RBI Grade B

RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2027: Phase 1, Phase 2, Marks & Selection Process

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The RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2027 gives candidates a clear idea of the exam stages, subjects, marks, time limit and selection process. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Grade B recruitment generally has three stages for the General cadre: Phase 1, Phase 2 and Interview. The RBI Annual Recruitment Calendar 2027 lists the notification for February 2027, Phase 1 for April and Phase 2 for May or June. Candidates can use the latest available pattern to start preparing while waiting for the detailed 2027 notification.

RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2027: Overview

The RBI Grade B selection process for the General cadre has three stages. Phase 1 is an objective test, Phase 2 includes objective and descriptive papers, and the Interview is the final stage. Phase 1 is used to shortlist candidates, while Phase 2 and Interview marks are counted for final selection.

Here is a quick overview of the RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2027, based on the latest available recruitment cycle:

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameRBI Grade B Officer Exam
Conducting BodyReserve Bank of India (RBI)
Recruitment StreamsGeneral, DEPR and DSIM
Selection Stages (General)Phase 1, Phase 2 and Interview
Phase 1 ModeOnline
Phase 1 TypeObjective
Phase 1 Total Marks200
Phase 1 Duration120 minutes
Phase 2 Papers (General)ESI, English Writing Skills, Finance and Management
Phase 2 Total Marks300
Phase 2 Duration330 minutes
Interview Marks75
Final MeritPhase 2 and Interview marks
Negative Marking1/4 mark for each wrong objective answer, as per the applicable exam instructions
Official Websitewww.rbi.org.in

RBI Grade B Important Dates

The RBI Grade B Important Dates 2027 are based on the Annual Recruitment Calendar for Panel Year 2027, which mentions the expected notification and examination months. The exact dates, application window and other details will be announced through the detailed notification.

EventExpected Schedule
RBI Grade B Notification 2027February 2027
RBI Grade B Phase 1 ExamApril 2027
RBI Grade B Phase 2 ExamMay/June 2027
InterviewTo be announced

Candidates should keep checking the official RBI website for updates. 

RBI Grade B Phase 1 Exam Pattern 2027

The RBI Grade B Phase 1 exam is the first stage of the selection process. It is an online objective test with four sections: General Awareness, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning Ability.

The paper carries 200 marks and has a total time limit of 120 minutes. Each section has a fixed time limit. Candidates must clear the minimum marks in each test and the overall cut-off to qualify for Phase 2.

RBI Grade B Phase 1 Exam Pattern: Section-Wise Details

SectionNumber of QuestionsMaximum MarksDuration
General Awareness808025 minutes
English Language303025 minutes
Quantitative Aptitude303025 minutes
Reasoning Ability606045 minutes
Total200200120 minutes

Important points about RBI Grade B Exam Pattern Phase 1:

  • The exam is conducted online.
  • All four sections have objective-type questions.
  • The total paper carries 200 questions and 200 marks.
  • Each section has a separate time limit.
  • Candidates must meet the required sectional and overall cut-offs.
  • Phase 1 marks are used for shortlisting candidates for Phase 2. They are not added to the final merit score.

What Are the Sectional Timings in RBI Grade B Phase 1?

The RBI Grade B Phase 1 exam has fixed sectional timings. Candidates cannot use the time given to one section to solve questions from another section.

SectionSectional Time
General Awareness25 minutes
English Language25 minutes
Quantitative Aptitude25 minutes
Reasoning Ability45 minutes
Total120 minutes

Reasoning Ability gets the highest time limit of 45 minutes. The other three sections get 25 minutes each. Candidates should practise with timed mock tests to learn how to manage each section.

What Is the Negative Marking in RBI Grade B Phase 1?

Yes, there is negative marking in the RBI Grade B Phase 1 exam. As per the latest available exam pattern, one-fourth of the marks assigned to a question is deducted for every incorrect answer.

Answer TypeMarks
Correct Answer+1 mark
Incorrect Answer-0.25 mark
Unattempted Question0 mark

For example, if a question carries 1 mark and your answer is wrong, 0.25 marks will be deducted. No marks are deducted for leaving a question unanswered.

Candidates should avoid random guessing and focus on accuracy. Always check the 2027 information handout for the final marking rules.

Is RBI Grade B Phase 1 Qualifying in Nature?

Yes, Phase 1 is qualifying in nature for the General cadre. Candidates must clear the minimum marks in each section and the overall cut-off set by RBI. Only shortlisted candidates can appear for Phase 2.

