RRB JE Exam Pattern 2026 for CBT 1 and CBT 2, Complete Details

In this article, we have provided a detailed overview of the RRB JE Exam Pattern 2026 for both CBT 1 and CBT 2. Understanding the exam structure, marking scheme, and subject-wise distribution will help you prepare strategically and boost your chances of success.

The RRB JE exam is conducted in multiple stages, including Computer-Based Test 1 (CBT 1), Computer-Based Test 2 (CBT 2), Document Verification, and Medical Examination. Among these, the two computer-based tests play a vital role, as candidates must qualify in both to move forward in the selection process.

RRB JE Exam Pattern 2026- Overview

​The RRB JE CBT 1 and CBT 2 exams comprise objective-type multiple-choice questions, with a negative marking of ⅓ mark for each incorrect answer. While CBT 1 evaluates a candidate’s general aptitude, reasoning ability, and basic science knowledge, CBT 2 is designed to test technical expertise and discipline-specific subjects. A clear understanding of the RRB JE exam pattern enables candidates to plan their preparation strategically and improve their overall performance in the examination.​

RRB JE Exam Pattern 2026 - Highlights
Selection Process
CBT 1 & 2, Document Verification, Medical Examination
Total Marks
CBT 1 - 100
CBT 2 - 150
Exam Duration
CBT 1 - 90 minutes
CBT 2 - 120 minutes
Negative Marking
1/3 Mark

RRB JE CBT 1 Exam Pattern 2026 

The RRB JE 2026 Exam is conducted to check candidates’ technical knowledge and general aptitude in engineering fields like Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and other related branches.

  • ​The CBT exam will be conducted in online mode (Computer-Based Test).
  • All questions will be of an objective type (MCQs).
  • The question paper will be for a total of 200 marks.
  • For every incorrect answer, 1/3rd of the marks allotted to that question are deducted.
  • Candidates will get 90 minutes (1.5 hours) to complete the exam.
RRB JE CBT 1 Exam Pattern 2026
Subject
No. of Questions
Marks
Duration
Mathematics
30
30
90 mins
General Awareness & Reasoning
25
25
General Awareness
15
15
General Science
30
30
Total
100
100

Important Note:

Based on the new exam pattern, the question paper will be presented section-wise. Unlike earlier exams where questions from different subjects were mixed, each subject will now appear in separate sections. Candidates can either attempt the sections in any order of their choice or follow the default sequence provided in the exam.

RRB JE CBT 2 Exam Pattern 2026

The RRB JE Paper 2 Exam is the second stage of the selection process. The detailed exam pattern is given below:

  • The exam will be held in online mode (Computer-Based Test).
  • All questions will be Objective type (MCQs).
  • The exam duration is 2 hours (120 minutes).
  • For each incorrect answer, there will be a negative marking of 1/3rd mark.
RRB JE CBT 2 Exam Pattern 
Exam Name
Subjects
Marks
Time Duration
RRB CBT-2
General Awareness
15
120 Minutes
Physics & Chemistry
15
Basics of Computer Applications
10
Basics of Environmental & Pollution
10
Technical Discipline
100
Total
150 Marks

Difference Between CBT 1 and CBT 2

The exam pattern of CBT 1 and CBT 2 may be similar, but there are some differences that you must be aware of. In the table below, you can check the primary differences between both.

Aspect
CBT 1
CBT 2
Purpose
Screening test to shortlist candidates for CBT 2
Final stage of the written exam to evaluate technical and domain knowledge
Marks & Questions
Usually fewer questions and marks compared to CBT 2
More questions and higher marks, with emphasis on technical subjects
Subjects Covered
General Awareness, General Intelligence & Reasoning, Mathematics, General Science
Technical subjects related to the candidate’s discipline (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, etc.), plus General Awareness and Reasoning
Level of Difficulty
Moderate
Higher, especially in technical areas
Negative Marking
1/3 mark for each wrong answer
1/3 mark for each wrong answer
Qualifying Criteria
Candidates need to meet the minimum cut-off to qualify for CBT 2
Marks obtained are considered for final merit along with document verification



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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I check detailed RRB JE Exam Pattern 2026?
Q: How many papers are there in the RRB JE 2025 Exam?
Q: Is there any negative marking in the RRB JE paper?