EXAM SYLLABUS

The SEBI Officer Grade A (Assistant Manager) 2025-26 syllabus tests candidates on general aptitude (Phase 1 Paper 1), stream-specific professional knowledge (Phase 1 & 2 Paper 2), and descriptive English (Phase 2 Paper 1). Phase 1 Paper 2 and Phase 2 Paper 2 share the same syllabus for most streams (except IT, which includes coding in Phase 2). The syllabus is indicative; focus on current developments in securities markets, financial sector reforms, and SEBI regulations.

Phase 1 Paper 1 Syllabus (Common for All Streams)

This paper assesses aptitude across four sections:

General Awareness (including Financial Sector)

Current Affairs (National & International, last 6-12 months)

Financial Sector News: RBI policies, Banking Reforms, Monetary Policy

Capital Markets: Stock Exchanges, Mutual Funds, Derivatives

Government Schemes, Budget & Economic Survey highlights

Static GK: Awards, Sports, Books & Authors, Important Days

English Language

Reading Comprehension

Cloze Test

Error Spotting / Sentence Correction

Para Jumbles

Fill in the Blanks

Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases)

Phrase Replacement

Quantitative Aptitude

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

Number Series (Missing/Wrong)

Simplification / Approximation

Quadratic Equations

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

Data Sufficiency

Quantity Comparison

Test of Reasoning

Puzzles (Floor-based, Seating Arrangement, Box-based)

Syllogism

Inequality

Coding-Decoding

Blood Relations

Direction Sense

Order & Ranking

Alphanumeric/Symbol Series

Input-Output

Data Sufficiency

Logical Reasoning (Assumptions, Conclusions, Arguments)

Phase 2 Paper 1 Syllabus (Descriptive English – Common for All Streams)

Tests drafting and writing skills

Essay Writing (300-400 words; topics on economy, finance, social issues, technology in markets)

Precis Writing

Reading Comprehension (with questions on inference, summary)

LETS DISCUSS SYLLABUS IN DEATAILS WITH FEW EXAMPLES

The following topics need to be covered in the first part:

EXAM SYLLABUS

The SEBI Officer Grade A (Assistant Manager) 2025-26 syllabus tests candidates on general aptitude (Phase 1 Paper 1), stream-specific professional knowledge (Phase 1 & 2 Paper 2), and descriptive English (Phase 2 Paper 1). Phase 1 Paper 2 and Phase 2 Paper 2 share the same syllabus for most streams (except IT, which includes coding in Phase 2). The syllabus is indicative; focus on current developments in securities markets, financial sector reforms, and SEBI regulations.

Phase 1 Paper 1 Syllabus (Common for All Streams)

This paper assesses aptitude across four sections:

General Awareness (including Financial Sector)

Current Affairs (National & International, last 6-12 months)

Financial Sector News: RBI policies, Banking Reforms, Monetary Policy

Capital Markets: Stock Exchanges, Mutual Funds, Derivatives

Government Schemes, Budget & Economic Survey highlights

Static GK: Awards, Sports, Books & Authors, Important Days

English Language

Reading Comprehension

Cloze Test

Error Spotting / Sentence Correction

Para Jumbles

Fill in the Blanks

Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms & Phrases)

Phrase Replacement

Quantitative Aptitude

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

Number Series (Missing/Wrong)

Simplification / Approximation

Quadratic Equations

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

Data Sufficiency

Quantity Comparison

Test of Reasoning

Puzzles (Floor-based, Seating Arrangement, Box-based)

Syllogism

Inequality

Coding-Decoding

Blood Relations

Direction Sense

Order & Ranking

Alphanumeric/Symbol Series

Input-Output

Data Sufficiency

Logical Reasoning (Assumptions, Conclusions, Arguments)

Phase 2 Paper 1 Syllabus (Descriptive English – Common for All Streams)

Tests drafting and writing skills

Essay Writing (300-400 words; topics on economy, finance, social issues, technology in markets)

Precis Writing

Reading Comprehension (with questions on inference, summary)

LETS DISCUSS SYLLABUS IN DEATAILS WITH FEW EXAMPLES

The following topics need to be covered in the first part:

ENGLISH LANGUAGE DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for English Section with Topic description and Topic Example is given below:- 

REASONING DETAILED SYLLABUS 

The detailed syllabus for Reasoning Section with Topic description and Topic Example is given below:- 

GENERAL AWARENESS DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for General Awareness with Topic description and Topic Example is given below:-

QUANTITATIVE APTITUDE DETAILED SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for Quantitative Aptitude & Data Interpretation along with the topic description and topic example is given below :-

EXAM PATTERN

The SEBI Officer Grade A (Assistant Manager) 2025-26 selection process consists of three stages: Phase 1 (online screening examination - qualifying), Phase 2 (online examination - merit-deciding), and Phase 3 (Interview). Phase 1 is qualifying in nature (marks used only for shortlisting), while final merit is based on Phase 2 (weighted 85%) + Interview (weighted 15%). Negative marking of 1/4th applies to all objective papers. The pattern varies slightly by stream (General has the majority of vacancies).

