RRB CEN 09/2025 Railway Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 22,195 Level 1 Government Jobs

RRB CEN 09/2025 is a big railway recruitment for 22,195 Level 1 government jobs in Indian Railways, open for candidates who are 10th pass and aged 18–33 years (with age relaxation for reserved categories).

Online applications start on 31 January 2026 and the last date to apply is 2 March 2026. Selected candidates will get a starting basic salary of ₹18,000 per month plus allowances and permanent job benefits like pension, medical facilities, and job security. The selection process includes a Computer-Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Document Verification, and Medical Examination.

SC/ST, PwBD, women, ex-servicemen, and other reserved categories get fee concessions and relaxations. Overall, this recruitment is a great chance for candidates looking for a stable and secure government job in Indian Railways if they apply on time and prepare well.

RRB CEN 09/2025: Complete Guide to 22,195 Railway Level 1 Government Jobs – Application Deadline March 2, 2026

Your Path to a Government Job at Indian Railways

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially announced CEN NO. 09/2025, one of India’s largest government job recruitment drives with an impressive 22,195 vacancies across Level 1 positions. This is your opportunity to secure a stable government job at the Indian Railways with an excellent salary package, permanent employment, and comprehensive benefits. Whether you’re searching for “railway jobs 2026,” “government job notification,” or “sarkari naukri,” this detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the RRB recruitment process, eligibility criteria, application procedure, and preparation strategy.

Quick Overview: RRB CEN 09/2025 at a Glance

Part 1: Eligibility Criteria for RRB Level 1 Jobs 2026

Age Limit Requirements (Critical for Applicants)

The age limit as on 01.01.2026 is 18 to 33 years for general candidates. However, significant age relaxations are available for reserved categories:

Important Note: The upper age limit mentioned includes community age relaxation. For example, if you belong to SC category, your eligible upper age is 38 years as on 01.01.2026, which means you should have a date of birth not earlier than 02.01.1988.

Educational Qualifications

Minimum Requirement: 10th Pass (Matriculation/SSLC) or equivalent qualification from a recognized board or institution.

• Candidates must possess the required qualification on or before 02.03.2026 (application deadline)
• Awaiting results of final examinations are NOT eligible and should not apply
• The educational certificate must contain the date of issue; if issued after the closing date, you’ll need the consolidated mark sheet or result declaration certificate from the board/university

Medical Fitness Standards

Candidates must meet prescribed medical standards for the posts they’re applying for:

Critical: Candidates who have undergone LASIK surgery are not eligible for A-2 and A-3 medical standards but may be eligible for B-1 and C-1 posts.

Citizenship and Nationality Requirements

You must be one of the following to apply:

• Citizen of India
• Citizen of Nepal
• Citizen of Bhutan
• Tibetan refugee who came to India before 01.01.1962
• Person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, or East African countries

Part 2: Complete Application Process and Important Dates

Critical Dates to Remember

Strategy Tip: Don’t wait until the last moment. Submit your application well before 02.03.2026 to avoid server congestion and technical issues.

Step-by-Step Application Procedure

Step 1: Create Your Account on RRBapply.gov.in

• Visit the official RRB website listed at Para 24.0 of this notification
• Click on “Create an Account”
• Enter your SSC/SSLC-recorded details: Name, Father’s Name, Mother’s Name, and Date of Birth
• Critical Warning: These details cannot be changed later; enter them exactly as recorded in your 10th class certificate
• Create a strong password and note down your login credentials
• Provide a valid personal mobile number and active email ID (you’ll receive all communications here)

Step 2: Fill the Online Application Form

• Log in with your credentials
• Select your preferred RRB/Railway Zone (final choice; cannot be changed)
• Choose the medium of examination (English, Hindi, or 13 regional Indian languages)
• Indicate your post preferences within the chosen railway zone
• Upload your live photograph (captured during application via webcam)
• Upload your handwritten signature (in running handwriting, not capital letters)

Step 3: Upload Mandatory Documents

• SSC/SSLC Certificate (educational qualification)
• Date of Birth proof
• Caste certificate (if applicable) in prescribed format
• EWS/OBC-NCL certificate (if claiming reservation)
• Disability certificate (if PwBD candidate)
• Aadhaar or valid photo ID

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Payment Methods: Online banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI only. Bank charges will be borne by you.

