This year, the RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 introduced a few updates in the Phase 2 Finance & Management paper. And, yes, dear candidates, this awareness is important, as it serves as the foundation for your preparation. No plan, no strategy works without it. My experience of clearing the RBI Grade B exam, and then guiding many aspirants to clear it, gives me the right to guide you on the syllabus and the most important topics in it. So in this blog, I’ll share with you the latest RBI Grade B syllabus and point out the most important topics, both for Phase 1 and Phase 2. And that too, in detail. Read on to start your preparation with awareness about the latest changes in the syllabus, powered by the best guidance!
RBI Grade B Syllabus at a Glance
RBI is a dream organization, and clearing the Grade B exam is a road to a fantastic career. But you need a smart plan to get there. So before you jump into preparation, pause. Understand the pattern. Know the RBI Grade B Exam Syllabus. And then move forward.
But before diving into the RBI Grade B syllabus 2025, it’s essential to understand the exam’s structure and key highlights. The table below outlines the subjects and marking scheme for both phases.
Before diving into the complete syllabus, it’s crucial to understand the RBI Grade B exam structure. The quick overview below outlines the main details of the syllabus, like exam stages, marking scheme, and subjects.
Let’s take a look at the table below:
| Exam Conducting Body | Reserve Bank of India (RBI) |
| Exam Name | RBI Grade B |
| Post | Grade B Officer (General, DEPR, DSIM) |
| Prelims Sections | 4 Sections: General Awareness, Reasoning, English, Quantitative Aptitude Total Questions: 200 Total Marks: 200 Total Time: 120 minutes (with sectional time limits) Negative Marking: -0.25 per wrong answer Nature: Objective (MCQs), qualifying only Cut-offs: Sectional + Overall |
| Negative Marking | Phase 1: −0.25 for each wrong answer Phase 2 (Objective only): -0.25 for 1-mark questions -0.50 for 2-mark questions No penalty in descriptive sections |
| Phase 1 (Prelims) | 200 questions, 200 marks, 120 minutes (qualifying only) |
| Phase 2 (Mains) | 3 Papers: ESI, English, FM Each Paper: 100 marks Question Types: Objective + Descriptive Total Time: 330 minutes Negative Marking: -0.25 (1-mark Qs), −0.50 (2-mark Qs) in Objective only |
RBI Grade B Syllabus 2025 Important Updates
The RBI Grade B Notification 2025 has confirmed some important syllabus updates. Every aspirant must note them down. In Phase II, both ESI and FM papers will now have a mix of 1-mark and 2-mark objective questions. That is, for every wrong answer given, there is a -0.25 negative marking for 1-mark and -0.50 for 2-mark questions. RBI has assigned higher weightage to topics like Sustainable Development, Social Sector Initiatives, and Environmental Issues in ESI..
RBI has officially added FinTech, Alternative Sources of Finance (PPP, Impact Investing), and Behavioral Finance to the FM syllabus.
In the Management part, objective questions are also split between 1-mark and 2-mark. So, a more balanced practice is needed. The notification also confirms that the psychometric test remains compulsory before the interview.
So, before we move on to the full-fledged syllabus of RBI Grade B Phase 1 and Phase 2, let’s throw light on some of the updates or additions in the RBI Grade B syllabus 2025, as revealed in the RBI Grade B notification 2025.
| Section | Earlier | 2025 Update | What To Do |
| Phase II – ESI | Growth, Reforms, Globalization, Poverty, Social Justice | Sustainable Development, Social Sector Initiatives, and Environmental Issues given higher weightage | Prepare the latest financial trends and applied case studies |
| Phase II – FM (Finance) | Financial system, Markets, Risk, Corporate Governance, Inflation, basic FinTech | More on FinTech, Alternative Finance (PPP, Impact Investing), Behavioral Finance, and recent Market Developments | Prepare latest financial trends and applied case studies |
| Phase II – FM (Management) | Leadership, Motivation, Org. Behaviour, Ethics | Same topics, but objective Qs now split as 1-mark and 2-mark | Give more time to Ethics & Behaviour; practice both 1-mark and 2-mark questions |
| Objective Questions in Phase II (ESI & FM) | All 1-mark questions | Now: mix of 1-mark and 2-mark questions | Adjust practice and don’t ignore 2-markers (they are tougher, fewer in number) |
| Psychometric Test | Conducted before Interview, no marks | Same in 2025 | No change (just compulsory to attempt) |
| DEPR & DSIM Syllabus | Economics, Statistics, Reports, RBI Publications | Same in 2025 | No change |
Why RBI Grade B Syllabus Matters?
Many students start preparing without checking the updated syllabus—and they make one of the biggest mistakes. If you don’t know what is actually asked in the exam, you may spend weeks on irrelevant topics and still feel unprepared. The syllabus is like a map. It tells you exactly where to focus and how much time to give to each subject. It also helps you identify the most important topics and avoid wasting time on unnecessary details. So, before you make your study schedule, read the updated syllabus carefully. It will save time and make your preparation more productive.
