EXAM SYLLABUS

The NABARD Grade A 2025-26 syllabus is designed to test candidates' knowledge in general aptitude, economic awareness, agriculture & rural development, and stream-specific expertise. The syllabus is illustrative and not exhaustive—candidates should also focus on current developments, government schemes, and rural India-related topics. Phase 1 (Prelims) is common for all streams, while Phase 2 (Mains) varies by profile (Generalist/RDBS General, Specialist disciplines, and Legal).

Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam) Syllabus – Common for All Streams

The Prelims is qualifying in nature, with merit based on specific sections (General Awareness, ESI, ARD). Qualifying sections require minimum marks.

Reasoning Ability

Puzzles (Floor-based, Seating Arrangement, etc.)

Syllogism

Inequality

Coding-Decoding

Blood Relations

Direction Sense

Order and Ranking

Alphanumeric Series

Verbal Reasoning (Statement-Assumption, Conclusion, etc.)

Data Sufficiency

Input-Output

English Language

Reading Comprehension

Cloze Test

Error Spotting

Sentence Improvement/Correction

Para Jumbles

Fill in the Blanks

Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)

Phrase Replacement

Computer Knowledge

History of Computers

Networking (LAN, WAN)

Internet and Email

MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Computer Fundamentals

Operating Systems

Database Management

Keyboard Shortcuts

Cyber Security Basics

Quantitative Aptitude

Data Interpretation (Tables, Pie Charts, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs)

Number Series (Wrong/Missing)

Simplification/Approximation

Quadratic Equations

Arithmetic Topics (Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Speed & Distance, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Average, Mixture & Allegation, Simple & Compound Interest)

Data Sufficiency

Quantity Comparison

Decision Making

Behavioral and situational questions

Ethical decision-making

Logical reasoning in scenarios

Problem-solving approach

General Awareness

Current Affairs (National & International, last 6-8 months)

Banking & Finance Awareness

Government Schemes (especially rural/agriculture-related)

Awards, Sports, Books & Authors

Static GK (Capitals, Currencies, Important Days)

Economic & Social Issues (ESI) – Focus on Rural India

Nature of Indian Economy

Economic Reforms, Globalisation, Privatisation

Inflation and its impact

Poverty Alleviation & Employment Generation

Population Trends & Policy

Agriculture: Characteristics, Issues in Food Security

Industry & Labour Policy

Rural Banking & Financial Institutions

Social Structure: Multiculturalism, Urbanisation, Gender Issues

Education, Health, Environment

Current Economic & Social Issues

Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD) – Focus on Rural India

Agriculture: Definition, Branches, Agronomy

Soil & Water Conservation

Cropping Systems, Farm Management

Meteorology, Irrigation

Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Forestry

Plantation & Horticulture

Agricultural Extensions & Marketing

Ecology & Climate Change impact on Agriculture

Rural Development: Panchayati Raj, Rural Infrastructure

Government Schemes (PM-KISAN, Soil Health Card, etc.)

Present Scenario of Indian Agriculture & Allied Activities

DETAILED SYLLABUS

QUANTITATIVE APTITUDE DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for the Quantitative Aptitude section with Topic description, Topic Example, and Difficulty level is given below:

EXAM SYLLABUS

The NABARD Grade A 2025-26 syllabus is designed to test candidates' knowledge in general aptitude, economic awareness, agriculture & rural development, and stream-specific expertise. The syllabus is illustrative and not exhaustive—candidates should also focus on current developments, government schemes, and rural India-related topics. Phase 1 (Prelims) is common for all streams, while Phase 2 (Mains) varies by profile (Generalist/RDBS General, Specialist disciplines, and Legal).

Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam) Syllabus – Common for All Streams

The Prelims is qualifying in nature, with merit based on specific sections (General Awareness, ESI, ARD). Qualifying sections require minimum marks.

Reasoning Ability

Puzzles (Floor-based, Seating Arrangement, etc.)

Syllogism

Inequality

Coding-Decoding

Blood Relations

Direction Sense

Order and Ranking

Alphanumeric Series

Verbal Reasoning (Statement-Assumption, Conclusion, etc.)

