RRB ALP Selection Process 2026: Stages & New Changes
Oct 23 2026
The RRB ALP Selection Process 2026 is a crucial aspect for candidates preparing for the Assistant Loco Pilot recruitment. Aspirants should carefully review the selection stages and eligibility requirements to plan their preparation effectively. Understanding the role of CBT 1, CBT 2, and the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) is essential for navigating the recruitment process. Candidates should also verify the latest official RRB notification for any changes to the selection criteria, exam pattern, or final merit calculation. Read on to understand the RRB ALP Selection Process 2026 and the key details candidates need to know.
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New Changes in RRB ALP Selection Process
The RRB ALP Selection Process 2026 is said to place greater emphasis on candidates’ aptitude and technical abilities. Under the revised criteria described here, the weightage assigned to the Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) has increased, making performance in this stage more significant for final selection. Candidates should understand how CBT-2 Part A and CBAT contribute to the final merit list and focus on strengthening both their subject knowledge and aptitude skills. Check the latest official RRB notification to confirm the applicable weightage and selection criteria before beginning your preparation.
RRB ALP Selection Process 2026
The RRB ALP Selection Process 2026 is expected to include multiple stages to assess candidates' technical knowledge, aptitude, and medical fitness for the Assistant Loco Pilot post.
Candidates must qualify for the required stages to be considered for final selection. Check the stage-wise details, exam patterns, qualifying marks, and final merit criteria below to understand the selection process and plan your preparation effectively.
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RRB ALP Selection Process Stages
The RRB ALP selection process evaluates candidates through computer-based examinations, an aptitude test, document verification, and a medical fitness assessment. Each stage has a specific purpose, and candidates must meet the prescribed requirements to progress through the recruitment process.
|
Selection Stage |
Description |
|
CBT 1 |
Preliminary screening test to shortlist candidates for the next stage. |
|
CBT 2 |
Main examination divided into Part A and Part B. |
|
CBAT |
Computer-Based Aptitude Test to assess the aptitude required for the Assistant Loco Pilot post. |
|
Document Verification |
Verification of educational qualifications, identity, category certificates, and other required documents. |
|
Medical Examination |
Assessment of medical fitness according to the prescribed railway standards. |
|
Final Merit List |
Preparation of the final merit list according to the applicable selection rules and weightage. |
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RRB ALP CBT 1 Exam Pattern 2026
CBT 1 is the first stage of the RRB ALP recruitment process. It is a screening examination designed to evaluate candidates' basic mathematical ability, reasoning skills, and general science knowledge. The marks obtained in this stage are generally used for shortlisting candidates for CBT 2 rather than determining the final merit position.
|
Subject |
Number of Questions |
Marks |
|
Mathematics |
20 |
20 |
|
Mental Ability (General Intelligence and Reasoning) |
25 |
25 |
|
General Science |
20 |
20 |
|
General Awareness and Current Affairs |
10 |
10 |
|
Total |
75 |
75 |
RRB ALP CBT 2 Exam Pattern
CBT 2 is an important stage of the RRB ALP selection process. It assesses candidates' subject knowledge, reasoning ability, and technical understanding relevant to the post. The examination is divided into two sections: Part A and Part B.
- Part A: Tests Mathematics, General Intelligence and Reasoning, and Basic Science and Engineering.
- Part B: Evaluates trade-related knowledge and is qualifying in nature.
|
Section |
Number of Questions |
Duration |
|
CBT 2 Part A |
100 |
90 minutes |
|
CBT 2 Part B |
75 |
60 minutes |
|
Total |
175 |
150 minutes |
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RRB ALP CBT 2 Part A and Part B
Although both sections are conducted as part of CBT 2, Part A and Part B serve different purposes in the selection process.
|
Particulars |
CBT 2 Part A |
CBT 2 Part B |
|
Main purpose |
Assess subject knowledge and reasoning ability |
Assess trade-related knowledge |
|
Subjects |
Mathematics, General Intelligence and Reasoning, Basic Science and Engineering |
Relevant trade or professional knowledge |
|
Number of questions |
100 |
75 |
|
Duration |
90 minutes |
60 minutes |
|
Role in selection |
Marks may be considered for merit as prescribed in the notification |
Qualifying in nature |
|
Preparation focus |
Concept clarity, accuracy, and speed |
Trade-specific syllabus and qualifying performance |
RRB ALP Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)
The Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT) is conducted for candidates shortlisted after CBT 2, according to the applicable recruitment rules. It assesses the mental and cognitive abilities needed to perform Assistant Loco Pilot duties, including attention, concentration, decision-making, and the ability to respond accurately under time pressure.
The minimum CBAT requirement is not simply a raw score of 42 marks; the established rule specifies a T-score of 42 in each test battery. Candidates must satisfy the prescribed requirement in every battery to qualify.
|
Component |
Earlier Weightage |
2026 Weightage |
|
CBT 2 Part A |
70% |
50% |
|
CBAT |
30% |
50% |
|
CBT 1 |
Screening stage |
Screening stage |
|
CBT 2 Part B |
Qualifying |
Qualifying |
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RRB ALP Document Verification
Document Verification (DV) is conducted for candidates shortlisted according to the applicable selection criteria. During this stage, the Railway Recruitment Board checks whether candidates meet the educational, age, category, and other eligibility requirements specified in the recruitment notification.
