Are you gearing up for the RRB Group D exam pattern 2026? The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Group D recruitment is a golden opportunity for candidates seeking stable government jobs in Indian Railways, with roles like Track Maintainer, Helper, and Assistant Pointsman. With the official notification expected soon, understanding the RRB Group D syllabus 2026, marking scheme, and overall structure is essential for effective preparation.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down the RRB Group D exam pattern 2026 based on the latest 2025 updates, including the Computer-Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), and more. We’ve used tabular formats for clarity on data like question distribution and syllabus topics. Popular search terms like “RRB Group D marking scheme 2026,” “RRB Group D CBT pattern,” and “RRB Group D PET details” are covered here to help you rank higher in your prep journey.
Whether you’re a first-timer or retaking the exam, this SEO-optimized article includes preparation tips and an FAQ section. Remember, while patterns rarely change drastically, always verify the official CEN (Centralized Employment Notification) on the RRB website once released.
Overview of RRB Group D Selection Process 2026
The RRB Group D recruitment process 2026 is multi-staged to ensure candidates are fit for railway duties. It includes:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT): Online objective exam testing knowledge and aptitude.
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Qualifying physical endurance test for shortlisted candidates (typically 3 times the vacancies).
- Document Verification (DV): Verification of eligibility documents.
- Medical Examination: Final fitness check.
No interview stage exists. The process is merit-based, with normalization for multi-session CBTs. For 2025, over 1 crore candidates appeared, highlighting the competition—expect similar for 2026.
RRB Group D CBT Exam Pattern 2026
The CBT is the primary screening stage, conducted in multiple shifts if needed. It’s a single paper with 100 questions worth 100 marks, to be completed in 90 minutes (120 minutes for PwBD candidates with scribe).
Here’s the detailed RRB Group D CBT exam pattern 2026 in tabular format:
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Key Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 | 25 | Number system, BODMAS, decimals, fractions, LCM/HCF, ratio & proportion, percentages, mensuration, time & work, time & distance, simple & compound interest, profit & loss, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, elementary statistics, square root, age calculations, calendar & clock, pipes & cistern. |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 30 | 30 | Analogies, alphabetical & number series, coding & decoding, mathematical operations, relationships, syllogism, jumbling, Venn diagram, data interpretation & sufficiency, conclusions & decision making, similarities & differences, analytical reasoning, classification, directions, statement-arguments & assumptions. |
| General Science | 25 | 25 | Physics, Chemistry, and Life Sciences at 10th standard level (e.g., natural phenomena, laws of motion, work/energy/power, acids/bases/salts, human body, nutrition, environment). |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | 20 | 20 | Current events (national/international), sports, culture, personalities, economics, politics, science & technology, geography, history, railways-related GK. |
- Total Questions/Marks: 100/100
- Duration: 90 minutes (1.5 hours)
- Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Languages: Available in 15 languages including English, Hindi, Urdu, and regional languages.
- Qualifying Marks: UR/EWS: 40%, OBC/SC: 30%, ST: 30%, PwBD: 2% relaxation.
The exam emphasizes speed and accuracy, with questions at 10th standard level.
RRB Group D Marking Scheme 2026 and Negative Marking
The RRB Group D marking scheme 2026 is straightforward:
- Correct Answer: +1 mark
- Incorrect Answer: -1/3 mark (negative marking)
- Unanswered Questions: 0 marks (no penalty)
This encourages attempting questions wisely—aim for 70-80 attempts with high accuracy to score above cut-offs (typically 60-75 for UR). Normalization applies across shifts to ensure fairness.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET) for RRB Group D 2026
Post-CBT, qualified candidates (about 3x vacancies) undergo the PET, which is qualifying only (no marks). It’s designed to test physical stamina for labor-intensive roles.
