The Railway ALP Syllabus 2026 is one of the most important resources for candidates preparing for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) exam conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board. Every year, thousands of aspirants apply for this prestigious technical post in Indian Railways.
Understanding the syllabus and exam pattern is the first step toward effective preparation. It helps candidates focus on relevant topics, manage time wisely, and avoid unnecessary study material. In this article, you will find a complete breakdown of the Railway ALP Syllabus 2026, including exam pattern, subject-wise topics, selection process, and preparation tips.
Railway ALP Exam Pattern 2026
The Railway ALP Exam Pattern 2026 is divided into multiple stages, mainly CBT 1, CBT 2, and further qualifying stages.
CBT 1 (First Stage Computer-Based Test)
- Total Questions: 75
- Total Marks: 75
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Subjects:
- Mathematics
- General Intelligence & Reasoning
- General Science
- General Awareness & Current Affairs
- Negative Marking: 1/3 mark deducted for each wrong answer
| Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 | 60 minutes |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 | |
| General Science | 20 | 20 | |
| General Awareness & Current Affairs | 10 | 10 | |
| Total | 75 | 75 | 60 minutes |
CBT 2 (Second Stage Computer-Based Test)
Part A:
- Total Questions: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Subjects: Mathematics, Reasoning, Basic Science & Engineering, Current Affairs
Part B (Qualifying in nature):
- Questions: 75
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Focus: Trade-related questions (based on ITI/diploma qualification)
- Qualifying Marks: 35% (no relaxation)
| Papers | Subjects | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Mathematics | 100 | 100 | 90 minutes |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | ||||
| Basic Science & Engineering | ||||
| Paper 1 Total | 100 | 100 | 90 minutes | |
| Paper 2 | Relevant Trade (ITI/Diploma Based) | 75 | 75 | 60 minutes |
| Overall Total | 175 | 175 | 150 minutes |
RRB ALP Syllabus and Exam Pattern 2026 – Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Railway Recruitment Board |
| Posts | Assistant Loco Pilots (ALPs) |
| Total Vacancies | 9970 |
| RRB ALP CBT 2 Exam Date 2026 | To be notified |
| Category | Syllabus & Exam Pattern |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Number of Questions | CBT 1 – 75 Questions |
| CBT 2 – 175 Questions | |
| CBAT (Aptitude Test) | |
| Negative Marking | 1/3rd mark deducted for each wrong answer |
| Selection Process | CBT 1, CBT 2, CBAT |

Railway ALP Subject-Wise Syllabus 2026
The Railway ALP Subject Wise Syllabus 2026 is designed to test both academic knowledge and technical skills.
1. Mathematics
- Number System
- Percentage
- Ratio & Proportion
- Time & Work
- Time, Speed & Distance
- Profit & Loss
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Algebra
- Geometry & Trigonometry
- Data Interpretation
2. General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Analogies
- Coding-Decoding
- Series (Number & Alphabet)
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Syllogism
- Venn Diagrams
- Puzzle & Seating Arrangement
- Decision Making
3. General Science
(Based on Class 10 level – NCERT syllabus)
- Physics:
- Motion & Force
- Work, Energy & Power
- Electricity
- Heat & Light
- Chemistry:
- Chemical Reactions
- Acids, Bases & Salts
- Metals & Non-metals
- Biology:
- Human Body
- Nutrition
- Diseases
- Environment
4. General Awareness & Current Affairs
- Indian Economy
- Indian History
- Geography
- Polity
- Science & Technology
- Current Affairs (last 6–12 months)
- Important Government Schemes
5. Basic Science & Engineering (CBT 2)
- Units & Measurements
- Engineering Drawing
- Basic Electrical Engineering
- Mechanics
- Heat & Thermodynamics
- Computer Basics
6. Trade Syllabus (Part B)
- Based on candidate’s ITI/Diploma trade such as:
- Electrician
- Fitter
- Electronics Mechanic
- Mechanic Diesel
- Turner
Railway ALP Selection Process 2026
The Railway ALP Selection Process 2026 consists of multiple stages:
- CBT 1 (Screening Test)
- CBT 2 (Main Examination)
- Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
👉 Note: CBAT is only for ALP candidates and tests mental ability and reaction time.
Also Read: UPTET Syllabus 2026
Important Topics / High-Weightage Areas
To score well in the Railway ALP Syllabus 2026, focus on these high-scoring areas:
- Mathematics:
- Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time & Work
- Reasoning:
- Coding-Decoding, Series, Puzzles
- General Science:
- Physics numericals (Electricity, Motion)
- Current Affairs:
- Railways-related updates, government schemes
- Technical Section:
- Electrical concepts, basic engineering formulas
Preparation Tips for Railway ALP 2026
Preparing smartly is the key to cracking the ALP exam. Follow these practical tips:
1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly
Go through the complete Railway ALP Syllabus 2026 and mark important topics.
2. Make a Study Plan
Divide subjects into daily and weekly targets. Focus more on weak areas.
3. Practice Previous Year Papers
Solve past papers to understand question patterns and difficulty level.
4. Focus on Technical Subjects
CBT 2 Part B is qualifying but very important. Practice trade-related questions regularly.
5. Revise Regularly
Revision is crucial for retaining concepts, especially formulas and facts.
6. Take Mock Tests
Attempt full-length mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Related Links
| Topic | Link |
|---|---|
| RRB ALP Previous Year Cut-Off Marks | Click Here |
| RRB ALP Eligibility | Click Here |
| RRB ALP Salary Structure 2026 | Click Here |
| RRB ALP Previous Year Question Papers | Click Here |
Railway ALP Syllabus PDF Download
Candidates can download the official Railway ALP Syllabus PDF from the official website of the Railway Recruitment Board.
PDF Download Link: Click Here
FAQs – Railway ALP Syllabus 2026
Q1. What is the syllabus of Railway ALP 2026?
The syllabus includes Mathematics, Reasoning, General Science, Current Affairs, and Technical subjects based on ITI/diploma.
Q2. Is there negative marking in Railway ALP exam?
Yes, 1/3 mark is deducted for each wrong answer in CBT exams.
Q3. What is the difficulty level of the ALP exam?
The exam is moderate and based on Class 10 level concepts, especially for CBT 1.
Q4. Is the trade test compulsory?
Yes, CBT 2 Part B (trade section) is qualifying and mandatory.
Q5. Where can I download the Railway ALP syllabus PDF?
You can download it from the official Railway Recruitment Board website once released.
Conclusion
The Railway ALP Syllabus 2026 provides a clear roadmap for exam preparation. By understanding the exam pattern, focusing on important topics, and following a disciplined study plan, candidates can significantly improve their chances of success. Stay consistent, practice regularly, and keep yourself updated with the latest notifications.
With the right strategy and dedication, securing a job as an Assistant Loco Pilot in Indian Railways is absolutely achievable.