Are you preparing for the RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) Recruitment 2026? Then knowing the complete and accurate syllabus is your first and most important step. The Railway Recruitment Board conducts the ALP exam in multiple stages, and each stage has a different syllabus and exam pattern.
In this detailed guide, we have covered the complete RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 for CBT-1, CBT-2 (Part A & Part B), CBAT, and all other stages of the recruitment process. Whether you are a fresher appearing for the first time or a repeat aspirant, this page will give you everything you need to plan your preparation smartly.
RRB ALP 2026 – Quick Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) Recruitment 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) |
| Post Name | Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) |
| Total Vacancies | 11,127 (2026-27 cycle) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Stages | CBT-1 → CBT-2 → CBAT → Document Verification → Medical Examination |
| Official Website | www.rrbcdg.gov.in |
RRB ALP Recruitment Process 2026 – All Stages Explained
Understanding the complete selection pipeline is essential before diving into the syllabus. The RRB ALP Recruitment 2026 involves the following stages:
- First Stage CBT (CBT-1) – Screening Test
- Second Stage CBT (CBT-2) – Main Written Test (Part A + Part B)
- Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) – Aptitude & Psycho Test
- Document Verification (DV)
- Medical Examination (ME)
Important Rules:
- A candidate can apply to only one RRB and submit only ONE online application
- The exam schedule and venues will be announced through official RRB websites, SMS, and email
- Requests for postponement or change of venue, date, or shift will not be entertained under any circumstances
Stage 1: RRB ALP CBT-1 Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026
What is CBT-1?
CBT-1 is the first stage screening examination. It is used only to shortlist candidates for CBT-2 based on normalised marks and merit. The marks scored in CBT-1 are NOT counted in the final merit list. It is purely a qualifying/screening stage.
CBT-1 Exam Pattern
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 60 Minutes |
| Total Questions | 75 |
| Maximum Marks | 75 (1 mark per question) |
| Negative Marking | Yes – 1/3rd mark deducted per wrong answer |
| Marks Normalisation | Yes – for exams held in multiple shifts |
| Question Type | Objective / Multiple Choice (MCQ) |
Minimum Qualifying Marks for CBT-1
| Category | Minimum Pass Percentage |
|---|---|
| UR (General) & EWS | 40% |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 30% |
| SC | 30% |
| ST | 25% |
CBT-1 Subject-wise Syllabus
The standard of questions in CBT-1 will be in conformity with the educational standards and/or minimum technical qualifications prescribed for the post. All questions will be objective type with multiple choice answers.
(A) Mathematics
Mathematics forms a core part of CBT-1. Topics covered include:
- Number System
- BODMAS
- Decimals and Fractions
- LCM and HCF
- Ratio and Proportion
- Percentages
- Mensuration
- Time and Work
- Time and Distance
- Simple Interest and Compound Interest
- Profit and Loss
- Algebra
- Geometry and Trigonometry
- Elementary Statistics
- Square Root
- Age Calculations
- Calendar and Clock
- Pipes and Cistern
Preparation Tip: Focus heavily on speed and accuracy. Practice mental calculations for percentages, ratios, and simplification daily.
(B) Mental Ability (General Intelligence & Reasoning)
This section tests your logical thinking and analytical skills. Topics covered:
- Analogies
- Alphabetical and Number Series
- Coding and Decoding
- Mathematical Operations
- Relationships
- Syllogism
- Jumbling
- Venn Diagram
- Data Interpretation and Sufficiency
- Conclusions and Decision Making
- Similarities and Differences
- Analytical Reasoning
- Classification
- Directions
- Statement – Arguments and Assumptions
Preparation Tip: Practise puzzles and pattern-based questions daily. Reasoning is one of the highest-scoring sections if prepared well.
(C) General Science
The syllabus covers Physics, Chemistry, and Life Sciences (Biology) up to the 10th standard level.
Key topics to cover:
- Physics: Motion, Force, Work, Energy, Light, Sound, Electricity, Magnetism
- Chemistry: Matter, Atoms and Molecules, Chemical Reactions, Acids and Bases, Metals and Non-metals, Carbon Compounds
- Biology: Cell Structure, Human Body Systems, Nutrition, Diseases, Reproduction, Ecosystems
Preparation Tip: Revise NCERT Science textbooks from Class 6 to Class 10 thoroughly.
(D) General Awareness
This section tests your awareness of the world around you. Topics covered:
- Current Affairs (National and International)
- Science & Technology
- Sports
- Culture
- Personalities
- Economics
- Politics
- Other subjects of general importance
Preparation Tip: Read a good newspaper daily (The Hindu / Dainik Jagran). Also refer to monthly current affairs capsules specifically for railway exams.
Stage 2: RRB ALP CBT-2 Syllabus & Exam Pattern 2026
What is CBT-2?
CBT-2 is the main examination for the RRB ALP recruitment. The final merit list for ALP is prepared based only on CBT-2 (Part A) and CBAT marks. CBT-2 is divided into two parts:
- Part A – General aptitude-based test (marks count toward final merit)
- Part B – Trade-specific qualifying test (qualifying in nature only)
How are candidates shortlisted for CBT-2?