Step 5: Modification Window (Optional)

If you need to correct any information after submission:

• Open the modification window: 05.03.2026 – 14.03.2026
• Pay a modification fee of ₹250 per modification
• Important: Details filled in “Create an Account” form and chosen RRB/Railway cannot be modified

Part 3: Understanding the Selection Process

Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Stage 1

The CBT is a single-stage examination (Railway reserves the right to conduct multi-stage CBTs if needed) with the following structure:

CBT Exam Pattern

• Exam Duration: 90 minutes (120 minutes if using scribe)
• Negative Marking: -1/3 mark for every wrong answer
• Question Type: Objective multiple choice

CBT Syllabus Details

Mathematics: Number system, BODMAS, decimals, fractions, LCM, HCF, ratio & proportion, percentages, mensuration, time & work, time & distance, simple/compound interest, profit & loss, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, square root, age calculations, calendar & clock, pipes & cistern.

General Intelligence & Reasoning: Analogies, series, coding-decoding, mathematical operations, relationships, syllogism, jumbling, Venn diagrams, data interpretation, conclusions, similarities/differences, analytical reasoning, classification, directions.

General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences at 10th standard (CBSE) level.

General Awareness: Science & Technology, Sports, Culture, Personalities, Economics, Politics, and current affairs.

Minimum Qualifying Percentages

• UR Category: 40%
• EWS: 40%
• OBC-NCL: 30%
• SC/ST: 30%
• PwBD candidates: Up to 2-mark relaxation if shortage exists

Physical Efficiency Test (PET) – Stage 2

Candidates qualifying in CBT will be called for PET at 3 times the community-wise vacancy ratio.

PET Standards

Exemptions from PET:

• Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD)
• Ex-Servicemen
• Course Completed Act Apprentices (CCAA)

Document Verification (DV) – Stage 3

Candidates shortlisted after PET (in 1:1 ratio of vacancies) must:

• Produce original certificates for all claims made in application
• No additional time given; failure to produce documents forfeits candidature
• Verification includes educational qualifications, age, caste, category, and disability certificates

Medical Examination – Stage 4

Final selection is conditional on passing the prescribed medical fitness test conducted by Railway Medical Authorities. Medical standards vary by post and category.

Part 4: Reservation and Relaxation Benefits

Vertical Reservation (Category-Based)

Important for OBC-NCL Candidates: Your OBC certificate must specifically state that you “do NOT belong to the Creamy Layer” as per GoI guidelines. Self-declaration in prescribed format (Annexure IIA) is mandatory at Document Verification.

Horizontal Reservation

• Ex-Servicemen (ExSM): Age relaxation + fee exemption
• CCAA (Course Completed Act Apprentices): Age relaxation for apprenticeship duration
• PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities): Age relaxation + fee exemption; age relaxation up to 8-15 years depending on category

Part 5: Special Provisions and Facilities

For Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD)

Candidates with 40% or more disability in specified categories are eligible for:

• Reserved vacancies in suitable posts
• Age relaxation (up to 15 years for SC/ST PwBD)
• Examination fee waiver
• Scribe facility (for eligible candidates)
• Compensatory time during exam
• Exemption from PET

Eligible Disability Categories: Blindness, Low Vision, Hearing Impairment, Locomotor Disability, Autism, Intellectual Disability, Learning Disability, Mental Illness, Multiple Disabilities.

