The RPF SI examination, one of the most prominent recruitment examinations in India for the appointment of individuals into the Railway Protection Force (RPF) as Sub-Inspectors (SI), is a very crucial examination for all candidates preparing for it. A very strict knowledge of the RPF SI exam pattern, selection stages, and marking distribution at each stage is essential for the candidates’ success. This guide tries to explain everything in the simplest way possible so that one can follow it and prepare, with benefits even for a beginner.
Overview of RPF SI Exam Pattern 2025
The RPF SI Exam 2025 is a national-level test run by the Indian Railways. The process is fair, transparent, and open to both male and female candidates.
The recruitment happens in four main stages:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
- Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
- Document Verification (DV)
Stage 1: RPF SI Computer-Based Test (CBT)
The RPF SI CBT is the first step in the exam. This test is done online and is the gateway to the physical stages.
RPF SI CBT Exam Pattern 2025
- Mode: Online
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Questions: 120 multiple-choice questions
- Marks: 120
- Negative Marking: 1/3 mark deducted for each wrong answer
Section-wise Marks Distribution
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
| General Awareness | 50 | 50 |
| Arithmetic (Quantitative Aptitude) | 35 | 35 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 35 | 35 |
| Total | 120 | 120 |
Important Notes for CBT
- General Awareness has the highest weightage.
- Topics include current affairs, Indian history, science, geography, and railway knowledge.
- Arithmetic questions check your ability in math, percentages, ratios, and problem-solving.
- Reasoning tests logical thinking with puzzles, series, and coding-decoding.
Stage 2: RPF SI Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Once candidates pass the CBT, they move to the RFP SI PET. This stage checks your strength, stamina, and fitness. Without clearing this test, you cannot qualify.
RPF SI PET Standards 2025
- For Male Candidates:
- 1600 meters race in 6 minutes 30 seconds
- Long Jump: 12 feet
- High Jump: 3 feet 9 inches
- For Female Candidates:
- An 800-meter race in 4 minutes
- Long Jump: 9 feet
- High Jump: 3 feet
Stage 3: RPF SI Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
RPF SI PMT weighs the candidates for the official height and chest requirements. This ensures that every Sub Inspector’s acceptance is based on the physical standards prescribed by the Railway Protection Force.
RPF SI PMT Measurements
- Male Candidates:
- Height: 165 cm (General/OBC/SC), 160 cm (ST)
- Chest: 80 cm unexpanded, 85 cm expanded
- Female Candidates:
- Height: 157 cm (General/OBC/SC), 152 cm (ST)
- No chest measurement required for females
Stage 4: RPF SI Document Verification (DV)
After clearing the physical tests, candidates must prove their eligibility through Document Verification.
Documents Required for RPF SI DV
- 10th, 12th, and Graduation Certificates
- Identity Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID)
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate
- Any other official documents requested by RPF
Detailed RPF SI Syllabus 2025
Understanding the RPF SI syllabus is essential for focused preparation.
General Awareness
- Current Affairs – National and International
- Indian History and Freedom Struggle
- Indian Polity and Economy
- Geography of India and the World
- Environmental Issues
- General Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Railways and Transportation
Arithmetic (Quantitative Aptitude)
- Number System
- Ratio and Proportion
- Percentages
- Profit and Loss
- Time, Speed, and Distance
- Time and Work
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Mensuration and Geometry
- Data Interpretation
- Algebra basics
General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Analogies and Classification
- Coding and Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Syllogism
- Puzzles
- Number and Alphabet Series
- Statement and Conclusion
- Non-Verbal Reasoning
- Direction and Order Problems
RPF SI Marking Scheme 2025
- Each correct answer gives +1 mark.
- Each wrong answer deducts 1/3 mark.
- Unattempted questions give 0 marks.
Preparation Tips for RPF SI Exam 2025
- Know the Exam Pattern Well – Begin preparation with subjects that carry more marks.
- Practice Regularly – Use mock tests and past question papers for speed and accuracy.
- Stay updated – Read newspapers daily for current affairs.
- Work on Fitness – Train for running, long jump, and high jump to clear the PET.
- Plan Time Smartly – Divide 90 minutes wisely between all subjects in CBT.
Why the RPF SI Exam Pattern is Important
RPF SI exam pattern is not merely a pattern; it is a pathway to success. Candidates prepare in the best possible way, keeping in mind the number of questions, subjects, and the marking scheme. After the physical and medical stages, the selection process ensures that only the best candidates are inducted into the Railway Protection Force.
Conclusion
The RPF SI Exam Pattern 2025 is transparent, systematic, and fair. The assessment will check the candidates’ knowledge, logical ability, physical strength, and eligibility. Full devotion must be exercised in preparation for this examination if any candidate desires to attain success in it. During preparation, continuous practice must be undertaken alongside maintaining good physical fitness. It, therefore, must be said with firm determination and proper planning that every aspirant can accomplish the dream of becoming a Railway Protection Force Sub-Inspector.
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