EXAM SYLLABUS

The RRB Group D  syllabus includes Mathematics (number system, percentages, ratio, time-work, profit-loss, algebra, geometry, mensuration), Reasoning (analogies, series, coding-decoding, puzzles, syllogism, Venn diagrams, decision-making), General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology up to Class 10 NCERT level), and General Awareness & Current Affairs (history, polity, economy, sports, science & tech, culture, and recent events).

RRB Group D – Syllabus

1. Mathematics (25 Questions)

Covers basic arithmetic and quantitative aptitude:

Number System

BODMAS Rule

Decimals & Fractions

LCM & HCF

Ratio and Proportion

Percentages

Mensuration (Area, Volume, Perimeter)

Time & Work

Time & Distance

Simple & Compound Interest

Profit & Loss

Algebra (basic)

Geometry & Trigonometry (basic)

Elementary Statistics

Square & Cube Roots

Age Problems

Calendar & Clock

Pipes & Cistern

2. General Intelligence & Reasoning (30 Questions)

Tests logical thinking and problem-solving:

Analogies

Alphabetical & Number Series

Coding-Decoding

Mathematical Operations

Syllogism

Venn Diagram

Data Interpretation & Sufficiency

Conclusions & Decision Making

Similarities & Differences

Analytical Reasoning

Classification

Directions

Statement–Arguments & Assumptions

Jumbling / Puzzles

3. General Science (25 Questions)

Up to Class 10 level (NCERT standard):

Physics: Motion, Force, Work, Energy, Power, Gravitation, Light, Heat, Electricity, Magnetism, Sound.

Chemistry: Matter & Its Properties, Elements, Compounds & Mixtures, Chemical Reactions, Acids, Bases & Salts, Metals & Non-metals, Carbon & Its Compounds.

Biology: Cell Structure, Human Body & Organ Systems, Plants, Microorganisms, Nutrition, Reproduction, Diseases, Ecosystem & Environment.

4. General Awareness & Current Affairs (20 Questions)

Covers static GK and recent events:

Indian History & Freedom Struggle

Indian Polity & Constitution

Geography (India & World)

Economics (Basic concepts, Budget, Banking, Schemes)

Culture & Sports

Science & Technology Developments

Important Personalities & Awards

Current Events (National & International, last 6–8 months focus)

EXAM PATTERN

The RRB Group D consists of a Computer-Based Test (100 MCQs, 100 marks, 90 minutes, 1/3 negative marking) covering Mathematics, General Science, Reasoning, and Current Affairs. Qualified candidates appear for a Physical Efficiency Test (PET), followed by Document Verification and Medical Examination.

RRB Group D – Exam Format 

1. Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Mode: Online

Type: Objective Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs)

Total Questions: 100

Total Marks: 100

Duration: 90 minutes (120 minutes for PwBD candidates with scribe)

Negative Marking: Yes, 1/3rd mark deducted for each wrong answer

Sections & Weightage:

Mathematics – 25 Questions

General Intelligence & Reasoning – 30 Questions

General Science – 25 Questions

General Awareness & Current Affairs – 20 Questions

2. Physical Efficiency Test (PET) (Qualifying Only)

Conducted after CBT for shortlisted candidates (about 3 times the number of vacancies).

Male Candidates:

Run 1000 meters in 4 min 15 sec in one chance

Lift & carry 35 kg weight for 100 meters in 2 minutes without putting down

Female Candidates:

Run 1000 meters in 5 min 40 sec in one chance

Lift & carry 20 kg weight for 100 meters in 2 minutes without putting down

3. Document Verification (DV)

Verification of educational certificates, caste/category certificates, identity proofs, etc.

4. Medical Examination

Mandatory to check medical fitness as per Railway standards.

Vision standards (like A-3, B-1, B-2, C-1) apply depending on the post.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The RRB Group D eligibility criteria are determined based on nationality, educational qualification, and age limit. Only candidates who meet the prescribed RRB Group D eligibility requirements are eligible to participate in the recruitment process. As per the latest update for RRB Group D 2026, CCAA-certified candidates have also been declared eligible to apply for the Railway Group D CCAA Recruitment 2026.

Nationality

Candidates must be:

A citizen of India, or

A citizen of Nepal / Bhutan, or

A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India, or

A person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia), or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.

For non-Indian citizens (categories b-e), a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India is required.

Age Limit (as on 01.01.2026)

Normal Age Limit: 18 to 33 years (for UR/EWS candidates).

Revised / Relaxed Age Limit (one-time relaxation due to COVID-19 impact): 18 to 36 years (applicable to this CEN).