Cover RBI Grade B Syllabus via RBI Grade B Courses
RBI Grade B Syllabus 2025 PDF
Your first step should be to know the syllabus of RBI Grade B inside out before you jump into RBI Grade B preparation. The syllabus is big. Each and every topic has its place in a specific section. You must be clear about which topics are the most important so that you can plan your preparation smartly.
Down below, we’ve broken down the RBI Grade B Syllabus for you in detail. The chances of changes in the syllabus are low. But if anything new comes up, we’ll update it here. So, read carefully and bookmark this page for future updates.
You can also download the full RBI-released syllabus from the link below.
RBI Grade B Syllabus 2025 PDF – Click to Download
RBI Grade B Exam Pattern
The RBI Grade B exam has three phases. Phase 1 is the prelims. It has four sections: English, Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning, and General Awareness. It is objective and qualifying in nature. Phase 2 is the mains. It has three papers: Economic and Social Issues, also called ESI, a descriptive English paper, and Finance & Management, also called FM.
This phase is very important because marks are counted for the final selection. After that comes the interview. Only shortlisted candidates appear for it. The exam is tough, but understanding the pattern helps. The RBI Grade B exam requires focus on all three phases.
So, let’s throw light on the phase-wise exam pattern.
RBI Grade B Exam Pattern 2025 (Phase-Wise)
The official notification for RBI Grade B 2025 is yet to be released, but the exam pattern is expected to remain similar to previous years. If you’re preparing for this highly competitive exam, the first step is to clearly understand its structure. This helps you build a smart preparation strategy and manage your time better during the exam.
The exam is conducted in three stages:
Phase 1: Preliminary Exam
- Type: Objective (Multiple Choice Questions)
- Subjects: General Awareness, Reasoning, English Language, Numerical Ability
- Total Questions: 200
- Total Marks: 200
- Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
- Cut-offs: Sectional + Overall cut-offs
This phase is qualifying in nature, and it only shortlists candidates for the next stage.
Phase 2: Main Exam
- Type: Mix of Objective and Descriptive Questions
- Papers: 3 (Economic & Social Issues, English Writing, Finance & Management)
- Total Marks: 300
- Total Time: 330 minutes (5 hours and 30 minutes)
Each paper has its own pattern, so you must prepare accordingly. The marks scored in Phase 2 are considered for final selection.
Interview
- Type: Face-to-face Interview
- Questions: Based on your profile, RBI functions, economy, and current affairs
- Total Marks: 75
- Weightage: 20% of the final selection score
Pro Tip: Studying hard is important, but studying smart is what makes the difference. And knowing the exam pattern is the first step toward smart preparation. Make sure to read the RBI Grade B Notification 2025 when it’s released for detailed eligibility, syllabus, and updates.
RBI Grade B Exam Pattern
It’s very important to understand the exam pattern in detail before crafting a study schedule for the RBI Grade B Exam 2025 preparation. This is because knowing the structure of the exam helps you prepare smartly. Knowing it well means knowing how many questions will be asked in each section of each phase of the exam, how total marks are divided, and how much time you will get for each section. And also, how the cut-offs work. This knowledge will help you focus on what matters most.
The official RBI Grade B 2025 Notification is not been released yet. But going by last year’s pattern, it is highly likely that the exam structure will remain the same.
The exam is conducted in three stages
- RBI Grade B Phase 1
- RBI Grade B Phase 2
- Interview
You must clear each stage of the exam to become an RBI Grade B officer. So, let’s understand the exam pattern of both the phases of the exam to understand the exam in a better way.
Phase 1 – Preliminary Exam
The first step in your preparation is the Phase 1 or Prelims exam. This stage is objective in nature. This means, all the questions will be multiple choice. You ill be asked a total of 200 questions (for 200 marks), and you will get 120 minutes or 2 hours to complete the entire paper. The questions will be divided into four sections, namely, English Language, Numerical Ability, Reasoning Ability, and General Awareness.
You must remember that there is a sectional cut-off as well as an overall cut-off.
This means you can’t just score high in one section and ignore the others. Each section needs a minimum qualifying score. Plus, this test will be an online computer-based exam.
And, don’t forget the negative marking!
You will get +1 mark for every correct answer given, and −0.25 marks will be deducted for every wrong answer.
Check out the RBI Grade B 2025 Phase 1 Exam Pattern:
RBI Grade B 2025 – Phase 1 Exam Pattern (Updated)
| Section | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Limit | Negative Marking |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 25 mins | −0.25 per wrong answer |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 30 | 25 mins | −0.25 per wrong answer |
| Reasoning Ability | 60 | 60 | 45 mins | −0.25 per wrong answer |
| General Awareness | 80 | 80 | 25 mins | −0.25 per wrong answer |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 120 mins (2 hours) | Applicable in all sections |
Phase 2 – Mains Exam
You can move to RBI Grade B Phase 2 only if you clear the RBI Grade B Phase 1 exam. This test combines both the objective as well as descriptive questions. This stage tests the candidates’ skills with three papers:
- Economic & Social Issues (ESI)
- English Writing Skills
- Finance & Management (FM).
Each of the papers above is worth 100 marks, making a total of 300 marks.