Overall Selection Process

Phase 1: Online exam with two objective papers (200 marks total).

Phase 2: Online exam with two papers (Paper 1 descriptive for all; Paper 2 stream-specific).

Interview: Personal interview (focus on securities market, stream knowledge, current affairs).

Dates: Phase 1 on 10 January 2026; Phase 2 on 21 February 2026.

Phase 1 (Online Screening Examination) – Common Structure for All Streams

Mode: Online (Multiple Choice Questions)

Total Marks: 200 (Paper 1: 100 marks + Paper 2: 100 marks)

Duration: Paper 1: 60 minutes; Paper 2: 40 minutes

Negative Marking: 1/4th mark deducted for wrong answers

Cut-offs: Paper 1: 30%; Paper 2: 40%; Aggregate: 40%

Nature: Qualifying only; shortlisting for Phase 2

Paper 1 (Common for All Streams)

Subjects: General Awareness (including Financial Sector), English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, Test of Reasoning.

Marks: 100

Duration: 60 minutes

Paper 2 (Stream-Specific)

General Stream: MCQs on Commerce, Accountancy, Management, Finance, Costing, Companies Act, Economics.

Legal, Research, Engineering (Civil/Electrical), Official Language, Information Technology Streams: MCQs on specialized subjects related to the stream.

Marks: 100

Duration: 40 minutes

Notes

For specialist streams like IT, Legal, Research, etc., Paper 2 focuses heavily on professional knowledge.

Bilingual option (English/Hindi) available except for English papers.

Refer to the official detailed notification on sebi.gov.in for exact syllabus annexures, question formats, and any stream-specific nuances (e.g., keyboard layouts for descriptive).

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The SEBI Officer Grade A (Assistant Manager) 2025-26 recruitment requires candidates to meet specific criteria on age, educational qualification (stream-wise), nationality, and other conditions as of the cutoff dates mentioned in the official notification. There is no limit on the number of attempts as long as age and other eligibility are satisfied.

Age Limit

Maximum Age: Not exceeding 30 years as on September 30, 2025 (i.e., candidate must have been born on or after October 01, 1995).

Age Relaxation (as per Government norms):

OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): Up to 3 years

SC/ST: Up to 5 years

PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities): Up to 10 years (additional relaxations for reserved categories)

Other categories (e.g., Ex-servicemen): As applicable ccurate and complete details (including desirable experience for certain streams), refer to the official notification PDF on sebi.gov.in.

Nationality

Candidate must be an Indian citizen.

Stream-wise Educational Qualifications

Qualifications must be from a recognized University/Institute. Post-qualification experience (where mentioned) is desirable or mandatory as specified.

General Stream:

Master’s Degree / Post Graduate Diploma (minimum 2 years’ duration) in any discipline OR

Bachelor’s Degree in Law OR

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering OR

Chartered Accountant (CA) / Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) / Company Secretary (CS) / Cost Accountant.

Legal Stream:

Mandatory: Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB) from a recognized University/Institute.

Desirable: Two years post-qualification experience as an Advocate (including in a Law firm).

Information Technology Stream:

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (in any branch) OR

Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline with a Post Graduate qualification (minimum 2 years’ duration) in Computers / Information Technology / Computer Applications.

Research Stream:

Master’s Degree / Post Graduate Diploma (minimum 2 years’ duration) in Economics / Commerce / Business Administration / Econometrics / Quantitative Economics / Financial Economics / Mathematical Economics / Business Economics / Agricultural Economics / Industrial Economics / Business Analytics OR

Similar qualifications in Finance-related fields.

Official Language Stream:

Master’s Degree in Hindi with English as a compulsory/elective subject at Bachelor’s level OR

Master’s Degree in Sanskrit / English / Economics / Commerce with Hindi as a subject at Bachelor’s level.

Engineering (Civil) Stream:

Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.

Engineering (Electrical) Stream:

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering.

Other Conditions

Candidates applying for multiple streams must submit separate applications and meet eligibility for each.

Final year students (as of cutoff) may apply provisionally but must produce proof of completion before Phase II/Interview.

PwBD candidates are eligible for reservations and relaxations as per norms (specific categories allocated per stream).

Notes

Eligibility is strictly as per the detailed notification (including addendums for increased vacancies).

For the most accurate and complete details (including desirable experience for certain streams), refer to the official notification PDF on sebi.gov.in.