Candidates must be born not earlier than 02.01.1989 (for 33 years) or adjusted as per relaxation, and not later than 01.01.2008 (minimum age 18 years).

Date of birth must match exactly with the Matriculation/SSLC/10th certificate (or ITI/NAC for those with only that qualification). No change allowed later.

Age Relaxation

Relaxation in the upper age limit (maximum age) is as follows:

Educational Qualifications

Minimum Qualification (for all posts in this CEN):

10th pass (Matriculation / SSLC / High School or equivalent from a recognized Board),

OR

ITI / equivalent,

OR

National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) granted by NCVT.

ITI is not mandatory for any post in this CEN (relaxed from previous requirements).

Course Completed Act Apprentices trained in Railway establishments (CCAA) are eligible for applicable vacancies (as per note in CEN).

Candidates must possess the qualification on or before the closing date (02.03.2026). Those awaiting final results are not eligible.

For posts requiring specific technical/IT qualification, refer to Annexure-A (Post Parameters table) in the CEN PDF – most Level-1 posts require only 10th pass or equivalent.

Name, father's/mother's name, and DOB must match 10th certificate (or ITI/NAC if that's the only qualification).

Medical Standards

Candidates must meet the prescribed medical fitness for the opted post(s) – no alternative appointment if unfit.

Standards vary by post

Most posts: A-2 / A-3 / B-1 / B-2 / C-1 / C-2 (vision, color blindness, physical fitness).

Common requirements: Good vision (without/with glasses), no color blindness for certain posts (e.g., TRD, S&T), physical endurance for field/outdoor jobs.

LASIK / corrective eye

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The RRB Group D eligibility criteria are determined based on nationality, educational qualification, and age limit. Only candidates who meet the prescribed RRB Group D eligibility requirements are eligible to participate in the recruitment process. As per the latest update for RRB Group D 2026, CCAA-certified candidates have also been declared eligible to apply for the Railway Group D CCAA Recruitment 2026.

Nationality

Candidates must be:

A citizen of India, or

A citizen of Nepal / Bhutan, or

A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India, or

A person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia), or Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.

For non-Indian citizens (categories b-e), a certificate of eligibility from the Government of India is required.

Age Limit (as on 01.01.2026)

Normal Age Limit: 18 to 33 years (for UR/EWS candidates).

Revised / Relaxed Age Limit (one-time relaxation due to COVID-19 impact): 18 to 36 years (applicable to this CEN).

Candidates must be born not earlier than 02.01.1989 (for 33 years) or adjusted as per relaxation, and not later than 01.01.2008 (minimum age 18 years).

Date of birth must match exactly with the Matriculation/SSLC/10th certificate (or ITI/NAC for those with only that qualification). No change allowed later.

Age Relaxation

Relaxation in the upper age limit (maximum age) is as follows:

Educational Qualifications

Minimum Qualification (for all posts in this CEN):

10th pass (Matriculation / SSLC / High School or equivalent from a recognized Board),

OR

ITI / equivalent,

OR

National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) granted by NCVT.

ITI is not mandatory for any post in this CEN (relaxed from previous requirements).

Course Completed Act Apprentices trained in Railway establishments (CCAA) are eligible for applicable vacancies (as per note in CEN).

Candidates must possess the qualification on or before the closing date (02.03.2026). Those awaiting final results are not eligible.

For posts requiring specific technical/IT qualification, refer to Annexure-A (Post Parameters table) in the CEN PDF – most Level-1 posts require only 10th pass or equivalent.

Name, father's/mother's name, and DOB must match 10th certificate (or ITI/NAC if that's the only qualification).

Medical Standards

Candidates must meet the prescribed medical fitness for the opted post(s) – no alternative appointment if unfit.

Standards vary by post

Most posts: A-2 / A-3 / B-1 / B-2 / C-1 / C-2 (vision, color blindness, physical fitness).

Common requirements: Good vision (without/with glasses), no color blindness for certain posts (e.g., TRD, S&T), physical endurance for field/outdoor jobs.

LASIK / corrective eye surgery: Self-declaration required (Annexure-VII) for A-2/A-3 posts.

Final medical exam by Railway Medical Authority after PET/DV.

Physical Efficiency Test (PET):

Qualifying (not merit-based) – details in recruitment process

Males: Lift & carry 35 kg for 100 meters without stopping; run 1000 meters in 4 min 15 sec.

Females: Lift & carry 20 kg for 100 meters; run 1000 meters in 5 min 40 sec.

PwBD candidates exempted from PET.

IMPORTANT DATES

All the important dates for the Railway RRB Group D Level-1 Exam 2026 have been announced through the official notification. The online application submission and correction window was activated on 31st January 2026 on the official website.

