RRB NTPC Cut Off – Complete Zone-Wise & Post-Wise Analysis

Complete zone-wise and post-wise RRB NTPC cut off marks analysis for both Graduate (CEN 05/2024) and Undergraduate (CEN 06/2024) exams. Check category-wise cut offs for UR, OBC, SC, ST, and EWS across all 21 RRB zones including CBT-1 screening cut offs, CBT-2 cut offs for CBAT/CBTST shortlisting, and post-wise breakdowns for Station Master, Goods Guard, Senior Clerk, Junior Clerk, Trains Clerk and more. Explore our RRB NTPC main page, Graduate Level Syllabus, and UG Syllabus.

Last Updated: | Source: Official RRB Notifications

RRB NTPC Zone-Wise Competition Analysis

See which zones have the toughest and easiest cut offs across all posts

Key Insights

  • Patna (84.18), Kolkata (84.07) and Thiruvananthapuram (83.95) have the highest UG CBT-1 cut offs among all zones
  • Malda consistently shows the lowest cut offs across both UG and Graduate levels
  • Chandigarh (84.16) and Guwahati (83.13) lead in Graduate CBT-1 competition
  • CBT-1 is a screening test for all posts. CBTST/CBAT tab shows CBT-2 cut offs for posts requiring additional skill tests only
  • Posts like Sr. CCTC and Station Master are selected directly based on CBT-2 merit without CBTST/CBAT

RRB NTPC Previous Year Cut Off Marks – Zone-Wise & Post-Wise

Select exam level and stage below, then expand any zone to view detailed category-wise cut off marks

Select Exam Level:
Select Exam Stage:
Note: CBT-1 is a screening test common for all posts. These are the minimum qualifying marks to be shortlisted for CBT-2 (2nd Stage). CBT-1 marks are not counted in the final merit — they are only used for shortlisting.

RRB NTPC Exam Pattern & Selection Process

The RRB NTPC recruitment process offers two distinct career pathways: Graduate Level (CEN 05/2024) and Undergraduate Level (CEN 06/2024). Both levels follow a comprehensive multi-stage selection process designed to assess candidates’ knowledge, aptitude, and technical skills. The selection process involves multiple stages including Computer Based Tests (CBT), aptitude assessments, typing skill evaluations, document verification, medical examination, and final selection based on merit and position availability. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation and achieving success in the RRB NTPC examination.

📋 Selection Process Flow

CBT-1
CBT-2
CBAT / CBTST
Document Verification
Medical Test
Final Selection

📝 CBT-1 Exam Pattern (Screening Test)

Particulars Details
Total Questions 100
Total Marks 100
Duration 90 minutes
Negative Marking 1/3 mark for each wrong answer
📚 Exam Sections & Marks Distribution
  • Mathematics 30 Questions
  • General Intelligence & Reasoning 30 Questions
  • General Awareness 40 Questions
Important: CBT-1 is a screening test. The marks obtained in CBT-1 are NOT counted towards the final merit list. It is used to shortlist candidates for CBT-2 examination based on the category-wise cutoff marks set by the railway recruitment board.

📊 CBT-2 Exam Pattern (Main Examination)

Particulars Details
Total Questions 120
Total Marks 120
Duration 90 minutes
Negative Marking 1/3 mark for each wrong answer
📚 Exam Sections & Marks Distribution
  • Mathematics 35 Questions
  • General Intelligence & Reasoning 35 Questions
  • General Awareness 50 Questions
Key Point: CBT-2 is the main examination. For posts without CBTST/CBAT (like Sr. Commercial cum Ticket Clerk), CBT-2 score directly determines the final merit. For posts requiring CBTST/CBAT, CBT-2 score is used to shortlist candidates for the skill test stage. See the Graduate level syllabus and UG syllabus for preparation.

⏱️ CBAT – Computer Based Aptitude Test (For Station Master / Traffic Assistant)

Aptitude Tests Included:
  • Memory
  • Following Directions
  • Depth Perception
  • Concentration
  • Perceptual Speed
Duration: Varies per module (typically 20-30 minutes per module)
Qualification Requirement: Candidates must secure a minimum T-Score of 42 in each test battery to qualify. No relaxation is given for any category. CBAT is mandatory for Station Master / Traffic Assistant and Goods Guard posts. The final merit for Station Master is 70% CBT-2 + 30% CBAT weightage.

