| Total Vacancies | 11,127 |
| Post | Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) |
| Application Dates | 15 May – 14 June 2026 |
| Selection Stages | CBT 1 → CBT 2 (Part A + B) → CBAT → DV → Medical |
| Final Merit | 70% CBT 2 Part A + 30% CBAT |
| Medical Standard | A-1 (strictest — vision 6/6, no glasses) |
✍️ By Sarkari Nokrii Team | 📅 Published: 04 May 2026 | 🔄 Last Updated: 04 May 2026
The RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 is one of the most sought-after guides for aspirants of the Assistant Loco Pilot recruitment, which this year comes with a massive 11,127 vacancies across all Railway Recruitment Boards. As per official RRB notification CEN 01/2026, the selection process is multi-tiered and highly rigorous — including CBT 1 (qualifying), CBT 2 (Part A merit + Part B qualifying) and the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) that carries 30% weight in the final merit. This article provides the complete, ultra-detailed syllabus for every stage, along with exam patterns, negative marking rules, medical standards, trade-specific topics, preparation strategies and final merit calculation formula.
- Overview & Selection Process
- CBT 1 Exam Pattern
- CBT 1 Complete Syllabus
- CBT 2 Exam Pattern
- CBT 2 Part A Syllabus
- CBT 2 Part B Syllabus (Trade Subjects)
- CBAT (Psychometric Test) Syllabus
- Medical Standards (A-1 Category)
- Final Merit List Calculation
- Negative Marking Guide
- Recommended Books
- Stage-wise Preparation Strategy
- Previous Year Analysis
- Official Sources Used
- FAQs
- Related Posts
📊 RRB ALP 2026 — Overview & Selection Process
As per the official RRB notification (CEN 01/2026), the recruitment for 11,127 Assistant Loco Pilot posts is conducted in five stages. The first two stages are Computer-Based Tests, the third is the Computer-Based Aptitude Test, followed by Document Verification and a stringent Medical Examination. The CBT 1 is purely qualifying — its marks are NOT counted for final merit. CBT 2 has two parts: Part A (70% weight in final merit) and Part B (qualifying only). The final merit is calculated by combining 70% of CBT 2 Part A marks with 30% of the CBAT score.
CBT 1 Exam Pattern (First Stage)
| Section | Questions | Marks | Topics | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 | Number System, BODMAS, LCM/HCF, Ratio, Profit/Loss, Time & Work, Mensuration, Algebra, DI | Class 10 |
| Reasoning | 25 | 25 | Analogies, Series, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Syllogism, Directions, Puzzles, Venn Diagrams | Class 10 |
| General Science | 20 | 20 | Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Class 10 NCERT) | Class 10 |
| General Awareness | 10 | 10 | National & International events, Polity, Economy, Science & Tech, Railway current affairs | Current |
| Total | 75 | 75 | — | — |
Qualifying Marks: UR/EWS: 40% | OBC (NCL): 30% | SC: 30% | ST: 25%. Negative Marking: 1/3 mark per wrong answer. Duration: 60 minutes.
CBT 1 Complete Syllabus
Mathematics Syllabus — CBT 1 (Expanded)
- Number System: Classification of numbers, BODMAS rule, divisibility tests, prime factorisation, LCM and HCF.
- Decimals & Fractions: Operations, conversion of repeating decimals, comparing fractions.
- Ratio & Proportion: Direct and inverse proportion, partnership, mixture and allegation.
- Percentage: Calculation, percentage change, population growth, election-based questions.
- Profit & Loss: CP, SP, discount, marked price, successive discounts.
- Simple & Compound Interest: Formula application, half-yearly/quarterly compounding, difference between CI and SI.
- Time & Work: Efficiency, MDH formula, pipe and cistern problems.
- Time & Distance: Relative speed, average speed, problems on trains, boat and stream.
- Mensuration 2D: Area and perimeter of triangle, rectangle, square, circle, trapezium, parallelogram.