Data Sufficiency

Input-Output

English Language

Reading Comprehension

Cloze Test

Error Spotting

Sentence Improvement/Correction

Para Jumbles

Fill in the Blanks

Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms)

Phrase Replacement

Computer Knowledge

History of Computers

Networking (LAN, WAN)

Internet and Email

MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Computer Fundamentals

Operating Systems

Database Management

Keyboard Shortcuts

Cyber Security Basics

Quantitative Aptitude

Data Interpretation (Tables, Pie Charts, Bar Graphs, Line Graphs)

Number Series (Wrong/Missing)

Simplification/Approximation

Quadratic Equations

Arithmetic Topics (Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Speed & Distance, Ratio & Proportion, Percentage, Average, Mixture & Allegation, Simple & Compound Interest)

Data Sufficiency

Quantity Comparison

Decision Making

Behavioral and situational questions

Ethical decision-making

Logical reasoning in scenarios

Problem-solving approach

General Awareness

Current Affairs (National & International, last 6-8 months)

Banking & Finance Awareness

Government Schemes (especially rural/agriculture-related)

Awards, Sports, Books & Authors

Static GK (Capitals, Currencies, Important Days)

Economic & Social Issues (ESI) – Focus on Rural India

Nature of Indian Economy

Economic Reforms, Globalisation, Privatisation

Inflation and its impact

Poverty Alleviation & Employment Generation

Population Trends & Policy

Agriculture: Characteristics, Issues in Food Security

Industry & Labour Policy

Rural Banking & Financial Institutions

Social Structure: Multiculturalism, Urbanisation, Gender Issues

Education, Health, Environment

Current Economic & Social Issues

Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD) – Focus on Rural India

Agriculture: Definition, Branches, Agronomy

Soil & Water Conservation

Cropping Systems, Farm Management

Meteorology, Irrigation

Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Forestry

Plantation & Horticulture

Agricultural Extensions & Marketing

Ecology & Climate Change impact on Agriculture

Rural Development: Panchayati Raj, Rural Infrastructure

Government Schemes (PM-KISAN, Soil Health Card, etc.)

Present Scenario of Indian Agriculture & Allied Activities

DETAILED SYLLABUS

QUANTITATIVE APTITUDE DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for the Quantitative Aptitude section with Topic description, Topic Example, and Difficulty level is given below:

REASONING DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for the Reasoning section with Topic description, Topic Example, and Difficulty level is given below:

ENGLISH LANGUAGE DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for the English Language section with Topic description, Topic Example, and Difficulty level is given below:

COMPUTER KNOWLEGDE DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for Computer Knowledge along with the topic description, topic example & difficulty level is given below:

GENERAL AWARENESS DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for General / Banking / Economy Awareness along with the topic description, topic example & difficulty level is given below:

EXAM PATTERN

The NABARD Grade A 2025-26 selection process comprises three main stages: Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam) – qualifying in nature; Phase 2 (Main Exam) – merit-based with objective and descriptive papers; followed by a mandatory Psychometric Test and Interview. Final merit is based on marks in Phase 2 and Interview (typically weighted, with Interview around 50 marks). The structure varies slightly by stream (primarily for RDBS/Generalist, which has the majority of vacancies).

Selection Process Overview

Phase 1 (Prelims): Online objective exam (qualifying; marks not added to final merit).

Phase 2 (Mains): Online exam with Paper I (Descriptive English) and Paper II (Stream-specific: ESI & ARD for RDBS).

Psychometric Test: Mandatory online test (qualifying; assesses personality traits).

Interview: Personal interview (50 marks; in English/Hindi).

For Legal and Protocol & Security streams, patterns differ slightly (e.g., specialist Paper II or direct interview in some cases), but RDBS follows the standard process.

The section wise distribution of Questions and Marks is given below:

Note- 

Qualifying Section - Test of Reasoning, English Language, Computer Knowledge, Quantitative Aptitude, Decision Making.

Merit Section - General Awareness, Eco & Soc. Issues (with focus on Rural India) Agriculture & Rural Development with Emphasis on Rural India.

Shortlisting of the candidates for the Main exam will be based on marks scored in the Merit section only.

Notes

Cut-offs are applied sectionally and overall; decided by NABARD.

For all profiles, the Mains is followed by a mandatory Psychometric Test (qualifying) and Interview (50 marks).

Refer to the official NABARD notification on nabard.org for syllabus details and any updates.

Mode of Examination

The Preliminary phase of NABARD Grade A examination, shall be conducted through online mode. The test shall be an online computer based with objective type multiple choice in nature.

Medium of Examination

The Questions in the examination will be available bilingually in English & Hindi Languages.