The total duration for all three papers combined is 330 minutes. That comes to 5 hours and 30 minutes. And beware of the negative marking scheme! The objective sections will have a negative marking of −0.25 marks for every wrong answer attempted, whereas the descriptive sections will have no penalty.
You must clear both the sectional and overall cut-offs in this stage if you want to participate in the Interview round.
Check out the updated RBI Grade B 2025 Phase 2 exam pattern below:
RBI Grade B 2025 Phase 2 Exam Pattern (Updated)
| Paper No. | Paper Name | Question Type | No. of Questions | Marks Distribution | Time Limit | Negative Marking |
| 1 | Economic & Social Issues (ESI) | Objective + Descriptive | Obj: 30 Qs → Mix of 1-mark & 2-mark questions (50 marks) Desc: Attempt 4 out of 6 (2×15 + 2×10 = 50 marks) | 100 | Obj: 30 mins Desc: 90 mins | Obj only: −0.25 (1-mark Qs) / −0.50 (2-mark Qs) |
| 2 | English (Writing Skills) | Descriptive only | 3 Questions (Essay, Precis, RC-based) | 100 | 90 mins | No negative |
| 3 | Finance & Management (FM) | Objective + Descriptive | Obj: 30 Qs → Mix of 1-mark & 2-mark questions (50 marks) Desc: Attempt 4 out of 6 (2×15 + 2×10 = 50 marks) | 100 | Obj: 30 mins Desc: 90 mins | Obj only: −0.25 (1-mark Qs) / −0.50 (2-mark Qs) |
Latest Update:
- Mix of 1-mark & 2-mark MCQs in both ESI & FM
- Negative marking clarified separately for 1-mark and 2-mark Qs
- In ESI and FM, objective questions will carry either 1 or 2 marks each. RBI has specified this in the 2025 notification.
Phase 3 – Interview
The Interview is the final stage of the selection process. It carries 75 marks. That is to say, it has a weightage of 20% in the final selection. In it, you can expect questions about your personal background, educational history, topics related to RBI, and current affairs. The purpose of this test is to test not only your knowledge but also your communication skills, confidence, and whether you are suitable for the RBI Grade B Officer post.
Psychometric Test
RBI uses the psychometric test to understand your personality and behavioral traits. It doesn’t judge right or wrong answers. The latest RBI Grade B notification confirms that the psychometric test will be conducted before the interview, without marks.
You will get a list of statements. And you will have to choose your response, like:
- Strongly Agree
- Agree
- Disagree
- Neutral
- Strongly Disagree
Learn from examples:
To give you a better picture, here are some of the most important sample questions that appeared in previous tests. Read them carefully and imagine how you would react in such situations.
- I stay calm even under pressure.
- I enjoy working in a team.
- I prefer clear instructions before starting work.
- I handle criticism positively.
- I make decisions quickly when needed.
- I manage my time effectively.
- I stay motivated even after setbacks.
Points to Remember
- Three Stages – Phase 1 (Prelims), Phase 2 (Mains), and Interview.
- Sectional & Overall Cut-Offs – You must clear both to move to the next stage.
- Negative Marking in Objective Papers – Accuracy matters as much as speed.
Descriptive Answer Practice – Especially important for English, ESI, and FM to score well.
RBI Grade B Syllabus 2025 for Phase 1 and Phase 2
RBI Grade B Syllabus 2025 is divided into Phase 1 and Phase 2. Phase 1 covers General Awareness (banking, economy, current affairs), Quantitative Aptitude (arithmetic, DI, probability, algebra), Reasoning Ability (puzzles, seating arrangement, coding, inequality), and English Language (comprehension, grammar, vocabulary). Phase 2 has three papers: Economic & Social Issues (growth, globalization, social justice, sustainable development), English (essay, precis, comprehension), and Finance & Management (financial system, risk management, corporate governance, organizational behavior, leadership). Candidates must prepare with a mix of theoretical understanding and current affairs to clear both stages effectively for the interview round.
RBI Grade B Phase 1 Syllabus 2025
The RBI Grade B 2025 Phase 1 is pivotal, as it serves as the staircase to the ticket to Phase 2 of the exam. You cannot proceed to the next stage without successfully clearing this phase. The syllabus for Phase 1 is divided into four key sections: General Awareness, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability. Mastering each of these sections is essential for a strong score and a clear path forward.
Take a look at the table below to dive into the specific topics covered in each section. These topics are crafted to thoroughly evaluate your language proficiency, mathematical acumen, logical reasoning, and general knowledge. By understanding what is included in each area, you can strategize your preparation effectively to tackle the Phase 1 exam with confidence and precision.
