Discover the comprehensive RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 for CBT 1, CBT 2, and CBAT in this guide. Get equipped with the updated exam pattern, subject-wise topics, crucial focus areas, and the official syllabus PDF for optimal exam preparation.
RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 Overview
Candidates preparing for the exam must thoroughly master the syllabus and exam structure before diving into their preparation. The curriculum encompasses Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and Basic Science & Engineering. Furthermore, the CBT 1 exam awards 1 mark for each correct answer while imposing a negative marking of 1/3 mark for every incorrect response.
Under the revised exam guidelines, General Awareness has been excluded from CBT 1, streamlining the paper to three core subjects while keeping the total question count unchanged.
The final merit list will now be calculated by assigning a 50% weightage each to CBT 2 Part A and the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT).
RRB ALP Syllabus and Exam Pattern – Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
| Conducting Board |
Railway Recruitment Board (RRB)
|
| Posts |
Assistant Loco Pilots
|
| Vacancies | 11127 |
| Category |
Syllabus
|
| Exam Type | Pan India |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Selection Process |
CBT 1, CBT 2, CBAT, Document Verification
|
| Negative Marking |
1/3rd ot 0.33 for each incorrect answer
|
| Total Questions |
|
| Mark per Question | 1 mark |
| Question/Answer Format | MCQ- Objective type |
| Duration |
|
RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026
Aspiring candidates should carefully analyze the RRB ALP CBT 1 Exam Pattern 2026 prior to commencing their study routines. Grasping the exam framework, marking scheme, and question distribution for the initial stage enables aspirants to build a winning strategy and master time management during the test.
- A total of 75 multiple-choice questions will be asked.
- Candidates will have 1 hour to complete the exam.
- The question paper will be divided into four sections.
- A negative mark of 1/3 of the total marks will be applied for each incorrect answer.
| RRB ALP CBT 1 Exam Pattern 2026 | |||
| Subjects/Sections | Number of Questions | Number of Marks | Duration |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 75 | 75 | 1 Hour |
| Mathematics | |||
| General Science | |||
| Total | 75 | 75 | |
RRB ALP CBT 1 Syllabus
The inaugural phase of the RRB Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) Recruitment 2026 is CBT 1, which assesses candidates across Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and General Science. The comprehensive, subject-specific RRB ALP CBT 1 Syllabus 2026 is outlined in the table below.
| Subjects | Topics |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning |
|
| Mathematics |
|
| General Science |
|
RRB ALP CBT 2 Exam Pattern 2026
Review the essential specifications for Stage 2 of the RRB ALP Exam 2026 below:
- Stage 2 will include a total of 175 questions, divided into two parts: Part A and Part B.
- Part A will consist of 100 questions, while Part B will have 75 questions.
- The marks obtained in Part A will be considered for the next stage of the selection process, whereas Part B is qualifying in nature.
The detailed Assistant Loco Pilot Exam Pattern 2026 for Stage 2 is presented in the structured table below.
| RRB ALP CBT 2 Exam Pattern 2026 | ||
| Subjects/Sections | Number of Questions | Time Duration |
| Part A | ||
| Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and Basic Science and Engineering | 100 | 90 Minutes |
| Part B | ||
| Trade Test/Professional Knowledge | 75 | 60 minutes |
| Total | 175 Questions | |
RRB ALP CBT 2 Syllabus (Part A)
RRB ALP CBT 2 Part A features questions spanning Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, and Basic Science & Engineering. Given that CBT 2 Part A accounts for 50% of the final merit evaluation, candidates must prepare each topic thoroughly to maximize their scoring potential.
| RRB ALP CBT 2 Part A Syllabus | |
| Section | Topics Covered |
| Mathematics |
• Number System
• BODMAS • Decimals & Fractions • LCM & HCF • Ratio & Proportion • Percentages • Mensuration • Time & Work • Time & Distance • Simple & Compound Interest • Profit & Loss • Algebra • Geometry & Trigonometry • Elementary Statistics • Square Root • Age Calculations • Calendar & Clock • Pipes & Cistern |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning |
• Analogies
• Alphabetical & Number Series • Coding & Decoding • Mathematical Operations • Relationships • Syllogism • Jumbling • Venn Diagram • Data Interpretation & Sufficiency • Conclusions & Decision Making • Similarities & Differences • Analytical Reasoning • Classification • Directions • Statement, Arguments & Assumptions |
| Basic Science & Engineering |
• Engineering Drawing (Projections, Views, Instruments, Lines, Geometric Figures, Symbols)
• Units & Measurements • Mass, Weight & Density • Work, Power & Energy • Speed & Velocity • Heat & Temperature • Basic Electricity • Levers & Simple Machines • Occupational Safety & Health • Environmental Education • IT Literacy |
RRB ALP CBT 2 Syllabus (Part B)
Part B concentrates on the candidate’s chosen trade or engineering discipline, alongside foundational non-technical themes. Explore the complete Assistant Loco Pilot CBT 2 syllabus breakdown in the reference table below.