EXAM ANALYSIS

The most recent RRB Group D exam (CEN 08/2024) was conducted from November 27, 2025, to February 10, 2026, across multiple phases to accommodate over 10.8 million candidates. This exam filled approximately 32,438 Level-1 posts in the Indian Railways. It was held in more than 200 cities nationwide, with exams scheduled on specific dates within the period, excluding weekends and holidays where applicable. Revised dates were announced for the later phases, shifting some January slots to early February 2026 due to logistical adjustments.

Exact Dates, Times, and Shift Details

The exam was spread over several weeks:

Initial phases: November 27–28, 2025; December 1–5, 8–17, 19, 21–24, 26, 29–30, 2025.

Later phases: January 8–9, 2026; February 2–6, 9–10, 2026.

It was conducted in three shifts daily:

Shift 1: Reporting time 7:30 AM, gate closing 8:30 AM, exam from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM.

Shift 2: Reporting time 11:15 AM, gate closing 12:15 PM, exam from 12:45 PM to 2:15 PM.

Shift 3: Reporting time 3:30 PM, gate closing 4:30 PM, exam from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

Candidates received city intimation slips and admit cards 4–10 days before their scheduled date, with answer keys released on February 17, 2026, for objections.

Exam Pattern

The RRB Group D exam follows a consistent Computer-Based Test (CBT) format:

Total Questions: 100 multiple-choice questions.

Duration: 90 minutes (120 minutes for PwBD candidates).

Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answers, -1/3 for incorrect (negative marking applies).

Qualifying Marks: Minimum 40% for UR, 30% for OBC/SC/ST (may vary by zone). This pattern has remained largely unchanged from previous cycles, including the 2022 exam.

Do the exam analysis for the upcoming RRB GROUP D Exam 2026, based on the previous year's exam, including when it was last conducted, the exact date, time, and shift details, so we can gain better insight into the pattern, difficulty level & cutoffs and expectations for the 2026 exam.

EXAM ANALYSIS

The most recent RRB Group D exam (CEN 08/2024) was conducted from November 27, 2025, to February 10, 2026, across multiple phases to accommodate over 10.8 million candidates. This exam filled approximately 32,438 Level-1 posts in the Indian Railways. It was held in more than 200 cities nationwide, with exams scheduled on specific dates within the period, excluding weekends and holidays where applicable. Revised dates were announced for the later phases, shifting some January slots to early February 2026 due to logistical adjustments.

Exact Dates, Times, and Shift Details

The exam was spread over several weeks:

Initial phases: November 27–28, 2025; December 1–5, 8–17, 19, 21–24, 26, 29–30, 2025.

Later phases: January 8–9, 2026; February 2–6, 9–10, 2026.

It was conducted in three shifts daily:

Shift 1: Reporting time 7:30 AM, gate closing 8:30 AM, exam from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM.

Shift 2: Reporting time 11:15 AM, gate closing 12:15 PM, exam from 12:45 PM to 2:15 PM.

Shift 3: Reporting time 3:30 PM, gate closing 4:30 PM, exam from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

Candidates received city intimation slips and admit cards 4–10 days before their scheduled date, with answer keys released on February 17, 2026, for objections.

Exam Pattern

The RRB Group D exam follows a consistent Computer-Based Test (CBT) format:

Total Questions: 100 multiple-choice questions.

Duration: 90 minutes (120 minutes for PwBD candidates).

Marking Scheme: +1 for correct answers, -1/3 for incorrect (negative marking applies).

Qualifying Marks: Minimum 40% for UR, 30% for OBC/SC/ST (may vary by zone). This pattern has remained largely unchanged from previous cycles, including the 2022 exam.

Do the exam analysis for the upcoming RRB GROUP D Exam 2026, based on the previous year's exam, including when it was last conducted, the exact date, time, and shift details, so we can gain better insight into the pattern, difficulty level & cutoffs and expectations for the 2026 exam.

Highest: 96.77 (Mumbai, UR); lowest around 60–70 for reserved categories in some zones. Factors like vacancies, applicant volume, and difficulty influenced these e.g., tougher math sections lowered averages.

Expected Cutoffs for 2025-26: Similar or slightly higher (2–5 points) due to increased competition (10.8M+ applicants vs. 32K posts). UR: 85–95; OBC: 80–90; SC/ST: 70–85, varying by zone. Southern zones like Chennai often have lower cutoffs than northern ones.

Expectations for the 2026 Exam

The upcoming RRB Group D 2026 exam notification (CEN 09/2025) was released on January 30, 2026, for 22,195 vacancies, with applications open until March 9, 2026 (extended). Exam dates are yet to be announced, but based on patterns:

Likely mid-2026 to early 2027, in multiple phases over 2–3 months, with 3 shifts daily (similar timings).