| Section | Topics |
| English Language | Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Para Jumble, Phrase usage/replacement, Error detection, Word swap, match the sentences, Sentence rearrangement, fill in the blanks |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Number System (including HCF, LCM), Simplification & Approximation, Number Series, Quadratic Equations, Percentage, Ratio & Proportion, Average, Problems on Ages, Partnership, Mixture & Alligation, Profit, Loss & Discount, Simple & Compound Interest, Time & Work (including Pipes & Cisterns), Time, Speed & Distance (including Boats & Streams), Data Interpretation, Mensuration |
| Reasoning Ability | Analogy, Classification, Alphabet Test, Coding Decoding, Inequalities, Blood Relations, Direction & Distance, Order & Ranking, Seating Arrangement, Puzzles, Syllogism, Data Sufficiency, Statement & Assumption, Statement & Argument, Statement & Conclusion, Statement & Inference, Statement & Course of Action, Cause & Effect |
| General Awareness | National, Government Scheme, Agriculture & Farmer Welfare, Defence, MOU, State, International, Report & Indices, Banking & Economy, GDP, Budget & Eco Survey, Appointments, Important Days, Awards, Sports, Books/Obituary/Disaster, Static GK/Miscellaneous |
RBI Grade B Phase 2 Syllabus 2025
The Phase 2 Syllabus for RBI Grade B 2025 is divided into three important papers. These 3 parts are in the form of three papers: Economic & Social Issues (ESI), English Descriptive, and Finance & Management (FM). Each of these papers holds its own importance because, in Phase 2, there are both overall cut-offs as well as sectional cut-offs. Since the RBI Grade B 2025 notification has not been released yet, we cannot say that any minor changes might be made to the syllabus. However, it is expected that the syllabus will remain the same as last year.
Keep these points in mind moving forward:
- Economic & Social Issues (ESI)
- English Descriptive
- Finance & Management (FM)
- Overall and sectional cut-offs apply
- The syllabus is expected to remain unchanged from last year
Check out the latest Phase 2 syllabus for RBI Grade B 2025:
RBI Grade B Economic and Social Issues (ESI) Syllabus 2025
| Importance | Topic |
| High | Growth and Development, Measurement of Growth: National Income and Per Capita Income |
| High | Economic Reforms in India, Industrial and Labour Policy, Monetary and Fiscal Policy, Privatization, Role of Economic Planning |
| High | Poverty Alleviation and Employment Generation in India |
| High | Sustainable Development and Environmental Issues |
| Medium | Globalization, Opening up of the Indian Economy, Balance of Payments, Export-Import Policy |
| Medium | International Economic Institutions, IMF and World Bank, WTO, Regional Economic Co-operation |
| Medium | Social Structure in India, Multiculturalism, Demographic Trends, Urbanization and Migration, Gender Issues |
| Low | Social Justice: Positive Discrimination in favor of the underprivileged, Social Movements |
| High | Social Sector Initiatives |
Note: As per the RBI Grade B notification 2025, in ESI, Sustainable Development and Environmental Issues, and Social Sector Initiatives have been given more weightage.
RBI Grade B English Descriptive (Writing Skills) Syllabus 2025
The purpose of the English Descriptive paper is to test the candidates’ writing skills and their knowledge on this topic. In this, you will be asked to write an Essay and a Precis. Additionally, there will be some questions based on a given comprehension. If you want to know what kind of topics you will have to write answers on in this RBI Grade B phase 2 English paper, please pay attention to the table provided below:
| Section | Description |
| Purpose | The English Descriptive paper tests candidates’ writing skills, including expression and understanding of the topic. |
| Components | – Essay Writing – Precis Writing – Comprehension-based Questions |
| Example Essay Topics (2025) | 1. Future of BPO Industries in India 2. Importance of Creative Thinking in Business 3. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” 4. Pros & Cons of Teaching Computer Language/Coding to School Students |
RBI Grade B Finance Syllabus 2025
RBI Grade B Phase 2 Paper 3 is the Finance & Management (FM) paper. Phase 2, Finance & Management paper now officially includes FinTech, Alternative Sources of Finance (PPP, Impact Investing), and Recent Developments in Financial Markets. To simplify, I have provided the Finance and Management details separately. The main topics from the Finance syllabus are listed below, and the latest additions are in bold letters:
| S.No. | Topic | Sub-Topics | Important Topics & Their Weightage |
| 1 | Financial System | Structure and Functions of Financial Institutions, Functions of RBI, Banking System in India, Financial Institutions (SIDBI, EXIM, NABARD, etc.), Recent Developments in Global Financial System, Role of IT in Banking | Very High |
| 2 | Financial Markets | Primary and Secondary Markets (Forex, Money, Bond, Equity, etc.), Functions, Instruments, Recent Developments in Financial Markets | High |
| 3 | Corporate Governance in the Banking Sector | Concepts of Risk Management, Techniques for Risk Identification and Mitigation | High |
| 4 | Basics of Accounting and Financial Statements | Balance Sheet, Profit and Loss, Cash Flow Statements, Ratio Analysis (Debt to Equity, Debtor Days, Creditor Days, Inventory Turnover, Return on Assets, Return on Equity) | High |
| 5 | Inflation | Definition, Trends, Estimates, Consequences, and Remedies (WPI, CPI, Balance Between Inflation and Growth through Policies) | High |
| 6 | Global Financial Markets and International Banking | Broad Trends, Latest Developments | Medium |
| 7 | Derivative Instruments and Their Applications | Role of E-Governance in Government Issues, Addressing Corruption and Inefficiency | Medium |
| 8 | The Union Budget | Concepts, Approach, Broad Trends | Medium |
| 9 | Financial Inclusion | Role of Financial Inclusion in Economic Development | Medium |
| 10 | Alternate Source of Finance | Alternative Sources of Finance (PPP, Impact Investing) | High |
| 11 | Basics of Derivatives | Derivative Instruments and their Applications | Low |
| 12 | FinTech | Latest Developments in Financial Technology | High |
| 13 | Behavioral Finance | Included this year. | Medium |
Note: The 2025 syllabus officially adds FinTech in more detail, Alternative Sources of Finance like PPP and Impact Investing, and Recent Developments in Global/Indian Financial Markets.
