The RRB NTPC Graduate Level exam pattern comprises CBT 1, CBT 2, and post-specific skill tests including the Computer Based Aptitude Test or Typing Skill Test. CBT 1 carries 100 marks while CBT 2 carries 120 marks, with a penalty of 1/3 mark deducted for every incorrect response in both written stages.
Stage 1: CBT 1 (First Stage Computer Based Test)
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 | 90 Minutes |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 | 90 Minutes |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 30 | 30 | 90 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 90 Minutes |
This screening stage evaluates foundational knowledge across reasoning, core mathematics, and general awareness. Marks obtained in CBT 1 are normalized to shortlist candidates for the second stage at a ratio of 15 times the number of vacancies.
Negative Marking: 1/3 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer in CBT 1.
Stage 2: CBT 2 (Second Stage Computer Based Test)
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 90 Minutes |
| Mathematics | 35 | 35 | 90 Minutes |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 35 | 35 | 90 Minutes |
| Total | 120 | 120 | 90 Minutes |
CBT 2 tests advanced problem solving speed and analytical ability with higher question density. Scores from this stage directly form the primary basis of the final merit list for non-typing posts or contribute 70% weightage for Station Master posts.
Negative Marking: 1/3 mark is deducted for each incorrect answer in CBT 2.
Stage 3: Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
| Test Module | Score Criterion | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Station Master Battery Tests | Minimum T-Score of 42 in each battery | As prescribed by RDSO |
CBAT is mandatory strictly for candidates applying for the Station Master post to assess cognitive ability and perceptual speed. Candidates must score at least 42 marks in each test battery to qualify, contributing a 30% weightage to final selection alongside CBT 2.
Negative Marking: No negative marking applies in CBAT.
Stage 4: Typing Skill Test (TST)
| Language Option | Speed Requirement | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| English | 30 WPM | 10 Minutes |
| Hindi (Kruti Dev / Mangal) | 25 WPM | 10 Minutes |
The Typing Skill Test is a qualifying stage for posts such as Senior Clerk cum Typist and Junior Account Assistant cum Typist. Candidates must achieve the required typing speed on personal computers without editing or spell check tools.
Negative Marking: No negative marking applies during the Typing Skill Test.
Marking & Normalization
Because CBT 1 and CBT 2 are conducted across multiple shifts, RRB uses a formula-driven normalization process to balance difficulty levels across sets. Final merit list computation incorporates 100% weightage from CBT 2 for standard posts, or 70% from CBT 2 plus 30% from CBAT for Station Master posts.
Pattern FAQs
Is there negative marking in RRB NTPC CBT 1 and CBT 2?
Yes, both CBT 1 and CBT 2 have a negative marking of 1/3 mark for each wrong answer.
Do CBT 1 marks count towards the final merit list?
No, CBT 1 is purely qualifying in nature and is used only to shortlist candidates for CBT 2.
What is the minimum qualifying score for CBAT?
Candidates must score a minimum T-score of 42 in each test battery of CBAT to qualify for the Station Master post.
Is normalization applied to all stages?
Normalization is applied to CBT 1 and CBT 2 scores to ensure fairness across multiple examination shifts.