RRB ALP 2026 Exam Pattern Explained: CBT 1, CBT 2 & Psycho Test

Updated on 28.05.2026

Understanding the RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026 is the absolute foundation of a solid preparation strategy.

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) assesses candidates for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) position through a highly systematic, multi-stage examination.

This process is engineered to test your academic knowledge, practical trade skills, and high-pressure mental alertness.

The recruitment consists of five distinct steps:

Computer Based Test (CBT 1),

the Second Stage CBT (CBT 2),

the Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT),

Document Verification (DV),

and a comprehensive Medical Examination (ME).

Before opening a single textbook or mock test, you must understand exactly how the RRB evaluates you at each step.

Familiarizing yourself with the exam pattern, the strict time limits, and the scoring rules allows you to formulate a strategy that maximizes marks while avoiding the severe penalty of negative scoring.

Candidates preparing for the railway recruitment cycle should also explore the latest Railway Jobs updates, detailed RRB ALP Notification 2026, syllabus, eligibility criteria, and CBT preparation resources to build a complete preparation strategy.

Important Points of RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026

Here is a quick snapshot of the structural parameters governing the upcoming ALP examination:

Particulars	Details
Exam Stages	CBT 1, CBT 2, CBAT, DV, and Medical Examination
CBT 1 and CBT 2 – Negative Marking	1/3 mark deduction for wrong answers in CBT 1 and CBT 2
CBAT Negative Marking	No negative marking in CBAT
Final Merit	Calculated using CBT 2 Part A (50%) + CBAT (50%)
CBAT Language	English and Hindi only
Medical Standard	A-1 (Mandatory for final appointment) in RRB ALP

RRB ALP Selection Process 2026

The recruitment drive follows a strict sequential flow. You cannot progress to the next stage without clearing the previous one.

CBT 1: An initial, fast-paced screening examination designed to filter down the massive volume of applicants.
CBT 2: The core examination stage, divided into two back-to-back sections assessing general technical aptitude (Part A) and specific trade knowledge (Part B).
CBAT: A psychological and reflex-based aptitude test that evaluates the cognitive readiness required to drive a locomotive safely.
Document Verification: A physical verification stage where the RRB authenticates your identity, educational certificates, and category claims.
Medical Examination: A stringent health and vision assessment conducted by Railway Medical Authorities.

RRB ALP CBT 1 Pattern of Exam For 2026

The candidate should know that the First Stage CBT or CBT 1 is a screening examination.

The RRB utilizes this stage solely to shortlist serious, eligible candidates for the next round.

The marks you secure in CBT 1 do not contribute to your final merit ranking.

Subject	Questions based on the following syllabus
Mathematics	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
Mental Ability / Reasoning	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	The syllabus under this shall cover Physics, Chemistry and Life Sciences of 10th standard level.

Total Questions: 75
Duration: 60 Minutes
Negative Marking: 1/3 mark deducted for every incorrect answer.

Important CBT 1 Rules

Because CBT 1 is conducted across multiple shifts, the RRB normalizes the marks to ensure fairness across varying difficulty levels.
CBT 1 is mainly for shortlisting; it simply gets your foot in the door for the main examination.
The RRB will shortlist candidates for CBT 2 at a rate of approximately 15 times the total notified vacancies for each specific RRB zone.

RRB ALP CBT 2 Exam Pattern 2026

Candidates who secure the required normalized marks in CBT 1 advance to CBT 2.

This stage is substantially more rigorous and is divided into two distinct parts:

Part A and Part B. Both parts are administered consecutively on the same day, testing your endurance as well as your knowledge.

CBT 2 Part A Pattern

Part A is the most critical written paper because the score you achieve here directly dictates your ranking on the merit list.

Subject	Questions based on the following syllabus
Mathematics	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	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.
Basic Science & Engineering	The broad topics that are covered under this shall be 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.

Total Questions: 100
Duration: 90 Minutes
Negative Marking: 1/3 mark deducted for every incorrect answer.

CBT 2 Part B Pattern

Part B evaluates the practical knowledge of your chosen technical discipline.

This section is strictly qualifying in nature. Its marks do not add to your final merit.
The questions are based on the ITI or technical trade syllabus prescribed by the Directorate General of Training (DGT).
Total Questions: 75
Duration: 60 Minutes
Minimum Qualifying Marks: 35%
There is absolutely no relaxation in this qualifying mark. Every candidate, regardless of their community category (UR, SC, ST, OBC, EWS), must secure at least 35% to stay in the recruitment process.

