RRB ALP 2026 Revised Exam Pattern: CBT 1, CBT 2, CBAT & Selection Process

The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially updated and streamlined the selection procedure for aspiring candidates. Understanding the revised structure is vital for anyone aiming to crack the recruitment cycle. You can track all updates directly via the RRB ALP 2026 portal. Candidates should also regularly verify their status using the RRB ALP Application Status 2026 (CEN 01/2026)- Click to Check link.

Overview of RRB ALP Selection Process 2026

The RRB ALP 2026 selection process consists of 3 distinct stages: CBT 1, CBT 2, and CBAT, followed by Document Verification (DV) and Medical Examination (DME). To master the subjects thoroughly, aspirants can review the detailed curriculum outlined in the RRB ALP Syllabus 2026 for CBT 1 and 2.

RRB ALP CBT 1 Exam Structure

Computer Based Test 1 (CBT 1) functions primarily as a screening test. Crucially, marks secured in CBT 1 do not contribute toward the final merit list. Note that General Awareness and Current Affairs have been completely removed from CBT 1 under the updated guidelines.

RRB ALP CBT 1 Subjects

• Mathematics
• Mental Ability
• General Science

CBT 1 Minimum Qualifying Standards

RRB ALP CBT 2 Exam Structure

CBT 2 is split into two primary sections: Part A and Part B. Total questions in CBT 2 are 175, total marks are 175, and total duration is 2 hours 30 minutes. Negative marking in CBT 2 is 1/3rd of a mark for every incorrect answer. Once results and evaluations are processed, candidates can check the RRB ALP CBT 2 Answer Key 2026 Out- Click to Download.

RRB ALP CBT 2 Part A Subjects

• Mathematics
• General Intelligence and Reasoning
• Basic Science and Engineering

CBT 2 Minimum Qualifying Standards

Computer Based Aptitude Test (CBAT)

Candidates equal to 8 times the ALP vacancies (category-wise) are shortlisted for the CBAT. The test is available in English and Hindi only, features no negative marking, and requires meticulous preparation across specific cognitive batteries.

RRB ALP CBAT 5 Test Batteries

• Memory Test
• Following Directions Test
• Depth Perception Test
• Concentration Test
• Perceptual Speed Test

Final Merit Calculation & Next Steps

Final merit weightage under CEN 01/2026 is split equally with 50% from CBT-2 Part A and 50% from CBAT. Following successful clearance of these exams, candidates undergo Document Verification (DV) and Medical Examination (DME). To understand how final scores are scaled and equalized across shifts, applicants should review the RRB Normalisation Method & Formula 2026- Click to Check.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is RRB ALP Exam Pattern revised?

Yes, significant structural updates have been introduced to the RRB ALP exam pattern. For comprehensive insights, please review the complete information outlined in this article.

What is the negative marking for RRB ALP CBT 1?

Yes, a penalty of ⅓rd mark is deducted for every incorrect response submitted in the RRB ALP CBT 1 Exam 2026.

Is CBAT compulsory for all posts under RRB ALP 2026?

Yes, clearing the CBAT is mandatory specifically for candidates applying for the Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP) position.

How many questions are in RRB ALP CBT 2?

The RRB ALP CBT 2 exam incorporates a total of 175 questions: Part A features 100 questions allocated across 90 minutes covering Mathematics, General Intelligence & Reasoning, and Basic Science & Engineering; Part B contains 75 trade-specific questions to be completed within 60 minutes.

What are the 5 test batteries in RRB ALP CBAT?

The 5 distinct test batteries comprising the RRB ALP CBAT include: (1) Memory Test, (2) Following Directions Test, (3) Depth Perception Test, (4) Concentration Test, and (5) Perceptual Speed Test. Aspirants must secure a minimum score of 42 marks in every individual battery to successfully qualify.