RPF SI Syllabus 2026 – Complete Subject-wise List & Pattern
Contents
✓ Verified against Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Standards 2026. All topics for Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment reproduced verbatim.
The RPF Sub-Inspector (SI) examination is a graduate-level recruitment conducted by the Indian Ministry of Railways. Candidates must navigate a multi-stage process involving a Computer-Based Test (CBT), Physical tests, and Document Verification to qualify for Level-6 posts.
Exam Pattern Overview (2026)
The CBT is an objective-type exam with a composite duration. Candidates must meet the minimum qualifying percentage to move to the physical round.
| Subject / Section | Questions | Marks | Duration | Negative Marking |
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd Mark |
| Arithmetic | 35 | 35 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd Mark |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 | 35 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd Mark |
| Total | 120 | 120 | 90 Minutes | 1/3rd per error |
Qualifying Marks (CBT)
- General / OBC / EWS: 35% (Minimum 42 Marks)
- SC / ST: 30% (Minimum 36 Marks)
Complete Subject-wise Syllabus (100% Verbatim)
1. Arithmetic (35 Marks)
This section tests the candidate’s speed and accuracy with numerical concepts.
- Number Systems: Whole numbers, Integers, Fractions, Decimals, and Simplification.
- Basic Operations: Problems on L.C.M and H.C.F, Percentages, Ratio and Proportion.
- Commercial Math: Profit and Loss, Discount, Simple Interest, Compound Interest, Partnership.
- Time & Calculation: Time and Work, Time and Distance, Pipes and Cisterns, Problems on Trains, Boats and Streams.
- Advanced Arithmetic: Averages, Mixtures and Allegations, Races and Games, Numbers and Ages, Simple Equations, Quadratic Equations.
- Geometry & Probability: Areas, Volumes, Mensuration, Probability, Permutations and Combinations.
- Miscellaneous: Odd Man Out, Indices and Surds, Simplification and Approximation.
2. General Intelligence & Reasoning (35 Marks)
Assesses logical reasoning and spatial visualization abilities.
- Analogies: Semantic, Symbolic, and Figural analysis.
- Visual Reasoning: Similarities and differences, Spatial visualization, Spatial orientation.
- Logical Analysis: Problem-solving analysis, Decision making, Visual memory, Discriminating observation.
- Relational Logic: Blood Relation, Syllogistic reasoning.
- Classification: Verbal and figure classification.
- Series & Coding: Arithmetical reasoning, Arithmetic number series, Non-verbal series, Coding and decoding.
- Critical Thinking: Statement & Arguments / Conclusion.
3. General Awareness (50 Marks)
The most significant section, testing knowledge of the world and current events.
- Static GK: History, Geography, Indian Economy, Environment, International & National Organizations.
- Polity & Science: Indian Constitution, General Science.
- Contemporary Facts: Current Affairs, Budget, Awards, Sports.
- Authors & Literature: Famous Books and Authors, Abbreviations.
RPF SI Selection Process (2026)
The recruitment is finalized after four rigorous stages:
- Stage 1 – Computer Based Test (CBT): The primary screening stage (120 Marks).
- Stage 2 – Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Running, long jump, and high jump (Qualifying).
- Stage 3 – Physical Measurement Test (PMT): Height and chest verification.
- Stage 4 – Document Verification (DV) & Medical: Final authenticity check and B-1 medical standard testing.
Physical Standards (PET/PMT)
Candidates must meet these physical requirements to be eligible for appointment.
Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
| Category | Male Height | Female Height | Male Chest (Unexpanded/Expanded) |
| UR / OBC / EWS | 165 cm | 157 cm | 80 cm / 85 cm |
| SC / ST | 160 cm | 152 cm | 76.2 cm / 81.2 cm |
| Hill Categories* | 163 cm | 155 cm | 80 cm / 85 cm |
*Includes Garhwalis, Gorkhas, Marathas, Dogras, Kumaonese, etc.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
| Event | Male Requirement | Female Requirement |
| 1600 Meters Run | Within 6 min 30 sec | Not Applicable |
| 800 Meters Run | Not Applicable | Within 4 minutes |
| Long Jump | 12 Feet (2 Chances) | 9 Feet (2 Chances) |
| High Jump | 3 Feet 9 Inch (2 Chances) | 3 Feet (2 Chances) |
Strategic Preparation Guide
- Pillar Subjects: General Awareness carries nearly 42% of the weightage. Focus on Indian Railways facts and Current Affairs from the last 12 months.
- Practice for Speed: You have only 45 seconds per question. Solve RPF SI Previous Year Papers to improve your time management in the Arithmetic section.
- Physical Training: Do not wait for CBT results. The 1600m run in 6:30 is challenging; start stamina training at least 3 months in advance.
- Negative Marking Caution: With a 1/3rd deduction, avoid guesswork. Accuracy is more important than attempting all 120 questions.
Official Resources
- Official Website: indianrailways.gov.in
- Notification Detail: Centralized Employment Notice (CEN) No. RPF 01/2024.
Pro-Tip: Check the MySarkariNaukri.com “Job Alert” section for zone-wise vacancy updates and final merit list PDF downloads.
