Overview of DRDO CEPTAM Technician Tier 2 Exam 2026

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducts the CEPTAM Technician-A recruitment to identify skilled technical personnel. The Tier 2 examination is a trade-specific Computer Based Test (CBT) that evaluates your core technical proficiency. Candidates who clear the Tier 1 screening stage must focus intensely on their respective trade syllabus to secure a final selection.

Exam Pattern Details

The Tier 2 exam is designed to test your command over your ITI or diploma-level trade subjects. Unlike Tier 1, this paper is strictly domain-focused.

Key Exam Highlights:

• Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for every incorrect response.
• Marking Scheme: 1 mark for every correct answer.
• Qualifying Criteria: 40% for UR/OBC/EWS and 35% for SC/ST/PwBD candidates.
• Language: The exam is available in both English and Hindi.

Core Syllabus Highlights by Trade

The syllabus for Tier 2 centers around your specific trade. Below are the primary focus areas for common trades:

• Computer Operator & Programming Assistant (COPA): OS fundamentals, networking, MS Office suite, Linux/DOS commands, and hardware basics.
• Electrical & Electronics: Circuit analysis, electrical machines, power systems, digital electronics, microprocessors, and instrumentation.
• Mechanical Engineering: Strength of materials, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, manufacturing processes, and workshop technology.
• Civil Engineering: RCC design, structural mechanics, surveying, geotechnical engineering, and environmental studies.

Expert Preparation Strategy

To succeed in the DRDO CEPTAM Tier 2 exam, consider the following expert-backed tips:

1. Deep Dive into Trade Fundamentals: Since Part 2 carries the most weightage, refer to your standard ITI/Diploma textbooks to clear conceptual doubts.
2. Practice Previous Year Papers: Solving past papers is the most effective way to understand the difficulty level and recurring question patterns.
3. Mock Tests: Take timed mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy under pressure, given the 90-minute limit.
4. Revision Notes: Create concise notes for formulas, shortcuts, and key definitions to facilitate quick revision in the final days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Is the Tier 2 exam common for all trades?
  A: No, the Tier 2 exam is trade-specific. You will only be tested on topics related to the trade you applied for.
• Q: How many marks are deducted for a wrong answer?
  A: There is a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
• Q: Can I change my trade after qualifying Tier 1?
  A: No, the trade is fixed during the application process based on your educational qualification.
• Q: What is the minimum qualifying mark for the OBC category?
  A: The minimum qualifying mark is 40% for OBC candidates.
• Q: Where can I find the official syllabus PDF?
  A: The official syllabus is available on the DRDO CEPTAM website. Always rely on official PDF documents for the most accurate topic list.