IMPORTANT DATES

The number of vacancies SEBI Grade A (Assistant Manager) posts in various streams has been revised to 135. As per the sources, this year, 86588 candidates have submitted their applications for SEBI Grade A Recruitment, and now the prelims exam for the applied candidates is scheduled for 10th January 2026. 

EXAM ANALYSIS

The most recent SEBI Officer Grade A exam cycle prior to 2025-26 was in 2024, with Phase 1 conducted on 27 July 2024 (multiple shifts) and Phase 2 on 31 August 2024. Overall, Phase 1 was Moderate in difficulty, focusing on speed and accuracy in aptitude sections with a shift toward current financial awareness. Phase 2 was also Moderate, emphasizing conceptual depth in stream-specific topics and writing skills in English. Below is a detailed analysis based on candidate feedback, expert reviews, and trends, providing insights into difficulty levels, good attempts, topic-wise weightage, and preparation tips to anticipate the upcoming 2025-26 Phase 1 (10 January 2026) and Phase 2 (21 February 2026).

Prelims Exam Analysis (2024 Cycle)

The Phase 1 exam was online with two objective papers (200 marks total, 100 minutes combined). Negative marking of 1/4th applied. Overall difficulty: Moderate (easier than 2022's Moderate to Difficult). Good attempts: 43-54 out of 100 for Paper 1; aim for 60+ in Paper 2 to clear cut-offs (fixed: Paper 1 30%, Paper 2 40%, Aggregate 40%).

Section-Wise Difficulty and Good Attempts

Reasoning Ability: Moderate to Difficult; Good attempts: 11-14

Quantitative Aptitude: Moderate to Difficult; Good attempts: 8-11

English Language: Moderate; Good attempts: 12-15

General Awareness: Moderate to Difficult; Good attempts: 12-14

Paper 2 (Professional Knowledge – General Stream): Moderate; Good attempts: 60-70

Paper 2 (Other Streams, e.g., Legal/IT/Research): Easy to Moderate; Good attempts: 65-75

Topic-Wise Weightage

Reasoning Ability (20 questions/20 marks): Puzzles (8-10, e.g., floor-based, seating arrangement), Seating Arrangement (2-8, linear/circular), Blood Relations (2-3), Alphanumeric/Symbol Series (2-3), Syllogism (1-2), Coding-Decoding (1-2), Direction Sense (1-2), Data Sufficiency (1-2), Analytical Reasoning (2).

Quantitative Aptitude (20 questions/20 marks): Data Interpretation (9-10, tabular/caselet/line graphs), Quadratic Equations (3-4), Number Series (2-4, wrong/missing), Arithmetic (4-10, e.g., profit & loss, CI/SI, ages, mixture), Simplification/Approximation (1-2), Mensuration (1-2), Number System (1-2).

English Language (20 questions/20 marks): Reading Comprehension (5-7, passages on space exploration, human presence beyond Earth), Error Detection/Spotting (2-4), Fill in the Blanks/Double Fillers (1-5), Sentence Rearrangement/Para Jumbles (3-5), Word Replacement/Synonyms/Antonyms (2-3), Idioms & Phrases (1-2), Prepositions (1-2), Spellings (1-2).

General Awareness (20 questions/20 marks): Current Affairs (15-16, last 3-8 months, e.g., finance/banking news), Government Schemes (4, SEBI-related priority), Finance Static (4), Reports & Indices (2, e.g., Tourism Index, Celebrity Brand Valuation), Awards/Sports/Places in News (2-4 each), Banking Awareness (e.g., NSC maximum limit, REITS, Stagflation, SID full form, FIFA World Cup).

Paper 2 (General Stream – 50 questions/100 marks, 2 marks each):

Management (9 questions): General Management (4), HRD (3), Communication/Leadership (1-2 each).

Finance (11 questions): Bonds (3), Primary/Secondary Markets (Equity/Debt, 2-4), Derivatives (1), Financial Institutions/Inclusion (1-2), SEBI Functions (1).

Commerce & Accountancy (6 questions): Fund/Cash Flow Statements (1-2), Ratio Analysis (1), AS for PPE/Foreign Exchange (1 each), Recording Transactions (1).

Costing (7 questions): Lean System & Innovation (3), Overview/Standard/Marginal/Activity-Based Costing (1 each).

Companies Act (10 questions): Share Capital & Debentures (3), Meetings of Board (2), NCLT/NCLAT (2), Audit/Auditors (1), Dividend (1), Directors (1).

Economics (7 questions): Inflation/Phillips Curve (2), National Income (2), Demand & Supply (2), IS-LM Model (1).

Key Insights for Upcoming Phase 1

Emphasis on current affairs (3-4 months prior) and SEBI-related schemes in GA; integrate finance news with static knowledge.

Quant and Reasoning were time-consuming (heavy DI/puzzles >50%); practice variations and speed (aim 80% accuracy).

