The LIC Assistant 2026 recruitment process comprises a two-stage online examination: Phase I Preliminary and Phase II Mains. Phase I carries 100 objective questions for 60 minutes with no negative marking, while Phase II includes objective testing across multiple sections with a 0.25 negative marking penalty.
Phase I: Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is an objective online test divided into three sections with separate timing for each test. English or Hindi Language tests are qualifying in nature, meaning their marks are not added to final merit ranking.
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| English Language / Hindi Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
This preliminary phase tests speed, accuracy, and foundational concepts in logic and basic arithmetic. Candidates must secure qualifying marks in each section to clear the cutoff for Phase II.
Note: There is no negative marking in the LIC Assistant Preliminary Examination.
Phase II: Mains Examination
Candidates who qualify in the Preliminary Exam are shortlisted for the Mains Examination. The paper structure varies slightly depending on the administrative zone, but generally evaluates core financial and analytical knowledge across 200 objective questions.
| Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General / Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 30 minutes |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 30 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 40 | 40 | 30 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 40 | 30 minutes |
| Hindi Language (if applicable to zone) | 30 | 30 | 30 minutes |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 150 minutes |
The Mains stage demands strong analytical capabilities and an understanding of banking and insurance financial updates. Total performance in the Mains examination forms the main basis for final candidate selection and ranking.
Note: There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks (1/4th of the assigned mark) for every incorrect answer in the Mains examination.
Marking & Normalization
Because the examination takes place across multiple time slots, scores obtained by candidates in different sessions are normalized using the equi-percentile method. Sectional cutoff scores as well as overall qualifying marks apply to both stages. Marks obtained in English or Hindi Language in the Prelims stage serve only as a qualifying threshold and are excluded while shortlisting candidates for Mains.
Pattern FAQs
Is there negative marking in the LIC Assistant Prelims stage?
No, there is no negative marking penalty in the Preliminary examination stage.
What is the penalty for incorrect answers in the Mains exam?
In the Mains examination, 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong response submitted.
Are the marks of the Preliminary stage added to the final merit list?
No, the Preliminary exam is qualifying in nature. Final selection is based purely on the performance in the Mains examination.
What is the duration of the LIC Assistant Mains examination?
The LIC Assistant Mains online examination has a total duration of 150 minutes, structured with individual sectional time limits.