The marks scored in Phase 1 are not included in the final merit list. However, candidates should not take this stage lightly because they must qualify to move to the next round.

RBI Grade B Phase 2 Exam Pattern 2027

Phase 2 is also called the Mains examination. It is the second stage of the RBI Grade B selection process for the General cadre. As per the RBI Grade B Exam Pattern, this stage tests candidates’ knowledge of the economy, finance, management, and English writing skills.

The Mains exam has three papers. Two papers include both objective and descriptive questions, while the English paper is descriptive. Each paper carries 100 marks, making the total 300 marks.

RBI Grade B Phase 2 Exam Pattern: Paper-Wise Details

PaperSubjectQuestion TypeMaximum MarksDuration
Paper 1Economic and Social Issues (ESI)Objective + Descriptive100120 minutes
Paper 2English (Writing Skills)Descriptive10090 minutes
Paper 3Finance and Management (FM)Objective + Descriptive100120 minutes
Total300330 minutes

The three papers are conducted in separate shifts. Candidates must appear for all the papers and shifts mentioned in their admit card.

What Is the RBI Grade B Phase 2 Paper 1 (ESI) Pattern?

RBI Grade B Phase 2 Paper 1 is based on Economic and Social Issues (ESI). It has two parts: objective and descriptive. Each part carries 50 marks.

The objective part has 30 questions, while the descriptive part has six questions. Candidates must attempt four descriptive questions.

ComponentDetails
Objective Questions30
Objective Marks50
Objective Duration30 minutes
Descriptive Questions6
Descriptive Questions to Attempt4
Descriptive Marks50
Descriptive Duration90 minutes
Total Marks100
Total Duration120 minutes

The descriptive part generally includes questions carrying 15 and 10 marks. Candidates are required to attempt two questions of 15 marks each and two questions of 10 marks each. If a candidate answers more than four questions, only the first four answers are evaluated, as per the latest available pattern.

What Is the RBI Grade B Phase 2 Paper 2 (English) Pattern?

Paper 2 tests candidates’ English writing skills. It is a descriptive paper and carries 100 marks. Candidates need to type their answers using a keyboard.

The RBI Grade B Phase 2 Paper 2 has three questions and a total time limit of 90 minutes. The questions generally test essay writing, précis writing and reading comprehension.

ComponentDetails
Paper NameEnglish (Writing Skills)
Question TypeDescriptive
Number of Questions3
Maximum Marks100
Duration90 minutes
Answer ModeTyping on a computer

Candidates should practise writing clear and well-structured answers. Good reading habits and regular writing practice can help improve performance in this paper.

What Is the RBI Grade B Phase 2 Paper 3 (Finance and Management) Pattern?

Paper 3 is based on Finance and Management (FM). Like the ESI paper, it includes objective and descriptive questions. Both parts carry 50 marks each.

The objective section has 30 questions, and the descriptive section has six questions. Candidates must attempt four descriptive questions.

ComponentDetails
Objective Questions30
Objective Marks50
Objective Duration30 minutes
Descriptive Questions6
Descriptive Questions to Attempt4
Descriptive Marks50
Descriptive Duration90 minutes
Total Marks100
Total Duration120 minutes

The descriptive part includes questions carrying 15 and 10 marks. Candidates should read each question carefully and manage their time while writing answers.

What Is the Negative Marking in RBI Grade B Phase 2?

Negative marking applies to the objective questions in the ESI and FM papers, as per the latest available exam instructions. There is no negative marking for descriptive answers.

Objective Question MarksNegative Marks for a Wrong Answer
1-mark question0.25 mark
2-mark question0.50 mark

Candidates should answer objective questions carefully. They should also give enough time to the descriptive part because clear and relevant answers are important for scoring well.

Is There Sectional Timing in RBI Grade B Phase 2?

Yes, each Phase 2 paper has a separate time limit. The ESI and FM papers are 120 minutes each, while the English paper is 90 minutes.

PaperDuration
Economic and Social Issues (ESI)120 minutes
English (Writing Skills)90 minutes
Finance and Management (FM)120 minutes
Total330 minutes

The ESI and FM papers have separate objective and descriptive time slots. Candidates should use the allotted time wisely and practise writing answers within the given limit.

