The RRB has released the provisional answer key for the NTPC CBT 1 Graduate-level examination, with an objection window open until April 12, 2026.
The wider picture
The RRB NTPC CBT 1 exam for graduate-level posts was successfully conducted across multiple test centres nationwide from March 16 to March 27, 2026. This examination is a crucial step for candidates seeking employment in various positions under the Indian Railways. Following the completion of the exam, candidates eagerly awaited the release of the answer key, which serves as a benchmark for evaluating their performance.
On April 6, 2026, the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) released the provisional answer key along with candidate response sheets for the NTPC CBT 1 Graduate-level examination. Candidates can access and download their answer key from their respective official RRB regional websites. This release marks an important milestone in the recruitment process, as it allows candidates to compare their answers and assess their potential performance.
In a significant development, candidates who identify discrepancies in the answers can challenge them until 11:55 pm on April 12, 2026. The RRB has set a fee of Rs 50 per question for submitting a challenge against the answer key. Payments for objections can be made through various methods, including RuPay cards, credit cards, UPI, or net banking. This process ensures that candidates have a fair opportunity to contest any errors they believe exist in the answer key.
The RRB strictly advises candidates to submit their challenges before the deadline, as no requests will be entertained post-April 12. This strict adherence to deadlines is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the examination process. If an objection is verified and found correct, the fee will be refunded to the candidate’s original payment account, providing an incentive for candidates to raise legitimate concerns.
Starting from April 6, 2026, at 4 pm, candidates can check their question paper, recorded responses, and the answer key. The objection period for the answer key is from April 6 to April 12, 2026. After reviewing all submitted objections, the final answer key will be prepared. The decision taken by the RRBs after considering the objections will be final, ensuring that the process remains transparent and accountable.
The final answer key will be used to prepare the results for the next stage of the recruitment process, which is highly anticipated by candidates. The complete procedure for raising objections has been published on the official websites, providing clear guidance for candidates on how to navigate this critical phase of the examination process.
As the deadline for raising objections approaches, candidates are urged to act swiftly and ensure that their concerns are addressed. The RRB’s commitment to transparency and fairness in the recruitment process is evident in the measures taken to allow candidates to challenge the answer key. This proactive approach not only enhances the credibility of the examination but also fosters trust among candidates seeking employment in the Indian Railways.
