The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRB) have introduced a new normalization methodology for the Computer Based Tests (CBT) conducted under various Centralized Employment Notices (CENs). This system aims to ensure fairness in evaluating candidates across multiple shifts of the exam. Here’s a breakdown of how the new system will work:
Percentile-Based Normalization Methodology
- Percentile Scores: The new methodology will use percentile scores to standardize raw marks. This score represents a candidate’s performance relative to others in their shift, on a scale from 0 to 100. The top performer in each shift will receive a percentile score of 100, while other scores are adjusted accordingly.
- Calculation of Percentile: A candidate’s percentile is determined by the percentage of candidates in their shift who scored equal to or below them. This helps provide a normalized score that can be compared across different exam shifts.
- Usage of Percentile Scores: Percentile scores will replace raw scores for creating the merit lists, ensuring candidates from different shifts are evaluated on a comparable scale.
Detailed Calculation Process
- Merging Scores: Percentile scores from all shifts will be combined to produce the final RRB Scores (or RRC Scores for Level-1 exams), which will be used in compiling results and determining merit allocations.
- Decimal Precision: Scores will be calculated up to five decimal places to minimize ties and improve accuracy.
- Tie-Breaking Criteria: In cases where candidates have identical percentile scores, ties will be broken first by age (older candidates ranked higher) and then by alphabetical order of names if necessary.
Merit List and Qualifying Criteria
To be included in the merit list, candidates must meet a minimum percentage requirement based on category:
- UR and EWS: 40%
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 30%
- SC: 30%
- ST: 25% (30% for Level-1 exams)
Selection of Base Shift and Normalization Formula
The “Base Shift” is chosen based on the highest mean score among all shifts, with additional criteria if multiple shifts have the same mean. This shift serves as a reference for calculating normalized marks through interpolation, ensuring that scores are standardized effectively across shifts.
Candidates Advised to Follow Official Channels
RRB urges candidates to rely on official RRB websites for updates and avoid unofficial sources or individuals promising recruitment assistance. All selections are conducted based on CBT performance and merit.
This updated approach by RRB aims to improve transparency and fairness in the recruitment process, ensuring all candidates are assessed equitably across exam shifts.