RRB ALP Syllabus 2025: Detailed Exam Pattern & Topics!
The Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) conduct the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) examination to recruit candidates for the Indian Railways. Understanding the detailed syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation.
RRB ALP Selection Process
The selection process for RRB ALP involves multiple stages:
- First Stage Computer Based Test (CBT 1)
- Second Stage Computer Based Test (CBT 2)
- Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
- Document Verification (DV)
- Medical Examination (ME)
Screening Stage
The First Stage CBT (CBT 1) is primarily for screening candidates. Marks obtained in CBT 1 are not considered for the final merit list preparation.
RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2025
First Stage CBT (CBT 1)
| Section |
|---|
| Mathematics |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning |
| General Science |
| General Awareness on Current Affairs |
Important Note
- Total number of question will be 75.
- Total duration wil be 60 minutes.
- There is a negative marking of 1/3rd mark for every incorrect answer in CBT 1.
Second Stage CBT (CBT 2)
CBT 2 consists of two parts, Part A and Part B, conducted together.
| Part | Section |
|---|---|
| Part A | Mathematics |
| Part A | General Intelligence & Reasoning |
| Part A | Basic Science & Engineering |
| Part B | Relevant Trade (Qualifying) |
Important Notes: CBT 2 & CBAT
- Part-A: 90 minutes & 100 questions
- Part-B: 60 minutes & 75 questions
- Negative Marking: 1/3rd mark is deducted for each wrong answer in both Part A and Part B of CBT 2.
- Part B Qualifying Nature: Candidates must score a minimum of 35% in Part B (Relevant Trade) to qualify, irrespective of their category. Part B marks are not added for merit calculation.
- CBAT: Candidates shortlisted based on CBT 2 Part A (provided they qualify Part B) are called for CBAT (8 times the ALP vacancies). A minimum T-Score of 42 in each test battery is required to qualify CBAT. There is no negative marking in CBAT.
- Final Merit (ALP): The final merit list for ALP is based on 70% weightage to marks from CBT 2 Part A and 30% weightage to marks from CBAT.
RRB ALP Subject-wise Syllabus 2025
CBT 1 Syllabus
Mathematics (CBT 1)
Number system, BODMAS, Decimals, Fractions, LCM, HCF, Ratio and Proportion, Percentages, Mensuration, Time and Work, Time and Distance, Simple and Compound Interest, Profit and Loss, Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry, Elementary Statistics, Square Root, Age Calculations, Calendar & Clock, Pipes & Cistern etc.
General Intelligence & Reasoning (CBT 1)
Analogies, Alphabetical and Number Series, Coding and Decoding, Mathematical operations, Relationships, Syllogism, Jumbling, Venn Diagram, Data Interpretation and Sufficiency, Conclusions and decision making, Similarities and differences, Analytical reasoning, Classification, Directions, Statement - Arguments and Assumptions etc.
General Science (CBT 1)
Covers Physics, Chemistry, and Life Sciences based on the syllabus up to the 10th standard level (CBSE).
General Awareness on Current Affairs (CBT 1)
Current events of national and international importance, Science & Technology, Sports, Culture, Personalities, Economics, Politics and other subjects of importance. Focus on events from the last 6-12 months is generally recommended.
CBT 2 Syllabus
Part A
- Mathematics: Syllabus is similar to CBT 1.
- General Intelligence & Reasoning: Syllabus is similar to CBT 1.
Basic Science & Engineering (CBT 2 - Part A)
Engineering Drawing (Projections, Views, Drawing Instruments, Lines, Geometric figures, Symbolic Representation), Units, Measurements, Mass Weight and Density, Work Power and Energy, Speed and Velocity, Heat and Temperature, Basic Electricity, Levers and Simple Machines, Occupational Safety and Health, Environment Education, IT Literacy etc.
Part B (Relevant Trade)
Relevant Trade (CBT 2 - Part B - Qualifying)
This part is qualifying in nature (35% marks needed). The syllabus is specific to the trade chosen by the candidate and follows the curriculum prescribed by the Director General of Training (DGT) (dgt.gov.in). For example, the Electrical trade syllabus covers topics like Electrical India, Rolls, cables, Transfers, Three-Phase Motor Systems, Light, Magnetism, Fundamental Electric System, Single-phase motors, Switches, Plugs, and Electrical Connections. Candidates must refer to the DGET syllabus for their specific trade.
RRB ALP Preparation Tips
Effective Preparation Strategy
- Understand Syllabus & Pattern: Thoroughly analyze the official syllabus and exam pattern for all stages.
- Prioritize Topics: Focus on high-weightage topics based on previous year paper analysis.
- Solve Previous Papers: Practice with RRB ALP previous year question papers to understand the difficulty level and question types.
- Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to assess your preparation level, improve speed, and manage time effectively.
- Study Plan: Create a realistic and consistent study schedule covering all subjects.
- NCERT Focus: Build a strong foundation, especially for General Science and Basic Science & Engineering, using NCERT books.
- Current Affairs: Stay updated with current events, particularly from the last 6-12 months.
- Revision: Regularly revise learned concepts, formulas, and facts.
Previous Year Question Paper Analysis
Analyzing previous year papers helps understand topic importance. While official RRB weightage statistics are not typically released, analysis by educational platforms suggests patterns.
| Stage | Section | Approximate Question Count (Indicative) |
|---|---|---|
| CBT 1 | Reasoning | ~25 Questions |
| CBT 1 | Mathematics | ~20 Questions |
| CBT 1 | General Science | ~20 Questions |
| CBT 1 | General Awareness & Current Affairs | ~10 Questions |
| CBT 2 Part A | Reasoning | ~25 Questions |
| CBT 2 Part A | Mathematics | ~25 Questions |
| CBT 2 Part A | Basic Science & Engineering | ~50 Questions |
Note: The above weightage is indicative and based on analysis of past papers by various coaching institutes and educational platforms. Actual distribution may vary.
Official Information & Updates
Candidates must always refer to the official websites of the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) for the most authentic and up-to-date information regarding notifications, syllabus, exam dates, and results. Some official RRB websites include RRB Bhopal, RRB Chennai, RRB Mumbai, RRB Allahabad, etc.
For detailed official syllabus and notifications, check the Centralised Employment Notice (CEN) section on your respective RRB's website.
Official Notification with SyllabusDisclaimer: This article provides information based on available data as of April 12, 2025. Candidates are advised to check official RRB notifications for the latest RRB ALP 2025 syllabus and exam details.