Marking Scheme

There will be penalty for wrong answers marked by the candidate:

1. For every wrong answer marked, 1/4th of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as penalty.

2. Cutoffs in Phase- I may be applied in two stages:

EXAM PATTERN

The NABARD Grade A 2025-26 selection process comprises three main stages: Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam) – qualifying in nature; Phase 2 (Main Exam) – merit-based with objective and descriptive papers; followed by a mandatory Psychometric Test and Interview. Final merit is based on marks in Phase 2 and Interview (typically weighted, with Interview around 50 marks). The structure varies slightly by stream (primarily for RDBS/Generalist, which has the majority of vacancies).

Selection Process Overview

Phase 1 (Prelims): Online objective exam (qualifying; marks not added to final merit).

Phase 2 (Mains): Online exam with Paper I (Descriptive English) and Paper II (Stream-specific: ESI & ARD for RDBS).

Psychometric Test: Mandatory online test (qualifying; assesses personality traits).

Interview: Personal interview (50 marks; in English/Hindi).

For Legal and Protocol & Security streams, patterns differ slightly (e.g., specialist Paper II or direct interview in some cases), but RDBS follows the standard process.

The section wise distribution of Questions and Marks is given below:

Note- 

Qualifying Section - Test of Reasoning, English Language, Computer Knowledge, Quantitative Aptitude, Decision Making.

Merit Section - General Awareness, Eco & Soc. Issues (with focus on Rural India) Agriculture & Rural Development with Emphasis on Rural India.

Shortlisting of the candidates for the Main exam will be based on marks scored in the Merit section only.

Notes

Cut-offs are applied sectionally and overall; decided by NABARD.

For all profiles, the Mains is followed by a mandatory Psychometric Test (qualifying) and Interview (50 marks).

Refer to the official NABARD notification on nabard.org for syllabus details and any updates.

Mode of Examination

The Preliminary phase of NABARD Grade A examination, shall be conducted through online mode. The test shall be an online computer based with objective type multiple choice in nature.

Medium of Examination

The Questions in the examination will be available bilingually in English & Hindi Languages.

Marking Scheme

There will be penalty for wrong answers marked by the candidate:

1. For every wrong answer marked, 1/4th of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as penalty.

2. Cutoffs in Phase- I may be applied in two stages:

(i) On scores in individual tests

(ii) On Total Score

3. Since the vacancies are earmarked discipline  -wise, a merit list of candidates for each stage will be prepared discipline - wise. 

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates willing to apply for NABARD Grade - A Examination are required to fulfil certain conditions to be eligible for it. The candidate who does not satisfy the Eligibility criteria like Age, Minimum educational qualification etc. their candidature shall be rejected by the authorities. The criteria for eligibility NABARD Grade - A are decided by the conduction body itself. The candidate’s eligibility for NABARD Grade - A Examination is based on the fulfillment of the following conditions:

1. Nationality
2. Age Limit & Relaxations
3. Educational Qualifications

Nationality

Only Indian citizen are eligible to for NABARD Grade - A examination. One must have proof of being an Indian Citizen to be eligible to apply for this examination.

Age Limit

The candidate must be between 21 and 30 years of age.

Upper Age - Limit Relaxation

Educational Qualification

Candidate applying for Asst. Manager (RDBS) - General cannot apply for another discipline and vice versa. Similarly, candidates applying for Asst. Manager (Rajbhasha) cannot apply for Asst. Manager (RDBS) and vice versa.

ASSISTANT MANAGER IN GRADE 'A' (RDBS- RURAL DEVELOPMENT BANKING SERVICES)

General

1. Bachelor’s Degree in any subject from a recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree, MBA / PGDM with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

OR

3. Chartered Accountant / Cost Accountant / Company Secretary with Bachelor's degree.

OR

4. Ph.D from Institutions recognized by GOI / UGC.

Agriculture

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture with 60% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Agriculture / Agriculture (Soil Science / Agronomy) with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate from a recognized University / Institution.

Agriculture Engineering

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture Engineering with 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post graduate degree in Agriculture Engineering with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate from a recognised University / Institution.

Animal Husbandry

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Sciences / Animal Husbandry from any recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Veterinary Sciences / Animal Husbandry with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

Fisheries

1. Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science from a recognized University/Institution with 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post graduate degree in Fisheries Science with 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants 50%) in aggregate.

