The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) exam is one of the most competitive recruitment tests in India. Thousands of aspirants appear every year, but only those who understand the exam stages, the detailed syllabus, and the preparation strategy make it to the final list. Suppose you are aiming to become an Assistant Loco Pilot in 2025. In that case, this article covers everything you need — from the exam pattern to subject-wise syllabus, aptitude test, medical requirements, and smart study tips.
1. Selection Process and Exam Pattern
The recruitment of RRB ALP 2025 happens through multiple stages, each with its own weightage. Candidates must clear each stage to move forward:
- Stage 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT-1)
- Stage 2: Computer Based Test (CBT-2 – Part A + Part B)
- Stage 3: Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT – for ALP only)
- Stage 4: Document Verification (DV)
- Stage 5: Medical Examination (A-1 category fitness)
CBT-1 (Screening Test)
- Questions: 75
- Time: 60 minutes
- Marks: 1 mark each, 1/3 negative marking
- Subjects: Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, General Science, General Awareness & Current Affairs
CBT-2 (Two Parts)
- Part A
- Questions: 100 | Time: 90 minutes
- Subjects: Mathematics, Reasoning, Basic Science & Engineering, Current Affairs
- Negative Marking: –1/3
- Importance: Carries 70% weightage in final merit (with CBAT).
- Part B (Trade Test)
- Questions: 75 | Time: 60 minutes
- Nature: Qualifying only (minimum 35% marks required for all categories)
- Negative Marking: –1/3
- Syllabus: Based on the DGET/NCVT trade syllabus, mapped to the candidate’s qualification.
CBAT (Aptitude Test for ALP)
- Conducted only for Assistant Loco Pilot posts
- No negative marking
- Candidates must qualify for each test battery
- Final merit list = 70% Part A (CBT-2) + 30% CBAT
Note: As per CEN-01/2024, CBT-2 is scheduled for March–April 2025, and CBAT is expected in July–August 2025. Always check your regional RRB website for official updates.
2. Detailed Syllabus — Subject-Wise
A. CBT-1 Syllabus
1. Mathematics
- Number System, BODMAS, Decimals & Fractions, LCM & HCF
- Ratio & Proportion, Percentages, Profit & Loss, SI & CI
- Time & Work, Time–Speed–Distance, Mensuration
- Algebra basics, Geometry, Basic Trigonometry
- Statistics, Square Roots, Age Problems, Calendar/Clock, Pipes & Cisterns
2. General Intelligence & Reasoning
- Analogies, Series (number/alphabet)
- Coding–Decoding, Mathematical Operations
- Syllogism, Venn Diagrams, Relations, Data Sufficiency
- Conclusions, Decision-Making, Analytical Reasoning
- Classification, Directions, Statement–Argument/Assumption, Jumbling
3. General Science (10th Level)
- Physics: Laws of Motion, Work, Energy, Power, Electricity, Heat
- Chemistry: Atoms & Molecules, Acids & Bases, Chemical Reactions
- Life Science: Human Body, Ecology, Biomolecules, Nutrition
4. General Awareness & Current Affairs
- Science & Technology
- National & International Events
- Indian Polity, Economy, Governance
- Awards, Sports, Important Persons & Places
- Environmental Issues
B. CBT-2 Syllabus
Part A (Weightage in Merit)
- Mathematics: Similar to CBT-1 but at a slightly more advanced level
- Reasoning: Deeper logical and analytical problems
- General Awareness & Current Affairs: Updated with the latest news & events
Basic Science & Engineering (BSE)
This section is unique to ALP and tests technical knowledge:
- Engineering Drawing: Projections, symbols, schematic diagrams
- Units & Measurement: SI units, dimensions, errors
- Mechanics & Machines: Work, Power, Energy, Simple Machines, Levers
- Heat & Temperature: Basics, thermal concepts
- Basic Electricity: Current, Voltage, Resistance, Ohm’s Law, Circuits, Wiring
- Workshop Tools: Materials, hand tools, fasteners, fitting practices
- Safety & IT Literacy: Occupational Safety, Environmental Awareness, Computers in Maintenance
Preparation Tip: Since 70% of the final merit weightage comes from Part A, focus on accuracy and speed here.
Part B (Trade Test – Qualifying)
- Trade-specific questions based on the DGET/NCVT syllabus
- Examples: Electrician, Fitter, Turner, Machinist, Mechanic Diesel, Electronics Mechanic, Wireman, etc.
- ITI/Diploma candidates attempt questions from their trade; degree holders attempt mapped trades.
- Candidates must download the official Exam Trade Syllabus PDF from their RRB for the exact content.
C. CBAT (Computer-Based Aptitude Test)
The psycho/aptitude test ensures candidates have the proper mental sharpness for operating trains.
- Tests Included:
- Memory Test
- Following Directions
- Depth Perception
- Concentration Test
- Perceptual Speed & Accuracy
- Rule: Must qualify in all batteries; marks are not category-relaxed.
- Final Merit: 30% CBAT + 70% CBT-2 Part A.
3. Medical Standards (A-1 Category)
Since ALP is a safety-critical job, candidates must pass strict medical tests under the A-1 standard:
- Distance Vision: 6/6, 6/6 without glasses (tested with fogging)
- Near Vision: Sn 0.6, 0.6 without glasses
- Must pass Colour Vision, Binocular Vision, Night Vision, Mesopic Vision, and Field of Vision tests
- LASIK or corrective eye surgery is usually not permitted
4. Smart Preparation Strategy
If you are starting your preparation, here is the recommended order:
- Mathematics: Begin with Percentages → Ratio → SI/CI → TSD → Time & Work → Mensuration
- Reasoning: Focus on Series, Analogy, Coding-Decoding, Syllogism, Directions, Venn Diagrams
- Science: Prioritize Electricity, Motion, Work–Power–Energy, Acids & Bases, Human Biology
- Basic Science & Engineering: Revise Electricity basics, Tools, Measurements, OSHE
- Trade Syllabus: Study strictly from the official DGET trade PDF — this is mandatory for qualifying Part B
- CBAT: Practice aptitude mock tests, focusing on speed and accuracy
5. Quick FAQs
Q1. Is there negative marking in ALP exams?
Yes, 1/3 negative marking applies in CBT-1 and CBT-2 (both Parts). CBAT has no negative marking.
Q2. How is the final merit prepared for ALP?
Final merit = 70% marks from CBT-2 Part A + 30% marks from CBAT, provided you qualify for the Trade Test (Part B) and Medical.
Q3. What is the qualifying mark for Trade Test (Part B)?
A minimum of 35% marks is required in Part B for all categories.
Q4. Which trades are eligible for the ALP Trade Test?
Trades are mapped based on ITI/Diploma/Degree qualifications. Candidates must refer to the Exam Trade Syllabus PDF on their RRB website.
The RRB ALP 2025 exam syllabus covers a balanced mix of mathematics, reasoning, science, technical knowledge, trade-specific skills, and aptitude. While CBT-1 acts as a screening stage, CBT-2 (Part A) and CBAT decide your final merit. Part B (Trade Test) is qualifying but mandatory. Alongside written tests, the medical fitness under A-1 standards is equally crucial.
By following a structured preparation plan, practicing trade-specific content, and sharpening aptitude skills, candidates can maximize their chances of securing the prestigious Assistant Loco Pilot post in Indian Railways.