- Mensuration 3D: Volume and surface area of cube, cuboid, cylinder, cone, sphere.
- Trigonometry: Ratios, standard angles, complementary angles, heights and distances.
- Algebra: Linear equations, quadratic equations, surds and indices, algebraic identities.
- Statistics: Mean, median, mode, range, bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs, tables.
General Intelligence & Reasoning — CBT 1
- Analogies: Letter, number, word analogies.
- Coding-Decoding: Letter coding, number-symbol coding, substitution.
- Number/Alphabetical Series: Missing term, wrong term, pattern recognition.
- Blood Relations: Family tree method.
- Syllogism: All/Some/No type statements and conclusions.
- Directions & Distances: Straight-line and shadow-based problems.
- Venn Diagrams: 2-circle and 3-circle logical grouping.
- Seating Arrangements: Linear and circular arrangements.
- Puzzles: Order-ranking, classification, odd one out.
- Non-verbal Reasoning: Mirror and water images, paper folding/cutting, embedded figures.
General Science — CBT 1 (Class 10 Level)
Physics
Units and measurements, motion (Newton's laws, velocity, acceleration), force and friction, work-energy-power, gravitation (universal law, free fall), pressure (Pascal, Archimedes, buoyancy), sound (wave types, echo, ultrasound), light (reflection, refraction, mirrors, lenses, human eye, dispersion), electricity (Ohm's law, resistance, series/parallel, electrical power, heating effect), magnetism, heat (specific heat, latent heat, conduction, convection, radiation).
Chemistry
Matter and its states, atomic structure (proton, neutron, electron, valency), chemical reactions (types, balancing), acids-bases-salts (pH, indicators, neutralisation), metals and non-metals (properties, reactivity series), carbon compounds (hydrocarbons, functional groups), periodic table trends, polymers, soaps and detergents.
Biology
Cell (theory, prokaryotic/eukaryotic), plant and animal tissues, life processes (nutrition, respiration, transportation, excretion), control and coordination (nervous system, hormones), reproduction (asexual and sexual), heredity and evolution (Mendel's laws), environment (food chain, food web, ecosystem, biodiversity, conservation), human diseases (bacterial, viral, nutritional deficiency).
General Awareness & Current Affairs — CBT 1
Indian Polity (Constitution, Parliament, President, PM), Economy (GDP, Budget, RBI, inflation), History (important events, freedom movement), Geography (physical features, rivers, climate), Science & Tech (ISRO, DRDO, IT), Awards & Honours, Art & Culture (classical dances, UNESCO sites), Sports (major tournaments), International Affairs (summits, UN bodies), Railway-specific current affairs (Vande Bharat, Gati-Shakti, new train routes, railway budget).
CBT 2 Exam Pattern (Second Stage)
| Part | Questions | Marks | Duration | Nature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part A | 100 | 100 | 90 Min | Merit (70% weightage in final selection) |
| Part B | 75 | 75 | 60 Min | Qualifying (35% UR | 30% SC/ST/OBC) |
CBT 2 Part A Syllabus
Mathematics (25 Questions)
Advanced versions of CBT 1 topics with higher difficulty. Emphasis on Trigonometry, Algebra, Mensuration (3D), Statistics, Data Interpretation (puzzles, caselets), Coordinate Geometry (distance formula, line equation).
General Intelligence & Reasoning (30 Questions)
Complex analytical reasoning, advanced puzzles, multi-variable seating arrangements, input-output, logical deduction, statement-course of action, visual reasoning.
Basic Science & Engineering (40 Questions) — 🔴 Most Important
This is the single most important section in CBT 2 Part A, carrying 40% weight. Sub-topics include:
- Engineering Drawing: Projections (orthographic, isometric), views (front, top, side), drawing instruments, line conventions, geometric construction, dimensioning rules.
- Units & Measurements: SI units, mass, weight, density, work, power, energy, speed, velocity, acceleration.
