RRB NTPC Graduate CBT 1 Exam Date 2026 Announced

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially announced the tentative schedule for the RRB NTPC Graduate CBT 1 examination under CEN No. 06/2026. This is a crucial update for thousands of aspirants eyeing a career in the railways. The Computer-Based Test (CBT 1) is tentatively scheduled for the fourth week of December 2026. While the exact dates are yet to be finalised, this timeline provides a clear window for candidates to intensify their preparation.

This recruitment drive aims to fill 3,548 graduate-level Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC) posts. These include prestigious positions such as Goods Train Manager, Chief Commercial-cum-Ticket Supervisor, Junior Accounts Assistant-cum-Typist, and Senior Clerk-cum-Typist. The selection process is comprehensive, involving CBT 1, followed by CBT 2, Document Verification, and a Medical Examination.

Candidates should note that the city intimation slip is expected to be released approximately 10 days before the examination, with the admit card following around four days prior to your scheduled test date. Staying updated by regularly checking your regional RRB websites is paramount for all official announcements.

A total of 3,548 graduate-level vacancies have been announced under CEN 06/2026. This provides a significant opportunity for eligible candidates across various categories. The distribution of these vacancies highlights the demand for diverse skills within the railway sector.

The RRB NTPC Graduate CBT 1 is the initial screening stage, and understanding its pattern is key to success. This computer-based test is designed to assess your fundamental aptitude across three core subjects. The total duration for the CBT 1 exam is 90 minutes, during which candidates must attempt 100 questions carrying 100 marks.

Crucially, candidates must be aware of the negative marking system. One-third of the marks allotted for a question will be deducted for each incorrect answer. This emphasizes the importance of accuracy alongside speed. Strategic attempt of questions becomes vital to maximise your score and avoid unnecessary deductions.

To achieve a high score in the RRB NTPC Graduate CBT 1, a targeted approach to each section is non-negotiable. Each subject plays a distinct role in the overall score, and strategic allocation of study time based on weightage and your personal strengths is essential.

General Awareness carries the highest weightage with 40 questions for 40 marks. This section demands broad knowledge across current affairs, Indian history, geography, polity, economics, general science, and environmental studies. Consistent reading and current events updates are indispensable.

Mathematics, with 30 questions for 30 marks, requires a strong grasp of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and data interpretation. Speed and accuracy in calculations are paramount. Regular practice of diverse problem types will build confidence and proficiency.

General Intelligence & Reasoning also contributes 30 questions for 30 marks. This section tests your analytical ability, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills through verbal and non-verbal reasoning. Practicing a wide variety of puzzles, series, coding-decoding, and analogy questions will sharpen your intellect. To effectively drill these topics and identify your strengths and weaknesses, consistently practice with the targeted question banks and mock tests available on Aspirant Arcade. This focused approach will ensure maximum retention and improved performance.

While the exam is still some time away, having a structured plan for the final, intensive month of preparation is critical. This roadmap provides a template you can implement closer to the examination date, ensuring you peak at the right time. Use the period leading up to this final month to build strong fundamentals in all subjects.

The most critical action right now is to begin your comprehensive preparation immediately, focusing on a strong foundational understanding of all subjects. Leverage the tentative December 2026 CBT 1 date to create a long-term, phased study plan, and stay vigilant for official updates on regional RRB websites.