Shortlisting for CBT-2 is done RRB-wise and community-wise, based on normalised marks and merit in CBT-1. The total candidates shortlisted for CBT-2 will be limited to 15 times the number of vacancies notified against each RRB (Railways may increase/decrease this limit as needed).
CBT-2 Exam Pattern
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Duration | 2 Hours 30 Minutes |
| Total Questions | 175 |
| Part A Duration | 90 Minutes |
| Part A Questions | 100 Questions |
| Part B Duration | 60 Minutes |
| Part B Questions | 75 Questions |
| Negative Marking | Yes – 1/3rd mark per wrong answer (Part A) |
| Normalisation | Yes – for CBTs held in multiple shifts |
| No Negative Marking in Part B | Part B has no negative marking |
Minimum Qualifying Marks for CBT-2
In Part A:
| Category | Minimum Pass Percentage |
|---|---|
| UR & EWS | 40% |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 30% |
| SC | 30% |
| ST | 25% |
In Part B: A flat 35% qualifying marks is required for all candidates irrespective of category/community.
CRITICAL NOTE: Only the marks scored in Part A will be used for shortlisting candidates for further stages (CBAT and DV). However, it is mandatory to secure at least 35% in Part B to qualify. The merit list will NOT include Part B marks.
CBT-2 Part A – Subject-wise Syllabus
Mathematics
Same broad topics as CBT-1 but at a higher difficulty level:
- Number System, BODMAS, Decimals, Fractions
- LCM, HCF, Ratio and Proportion
- Percentages, Mensuration
- Time and Work, Time and Distance
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Profit and Loss, Algebra
- Geometry and Trigonometry
- Elementary Statistics
- Square Root, Age Calculations
- Calendar and Clock
- Pipes and Cistern
General Intelligence and Reasoning
- Analogies, Alphabetical and Number Series
- Coding and Decoding
- Mathematical Operations, Relationships
- Syllogism, Jumbling
- Venn Diagram
- Data Interpretation and Sufficiency
- Conclusions and Decision Making
- Similarities and Differences
- Analytical Reasoning, Classification
- Directions
- Statement – Arguments and Assumptions
Basic Science and Engineering (BSE)
This is an exclusive section for CBT-2 Part A and is very important for ALP aspirants. It covers broad engineering and science topics:
- Engineering Drawing: Projections, Views, Drawing Instruments, Lines, Geometric Figures, Symbolic Representation
- Units and Measurements
- Mass, Weight and Density
- Work, Power and Energy
- Speed and Velocity
- Heat and Temperature
- Basic Electricity
- Levers and Simple Machines
- Occupational Safety and Health
- Environment Education
- IT Literacy
Preparation Tip: This section often differentiates toppers from average scorers. Engineering diploma and ITI candidates usually have an advantage here. Revise your technical fundamentals thoroughly.
CBT-2 Part B – Trade Syllabus (Qualifying Only)
Part B is a trade-specific qualifying test and the questions are drawn from the trade syllabi as prescribed by the Directorate General of Training (DGT). For complete trade syllabi, visit: https://dgt.gov.in
Key Rules for Part B:
- Qualifying percentage: 35% for all candidates, regardless of category
- No negative marking in Part B
- Part B marks are NOT counted in the final merit list
- Candidates with ITI/Trade Apprenticeship qualifications will appear in the section based on their trade
- Degree/Diploma candidates must select one trade from the list corresponding to their engineering discipline
Qualification-wise Trade Grouping for Part B
| Sl.No. | Qualification of Candidate | Trade / Subject of Choice for Part-B |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Electrical Engineering and combination of various streams of Electrical Engineering | Electrician, Instrument Mechanic, Wireman, Armature & Coil Winder, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic |
| 2 | Electronics Engineering and combination of various streams of Electronics Engineering | Electronics Mechanic, Mechanic (Radio & TV) |
| 3 | Mechanical Engineering and combination of various streams of Mechanical Engineering | Fitter, Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Tractor Mechanic, Mechanic (Diesel), Turner, Machinist, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic, Heat Engine, Millwright / Maintenance Mechanic |
| 4 | Automobile Engineering and combination of various streams of Automobile Engineering | Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Tractor Mechanic, Mechanic (Diesel), Heat Engine, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic |
Stage 3: RRB ALP CBAT – Computer Based Aptitude Test 2026
What is CBAT?
The Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) is a psycho-technical aptitude test specific to the ALP post. It assesses a candidate’s aptitude for safe and efficient train operation. CBAT is conducted after CBT-2.
Who is shortlisted for CBAT?
Candidates equal to 8 (eight) times the number of ALP vacancies for each notified community/category (UR, OBC-NCL, SC, ST, and EWS including Ex-SM) will be shortlisted for CBAT, based on their marks in Part A of CBT-2, subject to qualifying in Part B of CBT-2.
