Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26 | Complete RRB & RRC Exam Schedule

Every year, the Indian Railways — one of the world’s largest employers — releases multiple recruitment notifications through its different Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) and Railway Recruitment Cells (RRCs). These recruitments cover a wide range of posts, from technical to non-technical categories, including Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP), Technician, Junior Engineer (JE), NTPC, Group D, Paramedical, and many more.

To maintain transparency and proper scheduling of examinations, the Railway Ministry issues an Annual Recruitment Calendar. This calendar acts as an official timeline for all upcoming recruitment activities, such as notification release dates, application periods, exam schedules, and result announcements.

For the academic year 2025-26, the Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26 has been prepared to help aspirants plan their preparation and stay updated with every stage of the recruitment cycle. This article provides a complete guide to the calendar — including post categories, eligibility details, tentative timelines, preparation strategy, and other vital information.

Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26 | Complete RRB & RRC Exam Schedule

What is the Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26?

The Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26 is an official roadmap that outlines all the major recruitment drives to be conducted by RRBs and RRCs in the financial year 2025-26. It includes crucial timelines such as:

• Vacancy assessment deadlines

• Notification release periods

• Application submission timelines

• Examination schedules

• Result declaration dates

• Document verification and joining periods

This calendar ensures that recruitment across all zones and categories happens systematically and on time. It also helps students prepare early without waiting for individual notifications.

Why the Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26 is Important

1. Early Planning for Aspirants:
   Candidates can structure their study plans based on the expected notification and exam periods for their target posts.

2. Transparency:
   The annual calendar provides a clear view of when recruitments are expected, eliminating confusion and rumours.

3. Reduced Uncertainty:
   Knowing the yearly schedule allows candidates to focus on preparation instead of worrying about unpredictable notifications.

4. Time Management:
   Aspirants can manage their time effectively, balancing preparation for multiple exams under RRBs and RRCs.

5. Better Strategy:
   The calendar helps in comparing overlapping dates between different categories, so aspirants can prioritize accordingly.

Major Recruitments Included in Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26

The Indian Railways plans to conduct several recruitment drives during the 2025-26 session. Below is the list of major categories expected to appear in the annual calendar, along with tentative timelines:

⚠️ Note: These are tentative timelines as per internal planning. Exact dates will be confirmed through official notifications on the respective RRB websites.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Recruitment

1. RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) Recruitment 2025

• Notification Period: January–March 2025

• Eligibility: 10th Pass with ITI / Diploma in relevant trade

• Age Limit: 18–30 years (Relaxations as per government rules)

• Selection Process: CBT-1 → CBT-2 → Computer-Based Aptitude Test → Document Verification

• Expected Vacancies: Around 20,000+ (as per sources)

• Exam Pattern:

  • CBT 1: General Awareness, Mathematics, Reasoning, and General Science

  • CBT 2: Technical syllabus related to the specific trade

2. RRB Technician Recruitment 2025

• Notification Period: April–June 2025

• Eligibility: ITI / Diploma / Engineering in relevant field

• Age Limit: 18–33 years

• Selection Process: CBT-1 → CBT-2 → Document Verification → Medical Test

• Expected Vacancies: Approx. 10,000+

• Exam Pattern: Two-stage CBT with technical and general subjects.

3. RRB NTPC Recruitment 2025

• Notification Period: July–September 2025

• Eligibility:

  • Graduate Posts: Bachelor’s Degree in any stream

  • Undergraduate Posts: 10+2 (Intermediate) passed

• Age Limit: 18–33 years

• Selection Process: CBT-1 → CBT-2 → Typing / Skill Test → Document Verification

• Exam Pattern:

  • CBT 1: General Awareness, Mathematics, and Reasoning

  • CBT 2: Subject-specific and higher difficulty level

• Expected Vacancies: Around 35,000+ across different RRB zones

4. RRB JE / DMS / CMA Recruitment 2025

• Notification Period: July–September 2025

• Eligibility: Diploma or Degree in Engineering / Science (as per post)

• Age Limit: 18–33 years

• Selection Process: Two-stage CBT + Document Verification + Medical Test

• Expected Vacancies: 5,000+

• Exam Pattern:

  • CBT 1: Reasoning, General Awareness, and Mathematics

  • CBT 2: Technical questions related to engineering discipline

5. RRB Paramedical Recruitment 2025

• Notification Period: July–September 2025

• Eligibility: Specific medical qualifications such as Nursing, Lab Technician, Pharmacist, etc.

