RPF Constable Syllabus 2026 – Complete Subject-wise List
Contents
✓ Verified against Ministry of Railways (RPF) Recruitment Standards 2026. All topics reproduced for CBT, PET, and PMT stages.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) Constable exam is a highly competitive national-level recruitment. To secure a post, candidates must excel in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) followed by rigorous physical evaluations. The syllabus is designed at the Matriculation (10th) level.
Exam Pattern Overview (2026)
The CBT is the primary screening stage. Candidates are evaluated on speed and accuracy within a 90-minute window.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
| Basic Arithmetic | 35 | 35 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd Mark |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 | 35 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd Mark |
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd Mark |
| Total | 120 | 120 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd per error |
Complete Subject-wise Syllabus
1. Basic Arithmetic (35 Marks)
This section tests numerical ability and fundamental mathematical concepts.
- Number Systems: Whole numbers, Integers, Fractions, Decimals, and Simplification.
- Relationships between numbers: Decimals and Fractions.
- Fundamental Arithmetical Operations: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division.
- Percentages: Calculation, Increase/Decrease, and contextual applications.
- Ratio and Proportion: Simple Ratios, Compound Ratios, and Proportions.
- Averages: Simple and Weighted Averages.
- Interest: Simple Interest (SI) and Compound Interest (CI).
- Profit and Loss: Cost Price, Selling Price, Discount, and Market Price.
- Mensuration: Area and Perimeter (2D), Volume and Surface Area (3D).
- Time, Speed & Distance: Relative Speed, Average Speed, Problems on Trains and Boats.
- Time and Work: Work Efficiency, Work and Wages, Pipes and Cisterns.
- Algebra: Basic Expressions and Simple Linear Equations.
- Data Interpretation: Tables, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs, and Pie Charts.
2. General Intelligence & Reasoning (35 Marks)
Assesses logical, analytical, and spatial visualization skills.
- Analogies: Semantic, Symbolic/Number, and Figural analysis.
- Classification: Semantic, Symbolic/Number, and Figural classification.
- Series: Semantic, Number, and Figural Series.
- Coding-Decoding: Letter Shifting, Fictitious Language, and Numbers/Symbols.
- Puzzles & Seating Arrangement: Linear and Circular arrangements.
- Blood Relations: Family Tree and Coded Relationships.
- Directions and Distances: Map-based logic and distance calculation.
- Venn Diagrams: Simple and Compound Logical Diagrams.
- Syllogism: Logical deduction from statements.
- Mathematical Operations: Arithmetic and Logical operations.
- Non-Verbal Reasoning: Mirror and Water Images, Embedded Figures, Paper Cutting and Folding.
- Decision Making: Analytical and Situational Judgment.
- Data Sufficiency: Determining if provided info can solve the problem.
- Critical Reasoning: Strong/Weak Arguments, Statement & Conclusion, Course of Action.
3. General Awareness (50 Marks)
The highest weightage section, testing knowledge of current events and static facts.
- Current Affairs: National/International Events, Awards, Appointments, and Sports News.
- Indian History: Freedom Struggle, Ancient/Medieval History, and Dynasties.
- Geography: Indian and World Geography, Rivers, National Parks, and Monuments.
- Indian Polity & Constitution: Fundamental Rights, Preamble, Amendments, and DPSPs.
- Indian Railways: History, Achievements, and Current Developments in Railways.
- General Science: 10th-level Physics, Chemistry, and Biology; Space and Environment.
- Economy: Economic Reforms, Poverty, Unemployment, and Social Issues.
- Art and Culture: Dance Forms, Festivals, Music, and Indian Architecture.
- Sports: Events, Personalities, and Terminologies.
- Books and Authors: Famous historical and contemporary publications.
Physical Standards & Efficiency (PET/PMT)
Candidates qualifying the CBT must pass the physical tests. These are qualifying in nature but mandatory.
Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
| Category | Male Height (cm) | Female Height (cm) | Male Chest (Unexpanded/Expanded) |
| UR / OBC | 165 | 157 | 80 cm / 85 cm |
| SC / ST | 160 | 152 | 76.2 cm / 81.2 cm |
| Hill Categories* | 163 | 155 | 80 cm / 85 cm |
*Includes Garhwalis, Gorkhas, Marathas, Dogras, Kumaunese, etc.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
| Event | Male Standard | Female Standard |
| 1600 Meters Run | 5 Min 45 Sec | Not Applicable |
| 800 Meters Run | Not Applicable | 3 Min 40 Sec |
| Long Jump | 14 Feet | 9 Feet |
| High Jump | 4 Feet | 3 Feet |
Strategic Preparation Guide
- Focus on General Awareness: Since this section carries 50 marks, prioritize Indian Polity and Indian National Movement, as these are high-yield topics.
- Master Arithmetic Accuracy: 1/3rd negative marking can be brutal. Practice Number Systems and Profit/Loss to build a strong foundation.
- PET Training: Start physical training alongside CBT preparation. The 1600m run (5:45) is one of the toughest standards in paramilitary exams.
- Previous Year Papers: Solve papers specifically from 2018-2024 cycles to understand the “Railway-style” of questioning, which often includes direct science and railway-related facts.
Official Resources
- Official Website: rpf.indianrailways.gov.in
- Selection Stages: CBT → PET & PMT → Document Verification (DV) → Medical Exam.
Note: Final merit is prepared based on CBT marks only, provided the candidate qualifies for the PET/PMT and is found medically fit (Category B-1).