Forestry

1. Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from a recognized University / Institution with 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post graduate degree in Forestry with 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

Plantation / Horticulture

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture from any recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Horticulture with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

Land Development - Soil Science

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture / Agriculture (Soil Science / Agronomy) with 60% marks (PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Agriculture / Agriculture (Soil Science / Agronomy) with a minimum of 55% marks (PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate from a recognized University / Institution

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Candidates willing to apply for NABARD Grade - A Examination are required to fulfil certain conditions to be eligible for it. The candidate who does not satisfy the Eligibility criteria like Age, Minimum educational qualification etc. their candidature shall be rejected by the authorities. The criteria for eligibility NABARD Grade - A are decided by the conduction body itself. The candidate’s eligibility for NABARD Grade - A Examination is based on the fulfillment of the following conditions:

1. Nationality
2. Age Limit & Relaxations
3. Educational Qualifications

Nationality

Only Indian citizen are eligible to for NABARD Grade - A examination. One must have proof of being an Indian Citizen to be eligible to apply for this examination.

Age Limit

The candidate must be between 21 and 30 years of age.

Upper Age - Limit Relaxation

Educational Qualification

Candidate applying for Asst. Manager (RDBS) - General cannot apply for another discipline and vice versa. Similarly, candidates applying for Asst. Manager (Rajbhasha) cannot apply for Asst. Manager (RDBS) and vice versa.

ASSISTANT MANAGER IN GRADE 'A' (RDBS- RURAL DEVELOPMENT BANKING SERVICES)

General

1. Bachelor’s Degree in any subject from a recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree, MBA / PGDM with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

OR

3. Chartered Accountant / Cost Accountant / Company Secretary with Bachelor's degree.

OR

4. Ph.D from Institutions recognized by GOI / UGC.

Agriculture

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture with 60% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Agriculture / Agriculture (Soil Science / Agronomy) with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate from a recognized University / Institution.

Agriculture Engineering

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture Engineering with 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post graduate degree in Agriculture Engineering with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate from a recognised University / Institution.

Animal Husbandry

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Sciences / Animal Husbandry from any recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Veterinary Sciences / Animal Husbandry with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

Fisheries

1. Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science from a recognized University/Institution with 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post graduate degree in Fisheries Science with 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants 50%) in aggregate.

Forestry

1. Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from a recognized University / Institution with 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post graduate degree in Forestry with 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

Plantation / Horticulture

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture from any recognized University with a minimum of 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Horticulture with a minimum of 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate.

Land Development - Soil Science

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture / Agriculture (Soil Science / Agronomy) with 60% marks (PWBD applicants - 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Agriculture / Agriculture (Soil Science / Agronomy) with a minimum of 55% marks (PWBD applicants - 50%) in aggregate from a recognized University / Institution.

Water Resources

1. Bachelor’s degree in Hydrology / Applied Hydrology or Geology / Applied Geology with Hydrogeology / Irrigation /Water Supply & sanitation as one of the subjects with 60% marks (PWBD applicants 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post Graduate degree in Hydrology / Applied Hydrology or Geology / Applied Geology with Hydrogeology / Irrigation / Water Supply & sanitation as one of the subjects with 55% marks in aggregate (PWBD applicants 50%) from a recognized University.

Finance

1. BBA (Finance / Banking) / BMS (Finance / Banking) with 60% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 55%).

OR

2. Two years full time P.G. Diploma in Management (Finance) / Full time MBA (Finance) degree with 55% (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 50%) from Institutions / Universities recognized by GoI / UGC with Bachelor's Degree in any discipline. Candidates will be required to submit a certificate from Institution / University regarding specialization in finance.

OR

3. Bachelor of Financial and Investment Analysis with 60% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 55%).

OR

4. Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized University / Institution with Membership of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

Computer and Information Technology

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science / Computer Technology / Computer Applications / Information Technology with 60% marks (SC / PWBD applicants 55%) in aggregate.

OR

2. Post graduate degree in Computer Science  Computer Technology / Computer Applications / Information Technology with 55% marks (SC / PWBD applicants 50%) in aggregate from a recognized university.

