RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 281 Graduate, Diploma & Trade Posts

RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Overview & Key Opportunities

RITES Limited, a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has released Advertisement No. Pers./26-10/Apprentice/2026-27/01 dated 4 November 2026, inviting online applications for 281 apprenticeship training positions across India. This recruitment drive encompasses 168 Graduate Apprentice, 62 Diploma Apprentice, and 51 ITI Trade Apprentice posts, offering a remarkable opportunity for young professionals to gain hands-on experience in one of India's premier engineering and consultancy organizations. The RITES Apprentice program is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industrial practice, providing candidates with a structured one-year training period that combines theoretical knowledge with real-world project exposure.

The significance of this recruitment cannot be overstated, especially for fresh graduates and diploma holders seeking to kickstart their careers in the infrastructure and railway sectors. RITES Limited has a long-standing reputation for executing complex projects in transportation, infrastructure, and engineering consultancy, both domestically and internationally. By joining as an apprentice, candidates will work alongside experienced professionals, contribute to live projects, and develop skills that are highly valued in the job market. The program is particularly beneficial for those who wish to enhance their employability, as apprenticeships often serve as a stepping stone to permanent roles in the public sector or prestigious private organizations.

Who should apply? This opportunity is ideal for candidates who have completed their B.E., B.Tech., B.Arch., B.A., BBA, B.Com., B.Sc., BCA, Engineering Diploma, or ITI qualifications in relevant disciplines. Whether you are an engineering graduate looking to specialize in civil, mechanical, or electrical domains, a non-engineering graduate aiming to gain experience in finance or human resources, or an ITI trade certificate holder seeking practical training, there is a position for you. Applicants must be at least 18 years old as on 5 November 2026, and the monthly stipend ranges from Rs. 10,560 to Rs. 15,650, depending on the apprenticeship category. The online application window is open from 5 November to 25 November 2026, and candidates must complete a two-stage application process: first, register on the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) or National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) portal, and second, submit the required documents through the RITES Apprentice Application Form. This dual-step process ensures that only eligible and serious candidates are considered, and it is crucial to adhere to the deadlines to avoid disqualification.

RITES Apprentice Notification Highlights 2026

The official notification for RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026 contains several key highlights that every prospective applicant should carefully review. Here is a comprehensive summary of the essential features, including total vacancies, important dates, and eligibility criteria, presented in an easy-to-understand format.

• Organization: RITES Limited (Navratna CPSE under Ministry of Railways)
• Advertisement Number: Pers./26-10/Apprentice/2026-27/01
• Notification Date: 4 November 2026
• Total Vacancies: 281 (Graduate Engineering: 125, Graduate Non-Engineering: 43, Diploma: 62, ITI Trade: 51)
• Eligibility Cut-Off Date: 5 November 2026 (for age and qualification)
• Minimum Age: 18 years
• Maximum Age: Not specified in the notification
• Monthly Stipend: Rs. 10,560 to Rs. 15,650
• Training Duration: 1 year
• Application Mode: Online through NATS/NAPS portal and RITES application form
• Application Start Date: 5 November 2026
• Application Last Date: 25 November 2026
• Selection Process: Merit-based on qualification marks and document verification
• Training Location: Across India, as allotted by RITES

These highlights provide a snapshot of the recruitment, but candidates are advised to read the full notification for detailed information on reservation, qualification requirements, and application procedures. The absence of a maximum age limit is notable, making this opportunity accessible to a wider pool of candidates. However, the stipend varies by category, with Graduate Apprentices typically receiving higher amounts than Diploma and ITI apprentices. The selection is purely merit-based, emphasizing academic performance, which means candidates with strong marks in their qualifying examinations have a significant advantage.

About National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS)

The National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India, implemented by the Ministry of Education, to provide practical training to graduate and diploma holders. NATS aims to enhance the employability of young professionals by offering them hands-on experience in various industries and organizations. The scheme is coordinated by the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT) and operates through a network of regional boards. RITES Limited, as a responsible CPSE, actively participates in NATS by engaging apprentices in its diverse operations, thereby contributing to the skill development ecosystem of the country.

