How Many Phases in RRB NTPC Exam Selection?

“Number of phases in rrb ntpc” pertains to the multi-layer recruitment exercise undertaken by the Railway Recruitment Board in regard to the Recruitment of NTPC Posts. The selection procedure has a minimum of four phases, including: 1st Stage Computer-Based Test (CBT), Second Stage CBT, Skill Test (if applicable) Document Verification/Medical Test.

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Understanding the Stages in RRB NTPC Graduate and Undergraduate Levels

When mapping out your preparations for the test, the first question you will want to ask will be stages in rrb ntpc exam. The response to this will vary very minutely according to the kind of position you wish to apply for, although the overall format will essentially be the same for everyone. No matter whether you are sitting for the 12th pass or undergraduate level examination or the graduate stage in rrb ntpc exam, the overall design of the test is to shortlist applicants gradually based on rising levels of complexity.

How Many Phases in RRB NTPC CBT 1?

The first obstacle in this process of applying for the Maitreyi College recruitment is the 1st Stage CBT, which applies to all advertised posts. The 1st Stage CBT can be considered a qualifying paper shortlisting candidates for further rounds. The paper is an objective paper comprising 100 questions: General Awareness, Mathematics, General Intelligence, and Reasoning.

How Many Stages in RRB NTPC for Selection?

Official sources report that the full sequence comprises:

• 1st Stage: Computer Based Test (CBT) – A common Screening Test.

• 2nd Stage Computer Based Test (CBT)    “Post-specific advanced testing.”

• Typing Skill Test/Computer Based Aptitude Test: This is required for certain posts such as Station Master/Clerk jobs only.

• Document Verification and Medical Examination: The final process of verifying eligibility and medical condition.

The stages of the RRB NTPC exam itself will depend on the answer to the question "How many stages in RRB NTPC?" based on the job type for the specific vacancy. This will depend on the "Pay Level" for the particular job. Candidates will have to undertake two CBTs for the third stage of the process. However, the skill test will depend on whether it is a technical typing test or a psychological aptitude test.

Detailed Breakdown of the RRB NTPC Selection Phases

In RRB NTPC recruitment by Indian Railways, how many stages have been designed in such a way that only the most competent candidates are able to enter into the workforce of Indian Railways. Based on resources provided by Career Power and Adda 247, it has been shown in detail below:

Phase 1: The 1st Stage CBT (Screening

• The main aim of the next phase is to shortlist the enormous number of applicants to a reasonable figure.

• Length: 90 Minutes.

• Total Questions: 100.

• Negative Marking: For each incorrect answer, there is a penalty of 1/3 of a mark.

• Standard: The standard of difficulty is more or less commensurate with the requisite academic qualification for the job (10+2 or Graduate).

Phase 2: The 2nd Stage CBT (Merit)

Candidates who clear the cutoff for Phase 1 move to this stage. Unlike the first phase, the marks obtained here are critical for the final merit list.

• Format: 120 questions to be solved within 90 minutes.

• Post-specific papers: There are individual 2nd Stage CBTs for each of the Pay Levels (Level 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6).

• Negative Marking: The 1/3 penalty is applicable in this case too

Phase 3: The Skill Tests (Aptitude and Typing)

This is where the how many stages in RRB NTPC answer differs.

• Typing Skill Test: This test will be required for posts such as Accounts Clerk cum Typist and Junior Time Keeper. Candidate shall have to achieve the specific speed on a personal computer without any editing tools : 30 wpm in English or 25 wpm in Hindi.

• Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT): The test would be held for the post of Station Master and Traffic Assistant only. To qualify the test, candidate has to obtain the minimum T-score in each test battery.

Phase 4: Document Verification (DV) and Medical

After a candidate successfully tests their skills tests or 2nd Stage CBT (in case of non-typing vacancies), they are invited for DV. Depending on their performance in the preceding recruitment levels, their original documents are verified, and a candidate then goes through a Medical Fitness Test, checking whether they qualify physically to be part of the Railway staff.

Check Out: RRB NTPC 45 Previous Year Solved Papers CBT - I & CBT - 2

Strategic Preparation for RRB NTPC Phases

In the how many stages in RRB NTPC exam, the candidate needs to modify his strategy for each phase. While in the first phase, a candidate needs to have a broad perspective of the syllabus with high speed; in the second phase, it is the time for depth and accuracy. For the skill tests, a candidate needs to practice on a QWERTY keyboard regularly for the typing posts.

PW RRB NTPC Study Material for 2026 Exam Preparation

PW RRB NTPC Study Material for 2026 offers updated syllabus coverage, clear explanations, practice questions, and mock tests to help aspirants prepare effectively and score higher in the exam.

How Many Phases in RRB NTPC - FAQs

1. How many phases are there in RRB NTPC?
   Essentially, there are four stages: 1st Stage CBT, 2nd Stage CBT, Skill Test (Aptitude/Typing, if applicable), and Document Verification/Medical Examination.

2. Is the 1st Stage CBT marks added to the final merit?
   No, the 1st Stage CBT is qualifying in nature. Its primary purpose is to shortlist candidates for the 2nd Stage CBT. The final merit is usually based on the performance in the 2nd Stage CBT and, in some cases, the Aptitude Test.

3. What is the typing speed required for RRB NTPC?

   For posts requiring a typing skill test, candidates need a speed of at least 30 words per minute (wpm) in English or 25 words per minute in Hindi. 

4. Are there separate exams for graduate and 12th pass posts?
   While the 1st Stage CBT is common, the 2nd Stage CBTs are conducted separately for different Pay Levels. Graduate-level candidates may be eligible for a wider range of posts, but the core how many stages in rrb ntpc graduate level exam remains the same as the undergraduate level. 

5. Is there negative marking in all CBT stages?
   Yes, for every incorrect answer in both the 1st and 2nd Stage CBT, 1/3 of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted. However, there is no negative marking in the Aptitude Test (CBAT).