Indian Railways has released a fresh recruitment notification for the engagement of Apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961 for the year 2026-27. This recruitment drive offers a significant opportunity for ITI-passed candidates to gain hands-on training and kickstart their career in the Indian Railways. With over 2500 vacancies across multiple technical trades, this initiative aims to provide industry-standard skill development to aspiring technicians.
Candidates interested in pursuing a career within the railway ecosystem can apply through the official online portal. The selection for these positions will be based on the merit list prepared using marks obtained in the matriculation and ITI examinations. Applicants are advised to review the eligibility criteria, trade-wise vacancy distribution, and important dates before initiating the application process.
Indian Railways Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Overview
Indian Railways is seeking skilled candidates for Apprentice positions. This program is designed to provide practical exposure in various railway workshops and production units.
| Particulars | Details |
| Organization Name | Indian Railways (Various Zones) |
| Recruitment Year | 2026-27 |
| Post Name | Act Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 2500+ |
| Qualification | 10th Pass + ITI (Relevant Trade) |
| Selection Process | Merit-Based (10th + ITI Marks) |
| Age Limit | 15 to 24 Years |
| Last Date | 30 July 2026 |
| Apply Mode | Online |
| Job Type | Railway Apprenticeship |
Notification Details
Indian Railways has invited applications through an open advertisement for various trades including Fitter, Welder, Electrician, Machinist, and Turner. This training program does not guarantee permanent employment but provides essential certification and experience for future railway recruitment.
Trade-wise Vacancy Distribution
The vacancies are distributed across major technical trades to meet the operational requirements of various railway zones.
| Trade Name | Tentative Vacancies |
| Fitter | 850 |
| Electrician | 700 |
| Welder | 400 |
| Machinist | 300 |
| Turner | 250 |
| Total | 2500+ |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet both educational and age requirements to be considered for the apprenticeship.
Educational Qualification
- Matriculation: Must have passed 10th class or its equivalent examination with at least 50% marks in aggregate.
- ITI Certificate: Must possess a National Trade Certificate (NTC) in the relevant trade issued by the NCVT/SCVT.
Age Limit
The age of applicants will be calculated as of 01 July 2026.
- Minimum Age: 15 Years
- Maximum Age: 24 Years
- Note: Age relaxation is applicable for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD categories as per government rules.
Application Fee
Candidates are required to pay the application fee through online payment gateways (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking/UPI).
| Category | Application Fee |
| General/OBC | ₹100 |
| SC/ST/PwBD/Women | Exempted |
Important Dates
Ensure your application is submitted before the designated timeline to avoid any technical glitches.
- Application Start Date: 01 July 2026
- Last Date to Apply: 30 July 2026
- Merit List Declaration: To be notified later
- Document Verification: To be notified later
Selection Process
The selection process is purely merit-based, ensuring transparency and fairness.
- Preparation of Merit List: Calculated by taking the average of marks obtained in both 10th and ITI.
- Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification.
- Medical Examination: Candidates must be declared medically fit for the relevant trade.
How to Apply for Indian Railways Apprentice 2026?
Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Visit the official website of the respective Railway Zone.
- Click on the “New Registration” link and generate your login credentials.
- Log in and fill out the detailed application form.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, 10th mark sheet, and ITI certificate.
- Pay the application fee (if applicable).
- Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
Important Links for Rail Coach FKS Quota Recruitment 2026
Official Website – https://rcf.indianrailways.gov.in
Official Notification – Notification Download PDF
FAQs – Indian Railways Apprentice Recruitment 2026
1. Does this apprenticeship offer a permanent job?
No, this is a training program. However, Railways provides preference/relaxation to course-completed apprentices in future Level-1 (Group D) recruitments.
2. What is the selection criteria?
The selection is based on a merit list prepared by averaging the marks of the 10th standard and the ITI examination.
3. Is there any interview for this post?
No, there is no interview or written examination for the Apprenticeship recruitment.
4. Can candidates with higher qualifications apply?
Yes, candidates with higher qualifications like Diploma or Engineering degrees are eligible, but the minimum required qualification remains 10th + ITI.
5. How to pay the application fee?
The fee must be paid online via the payment portal provided on the official website during the final step of the application process.
