RPF Exam vs CISF Exam: Both RPF and CISF job roles play an important role in India’s security system. Every year, candidates apply for these examinations to join the Railway Protection Force and the Central Industrial Security Force. In this article, we will provide you with a complete overview of the RPF Exam vs CISF Exam 2025.
RPF Exam vs CISF Exam
We have provided a table discussing the major differences between the RPF and CISF job roles and responsibilities. Check out the information given below:
| Exam | Conducting Authority | Purpose |
| RPF (Railway Protection Force) | Indian Railways | To recruit personnel who ensure the safety and security of passengers, property, and premises within the railway system. |
| CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) | Ministry of Home Affairs (Govt. of India) | To recruit personnel responsible for providing security to public sector enterprises and critical infrastructure installations across the country. |
RPF Exam vs CISF Exam – Eligibility Criteria
To be recruited under the RPF or CISF, a candidate needs to meet the eligibility criteria. The details of the eligibility criteria are tabulated below:
| Parameters | RPF Exam | CISF Exam |
| Age Limit | Constable: 18–25 years SI: 20–25 years | Constable/Tradesman: 18–25 years ASI: 21–27 years |
| Educational Qualification | Constable: 10th Pass SI: Graduation | 10th Pass (for most posts) |
| Nationality | Must be an Indian citizen | Must be an Indian citizen |
| Physical Standards (Male) | Height: 165 cm Chest: 80–85 cm (expanded) Weight: Proportionate to height & age | Height: ~170 cm Chest: 80 cm (unexpanded), 85 cm (expanded) Weight: Proportionate to height & age |
| Physical Standards (Female) | Height: 157 cm Weight: Proportionate to height & age | Height: ~157 cm (varies by region) Weight: Proportionate to height & age |
| Number of Attempts | No limit (within age criteria) | No limit (within age criteria) |
RPF Exam vs CISF Exam – Selection Process
Both the RPF and CISF recruitment processes have various stages of selection. The details of the selection process are given below:
| Stage | RPF Exam | CISF Exam |
| Computer-Based Test (CBT) | – Tests knowledge related to the job. – Subjects include General Awareness, Arithmetic, Reasoning, and General Intelligence. | – Assesses understanding of relevant topics. – Covers subjects like General Awareness, Reasoning, Numerical Ability, and General English. |
| Physical Efficiency Test (PET) | – Evaluates physical endurance through activities like running, long jumps, and high jumps. | – Assesses physical fitness through activities like running, long jumps, and high jumps. |
| Physical Measurement Test (PMT) | – Checks height and chest size (for male candidates) to ensure they meet the required standards. | – Ensures height and chest (for male candidates) meet requirements. |
| 4. Document Verification | – Validates eligibility and authenticity. | – Verifies documents and certificates. |
| 5. Final Merit List | – Based on performance in the above stages, a final list of successful candidates is prepared. | – A final list of successful candidates is prepared based on overall performance. |
Check: RPF Constable Notification 2025
RPF Exam vs CISF Exam – Exam Pattern
Both the RPF and CISF exams involve a computer-based test that candidates must qualify for. The details of the exam pattern are tabulated below:
| Exam Pattern | RPF Exam | CISF Exam |
| Exam Mode | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Written Examination |
| Sections | General Awareness, Arithmetic, General Intelligence & Reasoning | General Awareness Arithmetic General Intelligence General English |
| Number of Questions | 120 | 100 |
| Total Marks | 120 | Paper 1 (Objective type): 250 Paper 2 (Descriptive type): 200 |
| Duration | 90 minutes | Paper 1 (Objective type): 2 hours Paper 2 (Descriptive type): 3 hours |
| Negative Marking | Yes | No negative marking in the written examination. |
Check: RPF SI Notification 2025
RPF Exam vs CISF Exam – Syllabus
The Railway RPF Syllabus comprises important subjects, including General Awareness, Arithmetic, General Intelligence, and Reasoning. On the other hand, the CISF Constable Exam includes topics like General Awareness, Mathematics, Analytical Ability, English, and Reasoning Ability. The details are tabulated below:
| Exam | Subject | Important Topics |
| RPF Exam | General Awareness | Current events, Indian history, Art & Culture, Geography, Economics, General Polity, Indian Constitution, Sports, General Science |
| Arithmetic | Number systems, whole numbers, decimals & fractions, relationships between numbers, fundamental operations, percentages, ratio & proportion, averages, interest, profit & loss, discount, tables & graphs, mensuration, time & distance, ratio & time, time & work | |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | Analogies, similarities & differences, spatial visualization, spatial orientation, problem-solving, analysis, judgment, decision making, visual memory, discrimination, observation, relationship concepts, arithmetical reasoning, verbal & figure classification, number series, non-verbal series, coding & decoding, statement-conclusion, syllogistic reasoning | |
| CISF Constable Exam | General Awareness | Current affairs, history, geography, culture, general knowledge |
| Mathematics | Basic arithmetic, numerical ability, quantitative aptitude | |
| Analytical Ability | Logical reasoning, puzzles, problem-solving | |
| English | Vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, writing skills | |
| Reasoning Ability | Verbal & non-verbal reasoning | |
| CISF ASI Exam | Paper I (Objective) | General Ability & Intelligence, Professional Skill |
| Paper II (Descriptive) | Essay writing, Precis writing, Comprehension |
Both the RPF and CISF exams lead to vital security roles in India. While the RPF guards railways and the CISF protects crucial places, both ensure national security in their unique ways. They attract different candidates due to their specific requirements and responsibilities. Candidates should consider their interests and capabilities when choosing between the two exams.
RPF Exam vs CISF Exam – FAQs
Ans: The selection process for both exams includes Computer-Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Physical Measurement Test (PMT), Document Verification, and a Final Merit List.
Ans: The RPF Exam is conducted through a Computer-Based Test (CBT) with sections covering General Awareness, Arithmetic, General Intelligence & Reasoning, while the CISF Exam involves a written examination covering subjects like General Awareness, Arithmetic, General Intelligence, and General English, with different durations and marking schemes.
Ans: There is no limit to the number of attempts for both exams as long as candidates fall within the prescribed age limit.
Ans: Yes, the RPF Exam is conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, while the CISF Exam involves a written examination.
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- Important RPF Constable Maths Questions, Practice MCQs
- RPF SI Job Profile 2025, Duties of an SI in Indian Railways
- Railway RPF Eligibility Criteria 2025, Check the Details
Hello! This is Arijit Dutta. I am a skilled Content Writer at Oliveboard with nearly 3+ years of experience in crafting engaging, informative, and exam-focused content for the Railways Domain. With a strong command of language and a keen understanding of learner needs, I contribute significantly to Oliveboard’s mission of delivering high-quality educational resources. Passionate about clear communication and continuous learning, I consistently create content that helps government job aspirants achieve their goals. Outside of work, I enjoy playing cricket and listening to music, which helps me stay balanced and creative in my professional journey.