The SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) Grade B exam is one of the most sought-after exams for aspiring candidates looking to work in the financial sector. The SIDBI Grade B Syllabus and Exam Pattern are crucial for better preparation. Understanding the exam format and the important topics helps candidates focus on their study plan effectively. In this article, we will cover the SIDBI Grade B Syllabus, the exam pattern, and the essential details you need to be aware of to perform well in the written exam.
SIDBI Grade B Syllabus
The SIDBI Grade B Syllabus includes sections on Reasoning Ability, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, and Finance & Management. The objective test focuses on logical reasoning, numerical ability, language skills, and current affairs, while the descriptive test evaluates writing abilities in areas like essay writing and business correspondence.
Candidates are also tested on topics related to MSME financing, banking policies, and financial management. Thorough preparation across these areas is key to succeeding in the exam.
SIDBI Grade B Selection Process
The SIDBI Grade B Recruitment 2024 Selection Process involves several stages to assess candidates’ skills, knowledge, and overall suitability for the role of Assistant Manager in Grade B. This process ensures that the most qualified candidates are chosen for the position.
| Selection Phase | Details |
| Phase I – Online Screening Exam | Online test with 7 sections totaling 200 marks. Candidates must meet the minimum cut-off marks. |
| Phase II – Online Examination | Two papers totaling 200 marks. Shortlisting for the interview based on cut-off marks. |
| Phase III – Interview | 100 marks, with 25% weightage for extracurricular achievements (district/state/national level). |
| Psychometric Test | Assesses personality, communication, and problem-solving skills. Results shared with interview panel. |
| Personal Interview | Conducted at SIDBI offices for candidates who pass the Psychometric Test. |
| Final Selection | Based on Phase II exam and interview performance. |
SIDBI Grade B Exam Pattern
Candidates should note that SIDBI has changed the selection process for 2024. The detailed exam pattern is as follows:
Phase I Online Objective Examination
The first phase of the SIDBI Grade B selection process is an Online Objective Examination. This exam is designed to test the basic skills of candidates in various subjects. The exam is divided into multiple sections, each covering different areas of knowledge.
Structure of Phase I Exam
- Total Questions: 200
- Total Marks: 200
- Duration: 2 hours (120 minutes)
| Name of the Test | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks |
| English Language | 30 | 30 |
| Reasoning Aptitude | 25 | 25 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 25 |
| Computer Knowledge | 20 | 20 |
| General Awareness (with special reference to Banking, Financial Sector, and Economic & Social Issues) | 20 | 20 |
| MSMEs: Policy, Regulatory and Legal Framework; Finance and Management (with focus on MSME) | 30 | 30 |
| Stream Specific Test ** | 50 | 50 |
| Total | 200 | 200 |
**Stream Specific Test
- Topics include:
General (Grade ‘B’)
- Topics include MSME Financing (Due Diligence, KYC, Financial Ratios, Assessment of Term Loan/Working Capital).
- Covers NPA and Recovery (including IRAC norms), NBFC Financing, and Credit Risk Assessment.
- Note: The syllabus is only indicative and not exhaustive; additional topics may be included.
Legal (Grade ‘B’) – Key Topics
- Constitutional Law: Laws governing the structure of government and citizens’ rights.
- Administrative Law: Rules governing government agencies and their interactions with citizens.
- Statutory Interpretation: Methods used by courts to interpret laws.
- Contract Act, 1872: Governs contracts and their enforcement.
- Transfer of Property Act, 1882: Covers property transfers, including sale and mortgage.
- Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881: Regulates bills, cheques, and promissory notes.
- Registration Act, 1908: Governs the registration of legal documents.
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita: Defines criminal offenses and punishments.
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita: Outlines criminal procedure and rights of individuals.
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam: Deals with the admissibility of evidence in court.
- Legal Drafting: Creating legally sound documents.
- RDB Act, 1993: Deals with recovery of debts by financial institutions.
- SARFAESI Act, 2002: Enables recovery of secured loans through asset sale.
- RTI Act, 2005: Promotes transparency by allowing citizens to request government information.
- Limitation Act, 1963: Sets time limits for initiating legal actions.
- IBC 2013: Provides a framework for resolving insolvency and bankruptcy.
IT (Grade ‘B’) – Key Topics
- Domain-Specific Knowledge: Understanding of recent IT developments and trends.
- Technical Skill Assessment: Test of practical IT skills like coding and problem-solving.
- Programming and Coding: Proficiency in languages like Python, Java, C++.
- Database Management: Knowledge of database systems and SQL.
- Networking and Security: Understanding of network protocols and cybersecurity measures.
- AI/ML: Familiarity with artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques.
- System Design and Architecture: Knowledge of designing scalable, efficient IT systems.
Remarks:
- The syllabus provided is only indicative and not exhaustive.
