Is the RRB NTPC and SSC CGL Syllabus the Same? A Detailed Guide for Aspirants

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) conducts the NTPC exam to recruit for non-technical popular category posts, while the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts the CGL exam for recruitment in multiple central government ministries and departments. Both exams are highly competitive and attract lakhs of aspirants every year. A common question among candidates preparing for both exams is: Is the RRB NTPC and SSC CGL Syllabus the Same?

Is the RRB NTPC and SSC CGL Syllabus the Same?

The short answer is that in RRB NTPC and SSC CGL Syllabus there are overlaps in subjects like reasoning, mathematics, and general awareness, there are also significant differences in their scope and difficulty levels. Let us understand these similarities and differences in detail.

Exam Pattern Overview: RRB NTPC Vs. SSC CGL

Although both exams are computer-based, the structure is different.

RRB NTPC consists of two stages – CBT 1 and CBT 2 – followed by typing/skill tests and document verification.

SSC CGL has Tier 1 (preliminary) and Tier 2 (main exam) stages, both with multiple subjects and higher-level difficulty.

Description: The SSC CGL exam is considered tougher because of its vast syllabus and advanced topics, while RRB NTPC is relatively simpler but GK-heavy.

Quantitative Aptitude: Arithmetic vs. Advanced Maths

Both exams include mathematics, but the scope varies.

• RRB NTPC: Focuses mainly on arithmetic topics like percentages, averages, profit-loss, time-work, and speed-distance.

• SSC CGL: Includes both arithmetic and advanced mathematics like geometry, trigonometry, algebra, mensuration, and data interpretation.

Description: If you prepare for SSC CGL mathematics, you will automatically cover NTPC maths, but not the other way around.

Reasoning Ability: Puzzles vs. Analytical Logic

Reasoning is a major part of both exams, but the style differs.

• RRB NTPC: More puzzle-based reasoning such as coding-decoding, blood relations, series, puzzles, analogy, and direction sense.

• SSC CGL: More analytical reasoning such as syllogisms, statement-assumption, statement-conclusion, and data sufficiency.

Description: SSC CGL reasoning requires more logical depth, while NTPC reasoning is scoring if you practice regularly.

General Awareness: Current Affairs vs. Conceptual Knowledge

General Awareness is important in both exams, but with different emphasis.

• RRB NTPC: More weightage to current affairs, static GK, history, geography, and general science.

• SSC CGL: More weightage to static subjects like polity, economy, history, and basic science, with relatively fewer current affairs.

Description: For NTPC, you must follow daily current affairs, while SSC CGL demands a deeper understanding of concepts.

English Language: Major Difference Between Both Exams

This is the area where the two exams differ the most.

• RRB NTPC: English is not a separate section in CBT 1 or CBT 2.

• SSC CGL: English has a major role. In Tier 1, English has equal weightage with other sections. In Tier 2, English is the highest scoring subject with 135 marks out of 390 total marks.

Description: English can be the deciding factor in SSC CGL selection. Candidates must prepare grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and error spotting. For NTPC, English preparation is not required at all.

Can One Preparation Cover Both Exams?

Yes, but only to an extent. Preparing for SSC CGL automatically covers most NTPC topics, but not the reverse.

• If you prepare for SSC CGL: You already cover advanced maths, reasoning, and English. You only need to add more current affairs and static GK for NTPC.

• If you prepare for RRB NTPC only: You may fall short in SSC’s advanced maths and large weightage of English.

Description: That is why SSC CGL preparation is broader and gives you an advantage in covering both exams together.

SSC CGL vs. RRB NTPC Syllabus

While there are similarities, the syllabus is not the same. SSC CGL demands deeper study of advanced maths and English, while RRB NTPC is more focused on arithmetic maths, puzzles, and current affairs. The smartest approach is to prepare for SSC CGL first, as it covers almost all NTPC areas. With additional GK and current affairs preparation, you can succeed in both exams.