ASSISTANT MANAGER IN GRADE 'A' (RAJBHASHA)

1. Bachelor's Degree from a recognized university in English or Hindi medium with Hindi and English as a compulsory or elective subject with a minimum of 60% marks (SC / ST / PWBD applicants - 55%) or equivalent in aggregate.

and

2. PG Diploma in Translation (minimum one year) in Hindi to English and vice - versa from any recognized University.

Note- Candidates must have studied English and Hindi as subjects in at least 02 years of bachelor’s degree course.

OR

Master’s Degree in HINDI with a minimum of 60% marks in aggregate (SC / ST / PWBD applicants – 55%). Candidates must have studied English as main/ elective subject in at least 02 years of bachelor’s degree course.

OR

Master’s Degree in ENGLISH with a minimum of 60% marks in aggregate (SC / ST / PWBD applicants – 55%). Candidates must have studied Hindi as main / elective subject in at least 02 years of bachelor’s degree course.

Note- Candidates must be able to translate from English to Hindi and vice / versa.

CONVERSIONS TO PERCENTAGE

1. Some Universities / Institutes do not award Class or percentage of marks and allot Aggregate Grade Points (e.g. CGPA / OGPA / CPI etc.). In case University / Institute defines criteria for conversion of Aggregate Grade Point into Class and / or percentage of marks, the same will be accepted. However, where the University / Institute does not define criteria for conversion of Aggregate Grade Point into Class and / or percentage of marks, the undefined parameter(s) would be worked out as under:

Note- 

Aggregate Grade Point or percentage of marks wherever awarded would mean aggregate over the entire duration of the course.

Where the Aggregate Grade Point (CGPA / OGPA / CPI etc.) is awarded out of a number other than 10, it will be normalized out of 10.

IMPORTANT DATES

The NABARD Grade A 2025-26 recruitment cycle features key milestones: Prelims completed on 20 December 2025 with results out on 9 January 2026, followed by Mains on 25 January 2026, leading to Psychometric Test and Interview.

EXAM ANALYSIS

1. Last Conducted Exam Dates & Schedule (2025-26 Cycle)

Notification & Timeline:

Official notification released on November 8, 2025.

Application window: 8 Nov – 30 Nov 2025.

Exam Dates:

Prelims: 20 December 2025 (Phase-I).

Prelims Result declared: 9 January 2026.

Mains (Phase-II): 25 January 2026.

Interview & final results: Expected later (typically Feb-Mar).

This cycle shows the time gaps aspirants should expect going into 2026 — prelims in December, mains in January, and interviews in late February to March (approx).

2. Exam Timings & Shift Details

Prelims (Phase-I) – 20 Dec 2025

Conducted in two shifts (morning & afternoon).

Shift 1: Reporting around 8:00 AM, Exam 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.

Shift 2: Reporting around 2:00 PM, Exam 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

Duration: 2 hours (120 min).

Mains (Phase-II) – 25 Jan 2026

Typically structured in two parts (Paper 1 + Paper 2) on the same day.

Paper 1: General English (Descriptive)

Reporting around 9:00 AM,

Exam roughly 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.

Paper 2: ESI & ARD (Objective + Descriptive)

Reporting around 2:00 PM,

Exam roughly 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

Exact reporting times are mentioned on the admit card for each candidate, but the above pattern is a reliable expectation based on the last cycle.

3. Pattern & Structure – Based on 2025 Exam

Prelims

Objective Test – Composite timing of 120 min with 200 marks.

Includes qualifying and merit sections:

Reasoning

English

Computer Knowledge

Quantitative Aptitude

Decision Making

General Awareness

Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD)

Negative marking: 0.25 per wrong answer.

Mains

Paper 1: General English (Descriptive – typed).

Paper 2: ESI & ARD

Objective part (short questions),

Descriptive part (long answers).

4. Difficulty Level & Overall Analysis (2025 Cycle)

Prelims (Dec 20 2025)

Overall Moderate difficulty level.

Sectional difficulty:

Reasoning: Easy to Moderate

Quantitative: Moderate

English: Easy to Moderate

General Awareness: Moderate

Computer Knowledge: Moderate

ESI: Moderate to Difficult

ARD: Moderate

Good attempt range was around balanced attempts across sections, rather than maximum raw attempts.

Mains (Jan 25 2026)

Conceptual depth matters in ESI & ARD segments.

Descriptive part tests clarity, application & writing structure.

No major surprises from the previous patterns; focus remained on current affairs and core rural/agricultural knowledge.

