RRB ALP Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026
Access the RRB ALP Syllabus for 2026 and explore the latest exam structure, subject-specific topics, marking scheme, and selection stages for the Assistant Loco Pilot position. This guide provides essential preparation information for CBT-1, CBT-2, CBAT, highlighting crucial topics and suggested resources to enhance your readiness.
Key Highlights:
- The recruitment process involves three phases: CBT-1, CBT-2 (Part A and B), followed by CBAT (Computer-Based Aptitude Test).
- CBT-1 covers four main subjects:
- Current Affairs and General Awareness
- Reasoning & General Intelligence
- Mathematics
- General Science
- Topics in Mathematics consist of Number System, BODMAS, Decimals, Fractions, LCM & HCF, along with a variety of other areas.
- General Intelligence & Reasoning includes subjects like Analogies, Series, Coding-Decoding, and beyond.
- CBT-2 is comprised of two sections:
- Part A: Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, Basic Science & Engineering
- Part B: Subjects specific to various trades including Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics, and more.
- CBAT assesses Aptitude through diverse tests such as Memory and Direction Tests.
- The final merit for ALP 2026 will be calculated by integrating CBT-2 Part A and CBAT, with CBAT now constituting 50% of the total score.
Overview of RRB ALP Syllabus 2026
The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRB) has officially published the detailed syllabus for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) Examination under CEN No. 01/2026. Aspirants can download the official syllabus PDF, along with the exam pattern and marking scheme from this resource. This guide elaborates on the subject-specific topics, a preparation strategy, and key resources for the RRB ALP exam.
RRB ALP Exam Structure 2026
| Exam Name | Conducting Body | Post Name | Total Vacancies | Exam Mode | Selection Process | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RRB Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) Exam 2026 (CEN 01/2026) | Railway Recruitment Boards (RRB) | Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) | 11,127 (Tentative) | Online (Computer Based Test) | CBT-1 → CBT-2 → CBAT → Document Verification → Medical Examination | Regional RRB Websites |
RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026
Stage 1: CBT-1 (Screening)
| Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 75 | 75 | 60 Minutes |
| Mental Ability/Reasoning | |||
| General Science | |||
| Total | 60 Minutes |
CBT-1 Key Highlights:
- Negative marking of 1/3 mark for incorrect answers.
- Qualifying Marks: UR/EWS – 40%, OBC – 30%, SC/ST – 25-30%.
- CBT-1 scores are not included in the final merit.
Stage 2: CBT-2
| Part | Subjects | Questions | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part-A | Mathematics + Reasoning + Basic Science & Engineering | 100 | 90 Minutes |
| Part-B | Trade Syllabus (Qualifying) | 75 | 60 Minutes |
CBT-2 Key Highlights:
- Negative marking applies: 1/3 mark in both parts.
- Scores from Part-A contribute to the merit list.
- Part-B requires a minimum of 35% to qualify, irrespective of category.
Stage 3: Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
- This stage is qualifying and has no negative marking.
- Candidates must achieve a minimum T-Score of 42 in each test segment.
- Only those who pass CBT-2 can participate, limited to eight times the number of vacancies.
Subject-Wise Syllabus for RRB ALP 2026
CBT-1 & CBT-2 Part-A Syllabus
- Mathematics:
- Number System, BODMAS, Decimals and Fractions
- LCM and HCF, Ratios and Proportions, Percentages
- Mensuration, Time and Work, Time and Distance
- Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss
- Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Basic Statistics
- Square Roots, Age Problems, Calendar and Clock
- Mental Ability / Reasoning:
- Analogies, Numerical and Alphabet Series
- Coding-Decoding, Operations in Mathematics
- Syllogisms, Venn Diagrams, Data Analysis
- Decision Making, Conclusions, Analytical Reasoning
- Directions, Assumptions & Arguments in Statements
- General Science (10th Standard Level):
- Physics: Motion, Forces, Work and Energy, Sound, Light, Electricity, Magnetism
- Chemistry: Matter, Atoms and Molecules, Acids, Bases and Salts, Chemical Reactions
- Biology: Life Processes, Coordination and Control, Reproduction, Genetics
- Basic Science & Engineering (CBT-2 Part-A):
- Engineering Drawing (Views, Projections, Lines, Geometric Shapes)
- Mass, Measurements, Weight and Density
- Work, Power and Energy, Speed and Velocity
- Basic Concepts of Electricity, Simple Machines and Levers
- Health and Safety at Work, Environmental Education
- Information Technology Literacy
- Part-B (Trade Syllabus):
- Questions aligned with the trade syllabus as per DGT (ITI/Trade Apprenticeship).
- ITI candidates should choose their respective trade.
- Degree/Diploma holders must select a trade based on their specialization.
Important Topics for RRB ALP Exam 2026
- Advanced Reasoning and Puzzles
- Arithmetic and Advanced Mathematics
- Fundamental Concepts of Science and Engineering
- Technical Questions related to Trade
- Psychological Assessments for CBAT
Preparation Strategies for RRB ALP 2026
- Deeply familiarize yourself with the three-tier selection method.
- Prioritize Part-A of CBT-2 and the Trade syllabus during your studies.
- Engage with previous years' papers and take mock tests regularly.
- Take CBAT psychological tests seriously and prepare accordingly.
- Make time for daily reviews of formulas and essential concepts.
- Maintain both physical and mental health in preparation for the medical exam.
Recommended Literature for RRB ALP Preparation 2026
| Subject | Recommended Books | Author/Publication |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Quantitative Aptitude | R.S. Aggarwal |
| Reasoning | Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal |
| General Science | Lucent's General Science | Lucent Publication |
| Basic Science & Engineering | RRB ALP Stage-2 Guide | Arihant / Kiran |
| Trade Specific | Books related to ITI Trade Theory | Relevant Trade |
RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 - Frequently Asked Questions
How many stages are involved in the RRB ALP 2026 selection procedure?
The selection procedure consists of CBT-1, CBT-2, the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT), Document Verification, and Medical Examination.
Is there any negative marking in the RRB ALP Exam 2026?
Yes, a penalty of 1/3 mark applies for each incorrect response in both CBT-1 and CBT-2.
What subjects are part of the RRB ALP CBT-1 syllabus?
The syllabus for CBT-1 encompasses topics related to Mathematics, Mental Ability/Reasoning, and General Science.
What is the qualifying criteria for the CBAT stage?
Participants must achieve a minimum score of 42 in each section of the CBAT to qualify.
Are the scores from CBT-1 included in the final RRB ALP merit list?
No, the results from CBT-1 are only for screening and do not influence the final merit list.