RBI Grade B Management Syllabus 2025
The table given below organizes the topics in terms of their importance in the exam for Fundamentals of Management & Organizational Behaviour and Ethics at the Workplace & Corporate Governance, and the latest additions are in bold letters:
| S.No. | Topic | Sub-Topics | Important Topics & Their Weightage |
| 1 | Introduction to Management | Evolution of Management Thought (Scientific, Administrative, Human Relations, Systems Approach), Management Functions, Managerial Roles, Nudge Theory | Very High |
| 2 | Organizational Behaviour | Personality: Meaning, Factors Affecting Personality, Big Five Model, Concept of Reinforcement, Perception, Perceptual Errors | Very High |
| 3 | Motivation | Content Theories (Maslow’s Need Theory, Alderfer’s ERG Theory, McClelland’s Theory of Needs, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory), Process Theories (Adams Equity Theory, Vroom’s Expectancy Theory) | Very High |
| 4 | Leadership | Concept, Theories (Trait, Behavioural, Contingency, Charismatic, Transactional, Transformational Leadership) | High |
| 5 | Emotional Intelligence | Concept, Importance, Dimensions | High |
| 6 | Analysis of Interpersonal Relationships | Transactional Analysis, Johari Window | High |
| 7 | Conflict Management | Concept, Sources, Types, Management of Conflict | High |
| 8 | Organizational Change | Concept, Kurt Lewin Theory of Change | High |
| 9 | Organizational Development (OD) | Strategies for Change, Theories of Planned Change (Lewin’s Change Model, Action Research Model, Positive Model) | High |
| 10 | Ethics at the Workplace | Meaning of Ethics, Why Ethical Problems Occur in Business, Theories of Ethics (Utilitarianism, Rights and Duties, Justice and Fairness, etc.) | High |
| 11 | Corporate Governance | Factors Affecting Corporate Governance, Mechanisms of Corporate Governance | Medium |
| 12 | Ethical Principles in Business | Ethics in Compliance, Finance, HR, Marketing, Code of Ethics, Code of Conduct, Role of Board of Directors, Best Practices in Ethics Programs | Medium |
| 13 | Communication | Steps in Communication Process, Communication Channels, Oral vs. Written Communication, Verbal vs. Non-verbal Communication, Barriers to Communication | Medium |
| 14 | Information Technology in Communication | Role of Information Technology | Low |
This table places the topics in order of their importance in the exam, with “Very High” indicating the most crucial topics to focus on.
NOTE: RBI has also emphasized Behavioral Finance and Ethics in the Workplace more strongly in FM. Also, go through RBI Grade B’s previous years’ papers to learn about the type of questions that are generally asked in the exam.
RBI Grade B DEPR Syllabus 2025
The syllabus for the DEPR stream is based on the role of the DEPR Cadre officers at the Reserve Bank of India. He is responsible for taking care of the economic policies and analysis related to the RBI. Take a look at the table below to learn about all the topics that combine to form the RBI Grade B Officer DEPR syllabus and the suggested study materials in terms of their importance in the exam:
| S.No. | Topic | Sub-Topics | Important Topics & Their Weightage |
| 1 | Economics Papers | Master’s Degree level standard in Economics, covered by Central Universities in India, and advanced concepts in Economics | Very High |
| 2 | English Paper | Writing skills, Expression, Understanding of Topics, Essay Writing, Precis Writing | High |
| 3 | RBI Publications | Annual Reports – Provides insights into RBI’s functions and strategies; Monetary Policy Report – Understanding monetary policy goals and actions | High |
| 4 | Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India | Focus on developments, trends in banking, and challenges faced by the Indian banking sector | High |
| 5 | Financial Stability Report | Understanding the financial stability indicators and risk analysis presented by RBI | Medium |
| 6 | Economic Survey (Last 2 Years) | Vital for macroeconomic trends, policies, growth, inflation, and other economic indicators | Very High |
| 7 | Monetary Policy | Focus on RBI’s monetary policy, repo rate, reverse repo rate, liquidity management | Very High |
| 8 | Master’s Degree Economics Level Content | Advanced economic concepts and theories applicable to macroeconomics, microeconomics, and econometrics | High |
| 9 | Reports Published by Government | Government’s policy decisions, economic reform strategies, budget analysis, and macroeconomic trends from government reports | Medium |
Note:
- Very High importance refers to core and critical areas for the DEPR exam preparation. It includes economic surveys, monetary policy, and core economic concepts.
- High importance includes important reports like RBI Annual Reports and other publications related to banking and monetary systems.
- Medium importance refers to supportive material and reports that aid in understanding trends but might not carry direct weightage in the exam’s core focus areas.
