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, etc.).
• Reporting Time: Arrive at the exam centre at least 30 minutes before the reporting time specified on your admit card. Late entries will not be allowed.
• Prohibited Items: Do not carry mobile phones, calculators, smart watches, electronic gadgets, study material, or jewellery to the exam hall.
• Dress Code: Avoid wearing metallic items or heavy accessories that may delay security checks.
• Scribe Assistance (for eligible candidates): If you’re using a scribe, ensure they meet the criteria mentioned in the official notification. You may need to meet them two days before the exam to confirm suitability.
• Behaviour and Conduct: Follow all instructions given by the exam staff. Any form of misconduct or rule violation can lead to disqualification.
• Smart Time Management: Begin your exam with manageable, high-scoring sections to build momentum and reduce pressure.

With clear exam day rules, it’s time to shift your focus to what truly matters now: smart preparation strategies that can boost your performance in the final stretch.

RRB NTPC Exam Date 2025: Last Minute Preparation Tips

As the exam day approaches, you must shift your focus from learning new topics to revision and practice. Use these practical tips to boost your performance in the last lap of your preparation:

• Revise Key Topics Daily: Focus on high-scoring areas in Math (e.g., simplification, percentages, algebra), Reasoning, and General Awareness, like current affairs, history, and geography.
• Practice Full-Length Mock Tests: Regularly take mock exams to improve your speed, accuracy, and time management skills. Analyze your mistakes and focus on improving your weak areas.
• Solve Previous Year Papers: Familiarise yourself with the exam pattern and types of questions asked. This will help you build confidence and identify recurring question trends.
• Review Quick Notes: Review essential formulae, rules, static GK facts, and current events. Keep your notes handy for quick revision.
  Pro Tip: Keep a small notebook to store all your math formulas. This will act as a ready reckoner during revision.

• Stick to What You Know: Don’t start new topics now. Focus on strengthening areas you’ve already studied.
• Stay Calm and Positive: Get enough rest, eat a balanced diet, and take regular short breaks. A fresh and focused mind performs better.

Conclusion

The RRB NTPC 2025 exam is a significant opportunity for railway job aspirants, with over 1.2 crore applicants competing for 11,558 vacancies. Every step matters, from knowing what the exam involves to checking the schedule, understanding the zone-wise vacancy list, following exam day rules, and applying last-minute tips.

To stay ahead in this competitive environment, the ICS Institute for Competitive Examinations, Dharwad, provides the support you need. 

With expert faculty, structured coaching for RRB, regular mock tests, and a proven track record of success, ICS has guided thousands of aspirants across North Karnataka.

Tired of preparing without direction or results? Get comprehensive coaching, focused study plans, and real-time mock tests with personalized support at ICS Institute, Dharwad. Start your journey with ICS today.

FAQs

1. What is the RRB NTPC 2025 exam date?

The RRB NTPC CBT 1 Examination is scheduled to be held from June 5 to June 24, 2025, in multiple shifts.

2. What is the syllabus of the NTPC exam?

The syllabus of the NTPC exam primarily covers topics related to general awareness, English, and general intelligence. You must review all the essential issues to prepare well for the exam.

3. What is the RRB NTPC application fee?

The application fee is ₹500 for the unreserved and OBC categories, and ₹250 for SC/ST/ex-servicemen/females, PwD/transgender, economically backward class, and minorities.

4. Can I apply for multiple RRBs?

No, you are allowed to apply for only one RRB.

5. Can I change my exam center after I have submitted it?

No, the exam center cannot be changed once it has been allotted.

‍