Scribe Facility

If you’re eligible for scribe and wish to avail the facility:

1. Opt for scribe in your online application
2. Register yourself and your scribe on rrbapply.gov.in
3. Furnish scribe details during the 5-day window after modification closes (15.03.2026 – 19.03.2026)
4. Provide your scribe’s OTR (One-Time Registration) number
5. Confirm via OTP sent to scribe’s registered mobile

Important Conditions:

• Your scribe must be registered with RRBs
• Scribe’s qualification must be one step below yours
• A scribe cannot assist more than one candidate in the same exam
• E-Call letter will be issued separately for your scribe
• Scribe must carry original valid identity proof on exam day

For Female Candidates

• Pregnant Candidates: Special provisions including temporary deferment of PET until 6 weeks after confinement; vacancy held in reserve
• Widow/Separated Females (not remarried): Relaxation in age limit (35-40 years depending on category)
• Transgender Candidates: Female PET standards apply

Free Train Travel

• SC & ST candidates only: Free Sleeper Class Railway Pass for journey to exam centers
• Must show original SC/ST certificate to authorized Railway staff
• Misuse leads to rejection and debarment

Part 6: Salary, Benefits, and Career Prospects

Monthly Salary Structure (Level 1, 7th CPC)

• Initial Basic Pay: ₹18,000 per month
• After DA and allowances: Approximately ₹20,000-22,000 per month (varies by location and additional allowances)

Comprehensive Benefits Package

As a Railway employee, you’ll receive:

• Medical Insurance: CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme) for self and family
• Pension: Defined benefit pension after 20 years of service
• Housing: Railway quarters allotment based on availability
• Leave: 30 days annual leave + casual leave + special leave provisions
• Gratuity: ₹16.5 lakhs (approximately) at retirement
• Job Security: Permanent employment after 2-year probation period
• Accident Insurance: Personal accident cover
• Children’s Education: Educational allowance for children

Posting and Transfer Policy

• You’ll typically be posted in the Railway zone you choose at the time of application
• Ordinary posting is throughout your career in the same Railway/establishment
• Competent Authority can transfer you to other departments/Railways in exigencies of service
• Transfer request can be registered only after completing 5-10 years of service

Part 7: How to Prepare for RRB CBT 2026

Study Strategy (32 Days Left)

With the application deadline on March 2, 2026, you have 32 days to submit your application and begin preparation immediately.

Mathematics Preparation (25 Questions)

• Master number system, percentages, and ratios (most frequently asked)
• Practice time & work, time & distance problems daily
• Solve mensuration and geometry questions from previous year papers
• Use calculators intelligently; understand shortcuts for fast calculations
• Time Management: Allocate 15-18 minutes for mathematics section

General Intelligence & Reasoning (30 Questions)

• Practice series completion and analogies daily
• Master syllogism and Venn diagrams
• Improve speed in coding-decoding problems
• Solve analytical reasoning step-by-step
• Time Management: Allocate 20-22 minutes for this section

General Science (25 Questions)

• Focus on frequently asked physics topics: Force, Work, Energy, Sound, Light
• Chemistry: Periodic table, reactions, atomic structure
• Life Sciences: Human body systems, reproduction, genetics
• Use NCERT 10th standard textbooks as your primary resource
• Time Management: Allocate 15 minutes for science section

General Awareness (20 Questions)

• Read daily news from reputable sources
• Follow government schemes and policies
• Track recent sports achievements and awards
• Study economics and politics current affairs
• Time Management: Allocate 20 minutes for awareness section

Recommended Resources

• NCERT Books: 10th standard Science and Mathematics (free online)
• Previous Year Papers: RRB official website
• Mock Tests: Solve 2-3 practice tests weekly
• YouTube Channels: Free educational content from verified sources
• Mobile Apps: Download RRB preparation apps for daily practice

Time Management During Exam

• Read instructions carefully (2-3 minutes)
• Attempt easier questions first (10-15 minutes)
• Skip difficult questions initially; return if time permits
• Review answers before submission (last 5 minutes)
• Avoid negative marking on uncertain questions

