South Central Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 2801 Act Apprentice Posts

Welcome to the official recruitment update for the South Central Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026. This is a significant opportunity for eligible candidates to apply online for 2801 Act Apprentice positions across various trades. The application process is now open, and interested individuals must meet the specified eligibility criteria to submit their forms before the deadline. This recruitment drive aims to engage apprentices under the Apprentices Act 1961, offering valuable training and a stipend. Read on for comprehensive details about vacancies, qualifications, the selection process, and step-by-step application instructions.

Organization Overview

The South Central Railway (SCR), operating under the Railway Recruitment Cell in Secunderabad, is a prominent zone of Indian Railways. It manages extensive rail networks across several states, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh. SCR is committed to enhancing railway infrastructure and services through skilled workforce development. This recruitment initiative for Act Apprentices reflects SCR's dedication to providing vocational training and fostering technical expertise among youth, contributing to the nation's industrial growth.

Post Details

The South Central Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers 2801 positions for Act Apprentice roles under the Apprentices Act 1961. These posts are available in various trades, providing hands-on training in railway workshops, divisions, and sheds. The training program is designed for the 2025-26 session, focusing on practical skills development in fields essential to railway operations.

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

Candidates must have passed the 10th class or equivalent under the 10+2 system with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks from a recognized board. Additionally, they must possess an ITI certificate in a relevant trade from an institute recognized by NCVT or SCVT. The eligible trades include AC Mechanic, Carpenter, COPA, Diesel Mechanic, Electrician, Electronic Mechanic, Fitter, Industrial Electronics, Machinist, MMTM, Motor Mechanic Vehicle, Painter, and Welder. Engineering graduates and diploma holders are not eligible for this recruitment.

Residential Eligibility

Applicants must reside in districts under South Central Railway jurisdiction. Eligible areas include all districts in Telangana; all districts in Andhra Pradesh except Manyam, Srikakulam, and Vizianagaram; specific districts in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh as notified. Valid proof of residence is required during the application process.

Age Limit

The age limit for South Central Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is 15 to 24 years as of April 11, 2026. Age relaxations are provided for reserved categories as per government norms. The permissible date of birth ranges for different categories are detailed below.

Application Fee

The application fee for South Central Railway Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is ₹100 for UR, OBC, and EWS male candidates. SC/ST, female, transgender, and PwBD candidates are exempt from paying the fee. Payment can be made online through net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI.

Selection Process

Selection for the South Central Railway Apprentice positions is based purely on merit. A merit list will be prepared by calculating the average of percentage marks obtained in the 10th class and ITI, giving equal weightage to both. There is no written test or viva-voce involved. In case of a tie in aggregate percentage, the older candidate will be preferred. Shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification, where original certificates will be checked. A medical fitness certificate from a government-authorized doctor is mandatory for final selection.

Important Dates

How to Apply

1. Visit the official South Central Railway website at scr.indianrailways.gov.in and navigate to About Us → RRC-SCR to access the online application link.
2. Read the detailed notification carefully to ensure eligibility based on educational qualifications, age, and residential criteria.
3. Complete the registration process by selecting your state and district, uploading address proof, and providing a valid mobile number and email ID. Verify OTPs sent to your mobile and email.
4. Log in with your credentials and fill in personal details (name, date of birth, category, etc.) and educational/technical details (10th marks, ITI trade, ITI marks, RDAT registration number).
5. Select your preferred training units (divisions, workshops, sheds) for the trades you are eligible for. Note that preferences cannot be changed after submission.
6. Upload a recent color photograph (JPEG format, ≤1 MB), signature image (≤1 MB), and required certificates (10th, ITI, RDAT form, caste, EWS, PwBD, ExSM, medical certificate) in PDF format (≤2 MB).
7. Ensure you have completed RDAT/NAPS registration at www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in and obtained a registration number before applying.
8. Review all details on the preview page thoroughly. After clicking submit, no modifications will be allowed.
9. Pay the application fee online if applicable and generate an e-receipt.
10. Download and print the final submitted application form along with the fee receipt and uploaded documents for future reference during document verification.