RBI Grade B Interview Pattern 2027

The Interview is the final stage of the RBI Grade B selection process for the General cadre. Candidates who clear Phase 2 are shortlisted for this round. As per the RBI Grade B Exam Pattern, the interview carries 75 marks.

Before the interview, shortlisted candidates are required to complete a Personality Assessment. This assessment helps the interview panel understand a candidate’s personality and behaviour. It does not carry marks and is not added to the final merit score.

RBI Grade B Interview: Important Details

ParticularsDetails
Interview Marks75
Interview ModeFace-to-face
Interview LanguageHindi or English
ShortlistingBased on Phase 2 marks
Personality AssessmentConducted before the Interview
Personality Assessment MarksNo marks

The RBI Grade B interview panel may ask questions about a candidate’s education, work experience, current affairs, banking, finance and the Indian economy. Candidates should prepare well and answer with confidence.

Is There a Psychometric Test in RBI Grade B?

Yes, RBI conducts a Personality Assessment before the interview for shortlisted candidates. It is an evaluation of a candidate’s personality and behaviour. It does not carry marks and does not form part of the final selection score.

Candidates should follow the instructions shared by RBI through their registered email address. The assessment must be completed within the time mentioned in the communication.

RBI Grade B Final Selection: Marks and Weightage

The RBI Grade B final selection for the General cadre is based on the marks scored in Phase 2 and the Interview. Phase 1 is only a screening test, so its marks are not included in the final merit list.

The Phase 2 exam carries 300 marks, while the Interview carries 75 marks. The final merit score is calculated out of 375 marks.

StageMaximum MarksFinal Selection
Phase 1200Qualifying only
Phase 2300Included
Interview75Included
Total for Final Merit375Phase 2 + Interview

Phase 2 accounts for 80% of the total final marks, while the Interview accounts for 20%. This is because Phase 2 carries 300 out of 375 marks and the Interview carries 75 out of 375 marks.

Candidates should focus on both stages. A good Phase 2 score and a strong interview performance can improve their chances of final selection.

RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2027 for DEPR

The Department of Economic and Policy Research (DEPR) stream has a different exam structure from the General cadre under the RBI Grade B Exam Pattern. It is designed for candidates with a strong background in Economics.

The RBI Grade B selection process includes Phase 1, Phase 2 and Interview. The examination includes papers on Economics and English.

RBI Grade B DEPR Phase 1 Exam Pattern

PaperSubjectTypeMarksDuration
Paper 1EconomicsObjective100120 minutes
Paper 2EnglishDescriptive100120 minutes
Total200240 minutes

Candidates who meet the prescribed minimum aggregate marks in Phase 1 are shortlisted for Phase 2.

RBI Grade B DEPR Phase 2 Exam Pattern

The DEPR Phase 2 exam includes two descriptive papers on Economics. Each paper carries 100 marks.

PaperSubjectTypeMarksDuration
Paper 1EconomicsDescriptive100180 minutes
Paper 2EconomicsDescriptive100180 minutes
Total200360 minutes

Candidates who qualify in Phase 2 are called for the Interview. The interview carries 75 marks, as per the latest available recruitment pattern.

RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2027 for DSIM

The Department of Statistics and Information Management (DSIM) stream is for candidates with a background in Statistics and related subjects. Its exam structure is different from the General and DEPR streams.

The RBI Grade B Exam Pattern selection process includes Phase 1, Phase 2 and Interview.

RBI Grade B DSIM Phase 1 Exam Pattern

PaperSubjectTypeMarksDuration
Paper 1StatisticsObjective100120 minutes
Total100120 minutes

Candidates who secure the required minimum marks in Phase 1 are shortlisted for RBI Grade B DSIM Phase 2.

RBI Grade B DSIM Phase 2 Exam Pattern

The RBI Grade B DSIM Phase 2 Exam Pattern includes three papers. These papers test candidates’ knowledge of Statistics and English.

PaperSubjectTypeMarksDuration
Paper 1StatisticsObjective100120 minutes
Paper 2StatisticsDescriptive100180 minutes
Paper 3EnglishDescriptive10090 minutes
Total300390 minutes

Candidates who qualify in Phase 2 are shortlisted for the Interview. The Interview carries 75 marks under the latest available pattern.

How to Prepare According to the RBI Grade B Exam Pattern?

Knowing the RBI Grade B Exam Pattern is the first step. Candidates should also prepare according to the marks, time limit and question types in each stage. Here are some simple tips to follow:

1. Understand the exam structure: Learn about all the phases, subjects, marks and time limits before starting your preparation.

