The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts the RRB Clerk (Office Assistant) exam every year to recruit candidates for Regional Rural Banks across India. The Prelims exam is conducted in multiple shifts, and understanding the exact shift timings, reporting time, gate closing time, and exam duration is extremely important for all candidates appearing for the exam. Knowing your shift in advance helps in proper planning, travel arrangements, and avoiding last-minute stress on exam day. In this article, we are providing the complete shift-wise timing structure for RRB Clerk Prelims 2025, along with reporting time guidelines and important exam-day instructions.
The Prelims exam is conducted in four shifts in a day. Candidates must carefully check the shift printed on their admit card, as it contains the exact reporting time and gate closing time for the allotted centre.
| Shift | Reporting Time | Gate Closing Time | Exam Time |
| Shift 1 | 08:00 AM | 08:30 AM | 09:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Shift 2 | 10:30 AM | 11:00 AM | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Shift 3 | 01:00 PM | 01:30 PM | 02:00 PM – 03:00 PM |
| Shift 4 | 03:30 PM | 04:00 PM | 04:30 PM – 05:30 PM |
Important Note:
Gate closing time is extremely strict, and no entry is permitted after gates are closed, regardless of the reason. Candidates are advised to reach the exam centre at least 30–45 minutes before the reporting time.
Reporting time is an important instruction mentioned on the RRB Clerk Admit Card, and every candidate must strictly follow it. Since the RRB Clerk Prelims exam is conducted across multiple centres and in different shifts, reaching the centre on time is essential to maintain smooth examination management and security. Many candidates miss their attempt not because of a lack of preparation, but simply because they arrive late. Even a delay of a few minutes can result in denial of entry, regardless of the reason, such as traffic or transportation issues.
Reporting time is important because several necessary procedures must be completed before the exam begins, including:
Candidates undergo identity verification, barcode scanning and admit card checking. Reaching early avoids crowding and confusion during verification.
Biometric authentication through fingerprint scanning and photo capture is compulsory and takes time. Arriving early helps complete this process smoothly without stress.
Items like electronic gadgets, notes and bags are not allowed inside the hall. Early arrival allows time to deposit belongings without hurry.
Candidates are allotted systems and given a short demo to understand the interface. Latecomers may miss this, leading to panic during the test.
Entering in a rush affects concentration and confidence. Arriving early helps maintain a calm and focused mindset.
Arriving after the gate closing time leads to automatic disqualification, even with a valid admit card and ID proof. Therefore, candidates should plan travel carefully and reach the venue well before the reporting time mentioned on the admit card.
Being punctual for RRB Clerk Prelims 2025 is essential for a smooth exam experience. Arriving before the reporting time helps complete verification procedures comfortably, reduces mental pressure, and increases the chances of performing well in the exam.
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The exam will be held on 6th, 7th, 13th, and 14th December 2025.
Shift details are mentioned on the RRB Clerk Prelims admit card.
At least 60 minutes before the reporting time to complete security checks.
Get a guide regarding the most important topics for the upcoming RRB PO 2025 Examination.
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