The NABARD Grade A 2026 Notification is expected to be released soon, and candidates preparing for the examination should also be aware of the expected exam shift timings and reporting schedule. The NABARD Grade A Phase 1 exam dates for 2026 are also expected to be released soon. Based on previous years, the Phase 1 exam is generally conducted in multiple shifts depending on the number of candidates.
In this blog we have provided the expected NABARD Grade A Phase 1 shift timings, reporting time, exam pattern, and important exam day guidelines to help candidates prepare in advance.
What are the expected NABARD Grade A 2026 phase 1 shift timings?
The NABARD Grade A Phase 1 exam is expected to be conducted in multiple shifts to accommodate a large number of candidates across different exam centres. Candidates should carefully check their admit card once released to know their allotted shift and reporting time. Based on the previous recruitment cycle, the expected shift timings are given below.
| Date (Expected) | Shift | Reporting Time | Exam Timings |
| To be announced | Shift 1 | 7:30 AM | 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM |
| To be announced | Shift 2 | 11:30 AM | 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM |
These timings are only expected based on previous years and may change after the official notification is released. Candidates should reach the exam centre well before the reporting time to complete the verification process smoothly.
What is the NABARD Grade A prelims exam pattern for RDBS / Legal posts?
The NABARD Grade A Phase 1 Exam for RDBS and Legal posts consists of two parts Qualifying Section and Merit Section. Candidates must qualify in all the qualifying subjects by securing the minimum prescribed marks. However, only the marks obtained in the Merit Section are considered for shortlisting candidates for the Phase 2 (Mains) examination.
The exam is conducted online with a composite duration of 120 minutes. The paper is bilingual (Hindi and English), except for the English Language section. There is also a negative marking of one-fourth (1/4th) mark for every incorrect answer.
| Section | Name of Test | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks |
| Qualifying | Reasoning | 20 | 20 |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | |
| Computer Knowledge | 20 | 20 | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 20 | 20 | |
| Decision Making | 10 | 10 | |
| Merit | General Awareness | 20 | 20 |
| Economic & Social Issues (ESI) | 40 | 40 | |
| Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD) | 40 | 40 | |
| Total | 200 | 200 |
What are the important tips for the exam day in NABARD Grade A exam?
A well-planned exam day routine can help candidates remain confident and perform better in the examination. Reaching the exam centre on time and carrying all the required documents can prevent unnecessary stress before the exam begins.
- Reach the exam centre at least 30–45 minutes before the reporting time.
- Carry the admit card, valid photo ID proof, and passport-size photographs, if required.
- Wear comfortable clothes and avoid carrying prohibited items.
- Have a light and healthy meal before leaving for the exam.
- Stay hydrated and carry a transparent water bottle if permitted.
- Avoid last-minute revision that may create unnecessary anxiety.
- Remain calm and trust your preparation throughout the examination.
How can you manage your time during the NABARD Grade A exam?
Since the NABARD Grade A Phase 1 examination has both qualifying and merit sections, candidates should balance their time carefully. Clearing the qualifying subjects is equally important, while good scores in the merit section improve the chances of selection for Phase 2.
- Complete the qualifying sections without spending too much time on difficult questions.
- Give adequate attention to the Merit Section, especially ARD and ESI.
- Attempt easy questions first to build confidence.
- Skip lengthy questions and return to them later if time permits.
- Keep checking the remaining time during the examination.
- Avoid random guessing as there is a negative marking of one-fourth mark.
FAQs
The NABARD Grade A 2026 notification is expected to be released soon.
The exam is expected to be conducted in 2 shifts.
A total of 200 objective questions are asked.
Yes. One-fourth (1/4th) mark is deducted for every incorrect answer.
General Awareness, Economic & Social Issues (ESI), and Agriculture & Rural Development (ARD) are the merit sections.
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