Pattern and syllabus expected to remain identical—focus on Class 10-level concepts.

Difficulty: Moderate overall, with potential emphasis on current affairs (last 12 months) and reasoning. Math and science may continue to be trickier in some shifts.

Cutoffs: Could rise slightly due to fewer vacancies (22K vs. 32K) and ongoing competition; aim for 80+ normalized marks to qualify for PET (Physical Efficiency Test).

Preparation Insights: Practice time management, as negative marking penalizes guesses. Refer to 2025-26 question trends (e.g., more application-based math) and mock tests. PET will follow CBT for qualifiers, involving tasks like lifting weights and running.

STUDY TIPS

The RRB Group D 2026 exam is an online CBT of 100 multiple-choice questions for 100 marks in 90 minutes, with one-third negative marking, followed by PET, document verification, and medical exam. The syllabus covers Mathematics (number system, percentages, ratio, algebra, geometry, time-work, profit-loss, mensuration), Reasoning (series, coding-decoding, puzzles, syllogism, Venn diagrams, decision-making), General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology up to Class 10 level), and General Awareness & Current Affairs (history, polity, economy, sports, culture, science & tech, and latest events).

Study Tips for RRB Group D 

Know the Exam Pattern & Syllabus – Focus on 4 areas: Mathematics, Reasoning, General Science, and Current Affairs.

NCERT & Basics First – Revise Class 8–10 Maths and Science NCERTs for strong fundamentals.

Daily Practice – Solve MCQs and previous year papers regularly.

Mock Tests & Time Management – Attempt online mocks to improve speed and accuracy.

Revision Strategy – Make short notes for formulas, GK facts, and important topics for quick revision.

Stay Updated – Read daily current affairs (last 6–8 months is most important).

Health & PET Prep – Maintain physical fitness alongside studies, as PET is qualifying.

STUDY PLAN

1-Month Plan (Crash Course / Final Revision)

Week 1–2:

Maths & Reasoning daily practice (2–3 hours).

Revise Class 10 Science basics.

Week 3:

Focus on Current Affairs (last 6 months).

Attempt at least 1 mock test daily.

Week 4:

Quick revision of notes & previous year papers.

Light PET practice (running, stamina building).

3-Month Plan (Balanced Preparation)

Month 1:

Cover full Maths syllabus (Arithmetic + Algebra + Geometry).

Start Reasoning (coding, series, puzzles).

Daily 30 mins current affairs.

Month 2:

Cover General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology up to 10th).

Strengthen weak areas in Maths & Reasoning.

Attempt 2 mock tests per week.

Month 3:

Revise all subjects through short notes.

Focus on Current Affairs (6–8 months).

Daily mock test & PET practice.

6-Month Plan (Full Preparation)

Months 1–2:

Build strong base in Maths & Science (NCERT + practice).

Start Reasoning topics.

Read newspaper or daily current affairs.

Months 3–4:

Advance practice of Maths & Reasoning with speed drills.

Cover General Science thoroughly.

Attempt 1–2 mock tests weekly.

Months 5–6:

Focus on revision + previous year papers.

Strengthen Current Affairs & GK.

Daily mock test in exam-like conditions.

PET training (running, stamina, weight lifting practice).

OVERVIEW

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Group D Exam, conducted by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs), is organized for the recruitment of eligible candidates to various Level 1 posts such as Track Maintainer, Pointsman, Helper and Assistants in Indian Railways. The purpose of the exam is to select candidates for these essential operational and maintenance roles. The exam is held at the national level and is generally conducted once every recruitment cycle as per vacancy requirements.

SELECTION PROCESS

The RRB Group D selection process is conducted in multiple stages, starting with a computer-based exam and followed by physical and medical tests to ensure suitability for railway duties.

Single stage Computer Based Test (CBT): 100 MCQs (90 minutes), negative marking 1/3, normalized if multi-shift.

Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Qualifying only (shortlisted 3x vacancies approx.); male: carry 35 kg/100m + run 1000m in 4:15 min; female: carry 20 kg/100m + run 1000m in 5:40 min (PwBD exempted).

Document Verification (DV): Shortlisted 1:1 ratio; original certificates checked.

Medical Examination: Final fitness check as per post's standard (A-2/B-1 etc.); no alternative post if unfit.

Merit based on CBT score (normalized); final empanelment after clearing all stages.

No interview; unfair means lead to lifetime debarment.

Dates for CBT/PET/DV intimated via official RRB/RRC websites.