English shifted to more RC (no cloze test); build vocabulary and comprehension for inference-based questions.

Paper 2 favored conceptual questions over numericals (fewer in Accountancy/Costing); focus on core theories (e.g., bonds, lean systems) and recent shifts (e.g., debt markets).

Cut-offs likely similar to 2022 (aggregate ~80/200); prioritize merit in Paper 2 for shortlisting. Mocks with composite timing essential—expect moderate difficulty in 2025-26 with more current financial reforms.

Mains Exam Analysis (2024 Cycle)

The Phase 2 exam was online with two papers (200 marks total). Paper 1 (Descriptive English, 100 marks/60 minutes) and Paper 2 (Stream-specific, 100 marks/varying duration). Negative marking of 1/4th for objective. Overall difficulty: Moderate. Good attempts: 60-70 out of 200 (Paper 1: 60-70; Paper 2: 65-75 for General).

Section-Wise Difficulty and Good Attempts

Paper 1 (Descriptive English): Easy to Moderate; Good attempts: 60-70

Paper 2 (General Stream): Moderate; Good attempts: 65-75

Paper 2 (Other Streams): Easy to Moderate; Good attempts: 70-80

Topic-Wise Weightage

Paper 1 (Descriptive English) (100 marks): Essay (1 out of 4, 30 marks, 250-270 words; topics: ESG Norms, Mental Health, Asset Reconstruction Companies, Online Classes, Banks in Financial Literacy), Precis Writing (1, 30 marks, 140-160 words; e.g., on Gaming Industry Evolution), Reading Comprehension (5 questions, 40 marks, 70-80 words each; e.g., on Social Influence, Health Forecasting for Farmers, Nutrition Analysis).

Paper 2 (General Stream – 100 questions/100 marks, 1 mark each):

Management (17 questions): General Management (9), Motivation (3), Communication/Leadership (2-3 each), HRD (1).

Finance (17 questions): Equity Markets (3), Direct/Indirect Tax/FRBM Act/Finance Commission/Time Value of Money/Derivatives/Debt/Forex Markets/Financial Inclusion/Risk Management/Budget (1-2 each), Current Affairs (4).

Commerce & Accountancy (17 questions): Ratio Analysis/Bonus Shares & Rights Issue (3 each), Theoretical Basis/Introduction to AS (2 each), AS for Foreign Exchange/Cash Flow/Share Capital/Introduction to Accountancy/Financial Statement Analysis (1 each).

Costing (15 questions): Marginal Costing (3), Overview/Material/Process/Overhead/Standard & Variance/Lean System (1-2 each).

Companies Act (19 questions): Share Capital & Debentures (4), NCLT/NCLAT/Audit & Auditors (3 each), Dividend/Directors/Meetings (1-2 each), Prospectus & Allotment (1).

Economics (15 questions): Inflation/Phillips Curve (4), Fiscal Policy/National Income (2 each), Monetary Policy/Market Structures/Consumption & Investment/Balance of Payments/International Institutions (1 each).

Key Insights for Upcoming Phase 2

Descriptive English rewards concise, structured writing (strict word limits); practice essays on contemporary finance topics (e.g., ESG, financial literacy) with examples from SEBI regulations.

Paper 2 had fewer numericals (simple formula-based, no calculator needed); focus on definitions and applications (e.g., marginal costing, Phillips Curve).

High weightage on Management/Finance/Companies Act (>50%); new topics like FRBM Act, Time Value of Money—integrate with curr

EXAM ANALYSIS

The most recent SEBI Officer Grade A exam cycle prior to 2025-26 was in 2024, with Phase 1 conducted on 27 July 2024 (multiple shifts) and Phase 2 on 31 August 2024. Overall, Phase 1 was Moderate in difficulty, focusing on speed and accuracy in aptitude sections with a shift toward current financial awareness. Phase 2 was also Moderate, emphasizing conceptual depth in stream-specific topics and writing skills in English. Below is a detailed analysis based on candidate feedback, expert reviews, and trends, providing insights into difficulty levels, good attempts, topic-wise weightage, and preparation tips to anticipate the upcoming 2025-26 Phase 1 (10 January 2026) and Phase 2 (21 February 2026).

Prelims Exam Analysis (2024 Cycle)

The Phase 1 exam was online with two objective papers (200 marks total, 100 minutes combined). Negative marking of 1/4th applied. Overall difficulty: Moderate (easier than 2022's Moderate to Difficult). Good attempts: 43-54 out of 100 for Paper 1; aim for 60+ in Paper 2 to clear cut-offs (fixed: Paper 1 30%, Paper 2 40%, Aggregate 40%).