Part 8: Important Instructions and Warnings

Malpractice and Debarment

Candidates found using unfair means, impersonation, or violating exam guidelines will be:

• Debarred for lifetime from all RRB/RRC exams
• Barred from Railway employment permanently
• Subject to legal prosecution under The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024

Banned Items at Exam Center

DO NOT bring:

• Mobile phones, pagers, smartwatches, health bands
• Electronic gadgets, Bluetooth devices, calculators
• Books, notebooks, pens, pencils, erasers
• Bags, belts, caps, cameras, water bottles
• Packaged or open food items

Allowed: Only your e-Call Letter

Cloak room arrangement may not be available, so leave valuables at home.

Application Rejection Scenarios

Your application will be rejected if:

• Submitted after 02.03.2026, 23:59 Hrs
• No examination fee received by 04.03.2026
• Information in application differs from original certificates
• You’ve submitted multiple applications
• You don’t meet basic eligibility criteria
• False/fraudulent claims about SC/ST/OBC/EWS/disability status

Disclaimer

• RRBs do not appoint agents or coaching centers; beware of touts making false promises
• Selection is purely based on merit; avoid influence attempts
• Fake websites and social media claims are prevalent; only use official RRB websites listed in the notification
• Job racketeers prey on aspirants; report suspicious activities to RRBs

Part 9: RRB Websites and Helpline Support

Official RRB Websites by Zone

Each Railway Recruitment Board has its official website where you’ll find:

• Application links
• Admit cards and exam dates
• Result announcements
• Updates on selection stages

Helpline Support:

• Email: rrb.help@csc.gov.in
• Phone: 9592001188 / 01725653333
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM on working days

Regional Railway Recruitment Cells (RRCs)

After CBT qualification, your communication will be through respective RRC websites:

• Central Railway: www.rrccr.com
• Eastern Railway: www.rrcer.com
• Northern Railway: www.rrcnr.org
• Southern Railway: www.rrcmas.in
• Western Railway: www.rrc-wr.com
• (and 12 more RRCs)

Part 10: FAQs

What is RRB CEN 09/2025?
RRB CEN 09/2025 is a centralized railway recruitment notification released by Railway Recruitment Boards for 22,195 Level 1 posts across Indian Railways.

How many vacancies are announced under RRB CEN 09/2025?
A total of 22,195 vacancies are announced for various Level 1 posts in different railway zones.

Who can apply for RRB Level 1 jobs?
Candidates who have passed 10th class (Matriculation/SSLC) from a recognized board can apply.

What is the age limit for RRB CEN 09/2025?
The age limit is 18 to 33 years as on 01 January 2026, with age relaxation for reserved categories.

Is age relaxation available for SC/ST/OBC candidates?
Yes, SC/ST get 5 years and OBC-NCL get 3 years age relaxation as per government rules.

What is the application start date for RRB CEN 09/2025?
The online application starts on 31 January 2026.

What is the last date to apply online?
The last date to submit the application is 2 March 2026 till 11:59 PM.

Can I apply after the last date?
No, applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted.

What is the application fee for General category candidates?
The application fee is ₹500, out of which ₹400 is refunded after appearing in CBT.

What is the application fee for SC/ST and female candidates?
The fee is ₹250, and ₹150 is refunded after appearing in CBT.

Is the application fee refundable?
Yes, part of the fee is refunded after the candidate appears for the CBT.

What is the selection process for RRB Level 1 posts?
The selection process includes CBT, PET, Document Verification, and Medical Examination.

What is the exam pattern of CBT?
The CBT has 100 questions for 100 marks from Mathematics, General Intelligence, General Science, and General Awareness.

Is there negative marking in CBT?
Yes, 1/3 mark is deducted for each wrong answer.

What is the qualifying mark for CBT?
UR and EWS need 40%, while SC/ST/OBC need 30% to qualify.

What is PET in RRB recruitment?
PET is Physical Efficiency Test that checks physical fitness through running and weight lifting tasks.

