How is the final merit list prepared?

How is the final merit list prepared?

The final merit list for the RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories) exam is prepared based on candidates' performance in the various stages of the selection process, including CBT 2, skill tests (if applicable), and the document verification stage. Here's a breakdown of how the final merit list is prepared:

1. Performance in CBT 2

The CBT 2 (Second Stage Computer-Based Test) is the most critical component for determining a candidate's rank in the final merit list.

• For most posts, the marks obtained in CBT 2 are the primary determinant of the candidate’s position in the final merit list.
• Weightage: For the majority of the posts, the marks from CBT 2 will count 100% toward the final merit list.
• Post-Specific Cutoffs: Candidates must meet the post-specific cutoff marks in CBT 2 to be considered for further stages.

2. Skill Tests (for specific posts)

For certain posts, candidates also need to qualify in a skill test (either the Typing Skill Test (TST) or Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)). These tests are qualifying in nature but may contribute to the final merit in specific posts.

a. Typing Skill Test (TST)

• Posts: This test is required for Junior Clerk cum Typist, Accounts Clerk cum Typist, Senior Clerk cum Typist, etc.
• Impact on Merit List: The TST is only qualifying in nature, which means that candidates must pass it, but the marks do not contribute to the final merit score.
• Final merit for these posts is based solely on CBT 2 scores (100%).

b. Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)

• Posts: This test is required for Station Master and Traffic Assistant.
• Impact on Merit List: The final merit for these posts is calculated based on the performance in both CBT 2 and CBAT.
• CBT 2 score carries a 70% weightage.
• CBAT score carries a 30% weightage.
• Candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying marks (T-score of 42) in each of the CBAT test batteries.

3. Document Verification (DV)

Candidates who clear CBT 2 (and the skill tests if applicable) are called for Document Verification (DV).

• Verification of Eligibility: The purpose of this stage is to verify the candidate’s eligibility, including educational qualifications, age, category (if applicable), and other necessary documentation.
• Medical Fitness: Along with document verification, candidates also undergo a medical fitness test to ensure they meet the required physical and health standards for the post.

4. Medical Examination

• Candidates who pass the document verification process are required to undergo a medical fitness examination.
• The medical standards vary based on the post, and candidates must meet the required medical criteria (e.g., A-2, C-1) to be considered fit for final selection.

5. Preparation of the Final Merit List

Once candidates have successfully cleared all the stages, the final merit list is prepared based on the following criteria:

• For Posts Without Skill Tests (e.g., Goods Guard, Commercial Apprentice):
• The merit list is entirely based on marks obtained in CBT 2.
• For Posts With CBAT (e.g., Station Master, Traffic Assistant):
• 70% weightage is given to the CBT 2 score.
• 30% weightage is given to the CBAT score.
• For Posts With TST (e.g., Junior Clerk cum Typist):
• The TST is qualifying in nature, and the final merit is based solely on CBT 2 scores.

After considering the CBT 2 scores, CBAT scores (where applicable), and document verification/medical examination, the final merit list is published by the Railway Recruitment Board.

6. Post Preferences and Final Allotment

• Candidates are given the opportunity to fill in their post preferences at the time of application. Based on the candidate's rank in the merit list and the availability of vacancies, candidates are allotted posts according to their preferences.
• Tie-breaking criteria: If two or more candidates have the same marks in the final merit list, the following tie-breaking rules are applied:

1.       Age: The older candidate is given preference.

2.      Alphabetical Order: If the tie persists, the candidate whose name comes first alphabetically is given preference.

Conclusion

The final merit list for RRB NTPC is primarily determined by the candidate's performance in CBT 2, along with marks from CBAT (for specific posts). The Typing Skill Test (TST) and CBAT are qualifying stages, with TST not contributing to the merit score and CBAT contributing 30% for applicable posts. The merit list is finalized after document verification and medical fitness tests, ensuring that only eligible and fit candidates are selected for the respective posts.