RRB NTPC vs SSC CGL vs IBPS Clerk: Government job aspirants in India often face a dilemma when choosing between the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC), Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Combined Graduate Level (CGL), and Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) Clerk exams. One of the critical factors influencing this decision is the vacancy-to-applicant ratio, which indicates the level of competition for each post. In this article, we will analyze and compare the vacancy-to-applicant ratios of these three major exams to help you make an informed choice.
Vacancy-to-Applicant Ratio Comparison
The vacancy-to-applicant ratio is calculated by dividing the total number of applicants by the number of vacancies. A higher ratio indicates more competition for each post.
1. RRB NTPC
- Vacancies (2025-26): 8,850 (5,800 Graduate + 3,050 Undergraduate)
- Applicants (2019): Approximately 1.26 crore (12.6 million)
- Competition Ratio: Approximately 1:3,580
2. SSC CGL
- Vacancies (2024): 18,174
- Applicants (2024): Approximately 36.73 lakh (3.673 million)
- Competition Ratio: Approximately 1:20
3. IBPS Clerk
- Vacancies (2023): 4,545
- Applicants (2023): Approximately 9 lakh (0.9 million)
- Competition Ratio: Approximately 1:198
RRB NTPC vs SSC CGL vs IBPS Clerk Vacancy Analysis
A detailed comparison table has been given below showing the vacancy analysis and the competition ratio between the exams. Check out the details below:
| Exam | Vacancies | Applicants | Competition Ratio | Notes |
| RRB NTPC | 8,850 | 1.26 crore | 1:3,580 | High competition due to large number of applicants |
| SSC CGL | 18,174 | 36.73 lakh | 1:20 | One of the most competitive exams with a significant number of posts |
| IBPS Clerk | 4,545 | 9 lakh | 1:198 | Relatively lower competition compared to RRB NTPC and SSC CGL |
- RRB NTPC: Despite the large number of applicants, the number of vacancies is also significant, leading to a moderate competition ratio. However, the selection process involves multiple stages, including Computer-Based Tests (CBTs), skill tests, and document verification, which can be time-consuming and challenging.
- SSC CGL: This exam is highly competitive due to the vast number of applicants and a relatively lower number of vacancies. The selection process includes multiple tiers, including Tier-I (Prelims), Tier-II (Mains), and Tier-III (Descriptive), along with document verification. The introduction of a “sliding scheme” aims to fill all advertised vacancies, potentially increasing the chances of selection.
- IBPS Clerk: With a lower competition ratio, the IBPS Clerk exam offers relatively better chances of selection. The selection process includes a Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, and Document Verification. The vacancies are distributed among various public sector banks, providing opportunities across different regions.
Key Points
The key points of vacancy, competition ratio analysis are given below for the candidates:
- RRB NTPC: Offers a moderate competition ratio but involves a lengthy and multi-stage selection process.
- SSC CGL: Highly competitive with a lower vacancy-to-applicant ratio; the “sliding scheme” may enhance selection chances.
- IBPS Clerk: Provides the lowest competition ratio among the three, making it a favorable option for many aspirants.
Choosing between RRB NTPC, SSC CGL, and IBPS Clerk depends on individual preferences, career goals, and preparation strategies. If you prefer a career in the railways with a moderate competition ratio, RRB NTPC could be suitable. For those aiming for central government services with a higher competition ratio, SSC CGL offers prestigious positions. However, if you are looking for a relatively less competitive exam with opportunities in the banking sector, IBPS Clerk presents a favourable option.
FAQs
IBPS Clerk has the lowest vacancy-to-applicant ratio (~1:198), making it relatively less competitive than RRB NTPC (~1:3,580) and SSC CGL (~1:20).
Not necessarily. While a lower ratio indicates less competition per vacancy, factors like exam difficulty, stages of selection, and sectional cut-offs also impact the overall chances of selection.
SSC CGL generally offers the highest number of vacancies among the three exams. For example, in 2024, around 18,174 posts were advertised.
Yes.
RRB NTPC: CBT-1, CBT-2, Typing/Skill Test (if applicable), Document Verification
SSC CGL: Tier-I (Prelims), Tier-II (Mains), Tier-III (Descriptive), Document Verification
IBPS Clerk: Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, Document Verification
IBPS Clerk is specifically designed for banking sector recruitment and offers opportunities in multiple public sector banks, making it ideal for candidates aiming for a banking career.
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.