- Basic Electricity: Ohm's Law, series/parallel circuits, Kirchhoff's Laws, electrical power and energy (kWh), AC/DC, resistance, capacitance, transformers, motors, generators, earthing, fuse, MCB safety devices.
- Levers & Simple Machines: Types of levers (Class 1, 2, 3), mechanical advantage, velocity ratio, pulleys, inclined plane, screw, wedge, wheel & axle.
- Occupational Safety & Health: Safety at workplace, PPE, fire safety, electrical safety, first aid basics.
- Environment Education: Pollution types, greenhouse effect, global warming, environmental laws relevant to railways, waste management, recycling.
- IT Literacy: Basic computer hardware, MS Office, internet, email, cybersecurity basics.
General Awareness (5 Questions)
Current affairs of national and international importance, railway-specific news, awards, sports, and major government schemes.
CBT 2 Part B Syllabus — Trade Subjects (Qualifying)
Part B is based on the candidate's chosen trade/qualification. The syllabus is aligned with the NCVT/ITI curriculum for the respective trade. Candidates must score 35% (UR) or 30% (reserved categories) to qualify.
Electrical Engineering Trade
DC circuits (Ohm's law, network theorems), AC circuits, single-phase and three-phase systems, transformers (working, types), motors (DC, induction, synchronous), generators, wiring, earthing, protection devices (fuses, MCB, ELCB).
Electronics Engineering Trade
Semiconductors (diode, transistor), amplifiers, oscillators, digital electronics (logic gates, flip-flops, counters), microprocessor basics, measuring instruments.
Mechanical Engineering Trade
Engineering mechanics (forces, friction), strength of materials, thermodynamics, heat engines, manufacturing processes (casting, welding, machining), fluid mechanics basics.
Automobile Engineering Trade
Engine types (petrol, diesel, electric), fuel systems, transmission, braking, suspension, electrical systems in vehicles, vehicle maintenance.
Diploma in Engineering (Any Stream)
Candidates with a 3-year diploma in Mechanical/Electrical/Electronics/Automobile engineering attempt Part B questions from their respective diploma syllabus at diploma-standard difficulty. Trade must match the qualification submitted during application.
CBAT — Computer-Based Aptitude Test (Psychometric)
The CBAT is a psychometric test unique to RRB ALP. As per official RRB norms, a minimum T-score of 42 is required in EACH of the five test batteries to qualify. There is no negative marking. Duration: approximately 71 minutes.
| Battery | Test Name | What It Measures | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Memory Test | Recalling digits, letters or symbols in correct sequence | Practice memory games and online cognitive tests daily |
| 2 | Following Directions (Watch/Table Test) | Watch-based navigation and directional commands | Practice direction sense and grid-based puzzles |
| 3 | Depth Perception (Brick Test) | Estimating hidden bricks in 3D stacks | Spatial reasoning tests; count bricks from different angles |
| 4 | Concentration (Yes/No Test) | Finding specific numbers (6 or 9) in a busy pattern | Eye exercises, speed-counting apps |
| 5 | Perceptual Speed Test | Quickly identifying identical figures from a group | Practice figure-matching under timed conditions |
Medical Standards for RRB ALP (A-1 Category)
The ALP post falls under the strictest A-1 medical category. As per official railway norms, the following standards are mandatory:
- Distant Vision: 6/6, 6/6 in each eye without glasses — no correction allowed
- Near Vision: Sn. 0.6, 0.6 in each eye without glasses
- Colour Vision: Must pass Ishihara test for colour blindness
- Binocular Vision: Both eyes must have normal coordination
- Field of Vision: Normal peripheral vision required
- Night Vision: Adequate night vision (no nyctalopia)
- Hearing: No impairment — normal conversational voice hearing from 5 metres
- Physical Health: No major cardiovascular, neurological or musculoskeletal issues
Final Merit List Calculation
The final merit is calculated using the formula: 70% of CBT 2 Part A normalized marks + 30% of CBAT normalized T-scores.