Section-Wise Difficulty and Good Attempts

Reasoning Ability: Moderate to Difficult; Good attempts: 11-14

Quantitative Aptitude: Moderate to Difficult; Good attempts: 8-11

English Language: Moderate; Good attempts: 12-15

General Awareness: Moderate to Difficult; Good attempts: 12-14

Paper 2 (Professional Knowledge – General Stream): Moderate; Good attempts: 60-70

Paper 2 (Other Streams, e.g., Legal/IT/Research): Easy to Moderate; Good attempts: 65-75

Topic-Wise Weightage

Reasoning Ability (20 questions/20 marks): Puzzles (8-10, e.g., floor-based, seating arrangement), Seating Arrangement (2-8, linear/circular), Blood Relations (2-3), Alphanumeric/Symbol Series (2-3), Syllogism (1-2), Coding-Decoding (1-2), Direction Sense (1-2), Data Sufficiency (1-2), Analytical Reasoning (2).

Quantitative Aptitude (20 questions/20 marks): Data Interpretation (9-10, tabular/caselet/line graphs), Quadratic Equations (3-4), Number Series (2-4, wrong/missing), Arithmetic (4-10, e.g., profit & loss, CI/SI, ages, mixture), Simplification/Approximation (1-2), Mensuration (1-2), Number System (1-2).

English Language (20 questions/20 marks): Reading Comprehension (5-7, passages on space exploration, human presence beyond Earth), Error Detection/Spotting (2-4), Fill in the Blanks/Double Fillers (1-5), Sentence Rearrangement/Para Jumbles (3-5), Word Replacement/Synonyms/Antonyms (2-3), Idioms & Phrases (1-2), Prepositions (1-2), Spellings (1-2).

General Awareness (20 questions/20 marks): Current Affairs (15-16, last 3-8 months, e.g., finance/banking news), Government Schemes (4, SEBI-related priority), Finance Static (4), Reports & Indices (2, e.g., Tourism Index, Celebrity Brand Valuation), Awards/Sports/Places in News (2-4 each), Banking Awareness (e.g., NSC maximum limit, REITS, Stagflation, SID full form, FIFA World Cup).

Paper 2 (General Stream – 50 questions/100 marks, 2 marks each):

Management (9 questions): General Management (4), HRD (3), Communication/Leadership (1-2 each).

Finance (11 questions): Bonds (3), Primary/Secondary Markets (Equity/Debt, 2-4), Derivatives (1), Financial Institutions/Inclusion (1-2), SEBI Functions (1).

Commerce & Accountancy (6 questions): Fund/Cash Flow Statements (1-2), Ratio Analysis (1), AS for PPE/Foreign Exchange (1 each), Recording Transactions (1).

Costing (7 questions): Lean System & Innovation (3), Overview/Standard/Marginal/Activity-Based Costing (1 each).

Companies Act (10 questions): Share Capital & Debentures (3), Meetings of Board (2), NCLT/NCLAT (2), Audit/Auditors (1), Dividend (1), Directors (1).

Economics (7 questions): Inflation/Phillips Curve (2), National Income (2), Demand & Supply (2), IS-LM Model (1).

Key Insights for Upcoming Phase 1

Emphasis on current affairs (3-4 months prior) and SEBI-related schemes in GA; integrate finance news with static knowledge.

Quant and Reasoning were time-consuming (heavy DI/puzzles >50%); practice variations and speed (aim 80% accuracy).

English shifted to more RC (no cloze test); build vocabulary and comprehension for inference-based questions.

Paper 2 favored conceptual questions over numericals (fewer in Accountancy/Costing); focus on core theories (e.g., bonds, lean systems) and recent shifts (e.g., debt markets).

Cut-offs likely similar to 2022 (aggregate ~80/200); prioritize merit in Paper 2 for shortlisting. Mocks with composite timing essential—expect moderate difficulty in 2025-26 with more current financial reforms.

Mains Exam Analysis (2024 Cycle)

The Phase 2 exam was online with two papers (200 marks total). Paper 1 (Descriptive English, 100 marks/60 minutes) and Paper 2 (Stream-specific, 100 marks/varying duration). Negative marking of 1/4th for objective. Overall difficulty: Moderate. Good attempts: 60-70 out of 200 (Paper 1: 60-70; Paper 2: 65-75 for General).

Section-Wise Difficulty and Good Attempts

Paper 1 (Descriptive English): Easy to Moderate; Good attempts: 60-70

Paper 2 (General Stream): Moderate; Good attempts: 65-75

Paper 2 (Other Streams): Easy to Moderate; Good attempts: 70-80

Topic-Wise Weightage

Paper 1 (Descriptive English) (100 marks): Essay (1 out of 4, 30 marks, 250-270 words; topics: ESG Norms, Mental Health, Asset Reconstruction Companies, Online Classes, Banks in Financial Literacy), Precis Writing (1, 30 marks, 140-160 words; e.g., on Gaming Industry Evolution), Reading Comprehension (5 questions, 40 marks, 70-80 words each; e.g., on Social Influence, Health Forecasting for Farmers, Nutrition Analysis).