NATS provides a structured framework for apprenticeship training, including stipend guidelines, duration, and certification. Apprentices trained under NATS receive a certificate of proficiency, which is recognized by industries nationwide. The scheme also facilitates linkages between educational institutions and industry, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to market needs. For RITES, participating in NATS allows the organization to tap into fresh talent, infuse new ideas, and fulfill its corporate social responsibility by nurturing the next generation of professionals. The work environment at RITES is dynamic and project-driven, offering apprentices exposure to cutting-edge technologies and best practices in infrastructure development. Apprentices are treated as integral team members and are mentored by senior engineers and managers, providing a rich learning experience.

RITES Apprentice Vacancy Details & Post Breakdown 2026

The 281 vacancies are distributed across four main apprenticeship categories: Graduate Engineering, Graduate Non-Engineering, Diploma, and ITI Trade. Each category has specific discipline-wise allocations, and candidates must apply for the post that matches their educational background. The table below provides a detailed breakdown of the posts, total vacancies, and the required educational qualifications.

Within the Graduate Engineering category, the vacancies are further divided by discipline: Civil (40), Mechanical (36), Electrical (26), Information Technology (13), Chemical/Metallurgical (6), Architecture (2), and Signal & Telecom (2). For Graduate Non-Engineering, Finance has 21 posts and Human Resources has 22 posts. Diploma Apprentices are needed in Mechanical (26), Electrical (19), Civil (12), and Chemical/Metallurgical (5). The ITI Trade Apprentice vacancies include Mechanical (23), Electrical (23), Civil (2), and Other Trades (3), which encompass welder, fitter, turner, plumber, and surveyor. Candidates should carefully select the discipline that aligns with their qualification and career aspirations.

Category-Wise Vacancy Reservation for RITES Apprentice 2026

RITES Limited follows the Government of India's reservation policy for apprenticeships, providing opportunities for candidates from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC – Non-Creamy Layer), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD). The notification includes a category-wise vacancy distribution; however, it is important to note that the published figures contain an arithmetic discrepancy. The grand total row lists 32 SC, 12 ST, 68 OBC, 21 EWS, and 144 UR vacancies, which sum to 277, whereas the total advertised posts are 281. Additionally, some discipline-level allocations do not add up to their stated totals.

Given this discrepancy, candidates are advised to rely on the officially advertised total of 281 posts and refer to any subsequent corrigendum issued by RITES for clarification. The reservation for PwBD is horizontal, meaning it is distributed across all categories and is included within the notified vacancies, not additional to them. The table below presents the category-wise breakdown as per the notification, but candidates should exercise caution and verify with the official corrigendum if released.

Despite the discrepancy, the reservation policy ensures that candidates from reserved categories have a fair chance of selection. It is essential for applicants to accurately declare their category and possess the necessary certificates in the prescribed format. The PwBD reservation is applicable as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and candidates must provide a valid disability certificate. RITES may release a corrigendum to rectify the arithmetic error, so candidates should regularly check the official website for updates.

Educational Qualification & Eligibility Criteria for RITES Apprentice 2026

To be eligible for RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026, candidates must possess the prescribed educational qualification in the relevant discipline from a recognized university or institute. The qualification requirements vary by apprenticeship category, and candidates must ensure they meet the minimum marks criteria. The table below outlines the required qualifications for each category.

In addition to the educational qualification, candidates must meet the minimum aggregate marks requirement. For General and EWS candidates, the minimum aggregate is 60%, while for SC, ST, OBC-NCL, and PwBD candidates applying against reserved positions, the minimum is 50%. It is crucial to note that the 50% threshold applies only to reserved positions; if a reserved category candidate applies for an unreserved position, they must meet the 60% criteria. The aggregate marks will be calculated based on all subjects, unless the qualification specifies marks in an honours subject, in which case those marks will be considered.

Passing Year Eligibility

Engineering and non-engineering graduates and diploma holders must have completed their qualifying course within the five-year period prescribed in the notification. Specifically, the final semester result must not be declared before 5 November 2021. This means candidates who graduated before this date are ineligible. However, there is no passing-year restriction for ITI candidates. Final-year students who are awaiting their results as on 5 November 2026 are not eligible to apply.

Previous Apprenticeship and Work Experience Restrictions

Candidates who have already undergone apprenticeship training or have work experience in the relevant field may be subject to certain restrictions as per the notification. Typically, individuals who have completed an apprenticeship under NATS or NAPS are not eligible for another apprenticeship in the same or related trade. Additionally, candidates with prior work experience may be disqualified if the notification specifies that only fresh graduates are eligible. It is advisable to read the official notification carefully for any such conditions.

