RBI Grade B and NABARD Grade A are both highly competitive and the most prestigious exams in the country. Many aspirants often wonder: RBI Grade B vs NABARD Grade A: which is tougher? Both of these exams have different focuses and different levels of difficulty. In this article, we will talk about the exam pattern, selection process, and job and career growth in both the exams. Read till the end to know which one suits you better.
RBI Grade B vs NABARD Grade A: Which is tougher?
Being the most prestigious banking exams in the banking sector, both RBI Grade B and NABARD Grade A are highly competitive. It’s difficult to decide which one is easier. Both have different difficulty levels, and they focus on different things. It depends on the interest and requirements of the candidate as to what to choose.
Exam Pattern and Selection Process
Both RBI Grade B and NABARD Grade A follow a three-stage selection process. The first exam is Phase 1 (Prelims). It is an objective-type exam with multiple sections. Then comes Phase 2 (Mains). It is a mix of both objective and descriptive questions. Then the final round, which is the interview round, is conducted.
Key Differences in Exam Pattern
The RBI Grade B covers Economics, Finance, and Social Issues in depth, whereas NABARD Grade A focuses more on Agriculture, rural Development, and government schemes. Having a strong financial background will help you in RBI Grade B. On the other hand, with an agricultural background, NABARD Grade A might seem easier.
Difficulty Level of the Syllabus
In the table below you can find a comparison between the syllabus of RBI Grade B and NABARD Grade A.
| RBI Grade B Syllabus: | NABARD Grade A Syllabus: |
| Economics and Social Issues (ESI) Finance and Management (FM) General Awareness, English, and Quantitative Aptitude | Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) Economic and Social Issues (ESI) General Awareness, Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude |
Now the question arises, which one is tougher? The syllabus plays a major role in determining which exam is easier. As said earlier, if you don’t have an Economics or Finance background, RBI Grade B can feel more challenging, whereas not having an agricultural background might make you face some challenges in the NABARD Grade A exam. Overall, RBI Grade B has a more analytical approach, whereas NABARD Grade A requires factual and concept-based preparation.
Job Role and Career Growth
| RBI Grade B Officer Role | NABARD Grade A Officer Role |
| Policy-making, banking regulations, and economic analysis. More desk-based work with urban postings. Faster promotions and a higher salary structure. | Focuses on rural development, agricultural finance, and policy implementation. Frequent field visits and rural postings in initial years. Slower promotions compared to RBI. |
If you prefer policy-making and urban jobs, RBI Grade B is a better fit. If you are interested in rural development and fieldwork, NABARD Grade A is more suitable.
Which One Should You Choose?
It’s not about which exam is tough or easy. This choice completely depends on your strengths and career preferences. You can pick RBI Grade B if you are someone who has a strong Economics/Finance background, and prefers policy-making. But if you are comfortable with Agriculture & Rural Development and want a more field-oriented roles, then you can pick NABARD Grade A. Both exams require dedication, but the right strategy can help you crack them. Choose wisely, prepare smartly, and give it your best.
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| Related Blogs: | |
| NABARD Grade A Syllabus | NABARD Grade A Cut Off |
| NABARD Grade A Salary | NABARD Grade A Preparation Strategy |
| NABARD Grade A Documents Required | NABARD Grade A Handwritten Declaration |
FAQs
Yes! Both exams share common subjects like General Awareness, ESI (Economic & Social Issues), and English. However, their specialized papers differ, so plan your prep smartly.
Vacancies vary each year. RBI Grade B generally has fewer seats compared to NABARD Grade A, which offers multiple streams (General, Agriculture, etc.).
No. NABARD Grade A also has a General discipline, which is open to candidates from any background. Agriculture graduates can apply for both General and specialized streams.
RBI Grade B officers usually have a higher pay scale and faster promotions. NABARD Grade A also offers good benefits but has relatively slower growth in comparison.
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