The RBI Assistant 2026 examination comprises three distinct stages: Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, and a Language Proficiency Test (LPT). The objective-type papers in Prelims and Mains carry negative marking, while the LPT is qualifying in nature.
Preliminary Examination
The Prelims is an online, objective-type test designed to screen candidates for the Main Examination. It assesses basic aptitude across three subjects.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 |
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer.
Candidates must clear both sectional and overall cut-offs to qualify for the Mains. This stage is purely qualifying, and its marks are not counted towards the final merit.
Main Examination
The Mains is also an online, objective-type examination. Marks obtained in this stage are crucial for final selection, provided the candidate qualifies the subsequent Language Proficiency Test.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning | 40 | 40 | 30 |
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 30 |
| Numerical Ability | 40 | 40 | 30 |
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 | 25 |
| Computer Knowledge | 40 | 40 | 20 |
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer.
This stage tests a broader range of subjects and deeper understanding. Performance in the Mains largely determines a candidate's position in the merit list.
Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
The LPT is an offline, mandatory qualifying stage. Candidates who clear the Mains are called for this test.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Language | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Negative Marking: There is no negative marking in the LPT.
Candidates must be proficient in the official/local language of the state/UT they applied for. Failure to qualify in the LPT will result in disqualification from the selection process.
Marking & Normalization
Both the Preliminary and Main Examinations feature negative marking, where 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer. The final merit list is prepared based on the marks obtained in the Main Examination, subject to qualifying the Language Proficiency Test, medical fitness, and document verification.
If the examination is conducted in multiple shifts, RBI may normalize marks to account for differences in difficulty across shifts. This ensures a fair evaluation and equal opportunity for all candidates, irrespective of their exam slot.
Pattern FAQs
What are the stages of the RBI Assistant 2026 exam?
The RBI Assistant 2026 exam consists of three stages: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Language Proficiency Test (LPT).
Is there negative marking in the RBI Assistant exam?
Yes, there is negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in both the Preliminary and Main Examinations.
Which stage's marks are considered for the final merit list?
The marks obtained in the Main Examination are considered for the final merit list, provided the candidate qualifies the Language Proficiency Test and other eligibility criteria.
What is the Language Proficiency Test (LPT)?
The LPT is a mandatory qualifying test where candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the local language of the state/UT they applied for. It is an offline test with no negative marking.