Who is exempted from PET?
PwBD candidates, Ex-servicemen, and Course Completed Act Apprentices are exempted from PET.

Can female candidates apply for RRB Level 1 jobs?
Yes, female candidates can apply and get age relaxation and fee benefits as per rules.

Are transgender candidates eligible?
Yes, transgender candidates are eligible and follow female PET standards.

What is the salary for RRB Level 1 posts?
The basic pay is ₹18,000 per month plus DA and other allowances.

Is the job permanent?
Yes, it is a permanent central government job after successful completion of probation.

Can I apply to more than one RRB?
No, applying to multiple RRBs will lead to rejection of all applications.

Can I change my RRB zone after submission?
No, the selected RRB/Railway zone cannot be changed after submission.

Can final-year students apply?
No, candidates awaiting results are not eligible to apply.

Is Aadhaar mandatory for application?
Aadhaar or any valid photo ID is required during application and verification.

What documents are required for document verification?
Original educational certificates, caste certificates, ID proof, and medical documents are required.

What happens if I fail the medical test?
Candidates who fail the medical test are not considered for final appointment, though medical appeal may be allowed.

Is coaching necessary to clear RRB Level 1 exam?
No, with proper self-study, mock tests, and previous year papers, coaching is not mandatory.

Where can I apply for RRB CEN 09/2025?
Applications can be submitted online through the official RRB websites listed in the notification.

How will I get exam updates and admit card?
All updates, including admit card and exam dates, will be available on the official RRB website and registered email/SMS.

Is there free travel facility for SC/ST candidates?
Yes, SC/ST candidates are eligible for free sleeper class railway travel to exam centers.

Can wrong information lead to rejection?
Yes, incorrect or false information can lead to rejection and debarment.

Is this a good opportunity for government job aspirants?
Yes, with high vacancies, job security, and good benefits, RRB CEN 09/2025 is an excellent opportunity.

Part 11: Timeline and Action Plan

Immediate Action Items (Next 32 Days)

Week 1 (31 Jan – 6 Feb):

• Verify your educational qualification and documents
• Gather all required certificates (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/disability)
• Create your RRB account
• Fill application form with utmost care
• Submit application and pay fee

Week 2-4 (7 Feb – 2 Mar):

• Continue application submissions (for multiple Railways if applying to multiple zones within same RRB)
• Gather modification documents
• Verify all information submitted
• Utilize modification window (5-14 March) if corrections needed
• Register scribe details (15-19 March) if applicable

Week 5+ (3 Mar – Exam Date):

• Begin intensive CBT preparation
• Solve mock tests daily
• Master weak areas
• Stay updated on RRB website for exam dates and admit card release
• Download admit card well before exam date

Conclusion: Your Success Starts Now

The RRB CEN 09/2025 recruitment represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure a government job with permanent employment, excellent salary, and comprehensive benefits. With 22,195 vacancies across multiple posts and zones, your chances of selection are promising if you prepare strategically and apply on time.

Key Success Factors:

1. Submit application on time (before March 2, 2026, 23:59 Hrs)
2. Prepare systematically focusing on frequently asked topics
3. Avoid common mistakes in application and exam hall
4. Stay updated with official RRB communications
5. Practice mock tests to improve accuracy and speed
6. Maintain documents for verification stages

The journey from application to appointment involves multiple stages, but persistence and preparation will see you through. Thousands of job seekers like you have successfully secured Railway jobs in previous recruitment cycles. With dedication and the right strategy, you can be among those selected in CEN 09/2025.

Start your application today, prepare with focus, and take the first step towards your dream government job at Indian Railways.

Disclaimer

This article is based on official information from Centralised Employment Notification (CEN) No. 09/2025 issued by Railway Recruitment Boards. While all efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, candidates must verify all information on official RRB websites before applying. The notification is subject to modification by Railway authorities. Candidates are advised to read the complete detailed CEN document before taking any action.