5. Expected Trends for 2026 Exam

Since the 2025-26 cycle followed a consistent pattern you can extrapolate for 2026:

Prelims likely in December 2026 (mid-late month).

Mains likely in Jan/Feb 2027.

Shift pattern, timings & paper structure expected similar to 2025-26.

Current affairs + ESI/ARD conceptual understanding will again be crucial.

Key takeaway for preparation:

Strong focus on recent schemes, rural policy, government budgets, agriculture science, economy fundamentals, and regular mock practice.

Descriptive writing skill (structure + clarity) is now vital since candidates are evaluated on typing & written answers in Mains.

STUDY TIPS

Preparing for NABARD Grade A Officer (Prelims + Mains) needs a smart and agriculture-focused strategy because it is different from SBI/IBPS banking exams.

Since you are already involved in education and competitive exam planning, I’ll give you a structured strategy that you can also reuse for content creation if needed.

Understand the Exam Pattern Properly

The exam is conducted by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).

Prelims (Phase 1) – Objective

Sections:

Reasoning

English

Quantitative Aptitude

General Awareness

Computer Knowledge

Decision Making

Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD)

Mains (Phase 2) – Objective + Descriptive

Paper 1: ESI (Objective + Descriptive)

Paper 2: ARD (Objective + Descriptive)

Interview – 50 marks

Prelims Strategy (Phase 1)

Prelims is qualifying, but competition is very high.

A. Quant + Reasoning + English

These are similar to SBI PO / RBI Assistant level.

Do daily:

2 Reading Comprehensions

20–25 Quant questions (DI + arithmetic)

20–25 Reasoning questions (puzzle + seating)

Focus on:

Speed + accuracy

Mock test analysis (very important)

B. General Awareness

Focus mainly on:

Last 6–8 months current affairs

Rural schemes

Agriculture-related news

RBI & NABARD circulars

Important Government Schemes:

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

MGNREGA

C. Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD)

Very important for both Prelims and Mains.

Topics:

Soil & Irrigation

Animal Husbandry

Fisheries

Government schemes

Rural development programs

SHGs & Microfinance

Read:

NCERT 8th to 10th Geography & Economics

Basic Agriculture notes

NABARD Annual Report summary

D. Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

Topics:

Inflation

Poverty

Unemployment

Sustainable development

Indian economy basics

Follow:

Budget highlights

Economic Survey summary

RBI monetary policy updates

Mains Strategy (Phase 2)

This is the most important stage.

Paper 1: ESI

Paper 2: ARD

Descriptive section includes:

15–20 marks essay

Short notes

Precis writing

How to prepare:

Make short notes on:

Rural credit

Financial inclusion

Climate change

Agricultural marketing

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

Practice answer writing:

200 words essays

100 words short notes

Data-based answers

Use structure:

Introduction

Body with data/examples

Conclusion with government scheme

3-Month Study Plan

Month 1:

Complete syllabus once

Daily current affairs

Start ARD + ESI basics

Month 2:

Start full-length mocks

Improve weak sections

Write 2 descriptive answers daily

Month 3:

10–12 full mock tests

Revise schemes & reports

Practice typing speed for descriptive

Important Sources

NABARD Annual Report

Economic Survey

Budget Summary

PIB website

Agriculture Ministry reports

Rural development schemes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring ARD thinking it is easy

Not practicing descriptive writing

Studying only banking-type subjects

Skipping rural development topics

Extra Tips for Interview

Interview focuses on:

Rural background awareness

Graduation subject

Why NABARD?

Agriculture & rural economy

Prepare:

Your district’s agriculture profile

Major crops in your state

Rural issues in your area

Since you are from Uttar Pradesh, you should prepare:

Major crops of UP

Sugarcane economy

Dairy & cooperative models

STUDY PLANS

ONE MONTH STUDY PLAN (For Serious / Revision Mode)

This plan is suitable if:

You already know basics

You are in revision stage

Or exam is very near

Daily Study Time: 6 to 8 hours

Daily Structure:

2 hours Quant + Reasoning

1 hour English

2 hours ARD

1.5 hours ESI

1 hour Current Affairs

Week 1: Full Syllabus Coverage (Fast Track)

Quant:

Focus on Arithmetic and DI

Percentage, Profit Loss, Time Work, Ratio

Reasoning:

<

STUDY TIPS

Preparing for NABARD Grade A Officer (Prelims + Mains) needs a smart and agriculture-focused strategy because it is different from SBI/IBPS banking exams.

