Latest verified update
CEN 04/2026 CBT I is tentatively scheduled for 27–28 October 2026 under the 2 October revision. The original application window has closed; the detailed notice must be read with its CMA addendum.
At a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| CEN | 04/2026 |
| Post groups | Junior Engineer, Depot Material Superintendent; CMA added by amendment |
| Initial advertised JE/DMS vacancies | 3,993; read the subsequent additions |
| Base age | 18–33 on 1 January 2027; prescribed relaxations apply |
| Initial basic pay | Level 6: ₹35,400 |
| Application status | Original submission closed on 13 September 2026 |
| CBT I | 27–28 October 2026; revised tentative schedule |
Notification and verified amendments
The 13 August notification initially covered JE and DMS. Corrigendum 1 adds one JE/Electrical/TRS vacancy in Secunderabad/SCR and 35 Chemical & Metallurgical Assistant vacancies, as well as CMA qualification, exam-group and syllabus details. Read both documents when selecting your post parameters. The additions should not be mistaken for a separate recruitment.
The revised 2 October schedule supersedes the earlier 16 September timetable and sets CBT I tentatively for 27–28 October. Keep the recruitment number with the date: the older CEN 05/2025 was already at document-verification shortlisting in September 2026.
Official reference: Corrigendum 1.
Official reference: Revised CBT I schedule.
Syllabus and technical exam groups
CBT I covers arithmetic and mathematics, reasoning, current affairs/general awareness, and Class 10 Physics, Chemistry and Life Sciences. CBT II adds computer basics and environmental topics to the common subjects, with 100 indicative technical questions.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Civil and Allied | Annexure VIII A |
| Electrical and Allied | Annexure VIII B |
| Electronics and Allied | Annexure VIII C |
| Mechanical and Allied | Annexure VIII D |
| CMA | Annexure VIII E added by Corrigendum 1 |
For the common CBT II sections, revise computer architecture, input/output, storage, networking, operating systems, office applications, internet and security basics. Environmental coverage includes pollution and controls, waste management, global warming, acid rain and ozone depletion. CMA candidates must use the added Physics/Chemistry syllabus rather than an engineering-group coaching outline.
Official reference: Paragraphs 13.1–13.3 and Annexure VIII.
Official reference: CMA syllabus addendum.
Exam pattern and marking
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence and Reasoning | 25 | 25 |
| General Awareness | 15 | 15 |
| General Science | 30 | 30 |
| Total | 100 questions | 100 marks; 90 minutes |
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| General Awareness | 15 | 15 |
| Physics and Chemistry | 15 | 15 |
| Computers and Applications | 10 | 10 |
| Environment and Pollution Control | 10 | 10 |
| Technical Abilities | 100 | 100 |
| Total | 150 questions | 150 marks; 120 minutes |
Both CBTs deduct one-third of the allotted mark per wrong answer. The notice calls the subject distribution indicative, so it is not a guaranteed question split. Eligible scribe users have the specified extended durations: 120 minutes for CBT I and 160 for CBT II. A virtual calculator is provided in CBT II.
Qualifying minima are UR/EWS 40%, OBC-NCL/SC 30% and ST 25%; the notification contains a conditional two-mark relaxation for PwBD shortages against reserved vacancies. Competitive shortlisting can require more than the minimum. CBT I is screening, while later selection follows CBT II merit-index, preference and eligibility rules.
Official reference: Paragraphs 13.1–13.4.
Building a study plan
Map every technical topic in your selected annexure to a study session and a test. Use timed CBT I practice for speed and CBT II technical sets for depth. Maintain separate error logs for concept errors, calculation mistakes and guesses that attract negative marks. This is preparation advice, not an official question-weight forecast.
Selection, salary and preparation
The sequence is CBT I, CBT II, document verification and medical examination under the applicable post rules. CBT I shortlisting is ordinarily 15 times the community-wise vacancies, subject to RRB’s power to vary the limit. A document-verification call is not an appointment.
JE/DMS and the added CMA posts carry Level 6 with ₹35,400 initial basic pay. Net salary depends on service terms, allowances and deductions. Prepare common subjects alongside your selected technical group; preserve the original year and discipline of every practice paper.
Related guides: JE eligibility, JE exam pattern, JE syllabus and application process.
Frequently asked questions
Is the age cut-off in 2026 or 2027?
CEN 04/2026 uses 1 January 2027.
Are 27–28 October fixed personal exam dates?
They are the revised tentative CBT I window. Use your individual call letter for your date and shift.
Does every engineering graduate qualify for every post?
No. Check the exact post qualification and mapped exam group.
Does the older-cycle shortlist apply to this examination?
No. CEN 05/2025 and CEN 04/2026 are separate recruitments.
Official sources and review scope
Read subsequent official amendments and your candidate-specific instructions. A shortlist or provisional allotment does not by itself establish appointment. No unannounced 2027 recruitment facts are inferred.