The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Grade B exam is one of the most prestigious and competitive exams in the banking sector. To crack it, aspirants must have a clear understanding of its three-phase selection process: Phase I (Prelims), Phase II (Mains), rbi grade b syllabus and the Interview. A phase-wise approach is crucial for efficient preparation and effective time management.
Phase I: Preliminary Examination
The first hurdle is Phase I, which is objective in nature and consists of four sections:
General Awareness (80 marks)
Quantitative Aptitude (30 marks)
English Language (30 marks)
Reasoning Ability (60 marks)
Total marks: 200
Duration: 120 minutes
General Awareness carries the highest weightage. Focus on current affairs from the past six months, with an emphasis on economic and financial news. Standard sources include newspapers like The Hindu or The Indian Express, monthly current affairs magazines, and RBI’s own press releases.
For Quant and Reasoning, practice is key. Stick to basics but don’t ignore moderate-level DI (Data Interpretation), puzzles, and number series. English requires reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary – reading editorials and practicing previous year papers helps immensely.
Cut-offs are sectional and overall, so balanced preparation is necessary.
Phase II: Main Examination
Phase II is both objective and descriptive. It consists of three papers:
Paper I – Economic & Social Issues (ESI) – Objective (100 marks)
Paper II – English (Writing Skills) – Descriptive (100 marks)
Paper III – Finance & Management – Objective (100 marks)
Each paper is 90 minutes long.
Economic & Social Issues (ESI): Topics include growth and development, poverty alleviation, social sectors, globalization, and sustainable development. Prepare using NCERTs, RBI reports, Economic Survey, and Budget documents.
English (Writing Skills): This paper tests your ability to present ideas coherently. It includes essay writing, précis, and comprehension. Practice writing 400–500-word essays on economic and social issues to improve clarity and structure.
Finance & Management (F&M): Covers basics of financial systems, financial markets, risk management, and principles of management. Use standard books like “Management Principles by Robbins” and RBI publications for finance-related content.
Interview (Phase III)
Candidates shortlisted after Phase II appear for the interview (50 marks). It assesses personality, communication skills, and awareness of economic issues. Be well-versed with your academic background, work experience, and recent RBI functions and initiatives.
Strategy Guide
Time Management: Prepare a timetable dividing your time among subjects. Use the 80/20 rule—focus 80% on high-yield areas.
Mock Tests: Regular mock tests for Phase I and answer writing practice for Phase II are crucial.
RBI Publications: Regularly follow RBI’s Annual Report, Financial Stability Report, and speeches by the Governor.
Revision: Make concise notes for current affairs, ESI, and F&M and revise them multiple times.
Mastering the RBI Grade B syllabus demands discipline, clarity, and consistent effort. With a strategic phase-wise approach, the goal of becoming an RBI Grade B officer is within reach.