Since you are already involved in education and competitive exam planning, I’ll give you a structured strategy that you can also reuse for content creation if needed.

Understand the Exam Pattern Properly

The exam is conducted by National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).

Prelims (Phase 1) – Objective

Sections:

Reasoning

English

Quantitative Aptitude

General Awareness

Computer Knowledge

Decision Making

Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD)

Mains (Phase 2) – Objective + Descriptive

Paper 1: ESI (Objective + Descriptive)

Paper 2: ARD (Objective + Descriptive)

Interview – 50 marks

Prelims Strategy (Phase 1)

Prelims is qualifying, but competition is very high.

A. Quant + Reasoning + English

These are similar to SBI PO / RBI Assistant level.

Do daily:

2 Reading Comprehensions

20–25 Quant questions (DI + arithmetic)

20–25 Reasoning questions (puzzle + seating)

Focus on:

Speed + accuracy

Mock test analysis (very important)

B. General Awareness

Focus mainly on:

Last 6–8 months current affairs

Rural schemes

Agriculture-related news

RBI & NABARD circulars

Important Government Schemes:

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

MGNREGA

C. Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD)

Very important for both Prelims and Mains.

Topics:

Soil & Irrigation

Animal Husbandry

Fisheries

Government schemes

Rural development programs

SHGs & Microfinance

Read:

NCERT 8th to 10th Geography & Economics

Basic Agriculture notes

NABARD Annual Report summary

D. Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

Topics:

Inflation

Poverty

Unemployment

Sustainable development

Indian economy basics

Follow:

Budget highlights

Economic Survey summary

RBI monetary policy updates

Mains Strategy (Phase 2)

This is the most important stage.

Paper 1: ESI

Paper 2: ARD

Descriptive section includes:

15–20 marks essay

Short notes

Precis writing

How to prepare:

Make short notes on:

Rural credit

Financial inclusion

Climate change

Agricultural marketing

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)

Practice answer writing:

200 words essays

100 words short notes

Data-based answers

Use structure:

Introduction

Body with data/examples

Conclusion with government scheme

3-Month Study Plan

Month 1:

Complete syllabus once

Daily current affairs

Start ARD + ESI basics

Month 2:

Start full-length mocks

Improve weak sections

Write 2 descriptive answers daily

Month 3:

10–12 full mock tests

Revise schemes & reports

Practice typing speed for descriptive

Important Sources

NABARD Annual Report

Economic Survey

Budget Summary

PIB website

Agriculture Ministry reports

Rural development schemes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring ARD thinking it is easy

Not practicing descriptive writing

Studying only banking-type subjects

Skipping rural development topics

Extra Tips for Interview

Interview focuses on:

Rural background awareness

Graduation subject

Why NABARD?

Agriculture & rural economy

Prepare:

Your district’s agriculture profile

Major crops in your state

Rural issues in your area

Since you are from Uttar Pradesh, you should prepare:

Major crops of UP

Sugarcane economy

Dairy & cooperative models

STUDY PLANS

ONE MONTH STUDY PLAN (For Serious / Revision Mode)

This plan is suitable if:

You already know basics

You are in revision stage

Or exam is very near

Daily Study Time: 6 to 8 hours

Daily Structure:

2 hours Quant + Reasoning

1 hour English

2 hours ARD

1.5 hours ESI

1 hour Current Affairs

Week 1: Full Syllabus Coverage (Fast Track)

Quant:

Focus on Arithmetic and DI

Percentage, Profit Loss, Time Work, Ratio

Reasoning:

Puzzle, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Inequality

English:

Reading Comprehension daily

Error Detection

Cloze Test

ARD:

Soil, Irrigation, Cropping Patterns

Animal Husbandry

Government Schemes

Important schemes to revise:

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

MGNREGA

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

ESI:

Inflation

Poverty

Unemployment

Economic Reforms

Sustainable Development

Week 2: Practice + Sectional Tests

Daily 1 sectional mock (rotate subjects)

Start writing 2 descriptive answers daily

Revise last 6 months current affairs

Read Budget + Economic Survey summary

Week 3: Full-Length Mocks

4 Prelims full mocks

3 Mains objective mocks

Daily descriptive practice:

1 Essay (200 words)

2 Short Notes (100 words each)

Focus areas:

Rural credit

Financial inclusion

Climate change and agriculture

Farmer Producer Organizations

Week 4: Final Revision

Revise schemes and reports

Revise ARD static topics

3 to 4 final mocks

Improve typing speed for descriptive paper

Prepare district agriculture profile (important for interview)

SIX MONTH STUDY PLAN (For Beginners / Safe Strategy)

Ideal for beginners or working professionals.