• Age Limit: 18–35 years (depends on the post)

• Selection Process: Single CBT + Document Verification + Medical Examination

• Expected Vacancies: 2,000+

6. RRC Group D Recruitment 2025

• Notification Period: October–December 2025

• Eligibility: 10th Pass or ITI from a recognized institute

• Age Limit: 18–33 years

• Selection Process: CBT → Physical Efficiency Test (PET) → Document Verification → Medical Exam

• Expected Vacancies: Over 1 Lakh+ across various zones

• Exam Pattern:

  • CBT: General Science, Mathematics, General Awareness, and Reasoning

  • PET: Physical fitness tests like running and lifting weight (based on gender category)

Eligibility Summary (All Categories)

Selection Procedure (General Flow)

1. Online Application: Candidates apply through the official RRB website during the notified period.

2. Computer-Based Test (CBT): Online written exams conducted in one or two stages.

3. Skill / Typing / Aptitude Test: For specific posts like ALP or NTPC Clerk.

4. Physical Efficiency Test (PET): For Group D and physically demanding jobs.

5. Document Verification: Verification of educational and personal documents.

6. Medical Examination: Final stage to ensure candidate fitness.

7. Final Merit List: Based on performance in all stages and category-wise cutoff.

How to Use the Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26 Effectively

1. Identify Your Target Post:
   Choose the category you’re eligible for (ALP, NTPC, JE, Group D, etc.).

2. Note the Expected Timeline:
   Check when the notification is expected and start preparing at least 6–8 months in advance.

3. Create a Study Schedule:
   Divide your syllabus into weekly and monthly goals. Focus on core subjects like General Awareness, Maths, and Reasoning.

4. Use Official Sources Only:
   Always rely on official RRB websites (like rrbcdg.gov.in) for updates.

5. Download the Calendar PDF:
   Keep a digital or printed copy of the annual calendar for quick reference.

6. Track Modifications:
   Sometimes, the Railways may adjust dates. Stay alert for official corrigenda or notices.

Preparation Tips for Railway Exams 2025-26

• Start Early: Begin preparation before the notification arrives.

• Focus on Basics: Strengthen General Awareness, Arithmetic, and Reasoning.

• Practice Mock Tests: Attempt online mock tests regularly to improve speed and accuracy.

• Follow Previous Papers: Analyze trends in question patterns.

• Stay Physically Fit: For PET-based posts, maintain good fitness levels.

• Avoid Distractions: Stay away from unofficial or fake recruitment updates.

Documents Required During Application and Verification

• Passport-size photograph and signature

• Matriculation/10th certificate (for age proof)

• Educational qualification certificates (ITI/Diploma/Degree)

• Category certificate (if applicable)

• Domicile and identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)

Official Websites of Major RRBs

Visit only official websites for application and updates.

Expected Benefits of Annual Calendar 2025-26

• Streamlined recruitment process

• Equal opportunities across all zones

• Reduced exam clashes and confusion

• Predictable schedule for candidates

• Timely publication of results and joining letters

FAQs

Q1. What is the Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26?

It is an official timetable released by Indian Railways outlining recruitment schedules, notification dates, and exam timelines for the year 2025-26.

Q2. When will the first RRB notification release in 2025?

The first notification, likely for RRB ALP, is expected between January and March 2025.

Q3. How can I download the official calendar PDF?

You can download it from the official RRB or Ministry of Railways website once published.

Q4. Will there be a Group D recruitment in 2025-26?

Yes, RRC Group D Notification 2025 is expected between October and December 2025.

Q5. How many total vacancies are expected in 2025-26?

Across all categories, more than 1.5 lakh+ vacancies are expected during the 2025-26 recruitment cycle.

Conclusion

The Railways Annual Recruitment Calendar 2025_26 serves as a complete guide for aspirants aiming to join Indian Railways. It brings structure, clarity, and transparency to the recruitment process, allowing candidates to plan their preparation efficiently.

If you are aspiring for a government job in the railways, now is the time to start preparing. Track official updates, stay consistent, and follow the calendar carefully. A career in the Indian Railways not only offers job security but also immense pride in serving one of the nation’s most crucial sectors.

Stay prepared, stay informed, and make 2025-26 your year of success!

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