The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) has officially released the RRB ALP Cutoff 2025 for the first stage of the Computer-Based Test (CBT 1), along with results for all zones. This cutoff marks the minimum qualifying scores required for candidates to advance to the CBT 2 stage, thereby establishing the benchmarks for the upcoming competitive exams. Many hopefuls are eagerly reviewing these scores as they await next steps.
According to the RRB spokesperson, "The cutoff marks are the minimum qualifying scores required for candidates to advance to the CBT 2 stage." The release, which occurred on February 26, 2025, provides a detailed breakdown of cutoff marks for each zone, and candidates are categorized by their backgrounds—General, Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Other Backward Class (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
The RRB ALP selection procedure involves several steps, including the CBT 1, the forthcoming CBT 2 examination, psychometric tests, document verification, and medical examinations. Those who have successfully secured the minimum qualifying marks during CBT 1 will now be called to attempt the CBT 2 exam.
The cutoff marks vary significantly from one RRB zone to another. For example, the cutoff for RRB Mumbai's open category was set at 57.17, whereas Kolkata saw higher requirements with 63.44 for the same. The cutoff marks have also been released separately for each category across multiple zones:
- RRB Mumbai Cut Off 2025:
UR: 57.17; SC: 36.68; ST: 30.48; OBC: 44.08; EWS: 40.17. - RRB Chennai Cut Off 2025:
UR: 49.51; SC: 34.42; ST: 25.07; OBC: 39.35; EWS: 40.15. - RRB Kolkata Cut Off 2025:
UR: 63.44; SC: 45.73; ST: 34.71; OBC: 46.82; EWS: 40.05. - RRB Patna Cut Off 2025:
UR: 67.59; SC: 49.65; ST: 25.23; OBC: 62.71; EWS: 55.43.
These cutoff marks serve as benchmarks to shortlist eligible candidates for the next phase of examination. The adjustment of cutoff figures reflects factors ranging from the difficulty level of the exam to the number of candidates who took the test. It is clear this year, the heightened competition led to elevated cutoff marks across many regions compared to previous years.
For some perspective, during the last RRB ALP exam conducted for the 2018 recruitment, the cutoff marks were significantly lower. For example, the cutoff for RRB Ahmedabad stood at 43.47 for General category, marking the stark difference when juxtaposed with today’s standards.
Shifting gears, the RRB Group D Exam is slated to take place following the ALP examinations. The Group D exam comprises two phases: the CBT and the Physical Efficiency Test (PET), and successful candidates from both assessments will be invited for Document Verification.
The total layout for the Group D CBT incorporates 100 multiple-choice questions, each valued at one mark. Candidates must also be prepared for negative marking; one-third of the marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer, making it imperative to focus on correct answers. Candidates are allotted 90 minutes to complete the test, which covers areas such as General Science, Mathematics, and General Intelligence & Reasoning.
An insightful note from exam preparation experts suggests, "Understanding the curriculum allows for a focused preparation strategy." To truly excel, candidates must not only familiarize themselves with the exam format and marking schemes but also hone their skills and knowledge across all subjects included.
The breakdown of subjects is as follows:
- General Science: 25 questions
- Mathematics: 25 questions
- General Intelligence & Reasoning: 30 questions
- General Studies and Current Affairs: 20 questions
After clearing the CBT, candidates will proceed to undertake the PET. To qualify, male candidates must successfully lift and carry 35 kg over 100 meters within 2 minutes and finish a 1000-meter run in 4 minutes and 15 seconds. Female candidates face their own set of challenges, having to carry 20 kg for the same distance within the allowed timeframe of 2 minutes and complete the 1000-meter run within 5 minutes and 40 seconds.
The ramp-up to the 2025 RRB examinations presents both challenges and opportunities for prospective candidates. The RRB is continuing to refine its recruitment process and standards, leading to increased opportunities for securing attractive jobs within the Indian Railways.
Staying abreast of current affairs will be pivotal as candidates prepare for the General Awareness segment, which tests knowledge of recent events and historical facts.
With both the RRB ALP and Group D exams approaching, hopefuls are gearing up for these tests, underscoring the importance of thorough preparation and awareness of the expectations being set by the Railway Recruitment Board. RRB's dedication to ensuring quality recruitment processes continues to pave the way for many to start their careers with Indian Railways.