Candidates should keep their original documents and the required number of copies ready.
Commonly required documents may include:
- Class 10 certificate or other proof of date of birth.
- ITI, diploma, or other prescribed educational and technical qualification certificates.
- Valid identity proof.
- Category certificate, if applicable.
- EWS or other relevant reservation certificate, where applicable.
- Recent photographs and other documents mentioned in the official instructions.
RRB ALP Medical Examination
After completing Document Verification, candidates shortlisted for RRB ALP 2026 must pass the prescribed railway medical examination. Assistant Loco Pilot candidates are generally required to meet the A-1 medical standard, which includes strict eyesight and visual fitness requirements due to the safety-sensitive nature of the job.
|
Medical Parameter |
Requirement |
|
Visual Acuity |
6/6 distant vision in both eyes without glasses |
|
Colour Vision |
Must meet the prescribed colour vision standard |
|
Night Vision |
Must meet the required standard |
|
Binocular Vision |
Must meet the prescribed binocular vision standard |
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RRB ALP Final Merit List 2026
The RRB ALP final merit list is prepared according to the recruitment rules, examination performance, qualifying requirements, and other applicable eligibility conditions. Candidates who successfully complete the required stages and document verification are considered for final selection, subject to medical fitness and the applicable appointment rules.
The final merit calculation should be understood from the official notification rather than assumed from the screening examination marks alone.
Key points to remember:
- CBT 1 is generally a screening stage.
- CBT 2 Part A is an important component of merit preparation.
- CBT 2 Part B must be cleared according to the prescribed qualifying criteria.
- CBAT performance is relevant to final selection for the Assistant Loco Pilot post.
- Document verification and medical fitness requirements must be satisfied.
- The final merit list and appointment process follow the official RRB rules.
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RRB ALP Qualifying Marks and Negative Marking
Candidates should understand the qualifying requirements and negative-marking rules for each examination stage to develop an effective preparation strategy.
|
Stage |
Qualifying Requirement |
Negative Marking |
|
CBT 1 |
Minimum qualifying marks and shortlisting criteria as prescribed |
Generally 1/3 mark deducted for each incorrect answer |
|
CBT 2 Part A |
Minimum qualifying requirements as prescribed |
Generally 1/3 mark deducted for each incorrect answer |
|
CBT 2 Part B |
Must meet the prescribed qualifying threshold |
Generally 1/3 mark deducted for each incorrect answer |
|
CBAT |
T-score of at least 42 in each test battery under the established rules |
No negative marking |
|
Document Verification |
Valid documents and fulfilment of eligibility conditions |
Not applicable |
|
Medical Examination |
Must meet the prescribed medical standards |
Not applicable |
RRB ALP Final Selection Criteria
The final selection of candidates for the Assistant Loco Pilot post depends on their performance in the relevant merit-bearing examination stages, successful qualification in mandatory tests, document verification, and medical fitness.
Candidates should keep the following points in mind while preparing:
- Clear CBT 1: Achieve the required score to qualify for shortlisting.
- Perform well in CBT 2 Part A: Build strong conceptual knowledge and improve accuracy.
- Qualify CBT 2 Part B: Prepare thoroughly for the relevant trade syllabus.
- Meet the CBAT requirements: Practise aptitude tests and meet the minimum qualifying standard in each test battery.
- Complete document verification: Ensure all certificates and eligibility documents are valid and available.
- Pass the medical examination: Meet the required medical standards for the post.
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RRB ALP Selection Process 2026 FAQs
1. What is the RRB ALP Selection Process 2026?
The RRB ALP selection process includes CBT 1, CBT 2, Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT), Document Verification, and Medical Examination.
2. How many stages are there in the RRB ALP recruitment process?
There are five major stages in the RRB ALP recruitment process, from CBT 1 to the final medical examination.
3. Are CBT 1 marks counted in the final merit list?
No, CBT 1 is a screening test. Its marks are not included in the final merit calculation.
4. What is the exam pattern for RRB ALP CBT 1?
CBT 1 comprises 75 questions for 75 marks, covering Mathematics, Mental Ability, General Science, and General Awareness and Current Affairs. The duration is 60 minutes.
5. What is the difference between CBT 2 Part A and Part B?
Part A assesses Mathematics, Reasoning, and Basic Science and Engineering, and its marks contribute to merit. Part B tests trade-related knowledge and is qualifying in nature.
6. Is the RRB ALP Computer-Based Aptitude Test compulsory?
Yes, shortlisted candidates must qualify for CBAT to be considered for final merit preparation.
7. What are the qualifying marks for the RRB ALP CBAT?
Candidates must secure a minimum T-score of 42 in each test battery separately, irrespective of their category.