| Qualification of Candidate |
Part B Trade/Subject (as per qualification)
|
| Electrical Engineering and a combination of various streams of Electrical Engineering |
Electrician, Instrument Mechanic, Wireman, Armature & Coil Winder, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic
|
| Electronics Engineering and a combination of various streams of Electronics Engineering |
Electronics Mechanic, Mechanic (Radio & TV)
|
| 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
|
| Automobile Engineering and combination of various streams of Automobile Engineering |
Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Tractor Mechanic, Mechanic (Diesel), Heat Engine, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic
|
Key Differences Between CBT 1 and CBT 2
| Feature | CBT 1 | CBT 2 |
| Purpose | Qualifying/Screening | Merit-based |
| Total Questions | 75 | 175 |
| Duration | 60 minutes | 150 minutes |
| Marks counted in merit? | No | Yes (Part A: 50% weightage) |
| Trade-specific paper? | No | Yes (Part B) |
| Negative marking | 1/3 per wrong answer | 1/3 per wrong answer |
RRB ALP Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
Candidates who successfully clear both CBT 1 and CBT 2 qualify to appear for the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT). Rather than testing subject-matter expertise, this stage evaluates cognitive capabilities and psychological aptitudes vital for the Assistant Loco Pilot role. The CBAT is tailored to test the following competencies:
- Memory and attention span
- Depth and distance perception
- Hand-eye coordination
- Following of rules and instructions under pressure
- Speed and accuracy under timed conditions
CBAT Minimum Qualifying Score and Weightage
- Candidates must secure at least 42 marks in each test battery to qualify.
- The final selection will be based on a combined score, with 50% weightage given to Part A of CBT II and 50% to the CBAT.
For complete information, click here –
RRB ALP Official Syllabus PDF 2026 (Latest)
Candidates can easily download the official RRB ALP Syllabus PDF for CBT 1 and CBT 2 via the secure link provided below. Keeping a hard copy handy helps maintain focus on critical topics and organizes your study schedule systematically.
RRB ALP Selection Stages
RRB ALP 2026 Preparation Books
To excel in the RRB ALP 2026 examination, candidates should maintain a structured and strategic study plan. Utilize top-recommended reference books to cover every subject in line with the latest curriculum. Additionally, consistent practice with previous papers and full-length mock tests will reinforce your readiness and boost confidence on exam day.
| Subject | Recommended Books |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 1. “Fast Track Objective Arithmetic” by Rajesh Verma |
| 2. “Quantitative Aptitude” by R.S. Aggarwal | |
| 3. “Advanced Maths for General Competitions” by Rakesh Yadav | |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 1. “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal |
| 2. “Logical and Analytical Reasoning” by A.K. Gupta | |
| 3. “Test of Reasoning” by Edgar Thorpe | |
| General Science | 1. “Lucent’s General Science” |
| 2. “NCERT Science Books (Class 9th and 10th)” | |
| 3. “General Science” by Arihant Publications | |
| Relevant Trade (CBT 2 – Part B) | [Subject-specific trade-related books and guides] |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many questions will be asked in Stage 1 of the RRB ALP Exam 2026?
A total of 75 questions will be asked in Stage 1 of the RRB ALP Exam 2026.
2. How can I download the RRB ALP Syllabus PDF?
Candidates can download the official RRB ALP Syllabus PDF using the direct download link provided in this article.
3. How many questions will be asked in Stage 2 of the RRB ALP Exam 2026?
A total of 175 questions will be featured across Parts A and B in Stage 2 of the RRB ALP Exam 2026.
4. Is there any negative marking in the RRB ALP Exam 2026?
Yes, 1/3rd of the allotted marks will be deducted for every incorrect response in the RRB ALP Exam 2026.
5. What is the duration of the RRB ALP exam stages?
The duration varies by stage. Typically, the First Stage CBT lasts for 60 minutes, the Second Stage CBT extends for 2 hours and 30 minutes, and the CBAT takes approximately 71 minutes.
6. How is the final merit list prepared for the RRB ALP recruitment?
The final merit list is formulated based on candidate performance in the Second Stage CBT (Part A) and the CBAT. Shortlisted candidates are subsequently called for the document verification stage.