RBI Grade B DSIM Syllabus 2025
The syllabus for the DSIM stream is as per the post of the DSIM Cadre officers of RBI. He is responsible for taking care of the collection, compilation, and statistical analysis. Plus, he interprets all data related to banking, corporates, the external sector, and more. The Paper 1 is conducted online and tests candidates with multiple-choice questions. On the other hand, Paper 2 and Paper 3 are descriptive-based exams. The candidates are required to type the answers using the keyboard. Check out the table below to learn about the RBI Grade B officer DSIM syllabus:
| Paper | Topic | Sub-Topics |
| Paper 1 | Probability | Probability Definition, Large & Small Sample Theory, Analysis of Variance, Estimation, Standard Distribution, Testing of Hypotheses, Multivariate Analysis, Stochastic Processes |
| Paper 2 | Statistical Inference | Estimation, Testing of Hypothesis, Non-Parametric Tests |
| Linear Models & Economic Statistics | Linear Models, Economic Statistics | |
| Probability & Sampling | Probability Theory, Sampling Methods | |
| Stochastic Processes | Random Processes, Markov Chains, etc. | |
| Multivariate Analysis | Techniques for analyzing multiple variables (e.g., Factor Analysis, PCA) | |
| Numerical Analysis & Computer Techniques | Computational methods, solving numerical problems using techniques | |
| Paper 3 | English | Writing skills, expression, understanding of topics, essay writing, précis writing |
NOTE:
- Paper 1 is a multiple-choice exam. It is focused on statistical concepts like probability, estimation, and multivariate analysis.
- Paper 2 is descriptive and covers advanced topics such as statistical inference, linear models, and stochastic processes.
- Paper 3 is also descriptive, assessing English writing skills, including essays and précis writing.
RBI Grade B Interview Syllabus 2025
The RBI Grade B Interview round is as important as the other Phases of the exam. In this final stage of the selection process, you can fetch up to 75 marks. The questions in it are designed to test the candidate’s overall personality, their communication skills, their newly acquired knowledge of the topics involving the test, and their decision-making ability. Let’s talk about the main areas to focus on to master the interview round.
Main Focus Areas
There is no fixed syllabus, but the interview generally covers the following areas:
- Personal & Educational Background:
- Introduction, family, hobbies, strengths & weaknesses
- Why do you want to join RBI?
- Questions related to a candidate’s academic background
- Work experience (if any)
- Banking, Economy, & Finance:
- Role of RBI and its functions
- Monetary policy and its impact
- Inflation, interest rates, and financial stability
- Recent economic developments (GDP, fiscal deficit, forex reserves)
- Banking sector reforms, digital banking, and fintech
- Government schemes related to banking and finance
- Current Affairs & General Awareness
- Budget, Economic Survey, RBI reports
- Global financial issues (US Fed policy, global recession, etc.)
- Important economic policies and their impact on India
- India’s position in global indices (Ease of Doing Business, HDI, etc.)
- Situational & Behavioral Questions
- How would you handle a crisis in the banking sector?
- If given a conflicting task by your senior and junior, how would you handle it?
- Ethical dilemmas in banking and finance
- Technical Questions (Based on Your Optional Subject in Phase 2)
- Finance: Capital markets, bonds, NPA, Basel norms
- Management: Leadership, motivation, HR policies
- Economics: Fiscal policy, inflation, economic indicators
- Mock Interviews & Personality Test
- Communication skills
- Confidence
- Clarity of thoughts
- Problem-solving approach
- Leadership and decision-making abilities
RBI Grade B Syllabus-Based Questions Asked in Interview Exam
Given below are the kinds of questions that you can face in the interview round of the RBI Grade B exam.
- Personal Questions
- Tell us something about yourself.
- Why do you want to join RBI?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- If not selected, what will you do?
- Banking & Financial Awareness
- How does RBI control inflation?
- What is CRR, SLR, and Repo Rate?
- What are Basel norms?
- How is monetary policy formulated?
- Current Affairs & Economy
- What is India’s GDP growth rate this year?
- What are the major highlights of the Union Budget?
- How will the global recession impact India?
- What is the role of RBI in controlling inflation?
- Situational & Behavioral Questions
- Suppose you are an RBI officer, and a bank is facing a financial crisis. How will you handle it?
- If you are asked to implement a policy that you personally don’t support, what will you do?
- Technical Questions (Based on Your Phase 2 Paper)
- What is quantitative easing?
- Explain the Phillips Curve and its significance.
- What is behavioral economics, and how does it impact monetary policy?
RBI Officer Interview Preparation Tips
Just as you will prepare for Phase 1 and Phase 2, you need to prepare for the interview as well. The interview is also an important stage of the RBI Grade B exam. To perform well in the interview round, you will need to read financial news and also remember important concepts from the Phase 2 syllabus. Additionally, you should keep giving mock interviews so that you know what is right and wrong in your answers. This way, you can eliminate your mistakes before the actual interview. Here are 4 points that you need to keep in mind and follow:
- Stay updated with financial news by going through the RBI website, Economic Times, and Business Standard.
- Revise important economic concepts from the Phase 2 syllabus.
- Practice mock interviews to improve articulation and instill confidence.
