Revised Recruitment Process for Indian Railways Station Masters Set for 2026

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has announced significant changes to the recruitment process for Station Masters in Indian Railways, set to take effect in 2026. The new system introduces a single written examination and a revised merit-ranking approach, aiming to simplify and accelerate the recruitment process. Candidates will now face a single Computer-Based Test followed by a Psycho Test, with merit determined by a 70-30 weightage system. This article delves into the details of the old and new patterns, providing insights into the upcoming changes.

By Ambika Singh Oct 9, 2026, 10:54 IST

Significant Changes in Station Master Recruitment

Candidates aspiring to become Station Masters in Indian Railways have received important news. The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) is implementing major modifications to the recruitment process for Station Masters, which will take effect in 2026. A key change is the introduction of a single written examination for this position, along with a revised merit-ranking system. Furthermore, the RRB will release a distinct notification specifically for Station Master recruitment. These adjustments aim to streamline and expedite the recruitment process.

Comparison of Old and New Recruitment Patterns

To better understand the changes, let's examine the previous and updated recruitment patterns for Station Masters in Indian Railways.

Previous Exam Pattern for Station Master Recruitment

Historically, the RRB filled Station Master vacancies through the NTPC Graduate Level recruitment process. Consequently, the examination format for Station Masters was aligned with that of the NTPC Graduate Level, requiring candidates to undergo two phases of written exams. The initial phase was a Computer-Based Test (CBT-1), and those who passed this stage moved on to CBT-2. Successful candidates from CBT-2 then participated in the 'Psycho' test, officially known as the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT).

New Examination Structure

Updated Process: One CBT Followed by a CBAT

With the new system, the RRB will issue a separate notification for Station Master positions, distinct from the NTPC Graduate Level recruitment. The examination format has been revised, set to commence in 2026. This new approach involves a single online written examination for Station Master recruitment. Candidates will be shortlisted for the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (Psycho Test) based on a ratio of eight times the total number of vacancies.

Merit List Calculation

Merit Determination with Weightage System

In the updated framework, specific weightage has been allocated to the 'psycho test' for Station Master recruitment. The final merit list will be derived from a combination of scores, with 70% weightage assigned to the written examination results and 30% to the psycho test scores. Following this, candidates will undergo document verification and medical examinations in a 1:1 ratio.