Daily Study Time: 4 to 6 hours

Phase 1: Foundation (Month 1 and 2)

Goal: Clear concepts

Quant:

Arithmetic basics

Data Interpretation

Reasoning:

Basic puzzles

Logical reasoning

English:

Grammar basics

Reading habit

ARD:

NCERT Geography and Agriculture basics

Soil, irrigation, crops

Animal husbandry

ESI:

Basic economics

Inflation, GDP, poverty

Banking basics

Start reading:

NABARD annual report summary

Economic Survey summary

Phase 2: Strength Building (Month 3 and 4)

Goal: Improve speed + start descriptive

Weekly 2 sectional mocks

Start answer writing practice (3 days per week)

Cover Government Schemes in depth

Study Rural Development programs

Read RBI and NABARD updates

Important to focus:

Rural credit system

Self Help Groups

Microfinance

Priority sector lending

Phase 3: Advanced + Mocks (Month 5)

6 to 8 full Prelims mocks

4 to 5 Mains mocks

Daily descriptive writing

Analyze every mock deeply

Phase 4: Final Month (Month 6)

8 to 10 full mocks

Revise only notes

Revise schemes, reports, and current affairs

Practice essay structure:

Introduction

Data + Example

Government scheme reference

Conclusion with solution

OVERVIEW

The NABARD Assistant Manager Grade A Exam 2025-26 is a national-level recruitment drive conducted by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) to select candidates for the post of Assistant Manager in Grade ‘A’ (primarily in Rural Development Banking Service - RDBS, along with Legal and Protocol & Security streams). The exam is conducted based on requirements and not annually. In this cycle, thousands of candidates applied and appeared for the Phase-1 exam.

The selection process continues with the upcoming Phase-2 exam, followed by a Psychometric Test and interviews for shortlisted candidates. Stay updated via the official website nabard.org for any last-minute changes.

SELECTION PROCESS

The NABARD Grade A 2025-26 recruitment follows a multi-stage selection process for Assistant Manager posts in RDBS, Legal, and Protocol & Security streams. For RDBS and Legal streams, it consists of four phases: Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam - qualifying), Phase 2 (Main Exam - merit-deciding), Psychometric Test (qualifying), and Interview (merit-deciding). For Protocol & Security stream, it is slightly different with an Online Examination, Psychometric Test, and other assessments. Final merit is based on Phase 2 + Interview marks (Interview typically 50 marks).

Overall Selection Stages

Phase 1 (Preliminary Exam): Qualifying in nature; marks not counted in final merit.

Phase 2 (Main Exam): Deciding stage; marks counted for merit.

Psychometric Test: Mandatory and qualifying (online MCQ-based, assesses personality and suitability).

Interview: Personal interview; marks added to final merit.

Shortlisting ratios and cut-offs are decided by NABARD.

Candidates must clear each stage to proceed.

Stream-wise Variations

RDBS (General & Specialist) and Legal Streams

Phase 1: Common online objective exam (200 marks).

Phase 2: Online exam with Paper I (Descriptive English, 100 marks) + Paper II (Stream-specific, 100 marks: objective + descriptive).

Psychometric Test: Qualifying; conducted post-Phase 2.

Interview: 50 marks; focuses on NABARD functions, rural development, current affairs, and professional knowledge.

Final Merit: Phase 2 (200 marks) + Interview (50 marks).

Protocol & Security Stream

Single Online Examination (objective type).

Psychometric Test and additional assessments.

Direct shortlisting for further stages based on performance.

Merit List and Reservation

Final selection based on combined marks of Phase 2 and Interview (for RDBS/Legal).

Reservations apply as per Government norms (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD).

Tie-breaking: Higher Phase 2 marks, then age, etc.

Notes

Phase 1 results were declared on 9 January 2026; qualified candidates proceed to Phase 2 on 25 January 2026.

Psychometric Test and Interview dates to be announced post-Phase 2.

All stages are mandatory; failure in Psychometric Test disqualifies even if cleared other stages.

For exact details and any updates, refer to the official notification on nabard.org.