The RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) Syllabus 2026 plays a pivotal role for candidates preparing for one of the most competitive technical examinations in India. Conducted by the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs), RRB ALP is a gateway to job opportunities as Assistant Loco Pilots in Indian Railways. Given the large number of applicants each year, understanding the complete syllabus, exam pattern, marking scheme, and key topics is critical to scoring well and qualifying for the next stages.
This guide provides an in-depth overview of the RRB ALP CBT-1 and CBT-2 syllabus, includes the latest exam pattern, subject-wise topics, expected marks distribution, and tips to help you prepare strategically for RRB ALP 2026.
Table of Contents
RRB ALP 2026 – Overview
Exam Name: RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot)
Conducting Body: Railway Recruitment Board (RRB)
Stages:
CBT-1 (Computer Based Test 1)
CBT-2 (Computer Based Test 2)
Computer Based Aptitude Test (for ALP Posts)
Document Verification
Medical Examination
Mode: Online (CBT)
CBT-1 and CBT-2 are the most important stages and need thorough preparation.
RRB ALP 2026: CBT-1 Exam Pattern
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 | |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 | 60 minutes |
| General Science | 20 | 20 | |
| General Awareness on Current Affairs | 25 | 25 | |
| Total | 90 | 90 | 60 mins |
CBT-1 Marking Scheme
+1 mark for each correct answer
–1/3 mark for every wrong answer
No penalty for unattempted questions
CBT-1 is a screening stage; qualifying it is essential for advancement to CBT-2.
RRB ALP 2026: CBT-1 Syllabus (Subject-Wise)
1. Mathematics
Number System
Decimals & Fractions
LCM & HCF
Ratio & Proportion
Percentages
Profit & Loss
Simple & Compound Interest
Time & Work
Time, Speed & Distance
Average
Mensuration
Data Interpretation (Tables, Bar Graphs, Pie Charts)
2. General Intelligence & Reasoning
Analogies
Classification
Coding-Decoding
Series & Sequences
Syllogisms
Directions & Distance
Blood Relations
Non-Verbal Reasoning
Figure Classification
3. General Science
Physics Fundamentals
Chemistry Basics
Biology (Human Body, Diseases, Nutrition)
Scientific Phenomena in Daily Life
Modern Scientific Developments
4. General Awareness & Current Affairs
National & International Events
Indian Economy
Polity (Constitution, Fundamental Rights)
Indian Geography
Awards & Honours
Sports
Books & Authors
Important Days
RRB ALP 2026: CBT-2 Exam Pattern
RRB ALP CBT-2 consists of two parts and includes a larger number of questions that test deeper technical and reasoning skills.
| Part | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A | Mathematics | 20 | 20 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 | |
| Basic Science & Engineering | 50 | 50 | |
| General Awareness | 25 | 25 | |
| Total Part A | 120 | 120 | |
| Part B | Trade/ Discipline-Specific Topics | 75 | 75 |
| Total CBT-2 | 195 | 195 |
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (150 minutes)
Marking Scheme:
+1 mark for correct answer
–1/3 mark for incorrect answer
Candidates must qualify both Part A and Part B to move forward.
RRB ALP CBT-2 Syllabus (Detailed)
Part A – Common Topics
Mathematics (20 Items)
Similar but slightly higher difficulty than CBT-1:
Algebra
Trigonometry Basics
More Complex Data Interpretation
General Intelligence & Reasoning
Higher logic puzzles
Statement-Conclusion
Critical Thinking
Visual Reasoning
Basic Science & Engineering
Physics: Motion, Work, Energy, Electricity, Magnetism
Chemistry: Elements, Compounds, Acids, Bases
Engineering Basics: Forces, Machines, Materials
Applications in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil contexts
General Awareness
More in-depth current affairs
Budget & Economic survey
Important Government Schemes
Science & Technology Reports
Part B – Trade / Discipline-Specific Topics
Part B varies by trade. Some common areas include:
1. Mechanical Trade
Thermodynamics
Machine Design Basics
Fluid Mechanics
Workshop Technology
Engineering Drawing
2. Electrical Trade
Circuit Theory
Motors & Generators
Transformers
Power Systems
Control Systems
3. Electronics / Communication
Digital Electronics
Analog Circuits
Signal Processing
Communication Systems
4. Computer Science / IT
Operating Systems
DBMS
Software Engineering
Networks
Each paper is aligned to the respective engineering background of candidates.
Download RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 PDF
Candidates can download the RRB ALP 2026 syllabus PDF (CBT-1 & CBT-2) from the official RRB portal or regional boards. Ensure you use the latest syllabus document which will be state/region specific if applicable. Look for the official notification once released at:
🔗 rrbcdg.gov.in
or the respective regional RRB website (e.g., rrbmumbai.gov.in, rrbbhopal.gov.in, rrbsecunderabad.gov.in, etc.)
Preparation Strategy for RRB ALP 2026
1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly
Map topics chapter-wise
Prioritize high-weight sections
2. Practice Previous Year Papers
Helps identify patterns
Improves speed & accuracy
3. Take Sectional Mock Tests
Reasoning & Mathematics need regular timed practice
4. Build Basic Concepts
Focus on Fundamentals in Science & Engineering
5. Stay Updated
Daily Current Affairs for General Awareness
Monthly GK compilations
Important Tips Before the Exam
Carry a printed copy of the admit card
Take valid photo ID with you
Reach the exam centre early
Read instructions carefully
Attempt easy questions first
Conclusion
The RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 for CBT-1 and CBT-2 covers core topics from Mathematics, Reasoning, General Awareness, Basic Science & Engineering, and Trade-specific disciplines. A structured approach—based on syllabus, exam pattern, marking scheme, and regular practice—is key to success. By understanding these elements thoroughly and strategically preparing through mock tests and practice papers, RRB ALP aspirants can improve their performance and confidently aim for higher scores.