Here’s the RRB Group D PET pattern 2026 in tabular format:
| Category | Task 1: Weight Lifting & Carrying | Task 2: Running |
|---|---|---|
| Male Candidates | Lift and carry 35 kg weight for 100 meters in 2 minutes (without putting down; one chance) | Run 1000 meters in 4 minutes 15 seconds (one chance) |
| Female Candidates | Lift and carry 20 kg weight for 100 meters in 2 minutes (without putting down; one chance) | Run 1000 meters in 5 minutes 40 seconds (one chance) |
| PwBD Candidates | Exempt from PET (but must pass medical standards) | Exempt from PET |
- Attempts: One chance per task; failure disqualifies.
- Venue: Conducted at railway premises; candidates must be medically fit beforehand.
- Qualification Ratio: Twice the community-wise vacancies called for PET, with final merit from CBT scores.
PET ensures candidates can handle physical demands like track maintenance.
Document Verification (DV) and Medical Examination
- DV: Shortlisted candidates (1.05x vacancies post-PET) submit original documents like educational certificates, caste proofs, and ID. Discrepancies lead to rejection.
- Medical Exam: Conducted at railway hospitals to check fitness standards (A2/A3 for most posts). Includes vision tests (e.g., 6/9 distant without glasses for A-2) and checks for color blindness or other ailments.
Failure in either stage results in disqualification, with waitlisted candidates called.
Subject-wise RRB Group D Syllabus 2026 in Detail
For deeper prep, here’s a breakdown of the RRB Group D syllabus 2026 by subject. Focus on NCERT books for basics.
Mathematics Syllabus Table
| Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Number System | Integers, fractions, decimals |
| Algebra | Equations, polynomials |
| Geometry & Trigonometry | Triangles, circles, heights/distances |
| Mensuration | Area, volume, surface area |
| Statistics & Probability | Mean, median, mode, basic probability |
General Intelligence & Reasoning Syllabus Table
| Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | Analogies, series, coding-decoding |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | Figures, mirrors, water images |
| Logical Reasoning | Syllogisms, statements, assumptions |
General Science Syllabus Table
| Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Physics | Motion, force, energy, sound, light |
| Chemistry | Elements, compounds, reactions, periodic table |
| Biology | Human anatomy, plants, diseases, ecology |
General Awareness Syllabus Table
| Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
| Current Affairs | National/international news, awards, summits |
| Static GK | History, geography, polity, economy |
| Railways GK | Zones, headquarters, milestones |
Refer to daily newspapers and apps for current affairs.
Preparation Tips for RRB Group D 2026
- Understand the Pattern: Practice mock tests mirroring the CBT format.
- Time Management: Allocate 20-25 minutes per section; focus on strengths first.
- Syllabus Coverage: Use books like RS Aggarwal for Reasoning/Math, Lucent for GK.
- Physical Prep: Train for PET with weight lifting and running routines.
- Stay Updated: Follow official RRB sites for notifications; join online forums.
- Health Focus: Maintain fitness for medicals; revise current affairs daily.
Aim for 80+ in CBT for a safe spot.
FAQ: RRB Group D Exam Pattern 2026
1. What is the total number of questions in RRB Group D CBT 2026?
100 questions across four sections.
2. Is there negative marking in RRB Group D 2026?
Yes, 1/3 mark deducted for each wrong answer.
3. What is the duration of the RRB Group D exam?
90 minutes for general candidates; 120 for PwBD with scribe.
4. How many stages are there in RRB Group D selection?
Four: CBT, PET, DV, and Medical.
5. Is PET qualifying or scoring in RRB Group D?
Qualifying only; no marks awarded.
6. What are the qualifying marks for UR in RRB Group D CBT?
40% (with relaxations for reserved
categories).7. Can I choose the exam language for RRB Group D?
Yes, from 15 options during application.
8. How is the merit list prepared for RRB Group D?
Based on normalized CBT scores post-PET qualification.
9. Are there sectional cut-offs in RRB Group D?
No, only overall qualifying marks.
10. Where can I download the official RRB Group D syllabus PDF?
From regional RRB websites once the 2026 notification is out.
Start your prep today for RRB Group D 2026 success! Bookmark this page for updates and share your queries in the comments.
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