Age Limit & Category Relaxations

The age limit for RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is straightforward: candidates must be at least 18 years old as on 5 November 2026. The notification does not specify a maximum age limit, which means candidates of any age above 18 can apply, provided they meet the educational and other eligibility criteria. This is a significant departure from many government recruitment processes, which typically have an upper age limit. The absence of a maximum age limit opens the door for older candidates who may be looking to switch careers or gain new skills through apprenticeship training.

Regarding age relaxation, the notification does not explicitly mention any category-wise relaxations. However, as per standard government norms, age relaxation is usually provided for candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC, PwBD, and ex-servicemen categories. Since the notification does not specify a maximum age limit, the question of relaxation may not arise. Nevertheless, candidates are advised to refer to the official notification or any subsequent corrigendum for clarity. The cut-off date for age calculation is 5 November 2026, and candidates must ensure they meet the minimum age requirement on this date.

Salary Details, Pay Scale & Perks

Apprentices engaged by RITES Limited will receive a monthly stipend as per the Apprentices Act, 1961, and the guidelines of the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) or National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS). The stipend varies by apprenticeship category: Graduate Apprentices receive Rs. 15,650 per month, Diploma Apprentices receive Rs. 12,500 per month, and ITI Trade Apprentices receive Rs. 10,560 per month. These amounts are indicative and may be revised as per government notifications. The stipend is paid to support the apprentices during their training period and is not a salary; it is a stipend meant to cover basic expenses.

In addition to the stipend, apprentices may be eligible for other benefits such as leave, medical facilities, and insurance coverage as per RITES' policies. However, it is important to note that apprenticeship is a training program and does not confer permanent employment status. Apprentices are not entitled to regular employee benefits like provident fund, gratuity, or pension. The training duration is one year, after which apprentices may be considered for absorption based on organizational requirements and performance, but there is no guarantee of employment. The stipend is subject to statutory deductions, if applicable. Candidates should view this as an opportunity to gain experience and enhance their skills rather than a long-term career option.

RITES Apprentice Selection Process & Examination Phases 2026

The selection process for RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is primarily merit-based, relying on the marks obtained in the qualifying examination. There is no written exam, skill test, or interview for this recruitment. The steps involved in the selection process are as follows:

1. Application Submission: Candidates must first register on the NATS or NAPS portal and then submit the RITES application form with the required documents.
2. Eligibility Screening: RITES will screen all applications to verify eligibility criteria, including educational qualification, minimum marks, age, and passing year.
3. Merit List Preparation: A merit list will be prepared based on the aggregate marks obtained in the qualifying examination. In case of a tie, the candidate with higher marks in the relevant subject or older age may be given preference.
4. Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification. They must produce original certificates and testimonials for verification.
5. Medical Examination: Candidates may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they are fit for the apprenticeship training.
6. Final Selection: Based on merit, document verification, and medical fitness, final selection will be made, and offer letters will be issued.

It is crucial to note that merely registering on NATS/NAPS is not sufficient; candidates must also submit the RITES application form with all documents by the deadline. The merit list will be published on the RITES website, and candidates will be informed via email. The entire process is transparent and based on academic performance, so candidates with strong marks have a good chance of selection. There is no weightage for work experience or extracurricular activities.

Application Fee Details

The official notification for RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026 does not specify any application fee. Generally, apprenticeship recruitments under NATS/NAPS do not charge an application fee, as the objective is to encourage maximum participation. Candidates are advised to check the official notification or the application portal for any fee-related instructions. If a fee is applicable, it will be mentioned during the online application process. Payment can usually be made through online modes such as debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI. Candidates should keep proof of payment for future reference. In the absence of a specified fee, it is safe to assume that there is no application fee for this recruitment.

Important Dates & Schedule

Candidates must adhere to the following schedule to ensure their applications are submitted on time. The table below lists the key dates for RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026.

Both the NATS/NAPS application and the RITES document submission must be completed by 25 November 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted. Candidates should regularly check their email and the RITES website for updates on the merit list and joining dates.

Required Documents for RITES Apprentice Application 2026

Candidates must upload the following documents in the prescribed format while submitting the RITES application form. It is essential to ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and in the correct format to avoid rejection.