Paper 2 (General Stream – 100 questions/100 marks, 1 mark each):

Management (17 questions): General Management (9), Motivation (3), Communication/Leadership (2-3 each), HRD (1).

Finance (17 questions): Equity Markets (3), Direct/Indirect Tax/FRBM Act/Finance Commission/Time Value of Money/Derivatives/Debt/Forex Markets/Financial Inclusion/Risk Management/Budget (1-2 each), Current Affairs (4).

Commerce & Accountancy (17 questions): Ratio Analysis/Bonus Shares & Rights Issue (3 each), Theoretical Basis/Introduction to AS (2 each), AS for Foreign Exchange/Cash Flow/Share Capital/Introduction to Accountancy/Financial Statement Analysis (1 each).

Costing (15 questions): Marginal Costing (3), Overview/Material/Process/Overhead/Standard & Variance/Lean System (1-2 each).

Companies Act (19 questions): Share Capital & Debentures (4), NCLT/NCLAT/Audit & Auditors (3 each), Dividend/Directors/Meetings (1-2 each), Prospectus & Allotment (1).

Economics (15 questions): Inflation/Phillips Curve (4), Fiscal Policy/National Income (2 each), Monetary Policy/Market Structures/Consumption & Investment/Balance of Payments/International Institutions (1 each).

Key Insights for Upcoming Phase 2

Descriptive English rewards concise, structured writing (strict word limits); practice essays on contemporary finance topics (e.g., ESG, financial literacy) with examples from SEBI regulations.

Paper 2 had fewer numericals (simple formula-based, no calculator needed); focus on definitions and applications (e.g., marginal costing, Phillips Curve).

High weightage on Management/Finance/Companies Act (>50%); new topics like FRBM Act, Time Value of Money—integrate with current affairs.

Questions fact-based and theoretical; prepare section-specific details (e.g., Companies Act chapters IV/X/XI).

Cut-offs: Paper 1 30%, Paper 2 40%, Aggregate 50% for interview; expect moderate in 2025-26 with emphasis on securities laws and market reforms. Prioritize mocks for typing speed and analytical answers—aim for depth in stream knowledge. 

STUDY TIPS

To prepare effectively for the SIDBI Officer Grade A exam, follow a well-structured study plan with 4–5 hours of daily preparation, covering both Phase I (objective) and Phase II (descriptive) sections. Give special attention to General Awareness and MSME-related topics. Focus on improving speed and accuracy in Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude through regular practice. Incorporate daily reading of financial news sources such as The Economic Times, attempt mock tests frequently, and consistently practice answer writing to strengthen your descriptive paper skills.

1. Understand the Exam Structure Clearly

Phase I (Objective): Reasoning, Quant, English, General Awareness

Phase II (Objective + Descriptive): Economic & Social Issues (ESI), Finance & Management (FM), English Descriptive

Focus more on ESI, FM, and MSME-related topics as they are crucial for SIDBI.

2. Prioritize General Awareness (GA)

Prepare last 6–8 months of current affairs

Focus on:

Banking & Financial Awareness

Government Schemes (especially MSME-related)

Reports, indices, budgets, and economic news

Read financial newspapers like The Economic Times daily

3. Build Strong Concepts in ESI & FM

Topics to cover:

Indian Economy basics

Inflation, GDP, Monetary Policy

Financial Institutions & Markets

Management theories and leadership styles

Link theory with current economic developments

4. Improve Speed & Accuracy (Phase I)

Practice Reasoning & Quant daily

Use:

Short tricks

Timed quizzes

Focus on:

Puzzles, Seating Arrangement (Reasoning)

DI, Arithmetic (Quant)

5. Practice Mock Tests Regularly

Attempt 2–3 full-length mocks per week

Analyze:

Weak areas

Time management

Accuracy level

6. Prepare for Descriptive Paper

Practice:

Essay writing

Precis writing

Business/official letters

Focus on topics like:

MSME sector

Financial inclusion

Digital banking

7. Focus on MSME & SIDBI-Specific Knowledge

Study:

Role of SIDBI in MSME development

Government initiatives (Mudra, Startup India, etc.)

