SSC MTS vs RRB Group D: Which Exam Is Easier to Crack in 2025?

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Comparing the difficulty of the SSC MTS (Staff Selection Commission Multi-Tasking Staff) and RRB Group D (Railway Recruitment Board Group D) exams depends on several factors, including the exam pattern, syllabus, candidate’s preparation level, and aptitude. Below is a detailed comparison to help determine which exam might be considered “easier” based on objective criteria:

1. Eligibility Criteria

SSC MTS: Requires a minimum qualification of 10th pass (Matriculation) or equivalent. The age limit is 18–25 years (with relaxations for reserved categories).
RRB Group D: Requires a 10th pass or ITI from a recognized institution. The age limit is 18–33 years (with relaxations for reserved categories).
Comparison: Both exams have similar educational requirements, but RRB Group D offers a broader age range, making it more accessible for older candidates. This doesn’t directly affect exam difficulty but impacts eligibility.

2. Exam Pattern

SSC MTS:
Tier 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT) with two sessions:
- Session 1: Numerical Ability and Reasoning (45 marks, no negative marking).
- Session 2: General Awareness and English (75 marks, negative marking of 0.25 per wrong answer).
- Duration: 90 minutes total (45 minutes per session).
Tier 2: Descriptive test (short essay/letter, 50 marks, 30 minutes, qualifying in nature).
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)/Physical Standard Test (PST): For Havaldar posts only, qualifying in nature.
RRB Group D:
Computer-Based Test (CBT): Single stage with 100 questions covering General Science, Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and General Awareness & Current Affairs (100 marks, 90 minutes, negative marking of 1/3 per wrong answer).
Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Qualifying for all posts, with requirements like running and lifting weights.
Document Verification and Medical Examination: Final stages.
Comparison: SSC MTS has a two-tier structure, but Tier 2 is descriptive and qualifying, making the CBT the primary focus. RRB Group D has a single CBT but with stricter negative marking (1/3 vs. 0.25 for SSC MTS Session 2). The PET in RRB Group D may be challenging for some candidates due to its physical demands, whereas SSC MTS PET applies only to Havaldar posts.

3. Syllabus

SSC MTS:
Numerical Ability: Basic arithmetic (percentages, profit & loss, time & work, etc.).
Reasoning: Simple puzzles, analogy, coding-decoding, etc.
General Awareness: Static GK, current affairs, history, geography, etc.
English: Basic grammar, vocabulary, comprehension.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, focused on Class 10-level concepts.
RRB Group D:
General Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Class 10 level).
Mathematics: Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry (Class 10 level).
General Intelligence & Reasoning: Puzzles, seating arrangements, logical reasoning.
General Awareness & Current Affairs: Current events, railways-related GK, static GK.
Difficulty: Moderate, with a broader syllabus including science and slightly more complex reasoning.
Comparison: SSC MTS has a simpler syllabus with no science section and less complex reasoning. RRB Group D’s inclusion of General Science and more reasoning topics makes it slightly broader and potentially more challenging.

4. Difficulty Level

SSC MTS: The questions are generally straightforward, focusing on basic concepts. The absence of negative marking in Session 1 and the qualifying nature of Tier 2 make it less stressful for candidates. The English and General Awareness sections require basic knowledge, which can be easier for candidates with good reading habits.
RRB Group D: The CBT is more comprehensive, covering science and a wider range of reasoning questions. The negative marking (1/3 marks) adds pressure to answer accurately. The PET is an additional hurdle for candidates not physically prepared.
Comparison: SSC MTS is generally considered easier due to its simpler syllabus, limited science coverage, and less stringent negative marking. RRB Group D’s broader syllabus and physical test make it relatively tougher.

5. Competition and Vacancies

SSC MTS: In 2024, 9,583 vacancies were announced, attracting a large number of candidates due to the low eligibility barrier (10th pass). The cut-off varies by state but is generally lower due to the exam’s simplicity (e.g., 30% for General/OBC in Tier 1).
RRB Group D: In 2025, 32,438 vacancies were announced, with 1.08 crore applications, indicating high competition (e.g., 15.59 lakh applications from RRB Mumbai alone). The cut-off is typically higher due to the exam’s structure and negative marking.
Comparison: RRB Group D has more vacancies but also higher competition due to its broader appeal and higher age limit. SSC MTS’s lower cut-off and simpler exam may make it easier to qualify for some candidates.

6. Job Profile and Salary

SSC MTS: Involves non-technical roles like Peon, Watchman, Mali, etc., with a salary range of ₹18,000–56,900 (Pay Level 1). Jobs are mostly clerical or support-based, often in government offices.
RRB Group D: Includes technical roles like Track Maintainer, Assistant Pointsman, etc., with a salary range of ₹18,000–56,900 (Level 1, 7th CPC). Jobs are field-based and physically demanding.
Comparison: Both offer similar pay, but RRB Group D jobs are more technical and field-oriented, which may require physical fitness, potentially making SSC MTS roles “easier” in terms of job demands.

7. Which Exam is Easier?

SSC MTS is generally considered easier due to:
Simpler syllabus with no science section.
No negative marking in Session 1 of Tier 1.
Qualifying descriptive test (Tier 2).
Lower cut-offs and less complex questions.
RRB Group D is relatively tougher because of:
Broader syllabus including General Science.
Stricter negative marking (1/3 marks).
Mandatory PET for all posts, requiring physical fitness.
Higher competition due to more applicants.

8. Candidate Considerations

Strengths: If you’re strong in basic arithmetic, reasoning, and general knowledge but weaker in science or physical fitness, SSC MTS may be easier. If you’re comfortable with science and physically fit, RRB Group D could be manageable.
Preparation: Both exams require Class 10-level preparation, but RRB Group D demands more focus on science and reasoning. Practicing mock tests for both can help gauge difficulty (available on platforms like Practicemock or Shiksha).
Career Goals: SSC MTS suits those preferring clerical, office-based roles, while RRB Group D is better for those open to technical, field-based railway jobs.

Conclusion

SSC MTS is generally easier than RRB Group D due to its simpler syllabus, less stringent negative marking, and no mandatory physical test for most posts. However, ease depends on your strengths—RRB Group D may feel easier if you’re strong in science and physically fit. To decide, attempt mock tests for both exams and assess your performance, focusing on the syllabus and job profile that aligns with your skills and preferences.

If you need specific preparation tips or mock test resources for either exam, let me know!