2. Follow the syllabus: Make a study plan based on the RBI Grade B syllabus. Give enough time to every subject.

3. Practise Phase 1 questions: Solve questions from Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English and General Awareness every day.

4. Read current affairs: Follow important national and international news, banking updates, RBI announcements and economic news. Read Current Affairs regularly to stay updated on important events and strengthen your exam preparation. 

5. Prepare for descriptive papers: Practise essay writing, précis writing and answers related to ESI and Finance and Management.

6. Attempt mock tests: Take regular mock tests to improve your speed, accuracy and time management. Analyse your mistakes after every test.

7. Revise regularly: Keep revising important concepts, current affairs, formulas and notes. Regular revision can help you remember what you have studied.

8. Prepare for the Interview: Read about RBI, the Indian economy, banking, finance and your educational background. Practise answering questions in a clear and simple way.

Candidates can also check the RBI Grade B selection process to understand each stage in more detail.

Conclusion

The RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2027 helps candidates understand the stages, subjects, marks and time limits of the examination. The General cadre selection process includes Phase 1, Phase 2 and Interview. Phase 1 is qualifying, while Phase 2 and Interview marks decide the final merit list. Candidates should start preparing with the latest available pattern and keep checking the official RBI website for changes in the 2027 notification. Practise regularly, revise important topics and take mock tests to improve your performance. Visit PracticeMock to find useful study resources and begin your RBI Grade B preparation.

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FAQs

Q1. What is the RBI Grade B exam pattern 2027?

The RBI Grade B selection process for the General cadre has three stages: Phase 1, Phase 2 and Interview. Phase 1 is an objective test of 200 marks. Phase 2 has three papers carrying 300 marks in total. The Interview carries 75 marks.

Q2. How many stages are there in the RBI Grade B exam?

There are three stages in the General cadre selection process: Phase 1, Phase 2 and Interview. Candidates must qualify in each required stage to move forward in the recruitment process.

Q3. What is the total marks of RBI Grade B Phase 1?

The RBI Grade B Phase 1 exam carries 200 marks. It has 200 questions from General Awareness, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning Ability.

Q4. What is the duration of the RBI Grade B Phase 1 exam?

The total duration of the Phase 1 exam is 120 minutes. General Awareness, English Language and Quantitative Aptitude get 25 minutes each, while Reasoning Ability gets 45 minutes.

Q5. Is there negative marking in the RBI Grade B exam?

Yes, there is negative marking in the objective sections as per the latest available pattern. One-fourth of the marks assigned to a question is deducted for every wrong answer. There is no negative marking for descriptive answers.

Q6. What is the total marks of RBI Grade B Phase 2?

The RBI Grade B Phase 2 exam carries 300 marks. It has three papers: Economic and Social Issues, English Writing Skills, and Finance and Management. Each paper carries 100 marks.

Q7. What is the duration of RBI Grade B Phase 2?

The total duration of the three Phase 2 papers is 330 minutes. ESI and Finance and Management get 120 minutes each, while English Writing Skills gets 90 minutes.

Q8. What is the interview weightage in RBI Grade B?

The RBI Grade B Interview carries 75 marks. The final merit list is prepared using Phase 2 marks and Interview marks. Phase 2 accounts for 80% and the Interview accounts for 20% of the final marks.

Q9. Is Phase 1 qualifying in the RBI Grade B exam?

Yes, Phase 1 is qualifying in nature for the General cadre. Candidates must clear the required sectional and overall cut-offs to qualify for Phase 2. Phase 1 marks are not counted in the final merit list.

Q10. Is the RBI Grade B exam conducted in Hindi and English?

Most papers are available in both Hindi and English. However, the English Language test in Phase 1 and the English Writing Skills paper in Phase 2 are conducted in English only. Candidates should check the official notification and information handout for the language rules.

Q11. Is there a psychometric test in RBI Grade B?

Yes, RBI conducts a Personality Assessment before the Interview for shortlisted candidates. It does not carry marks and is not included in the final merit list.

Mahima Jain

I am a content writer with over 8 years of experience in content writing and strategy, including 5+ years in the EdTech industry. I specialize in creating engaging, SEO-friendly content that helps students navigate competitive exams and make informed career decisions. My strength lies in simplifying complex topics into clear, user-focused content that is both informative and easy to understand.

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