| Candidate | CBT 2 Part A (out of 100) | CBAT (T-score) | Final Score Calculation | Final Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example A | 85 | 63 | (0.7 × 85) + (0.3 × 63) = 59.5 + 18.9 | 78.4 |
| Example B | 75 | 55 | (0.7 × 75) + (0.3 × 55) = 52.5 + 16.5 | 69.0 |
RRB ALP Negative Marking — Complete Guide
| Stage | Correct | Wrong Answer | Unattempted | Total Qs | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBT 1 | +1 | −1/3 | 0 | 75 | 60 min |
| CBT 2 Part A | +1 | −1/3 | 0 | 100 | 90 min |
| CBT 2 Part B | +1 | −1/3 | 0 | 75 | 60 min |
| CBAT | T-score based | No negative marking | — | — | ~71 min |
📚 Subject-wise Recommended Books for RRB ALP 2026
| Subject | Book Name | Author/Publisher | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Fast Track Objective Arithmetic | Rajesh Verma | CBT 1 & 2 |
| Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | All stages |
| General Science | Lucent's General Science | Lucent Publication | CBT 1 |
| Basic Science & Engineering | RRB ALP Technician Stage 2 (Basic Science & Engineering) | GK Publications | CBT 2 Part A |
| Engineering Drawing | Engineering Drawing | N.D. Bhatt | CBT 2 Part A |
| Trade Subjects | NCVT/ITI Textbooks (as per trade) | NCVT | CBT 2 Part B |
| Current Affairs | Pratiyogita Darpan / Yearly Current Affairs | Various | GK Section |
Stage-wise Preparation Strategy
CBT 1 — 90-Day Plan
Focus on Mathematics and Reasoning as they carry 45 marks combined. Practice 30 questions each daily. General Science from NCERT Class 6–10. Current Affairs from last 12 months. Attempt at least 10 full-length mock tests. CBT 1 marks do not count in final merit — just clear the qualifying threshold.
CBT 2 Part A
The 40-mark Basic Science & Engineering section is the game-changer. Study Engineering Drawing, Basic Electricity and Simple Machines thoroughly. Solve all previous RRB ALP CBT 2 papers for this section. Mathematics and Reasoning in CBT 2 are harder — practice advanced-level mock tests.
CBT 2 Part B
Revise your trade's NCVT/ITI syllabus. Focus on conceptual clarity. Attempting 500+ trade-specific MCQs is the best strategy. You only need 35% (UR) or 30% (reserved) to qualify — but don't take it lightly.
CBAT Preparation
Practice online psychometric tests daily for 15–20 minutes. Use apps that test memory, reaction time and concentration. Depth perception can be improved by daily brick-counting practice. Remember: T-score of 42 in each battery is mandatory — all five batteries must be cleared individually.
Previous Year Question Analysis
| Topic | 2018 Pattern | 2024 Pattern | Expected 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | Easy-Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Reasoning | Easy | Moderate | Moderate |
| General Science | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Basic Science & Engineering (CBT 2) | Moderate | Moderate-Hard | Moderate |
📚 Official Sources Used
- Indian Railways Official — indianrailways.gov.in
- RRB CDG Official — rrbcdg.gov.in
- RRB Apply Portal — rrbapply.gov.in
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the RRB ALP 2026 exam pattern?
The selection consists of: CBT 1 (75 questions, 60 min, qualifying), CBT 2 Part A (100 questions, 90 min, 70% merit weight), CBT 2 Part B (75 questions, 60 min, qualifying), CBAT (psychometric, 30% merit weight), Document Verification and A-1 Medical Examination.
Q2. How many stages are there in RRB ALP selection process?
Five stages: (1) First Stage CBT (CBT 1), (2) Second Stage CBT (CBT 2 — Part A and Part B), (3) Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT), (4) Document Verification, and (5) Medical Examination under A-1 standards.