⌨️ CBTST – Computer Based Typing Skill Test (For Clerk Posts)

Language Typing Speed Required
English Typing 30 Words Per Minute (WPM)
Hindi Typing 25 Words Per Minute (WPM)
Nature of Test: CBTST is qualifying in nature, meaning candidates must meet the minimum typing speed requirement to be considered for the final selection. However, the marks obtained in this test are not added to the final merit score. Candidates can choose between English and Hindi typing based on their proficiency.

📌 Post-Wise Selection After CBT-2

Important: After clearing CBT-2, different posts follow different selection paths. Some posts require additional skill tests (CBAT/CBTST) while others are selected directly based on CBT-2 merit.
Post Name After CBT-2 Final Merit Based On
Station Master / Traffic Assistant CBAT (Aptitude Test) 70% CBT-2 + 30% CBAT
Goods Guard / Goods Train Manager CBAT (Aptitude Test) 70% CBT-2 + 30% CBAT
Sr. Clerk cum Typist / Jr. Account Assistant cum Typist CBTST (Typing Test) CBT-2 Merit (CBTST is qualifying)
Commercial Apprentice CBTST (Typing Test) CBT-2 Merit (CBTST is qualifying)
Sr. / Chief Commercial cum Ticket Clerk Direct DV CBT-2 Merit Only
Key Takeaway: CBTST is only qualifying in nature — typing test marks are NOT added to the merit list. CBAT marks carry 30% weightage in the final merit for Station Master and Goods Guard posts.

🎓 Key Differences: Undergraduate vs Graduate Level

Undergraduate Level (CEN 06/2024)
Educational Qualification 12th Pass or equivalent from recognized board
Posts Available Junior Clerk cum Typist, Accounts Clerk cum Typist, Trains Clerk, Commercial cum Ticket Clerk
Pay Scale Level 2 to Level 3 (₹19,900 – ₹35,400)
Number of Vacancies Large number of positions across multiple regions
Graduate Level (CEN 05/2024)
Educational Qualification Bachelor’s Degree (B.A., B.Sc., B.Com, B.Tech, etc.) from recognized university
Posts Available Station Master, Goods Guard, Sr. Commercial cum Ticket Clerk, Sr. Clerk cum Typist, Jr. Account Assistant cum Typist, Commercial Apprentice
Pay Scale Level 4 to Level 6 (₹25,500 – ₹51,100)
Number of Vacancies Moderate number of positions with higher responsibility roles
Selection Advantage: Graduate candidates have access to higher-paying positions with greater career progression opportunities. Both levels follow the same examination pattern for CBT-1 and CBT-2, but the posts, pay scales, and eligibility criteria differ. Visit the RRB NTPC recruitment page for complete details on available positions.

📌 Additional Resources & Updates

Stay Updated: Check the latest results and download your admit card updates from the official portal. These resources will help you track your examination progress and stay informed about important dates and announcements.

The RRB NTPC exam pattern is designed to assess candidates comprehensively across different dimensions – general awareness, reasoning ability, mathematical skills, and technical aptitude. By understanding the exam pattern, section-wise distribution, and marking scheme, candidates can develop a focused preparation strategy. Combine this knowledge with consistent practice, regular mock tests, and thorough syllabus coverage to maximize your chances of success in the RRB NTPC examination.

RRB NTPC Cut Off – FAQs & Preparation Strategy

Master the complete exam pattern, cut-off analysis, and proven preparation strategies to crack RRB NTPC

Preparation Strategy

🎯

How to Clear CBT-1

  • Focus on General Awareness (40 marks) – highest weightage
  • Practice previous year papers
  • Speed and accuracy matter more than depth
  • Target score: 75+ for safe zone
📊

How to Crack CBT-2

  • Deep preparation in all 3 sections
  • Time management: 90 min for 120 questions
  • Focus on Mathematics shortcuts
  • Target score: 80+ for Graduate, 75+ for UG
🧠

CBAT Tips for Station Master

  • Practice aptitude modules regularly
  • Online simulators available
  • Minimum 42/70 T-Score needed
  • Don’t neglect this stage after clearing CBTs
⌨️

CBTST Typing Tips

  • Practice daily on typing software
  • English: Target 35+ WPM (need 30)
  • Hindi: Target 30+ WPM (need 25)
  • Accuracy matters more than speed

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the RRB NTPC cut off?

