Indian Railways, one of the world’s largest employers, conducts numerous recruitment exams through the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) and Railway Recruitment Cells (RRC). These exams provide opportunities for candidates across different educational qualifications, from matriculation to graduation. If you’re aspiring for a career in the Indian Railways, here’s a detailed guide to all the major railway exams in India.
1. RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories)
RRB NTPC is one of the most sought-after exams, offering positions like:
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Station Master
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Clerk
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Goods Guard
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Traffic Assistant
Eligibility: Varies from 12th pass to graduates, depending on the specific post.
Why Apply: This exam is ideal for candidates seeking non-technical roles in Indian Railways.
2. RRB JE (Junior Engineer)
This exam is targeted at candidates with a background in science or engineering. Posts include:
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Junior Engineer
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Junior Engineer (IT)
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Depot Material Superintendent
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Chemical and Metallurgical Assistant
Eligibility: Requires a diploma or degree in engineering or related fields.
Why Apply: Perfect for technically skilled candidates aspiring for engineering roles.
3. RRB Group D
The RRB Group D exam recruits for various entry-level positions such as:
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Track Maintainer Grade-IV
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Helper/Assistant in technical departments (Electrical, Mechanical, and S&T)
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Pointsman
Eligibility: Minimum qualification is matriculation (10th pass).
Why Apply: A great opportunity for candidates looking for hands-on roles in railways.
4. RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) and Technician
This exam selects candidates for positions like:
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Assistant Loco Pilot
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Technician
Eligibility: Requires matriculation with an ITI certification or a diploma in engineering.
Why Apply: Suitable for candidates interested in technical and locomotive roles.
5. RPF SI (Railway Protection Force Sub-Inspector)
This exam recruits Sub-Inspectors for the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Eligibility: Graduation in any stream is mandatory.
Why Apply: Ideal for candidates aiming for security and administrative roles.
6. RRB Paramedical Staff
This exam is conducted for medical positions such as:
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Staff Nurse
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Pharmacist
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Lab Technician
Eligibility: Qualifications depend on the specific post, typically requiring degrees or diplomas in relevant medical fields.
Why Apply: Perfect for candidates with expertise in healthcare.
7. RRB Ministerial and Isolated Categories
This exam recruits for specialized posts, including:
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Stenographer
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Chief Law Assistant
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Junior Translator (Hindi)
Eligibility: Varies based on the position and includes qualifications like bachelor’s degrees or specific certifications.
Why Apply: Great for candidates with specialized skills or professional qualifications.
Exam Selection Process
Most railway exams include multiple stages such as:
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Computer-Based Tests (CBT): The initial screening stage.
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Physical Efficiency Tests (PET): For roles requiring physical fitness.
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Skill Tests: For posts like stenographers and technicians.
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Document Verification: Final stage for shortlisted candidates.
How to Stay Updated
To stay informed about these exams, regularly check the official RRB and regional RRB websites. Notifications include details about eligibility, exam patterns, and syllabi.
1. RRB NTPC Exam Pattern Overview
The RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) exam consists of multiple stages:
Stage 1: CBT (Computer-Based Test) – Preliminary
| Purpose | Exam Details |
|---|---|
| Screening and shortlisting candidates for the next stage. |
|
Stage 2: CBT (Computer-Based Test) – Mains
| Purpose | Exam Details |
|---|---|
| Testing knowledge at a deeper level based on the job applied for. |
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Stage 3: Typing Skill Test (TST) / Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
| Test | Details |
|---|---|
| Typing Skill Test (TST) | Candidates must type at least 30 words per minute (WPM) in English or 25 WPM in Hindi. |
| Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) |
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Stage 1: CBT – Preliminary
| Purpose | Exam Details |
|---|---|
| Screening candidates for the next stage. |
|
Stage 2: CBT – Mains
| Purpose | Exam Details |
|---|---|
| In-depth testing of technical and general aptitude. |
|