Q3. What is the syllabus of RRB ALP CBT 1?
CBT 1 covers Mathematics (20 Qs), General Intelligence & Reasoning (25 Qs), General Science (20 Qs) and General Awareness & Current Affairs (10 Qs) at Class 10 level. Total 75 questions for 75 marks in 60 minutes. Qualifying only — marks not counted in final merit.
Q4. What is CBT 2 Part B and is it qualifying?
Part B is a qualifying trade-specific test (75 questions, 60 min) based on the candidate's ITI/Diploma background. Candidates need 35% (UR/EWS) or 30% (SC/ST/OBC) to pass. Its marks are NOT added to the final merit — but failing Part B eliminates the candidate from ALP selection.
Q5. What is the minimum score required in CBAT?
A minimum T-score of 42 in each of the five test batteries individually is mandatory. A candidate who scores 50 in four batteries but 41 in one battery is disqualified from the ALP merit list regardless of CBT 2 marks.
Q6. Is there negative marking in RRB ALP exam?
Yes. CBT 1, CBT 2 Part A and CBT 2 Part B all have 1/3 mark negative marking on wrong answers. There is no negative marking in the CBAT.
Q7. What is the final merit list calculation formula?
Final Merit = (70% of normalized CBT 2 Part A marks) + (30% of normalized CBAT T-scores). CBT 1 and CBT 2 Part B are qualifying only and are not included in the merit formula.
Q8. What are the medical standards for RRB ALP post?
A-1 medical standard: 6/6 distant vision in each eye without glasses, near vision Sn. 0.6 without glasses, no colour blindness, normal binocular vision, field of vision and hearing. Laser correction is generally not accepted. Glasses wearers cannot qualify for ALP A-1 medical standards.
Q9. Which trade is best to choose in CBT 2 Part B?
You must choose the trade based on your qualifying ITI/Diploma certificate — it is not a free choice. The most common eligible trades are Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical and Automobile. Choose based on your strongest educational background to ensure you clear the qualifying threshold comfortably.
Q10. Why is CBAT the most critical stage in RRB ALP selection and what happens if a candidate clears CBT 1 & 2 but fails CBAT?
The CBAT is critical for two reasons: first, it carries 30% of the final merit weight — meaning a strong CBAT performance can significantly boost your rank. Second, failure to achieve a T-score of 42 in any single battery means immediate disqualification from the ALP post, regardless of how high the CBT 2 marks are. However, if a candidate qualifies CBT 1 and CBT 2 but fails the CBAT, they still remain eligible for Technician posts (if vacancies are available) in the same recruitment cycle, provided they meet the relevant medical standards. The CBAT is designed as the final cognitive fitness filter — ensuring only candidates with the precise reaction time, concentration, memory and spatial reasoning required for safe locomotive operation are selected as Assistant Loco Pilots. This is why even a near-perfect academic performance cannot substitute for CBAT qualification.
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🎯 Conclusion
The RRB ALP 2026 examination, with its multi-stage structure and strict A-1 medical criteria, is designed to select the most competent and physically fit candidates for Indian Railways' most critical front-line post. Mastering the CBT 1 syllabus is the first hurdle; cracking CBT 2 Part A with its 40-mark Basic Science & Engineering section is the key to a high merit score; and qualifying the CBAT with at least T-score 42 in each battery is the non-negotiable final exam. With 11,127 vacancies, the opportunity is enormous — but so is the competition. Candidates should prepare systematically, practice mock tests for all stages, and monitor official RRB websites for admit card and result updates. We wish every aspirant success in the journey to becoming an Assistant Loco Pilot.
Disclaimer: Sarkari Nokrii is not affiliated with the Railway Recruitment Board or Indian Railways. All information is compiled from official RRB sources for informational purposes only. Candidates must verify all details from official RRB websites before applying. Last Updated: 04 May 2026.