The RRB ALP (Railway Recruitment Board Assistant Loco Pilot) exam is one of the most sought-after government job exams in India. With 9,970 vacancies announced for 2025 , competition is fierce. But don’t worry if you understand the exam pattern, syllabus, and smart preparation strategies, cracking it becomes much easier.
This guide breaks down everything stages, marking scheme, negative marking, time limits, and expert-backed tips so you can prepare effectively. Whether you’re aiming for ALP or Technician, we’ve got you covered.
Key Highlights 🏆
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) |
| Exam Name | RRB ALP & Technician 2025 |
| Total Vacancies | 9,970 (as per latest notification) |
| Selection Stages | CBT 1 → CBT 2 → CBAT (for ALP) → Document Verification |
| Exam Mode | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Negative Marking | ⅓ mark deduction per wrong answer |
| Minimum Qualifying Marks | **UR: 40% |
| Official Website | indianrailways.gov.in |
RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2025📝
The selection process has four stages (three for Technicians). Let’s dive into each:
1. First Stage CBT (Computer-Based Test)
This is a screening test with 75 questions in 60 minutes .
| Subject | No. of Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 |
| General Science | 20 | 20 |
| General Awareness | 10 | 10 |
| Total | 75 | 75 |
🔹 Key Tip: Focus on speed and accuracy—each wrong answer costs 0.33 marks!
2. Second Stage CBT (Part A & B)
This stage has two parts—Part A (scoring) and Part B (qualifying) .
Part A (90 mins, 100 marks)
| Subject | No. of Questions |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 25 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 |
| Basic Science & Engineering | 40 |
| General Awareness | 10 |
| Total | 100 |
Part B (60 mins, 75 marks – Qualifying Only)
- Trade-specific questions (Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics, etc.)
- Minimum 35% required to pass .
🔹 Pro Tip: Part A marks decide your CBAT eligibility, so prioritize it!
3. Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT – Only for ALP)
This psychometric test checks if you’re fit for the Assistant Loco Pilot role. You need 42+ in each test battery .
| Test | What It Assesses |
|---|---|
| Memory Test | Ability to recall maps & figures |
| Following Directions | Understanding instructions quickly |
| Depth Perception | Judging distances accurately |
| Observation Test | Spotting differences under pressure |
| Perceptual Speed | Matching figures rapidly |
🔹 Expert Insight: “CBAT is about mental agility, not knowledge. Practice mock tests!” .
4. Document Verification (Final Step!)
After clearing all tests, original documents are checked. 70% weightage goes to CBT 2 (Part A) and 30% to CBAT for final selection .
RRB ALP Syllabus 2025📚
1. CBT 1 Syllabus
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Number System, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Algebra |
| Reasoning | Coding-Decoding, Syllogism, Venn Diagrams |
| General Science | Physics (Class 10 level), Chemistry, Biology |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs, Railway Updates, Sports |
2. CBT 2 Syllabus (Part A)
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Same as CBT 1 but slightly advanced |
| Basic Science & Engineering | Units, Measurements, Basic Electricity |
3. CBT 2 Syllabus (Part B – Trade-Specific)
| Trade | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Electrical | Transformers, Motors, Circuits |
| Mechanical | Thermodynamics, IC Engines |
| Electronics | Transistors, Digital Electronics |
🔹 Real-Life Example: Priya, a 2024 qualifier, says, “Mastering trade basics in Part B saved me time for Part A!” .
Expert-Recommended Preparation Tips 🎯
1. Study Plan for CBT 1 & 2
| Week | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Math + Reasoning (Basics) |
| 3-4 | General Science + Current Affairs |
| 5-6 | Mock Tests + Weak Areas |
2. Books to Refer
| Subject | Best Book |
|---|---|
| Math | Fast Track Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma |
| Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal’s Verbal & Non-Verbal |
| General Science | NCERT Class 10 Science |
🔹 Research-Backed Tip: “Candidates solving 15+ mock tests score 20% higher!” .
Final Words
The RRB ALP 2025 exam is tough but crackable with the right strategy. Focus on CBT 2 (Part A), practice CBAT simulations, and stay updated with current affairs.
Meera Patel is an education consultant specializing in exam results and admit cards. With a Master’s in Education and 6+ years of experience, Meera loves helping students achieve their goals. She enjoys reading and practicing meditation.