Go through SIDBI’s reports and recent initiatives

8. Make a Daily Study Routine (4–5 Hours)

Example:

1 hour ? GA + Current Affairs

1 hour ? ESI/FM

1.5 hours ? Reasoning + Quant

30 min ? English/Descriptive Practice

9. Revise Consistently

Weekly revision of notes

Monthly revision of current affairs

Keep short notes for last-minute revision

10. Stay Consistent & Exam-Focused

Avoid too many resources

Stick to limited, high-quality material

Track your progress weekly

STUDY PLAN

6-Month Study Plan (Best for Beginners)

Months 1–2: Build Strong Foundation

Reasoning: Basics + puzzles, seating arrangement

Quant: Arithmetic (percentage, ratio, SI/CI, time & work)

English: Grammar + vocabulary + reading comprehension

ESI & FM: Basic concepts (GDP, inflation, banking, management theories)

GA: Start daily current affairs (last 6 months coverage gradually)

Read financial news from The Economic Times

Focus: Concept clarity + basic practice

Months 3–4: Strengthening Phase

Advance topics in Reasoning & Quant (DI, high-level puzzles)

Deep dive into:

Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

Finance & Management (FM)

Start:

Weekly mock tests

Descriptive writing (1 essay/week)

Cover:

Government schemes

MSME sector & SIDBI role

Focus: Accuracy + moderate speed

Months 5–6: Exam-Oriented Preparation

Full-length mocks (2–3 per week)

Intensive revision of GA (last 6–8 months)

Daily answer writing practice

Focus on weak areas

Revise formulas, shortcuts, and notes

Focus: Speed + revision + exam temperament

3-Month Study Plan

Month 1: Core Coverage

Complete:

Arithmetic + Reasoning basics

ESI & FM concepts

Start current affairs (last 4–5 months)

Begin descriptive writing (2 essays/week)

Month 2: Practice & Strengthening

Start full syllabus mock tests (2 per week)

Cover:

Banking awareness

MSME schemes

Practice:

DI sets

High-level reasoning

Month 3: Revision & Final Push

3–4 mocks per week

Revise:

GA (last 6–8 months)

ESI & FM notes

Daily descriptive practice

Focus on time management

1-Month Study Plan

Week 1: Important Concepts Only

Arithmetic + basic DI

Reasoning puzzles

ESI & FM quick revision

Start current affairs (last 6 months)

STUDY TIPS

To prepare effectively for the SIDBI Officer Grade A exam, follow a well-structured study plan with 4–5 hours of daily preparation, covering both Phase I (objective) and Phase II (descriptive) sections. Give special attention to General Awareness and MSME-related topics. Focus on improving speed and accuracy in Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude through regular practice. Incorporate daily reading of financial news sources such as The Economic Times, attempt mock tests frequently, and consistently practice answer writing to strengthen your descriptive paper skills.

1. Understand the Exam Structure Clearly

Phase I (Objective): Reasoning, Quant, English, General Awareness

Phase II (Objective + Descriptive): Economic & Social Issues (ESI), Finance & Management (FM), English Descriptive

Focus more on ESI, FM, and MSME-related topics as they are crucial for SIDBI.

2. Prioritize General Awareness (GA)

Prepare last 6–8 months of current affairs

Focus on:

Banking & Financial Awareness

Government Schemes (especially MSME-related)

Reports, indices, budgets, and economic news

Read financial newspapers like The Economic Times daily

3. Build Strong Concepts in ESI & FM

Topics to cover:

Indian Economy basics

Inflation, GDP, Monetary Policy

Financial Institutions & Markets

Management theories and leadership styles

Link theory with current economic developments

4. Improve Speed & Accuracy (Phase I)

Practice Reasoning & Quant daily

Use:

Short tricks

Timed quizzes

Focus on:

Puzzles, Seating Arrangement (Reasoning)

DI, Arithmetic (Quant)

5. Practice Mock Tests Regularly

Attempt 2–3 full-length mocks per week

Analyze:

Weak areas

Time management

Accuracy level

6. Prepare for Descriptive Paper

Practice:

Essay writing

Precis writing

Business/official letters

Focus on topics like:

MSME sector

Financial inclusion

Digital banking

7. Focus on MSME & SIDBI-Specific Knowledge

Study:

Role of SIDBI in MSME development

Government initiatives (Mudra, Startup India, etc.)

Go through SIDBI’s reports and recent initiatives

8. Make a Daily Study Routine (4–5 Hours)

Example:

1 hour ? GA + Current Affairs

1 hour ? ESI/FM

1.5 hours ? Reasoning + Quant

30 min ? English/Descriptive Practice

9. Revise Consistently

Weekly revision of notes

Monthly revision of current affairs

Keep short notes for last-minute revision

10. Stay Consistent & Exam-Focused

Avoid too many resources

Stick to limited, high-quality material

Track your progress weekly

STUDY PLAN

6-Month Study Plan (Best for Beginners)

Months 1–2: Build Strong Foundation

Reasoning: Basics + puzzles, seating arrangement

Quant: Arithmetic (percentage, ratio, SI/CI, time & work)

English: Grammar + vocabulary + reading comprehension

ESI & FM: Basic concepts (GDP, inflation, banking, management theories)

GA: Start daily current affairs (last 6 months coverage gradually)