- Work on your personality, communication, and body language.
Important Topics for RBI Grade B Phase 1
To clear Phase 1, candidates must focus on high-weightage and frequently asked topics across four sections. The table below outlines the key areas you should prioritize during your preparation for maximum scoring potential.
Phase 1 – Section-Wise Important Topics:
| Section | Important Topics |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs (last 6 months), Banking Awareness, Economic News, Government Schemes, Budget, RBI in News |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Data Interpretation, Simplification, Quadratic Equations, Number Series, Time & Work, Profit & Loss |
| Reasoning Ability | Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Input-Output, Coding-Decoding, Inequality |
| English Language | Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Para Jumbles, Fill in the Blanks |
Important Topics for RBI Grade B Phase 2
Phase 2 tests your deeper understanding of subjects relevant to central banking. Each paper requires focused preparation on analytical and conceptual topics. The table below highlights the most critical areas to study in each section.
Phase 2 – Paper-Wise Important Topics:
| Paper | Important Topics |
| Economic & Social Issues (ESI) | Indian Economy, Poverty & Inequality, Sustainable Development, Globalization, Social Sector Initiatives, Monetary & Fiscal Policy, Budget & Economic Survey |
| English (Writing Skills) | Essay Writing (economic/finance/social topics), Precis Writing, Reading Comprehension, Formal Letter Writing |
| Finance & Management | Financial System, Risk Management, Corporate Governance, Budgeting, Basics of Derivatives, Motivation Theories, Leadership Styles, Communication & HR Development |
Best Books to Cover RBI Grade B Syllabus
RBI Grade B Books are an essential resource for the RBI Grade B Phase 1 and Phase 2 preparation. Therefore, candidates are recommended to the best books that give a complete coverage of subjects like Economics, Finance, Management, and General Awareness.
Here are the most recommended subject-wise booklists:
Phase 1: Prelims
First, let’s shed light on the books that best help in covering the Phase 1 syllabus:
Quantitative Aptitude:
To master this section, you need to master math. And the books that can help boost your calculations are:
- Quantum CAT by Sarvesh K. Verma
- Fast Track Objective Arithmetic by Rajesh Verma
- Magical Book on Quicker Maths by M. Tyra
Reasoning Ability:
To master this section, you need to master your reasoning ability and analytical skills. And the books that can help boost your reasoning power are:
- A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey
English Language:
The English part is as important as the other sections. Here are the books that you must choose to get good results in the English part of the exam:
- Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
- High School English Grammar & Composition by Wren & Martin
- Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
General Awareness:
This is perhaps the most scoring part of the exam if you keep updated with day-to-day happenings and static knowledge. Here are the books to go for to master this section:
- Manorama Yearbook
- Banking Awareness by Arihant
- Economic Survey & Union Budget (Latest Edition)
- PIB, The Hindu, Business Standard (for current affairs)
Phase 2: Mains
Now, let’s discuss the books that subject experts recommend most to cover Phase 2 topics.
Economic & Social Issues (ESI):
Here are some of the most effective books that you can opt for to cover ESi topics:
- Indian Economy by Ramesh Singh
- Indian Economy: Performance & Policies by Uma Kapila
- NCERT Economics (Class 11 & 12)
- Social Problems in India by Ram Ahuja
Finance & Management (FM):
To cover the topics related to FM, you’ll have to get the most recommended books. Here are the three most sought-after books for better outcomes.
- Financial Management by Prasanna Chandra / I.M. Pandey
- Principles of Management by P.C. Tripathi & P.N. Reddy
- Management Concepts & Organizational Behaviour by C.B. Gupta
English (Descriptive Writing):
Descriptive writing requires regular writing practice. So, you need to get books that can help you improve your writing skills through daily practice. Here are the best recommendations:
- Essay Writing for Competitive Exams by Arihant Publications
- Editorials from The Hindu, Indian Express, and Business Standard
Subject-wise Details of RBI Grade B Syllabus 2025
Let us now look at each subject in more detail. This will give you a clear idea of the types of topics that will test your knowledge and skills.
Quantitative Aptitude
The RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 for Quant is wide. But the focus is on speed maths and data analysis. Topics like Simplification, Approximation, and Number Series test your basics. Data Interpretation checks your logic. Arithmetic covers real-life maths problems. Practice is the only key.
Reasoning Ability
Reasoning is tricky. The RBI Grade B syllabus includes puzzles and seating arrangements. These are time-consuming. But also scoring if you crack them. Other topics like Syllogisms, Inequalities, and Blood Relations are quick. Practice different question types daily.
English Language
The RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 for English is simple but challenging. Reading comprehension is the main part. Grammar rules are tested. Vocabulary must be strong. Daily newspaper reading can help.
General Awareness
This is the largest part of the Phase 1 paper. The syllabus of RBI Grade B for GA is vast. You must read daily current affairs. Cover banking updates. Cover RBI circulars. Cover static facts. And revise monthly PDFs.
Economic and Social Issues
The RBI Grade B Phase 2 syllabus for ESI is theory-heavy. Focus on growth, reforms, social justice, and sustainability. Remember reports and schemes. Keep updated with current affairs.