PART B (Qualifying Test) of CBT-2 ǪUALIFICATION-WISE GROUPING OF TRADES / SUBJECT
Sl. No.	Qualification of Candidate	Trade / Subject of Choice for Part-B
1	Electrical Engineering and combination of various streams of Electrical Engineering	Electrician, Instrument Mechanic, Wireman, Armature & Coil Winder, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic
2	Electronics Engineering and combination of various streams of Electronics Engineering	Electronics Mechanic, Mechanic (Radio & TV)
3	Mechanical Engineering and combination of various streams of Mechanical Engineering	Fitter, Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Tractor Mechanic, Mechanic (Diesel), Turner, Machinist, Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic, Millwright/Maintenance Mechanic
4	Automobile Engineering and combination of various streams of Automobile Engineering	Mechanic (Motor Vehicle), Tractor Mechanic, Mechanic (Diesel), Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Mechanic

RRB ALP CBAT Exam Pattern 2026

This stage often decides who actually gets the job. The mechanics of the CBAT are entirely different from the written tests.

What Is CBAT?

The Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) is a psychological assessment.
It is conducted exclusively for the ALP post to ensure candidates have the concentration, spatial awareness, and fast reaction times required to operate trains safely.

Important CBAT Rules

There is no negative marking in the CBAT. You are encouraged to attempt all questions.
The test interfaces and questions are conducted in English and Hindi only. Regional languages are not available for this stage.
The test comprises multiple distinct sections known as test batteries. You must qualify each test battery separately.
To pass, a minimum T-score of 42 is required in every individual battery. Failing to achieve a 42 in just one battery results in immediate disqualification.

CBAT Shortlisting Rules

Candidates are shortlisted for the CBAT up to 8 times the total notified ALP vacancies.
This shortlisting is based purely on your normalized performance in CBT 2 Part A.
Crucially, you must have secured the mandatory 35% in CBT 2 Part B to be considered for the CBAT shortlist.

RRB ALP Final Merit Calculation 2026

Once all testing stages are complete, the RRB compiles the final merit list for Document Verification.

Component	Weightage
CBT 2 Part A	50%
CBAT	50%

Note: Earlier ALP recruitments used a 70:30 weightage ratio between CBT 2 Part A and the CBAT. However, RRB ALP 2026 utilizes a 50:50 weightage, giving the psycho test equal importance in deciding your final rank.

Negative Marking in RRB ALP Exam

Understanding the penalty for guessing is a critical component of your test strategy.

CBT 1 → 1/3 mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.
CBT 2 (Part A & Part B) → 1/3 mark deducted for every incorrect answer.
CBAT → No negative marking.

Minimum Qualifying Marks in RRB ALP

Certain stages act as hard barriers where you must secure a minimum score to remain eligible, irrespective of cut-offs.

CBT 2 Part B → 35% minimum qualifying score for all candidates.
CBAT → Minimum T-score of 42 required in each individual test battery.

RRB ALP Exam Duration 2026

Time management is essential across the recruitment process. Here is the clock you are working against:

Stage	Duration
CBT 1	60 Minutes
CBT 2 Part A	90 Minutes
CBT 2 Part B	60 Minutes

Important Instructions for Candidates

Carry a printed copy of your E-call letter along with a valid, original Photo ID to the examination center.
Electronic gadgets, mobile phones, calculators, and even personal pens are strictly banned items inside the testing venue.
You will undergo strict biometric verification (photograph and thumb impression) at every stage. Avoid applying Henna to your hands.
Negative marking is applicable in the CBTs, so avoid blind guessing to protect your normalized score.
You are allowed to submit an application to only one RRB zone; applying to multiple zones results in outright rejection.

Important RRB ALP Resources:

FAQ on RRB ALP Exam Pattern 2026

1. How many stages RRB ALP Exams has?

The recruitment involves five stages: CBT 1, CBT 2, CBAT, DV & Medical Examination.

2. Is there negative marking in ALP?

Yes, there is a 1/3 mark deduction for wrong answers in CBT 1 and CBT 2.

3. What is CBAT in RRB ALP?

CBAT is a Computer Based Aptitude Test (Psycho Test) evaluating the reflexes, memory, and concentration of the candidate.

4. Is CBAT compulsory?

Yes, clearing the CBAT is absolutely compulsory for securing the Assistant Loco Pilot position.

5. What is the qualifying mark in CBT 2 Part B?

All candidates must secure a strict minimum of 35% to qualify in Part B of CBT 2.

6. What is the duration of CBT 1?

Candidates are given a total of 60 minutes to complete the First Stage CBT.

7. What is the final merit calculation in ALP?

The final merit list is calculated by giving 50% weightage to CBT 2 Part A and 50% weightage to the CBAT.

8. Is CBAT conducted in Hindi?

Yes, the CBAT questions and instructions are available exclusively in Hindi and English.