Read financial news from The Economic Times

Focus: Concept clarity + basic practice

Months 3–4: Strengthening Phase

Advance topics in Reasoning & Quant (DI, high-level puzzles)

Deep dive into:

Economic & Social Issues (ESI)

Finance & Management (FM)

Start:

Weekly mock tests

Descriptive writing (1 essay/week)

Cover:

Government schemes

MSME sector & SIDBI role

Focus: Accuracy + moderate speed

Months 5–6: Exam-Oriented Preparation

Full-length mocks (2–3 per week)

Intensive revision of GA (last 6–8 months)

Daily answer writing practice

Focus on weak areas

Revise formulas, shortcuts, and notes

Focus: Speed + revision + exam temperament

3-Month Study Plan

Month 1: Core Coverage

Complete:

Arithmetic + Reasoning basics

ESI & FM concepts

Start current affairs (last 4–5 months)

Begin descriptive writing (2 essays/week)

Month 2: Practice & Strengthening

Start full syllabus mock tests (2 per week)

Cover:

Banking awareness

MSME schemes

Practice:

DI sets

High-level reasoning

Month 3: Revision & Final Push

3–4 mocks per week

Revise:

GA (last 6–8 months)

ESI & FM notes

Daily descriptive practice

Focus on time management

1-Month Study Plan

Week 1: Important Concepts Only

Arithmetic + basic DI

Reasoning puzzles

ESI & FM quick revision

Start current affairs (last 6 months)

Week 2: Practice Intensive

Daily sectional tests

Start full mocks (3–4 this week)

Focus on MSME & schemes

Week 3: Mock + Analysis

1 mock daily or alternate day

Deep analysis of mistakes

Practice descriptive writing daily

Week 4: Final Revision

Revise:

GA notes

Formulas & shortcuts

Attempt light mocks

Focus on accuracy (avoid new topics)

Daily Study Plan (4–5 Hours)

1 hr ? Current Affairs + GA

1 hr ? ESI & FM

1.5 hr ? Reasoning + Quant

30–45 min ? English + Descriptive

Key Success Tips

Focus heavily on GA + ESI + FM (high scoring)

Practice mocks regularly and analyze mistakes

Keep short notes for quick revision

Focus on MSME sector & SIDBI-specific content

Stay consistent rather than studying randomly

OVERVIEW

The SEBI Officer Grade A Exam 2025-26 is a national-level recruitment drive conducted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to select candidates for the post of Officer Grade A (Assistant Manager) across various streams including General, Legal, Information Technology, Research, Official Language, and Engineering (Civil/Electrical). The exam is conducted based on requirements and not annually. In this cycle, thousands of candidates applied for the Phase-1 exam.

The selection process continues with the upcoming Phase-1 and Phase-2 exams, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates. Stay updated via the official website sebi.gov.in for any last-minute changes.

SELECTION PROCESS

The SEBI Officer Grade A (Assistant Manager) 2025-26 recruitment follows a three-stage process: Phase 1 (online screening examination - qualifying), Phase 2 (online examination - merit-deciding), and Phase 3 (Interview). Phase 1 marks are used only for shortlisting, while final merit is based on Phase 2 (85% weightage) and Interview (15% weightage). Additional weightage (up to 3.75 marks) applies for relevant post-qualification experience in Legal, Engineering (Civil), and Engineering (Electrical) streams.

Overall Selection Stages

Phase 1: Qualifying online exam (two papers, 200 marks total).

Phase 2: Merit-deciding online exam (two papers, 200 marks total).

Phase 3 (Interview): Personal interview for shortlisted candidates (typically 3 times the vacancies from Phase 2).

Shortlisting: Based on cut-offs and merit at each stage.

Dates: Phase 1 on 10 January 2026; Phase 2 on 21 February 2026; Interview dates to be announced.

Phase 1 (Qualifying Stage)

All candidates who meet separate paper cut-offs and aggregate 40% are shortlisted for Phase 2.

No marks carried forward to final merit.

Phase 2 (Merit Stage)

Candidates must meet paper cut-offs and weighted aggregate 50% (Paper 1: 1/3rd weightage; Paper 2: 2/3rd weightage).

Top candidates (3 times vacancies) shortlisted for Interview.

Phase 3 (Interview)

Conducted in English or Hindi (candidate's choice).

Focus: Securities market knowledge, SEBI regulations, current financial affairs, stream-specific expertise, and personality assessment.

Special provision: Up to 3.75 marks extra for relevant experience in select streams.

Merit List and Reservation

Final merit: Phase 2 (85%) + Interview (15%).

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

Tie-breaking: As decided by SEBI.

Notes

Negative marking applies in objective papers.

The process is uniform across streams, with variations only in Paper 2 content.

For exact cut-offs, shortlisting ratios, or updates, refer to the official notification on sebi.gov.in.