    The RRB NTPC cut off varies by zone, post, and category. For the Graduate level (CEN 05/2024), UR category cut offs range from 78 to 87 marks in CBT-1. For the Undergraduate level (CEN 06/2024), UR cut offs range from 75 to 85 marks. The exact cut off depends on the number of vacancies, candidates appeared, and difficulty level of the paper.

  • What is the difference between RRB NTPC Graduate and Undergraduate exams?

    RRB NTPC Graduate level (CEN 05/2024) requires a bachelor’s degree and includes posts like Station Master, Goods Guard, and Senior Clerk. Learn more about Graduate level syllabus.

    The Undergraduate level (CEN 06/2024) requires 12th pass qualification and includes Junior Clerk, Accounts Clerk, Trains Clerk, and Commercial Clerk posts. Check the UG level syllabus for detailed topics.

  • Which RRB zone has the lowest NTPC cut off?

    Historically, RRB Malda, Siliguri, and Bilaspur tend to have the lowest NTPC cut offs. For UG CBT-1, Malda had cut offs around 75 marks for UR category, making it one of the easiest zones. However, cut offs can vary year to year based on difficulty level and competition.

  • Which RRB zone has the highest NTPC cut off?

    RRB Prayagraj, Kolkata, and Patna consistently have the highest cut offs. Prayagraj UR cut off for UG CBT-1 was around 85 marks. These zones typically have higher competition due to large candidate base and lower unemployment in the region.

  • Is there negative marking in RRB NTPC exam?

    Yes, there is negative marking of 1/3rd of the marks allotted for each wrong answer in both CBT-1 and CBT-2 stages. This means for a 1-mark question, you lose 0.33 marks for incorrect answers. It’s crucial to attempt only questions you are confident about to avoid losing marks.

  • What is the NTPC CBT-1 cut off for OBC category?

    OBC-NCL cut offs are typically 8-12 marks lower than UR category. For example, if UR cut off is 82, OBC cut off would be around 72-74 marks. SC/ST categories have even lower cut offs by 5-8 marks from OBC cut offs. Exact reservations and cut off differences vary by RRB zone.

  • How many stages are there in RRB NTPC selection?

    RRB NTPC selection has up to 5 stages:

    • CBT-1 (Screening): 100 marks, 90 minutes
    • CBT-2 (Main): 120 marks, 90 minutes
    • CBAT (Aptitude Test): For Station Master, Traffic Assistant and Goods Guard — merit = 70% CBT-2 + 30% CBAT
    • CBTST (Typing Test): For Sr. Clerk/JAAT and Commercial Apprentice posts (qualifying, not added to merit)
    • Document Verification & Medical Examination: Final selection stage
  • What is the minimum qualifying marks for NTPC CBAT?

    The minimum qualifying T-Score for CBAT is 42 out of 70. Candidates scoring below this are eliminated regardless of their CBT-2 score. T-Score is a normalized score that accounts for difficulty variations across different test sessions, so focus on consistent practice rather than just the raw marks.

  • Can I apply for both NTPC Graduate and Undergraduate?

    Yes, if you meet the educational qualification for both levels, you can apply for both CEN 05/2024 (Graduate) and CEN 06/2024 (Undergraduate) separately. This means you can give both exams and compete for positions in both categories. However, you cannot hold two positions simultaneously, so you must choose one if selected for both.

  • What is the NTPC typing test speed requirement?

    For English typing: 30 words per minute minimum. For Hindi typing: 25 words per minute minimum on computer. This is a qualifying test – marks are not added to merit list. Focus on accuracy as well; excessive errors can lead to disqualification even if you meet speed requirements.