The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) will conduct the Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) Graduate Level CBT 1 examination from 16 March 2026 to 27 March 2026. The exam will be held in computer-based test (CBT) mode across multiple examination centres in India. Candidates appearing for the exam should be aware of the shift-wise reporting time, gate closing time, and exam duration to avoid last-minute confusion on the examination day.
RRB NTPC CBT 1 2026 Shift Timings and Reporting Schedule
The RRB NTPC CBT 1 exam is conducted in three shifts daily, each lasting 90 minutes. Candidates must arrive at the exam centre before the gate closing time for verification and biometric procedures. The shift-wise schedule is provided below:
Candidates are advised to reach the exam centre at least 60 minutes before the gate closes to complete the entry formalities smoothly.
RRB NTPC CBT 1 2026 Exam Pattern and Duration
The CBT 1 examination is the first stage of the RRB NTPC recruitment selection process. It acts as a screening test for candidates who will qualify for the next stage. Key details of the CBT 1 exam pattern include:
- Mode of exam: Computer-Based Test
- Total questions: 100 multiple-choice questions
- Exam duration: 90 minutes
- Negative marking: 1/3 mark deducted for each incorrect answer
The paper usually includes questions from General Awareness, Mathematics, and General Intelligence and Reasoning.
Important Instructions for Candidates on Exam Day
Before appearing for the RRB NTPC CBT 1 examination, candidates must carefully follow the instructions mentioned on their admit cards. Important guidelines include:
- Carry the printed admit card and a valid photo ID proof
- Reach the centre before the gate closing time
- Follow biometric verification and security checks
- Avoid carrying electronic gadgets or prohibited items
The RRB NTPC recruitment exam is conducted to fill thousands of vacancies in different railway zones, and candidates who clear CBT 1 will move to CBT 2 and further selection stages.