Important CBAT Rules
- Candidates must carry their Vision Certificate in the prescribed format (as per Annexure-VI) in original during the CBAT — failing which they will NOT be permitted to appear
- It is mandatory to clear each test battery/section of CBAT separately to qualify
- CBAT is conducted only in English and Hindi
- There is NO negative marking in CBAT
- All candidates (irrespective of community) must secure a minimum T-score of 42 marks in each test battery separately to qualify in the CBAT
Final Merit Weightage
| Stage | Weightage in Final Merit |
|---|---|
| Part A of CBT-2 | 70% |
| CBAT Score | 30% |
| Total | 100% |
The final merit list is prepared only from candidates who qualify in CBAT, combining 70% weightage for CBT-2 Part A marks and 30% weightage for CBAT score.
For more information on CBAT, candidates are advised to visit:
- rdso.indianrailways.gov.in → Verticals → Traffic and Psychology → Psychology – Candidate’s Corner
Stage 4: Document Verification (DV)
How are candidates shortlisted for DV?
Based on the combined merit (CBT-2 Part A marks + CBAT scores), candidates equal to the number of vacancies are shortlisted for Document Verification.
Tie-breaking Rule
If two or more candidates secure equal marks, their merit position will be determined by age criteria — the older candidate is ranked higher than the younger candidate.
Important Points for DV
- Appointment is subject to passing the Medical Fitness Test conducted by the Railway Administration
- RRBs only recommend names of empanelled candidates to the Railway Zone concerned
- The offer of appointment is issued only by the respective Railway Zones, not by RRBs
- In case of any shortfall in empanelment, RRBs reserve the right to utilise candidates further down the merit list
Stage 5: Medical Examination (ME)
After document verification, selected candidates must undergo a Medical Fitness Test as per the standards set by the Railway Medical Department. For the ALP post, good vision and overall physical fitness are essential requirements. Candidates are advised to take care of their health and eyesight well in advance.
RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 – Subject-wise Summary Table
| Stage | Subjects | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBT-1 | Mathematics, Mental Ability, General Science, General Awareness | 75 | 75 | 60 mins |
| CBT-2 Part A | Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, Basic Science & Engineering | 100 | 100 | 90 mins |
| CBT-2 Part B | Trade Syllabus (DGT prescribed) | 75 | 75 | 60 mins |
| CBAT | Psycho-Technical Aptitude Batteries | Multiple batteries | T-score based | As scheduled |
RRB ALP Preparation Strategy 2026 – How to Crack the Exam
With over 11,000 vacancies and lakhs of applicants, competition is fierce. Here is a smart, stage-wise preparation plan:
For CBT-1 (Screening Stage)
- Focus on speed and accuracy — 75 questions in 60 minutes means under 1 minute per question
- Revise NCERT Science (Class 6–10) thoroughly for General Science
- Practice 20–30 reasoning questions daily
- Solve at least 10 maths problems every day including simplification and percentage
- Read current affairs from a monthly capsule — 10 to 15 minutes daily is sufficient
For CBT-2 Part A (Most Important Stage)
- Give maximum preparation time to Basic Science & Engineering (BSE) — it is unique to CBT-2
- Practice higher-difficulty maths problems (Trigonometry, Geometry, Statistics)
- Attempt full-length Part A mock tests within 90 minutes
- Review errors from mock tests carefully and revise weak areas
For CBT-2 Part B (Trade Paper)
- Revise your ITI/Diploma trade syllabus from DGT-prescribed books
- Aim for well above 35% since it is purely qualifying
- Don’t spend too much time on Part B at the cost of Part A preparation
For CBAT (Aptitude Test)
- Get familiar with psycho-technical test batteries (Speed Anticipation, Attention, Spatial Reasoning, etc.)
- Practise on the RDSO website sample tests
- Ensure your vision is checked and the Vision Certificate is obtained in the correct format before the exam
General Tips
- Make a daily study timetable and follow it strictly
- Solve previous year papers — at least 5 full sets from past RRB ALP exams
- Take weekly mock tests to track your progress
- Keep short notes and revise every Sunday
- Prioritise sleep and avoid burnout — 7–8 hours of rest improves retention and focus
RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 – Important Books & Resources
| Subject | Recommended Resource |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | R.S. Aggarwal – Quantitative Aptitude |
| Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal – Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning |
| General Science | NCERT Science Class 6 to 10 |
| General Awareness | Monthly Current Affairs Capsule + Newspaper |
| Basic Science & Engineering | Arihant / Kiran RRB ALP BSE Book |
| Trade Syllabus (Part B) | DGT Trade Syllabus – https://dgt.gov.in |
| CBAT Practice | RDSO Website – rdso.indianrailways.gov.in |
| Previous Year Papers | Kiran / Youth Competition Times RRB ALP Papers |
Important Links
| Action | Link |
| Download RRB ALP Syllabus PDF | Click Here |
| Download RRB Technician Syllabus PDF | Click Here |
| Official RRB Exam Calendar 2026 | Check Here |