• Recent passport-sized photograph (JPEG format, 20-50 KB)
• Scanned signature (JPEG format, 10-20 KB)
• SSLC/10th standard mark sheet (for date of birth proof)
• Engineering degree/diploma/ITI certificate and mark sheets (all semesters)
• Non-engineering degree certificate and mark sheets (for Finance/HR posts)
• Caste certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL) in the prescribed format, if applicable
• EWS certificate, if applicable
• PwBD certificate, if applicable
• Aadhaar card or any other government-issued photo ID
• NATS/NAPS registration proof
• Any other relevant document as specified in the notification

All documents must be combined into a single PDF file and uploaded through the RITES application form. The PDF should be named as per the instructions provided. Candidates should retain a copy of the submitted application and documents for future reference.

How to Apply Online

The application process for RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026 involves two mandatory stages: first, registering on the NATS or NAPS portal, and second, submitting the RITES application form with documents. Follow these step-by-step instructions to complete your application successfully.

1. Visit the NATS/NAPS Portal: Go to the official NATS portal (nats.education.gov.in) or NAPS portal (apprenticeshipindia.org) and register as a candidate. Fill in your personal, educational, and contact details.
2. Search for RITES Apprenticeship: After registration, log in and search for RITES Limited apprenticeship opportunities. Select the appropriate category (Graduate, Diploma, or Trade) and discipline.
3. Apply on NATS/NAPS: Submit your application on the portal and note down the registration number.
4. Visit RITES Application Form: Go to the RITES apprentice application form page (https://apprentice.rites.com/ApprenticeForm/) and fill in the required details, including your NATS/NAPS registration number.
5. Upload Documents: Upload the scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and all necessary documents in a single PDF file as per the specifications.
6. Pay Application Fee (if applicable): If a fee is mentioned, pay it through the available online modes.
7. Submit Application: Review all details carefully and submit the application. Take a printout of the submitted application for your records.
8. Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email/SMS. Keep it safe for future correspondence.

Ensure that you complete both stages before the deadline of 25 November 2026. Incomplete applications will be rejected. It is advisable to complete the process well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Important Instructions & Guidelines for RITES Apprentice Applicants

Candidates must adhere to the following instructions to ensure their applications are accepted and considered for selection:

• Read the official notification carefully before applying.
• Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, including educational qualification, minimum marks, age, and passing year.
• Provide accurate and complete information in the application form. Any false information will lead to disqualification.
• Upload documents in the prescribed format and size. Poor-quality scans may lead to rejection.
• Keep a valid email ID and mobile number active throughout the recruitment process.
• Do not wait until the last date to submit your application; apply early to avoid technical glitches.
• Check the RITES website regularly for updates, corrigendums, and merit lists.
• Apprenticeship training does not guarantee employment; it is a skill development opportunity.
• Candidates already undergoing apprenticeship or who have completed apprenticeship in the same trade are not eligible.
• Any attempt to influence the selection process will result in cancellation of candidature.

Following these guidelines will help you avoid common mistakes and increase your chances of selection.

Job Location & Posting Details

Apprentices selected under RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026 may be posted at various RITES offices, project sites, and regional centers across India. The exact posting location will be allotted by RITES based on organizational requirements and the candidate's discipline. Candidates should be prepared to relocate as per the company's needs. The application mode is online, and there is no option for offline submission. The training locations may include major cities like Gurugram, New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and other project sites. Candidates are advised to check the official notification for any specific location preferences or requirements.

Final Summary & Advice for Candidates

RITES Apprentice Recruitment 2026 presents a valuable opportunity for fresh graduates, diploma holders, and ITI certificate holders to gain practical experience in a Navratna CPSE. With 281 vacancies across multiple disciplines, this is a chance to work on prestigious projects and enhance your employability. The selection is merit-based, so focus on your academic performance and ensure all documents are in order. Apply early, follow the instructions meticulously, and keep track of important dates. While apprenticeship does not guarantee permanent employment, it serves as a strong foundation for a career in the public sector. Prepare well, stay updated with official notifications, and make the most of this opportunity.

Senior Government Jobs Editor ✓

Career Content Specialist, SEO Strategist, and Fact-Checking Writer for Sarkari Job Finders

This article has been manually researched, cross-referenced with the official notification, and structured to provide verified, candidate-centric information.

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