Finance and Management
This paper mixes finance and management theories. The RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 here includes monetary policy, corporate governance, motivation theories, and leadership styles. A good mix of books and notes is needed.
Why Knowing RBI Grade B Syllabus is Important
Many students ignore the syllabus. They jump into preparation blindly. That is a mistake. The RBI Grade B syllabus guides you. It tells you what to read and what to skip.
Also, the RBI is consistent with its exam pattern. The topics rarely change. So if you study as per the RBI Grade B syllabus 2025, you cover everything. No surprises in the exam. No panic. Just confidence.
How to Prepare with RBI Grade B Syllabus 2025
Now the big question. How to prepare. The answer is simple. Preparation is not only about hard work. It is also about direction. Many aspirants study for hours but fail to clear the exam. The reason is lack of clarity. They read from random sources. They follow every book they find. But they ignore the most important thing. And that’s the syllabus. The RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 is the map. It shows the way. If you follow it, you save time. You cut unnecessary topics. You focus on what matters. That is why every topper first studies the syllabus of RBI Grade B before starting preparation.
Download the complete RBI Grade B syllabus 2025
The first step is to download the complete RBI Grade B syllabus 2025. It is available on the official website. Without it, you cannot start. Do not rely on half lists from random blogs. Always check the official syllabus. The syllabus of RBI Grade B includes both Phase 1 and Phase 2 topics. Keep it printed on your study table. Read it daily. This way, you will not miss any subject. Many aspirants skip small topics. And then regret in the exam hall. With the complete RBI Grade B syllabus, you stay safe. You study smartly.
Divide it into small parts
The RBI Grade B syllabus is huge. If you see it as one block, you will feel scared. That is why you must divide it into small parts. Break the RBI Grade B Phase 1 syllabus into subjects. Quant, Reasoning, English, and General Awareness. Then break the RBI Grade B Phase 2 syllabus into ESI, English Writing, and Finance & Management. Once you divide, you can plan better. Small parts look easy. You can finish them step by step. Day by day. Slowly the syllabus becomes manageable. And you get the confidence to cover the complete syllabus of RBI Grade B.
Make a weekly plan
Once you know the syllabus, make a weekly plan. Do not make a long yearly timetable. It will fail. Instead, focus on one week at a time. Keep both the RBI Grade B Phase 1 syllabus and RBI Grade B Phase 2 syllabus in mind. Allocate fixed hours to each subject. For example, Quant on Monday, Reasoning on Tuesday, and ESI on Wednesday. Balance it with English and General Awareness daily. This weekly plan will bring discipline. You will know what to study every day. And by following it, you can finish the RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 on time.
Practice daily
The syllabus of RBI Grade B is not only about reading. It is about practice. Every day, solve questions from Quant and Reasoning. Attempt Reading Comprehension for English. Revise current affairs for General Awareness. For Phase 2, write one essay every week. Solve Finance and Management MCQs daily. This habit of practice makes your preparation real. Because the exam is not about theory. It is about solving questions under time. Daily practice will make you faster. It will also reduce silly mistakes. And when you practice as per the RBI Grade B syllabus 2025, you prepare exactly what the exam asks.
Give mock tests
Mock tests truly reflect reflection of your preparation. Once you cover a part of the RBI Grade B syllabus, take a test. and don’t wait to finish the entire syllabus. You should start early. PracticeMock provides full-length tests based on both the RBI Grade B Phase 1 and Phase 2 syllabi. Take a free test to experience how you can improve with practice. These tests help you identify your weak areas and improve your speed. Many aspirants skip mock tests and keep reading books, but during the exam, they panic because the real exam pressure feels completely different. Only mock tests can give you that real experience. So, take them regularly and track your progress alongside the RBI Grade B syllabus.
Revise regularly
Revision is the most important part. The RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 is long. If you do not revise, you will forget. Keep one day every week for revision. Revise formulas of Quant. Revise puzzles of Reasoning. Revise the vocabulary of English and the current affairs for GA. For Phase 2, revise ESI notes and Finance concepts weekly. Do not wait till the last month. Start revision from day one. The syllabus of RBI Grade B is not about reading once. It is about reading again and again. The more you revise, the more confident you become. And that is how you clear the exam.
This is the basic approach. But it works. Because the exam is not about reading everything. It is about reading smartly. And the syllabus of RBI Grade B helps you do that.
Conclusion
The RBI Grade B exam is tough. But not impossible. With the right plan and consistent effort, you can clear it. The first step is always the same. Know the syllabus. Keep the RBI Grade B syllabus 2025 with you. Read it daily. Follow it strictly.
Because if you follow the syllabus, you follow the exam. And if you follow the exam, you follow success.
Just keep moving forward. PracticeMock’s best wishes are with you and will always be with you!
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Reserve Bank of India Grade B Syllabus: FAQs
The Phase 1 exam includes English, Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and General Awareness.
You can download the syllabus PDF from the provided link in the blog.
The English Descriptive paper tests writing skills through essays, précis, and comprehension-based questions.
Important topics include financial systems, financial markets, risk management, and inflation.
No significant changes are expected, but updates will be provided if any modifications occur.
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