Candidates must clear the cut-off marks set by SIDBI in this phase to qualify for Phase II. It is important to note that there is negative marking in this exam, with 1/4th of the marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
SIDBI Grade B Objective Test Syllabus
Understanding the SIDBI Grade B Syllabus is key to preparing efficiently.
| Subject | Topics |
| English Language | Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Fill in the blanks, Para Jumbles, Sentence Rearrangement, Idioms and Phrases, Synonyms and Antonyms |
| Reasoning Ability | Verbal Reasoning (Syllogism, Blood Relations, Coding-Decoding, Directions and Distances), Non-Verbal Reasoning (Series Completion, Figure Analysis, Mirror and Water Images), Logical Reasoning (Puzzle Solving, Seating Arrangements, Input-Output, Coding-Decoding), Data Sufficiency |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Simplification and Approximation, Data Interpretation (Bar Graph, Line Graph, Pie Chart), Number Series, Percentages, Averages, Ratios, and Proportions, Time and Work, Speed and Distance, Probability, Permutation and Combination, Profit and Loss, Simple and Compound Interest, Mensuration (2D and 3D) |
| General Awareness | Current Affairs (National, International), Banking and Financial Awareness (Key banking terms, RBI policies, Financial Institutions), Government Schemes and Policies, Economic and Social Issues (Agriculture, Infrastructure, Rural Development), Static GK (Important Days, Awards, International Organizations, Capitals, etc.) |
Phase II Online Descriptive Examination
Candidates who clear Phase I are eligible to appear for Phase II, which is an Online Descriptive Examination. This phase assesses the candidate’s writing skills, knowledge of the sector, and analytical thinking.
- Time for each paper is 75 minutes for descriptive and 60 minutes for objective papers.
- Descriptive answers must be typed using a keyboard, either in English or Hindi (Remington or Inscript).
- Marks per question: Some questions are worth 1-2 marks depending on the type and difficulty level.
Phase-II Exam Details for Manager Grade ‘B’
| Paper | Name of the Test | No. of Questions/Maximum Marks | Time |
| Paper I Online Descriptive | English Language (Essay, Précis Writing, Comprehension, Business/Office Correspondence) | 3/75 | 75 minutes |
| Paper II Online Objective | General Knowledge of Law (Legal Stream) | 50/75 | 60 minutes |
| Online Descriptive | Legal Knowledge (Legal Stream) | 4 out of 6 (attempted)/50 | 75 minutes |
Important Notes for Legal Stream
- Paper I: Assess writing skills and comprehension abilities.
- Paper II: Focus on Legal topics such as Constitutional Law, Statutory Interpretation, Contract Act, etc.
- Online Descriptive: 4 out of 6 questions to be attempted, with 15-mark and 10-mark questions.
For Manager Grade ‘B’ General Stream
| Paper | Name of the Test | No. of Questions/Maximum Marks | Time |
| Paper I Online Descriptive | English Language (Essay, Précis Writing, Comprehension, Business/Office Correspondence) | 3/75 | 75 minutes |
| Paper II Online Objective | MSMEs: Policy, Regulatory, and Legal Framework; Finance and Management | 50/75 | 60 minutes |
| Online Descriptive | MSME and Financial Knowledge | 4 out of 10 (attempted)/50 | 75 minutes |
Important Notes for General Stream
- Paper I: Focuses on writing skills, including expressing and understanding topics.
- Paper II: Covers MSME topics including finance, risk assessment, NPA, and investment banking.
- Online Descriptive: Attempt 4 questions out of 10, with 15-mark and 10-mark questions.
For Manager Grade ‘B’ IT Stream
| Paper | Name of the Test | No. of Questions/Maximum Marks | Time |
| Paper I Online Descriptive | English Language (Essay, Précis Writing, Comprehension, Business/Office Correspondence) | 3/75 | 75 minutes |
| Paper II Online Objective | IT Knowledge and Technical Skills (Programming, Networking, AI, Data Management) | 50/75 | 60 minutes |
| Online Descriptive | IT Knowledge (Algorithm, Big Data, Cybersecurity, IoT) | 4 out of 10 (attempted)/50 | 75 minutes |
Important Notes for IT Stream
- Paper I: Tests writing skills and comprehension.
- Paper II: Covers IT concepts such as software, programming languages, data management, AI, and cybersecurity.
- Online Descriptive: Attempt 4 out of 10 questions, including 15-mark and 10-mark questions.
Psychometric Test (After Phase II)
After the Phase II Exam, a Psychometric Test may be conducted. This test is designed to assess the candidate’s personality traits, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability to various work environments. The test is typically administered by a third-party agency, and the results are shared with the interview panel for further evaluation.
SIDBI Grade B Phase III Interview Details
| Aspect | Details |
| Eligibility | Candidates who pass Phase I and Phase II (including the Psychometric Test) are invited for the interview. |
| Location | The interview is conducted at the SIDBI office. |
| Focus | Evaluation of overall personality, communication skills, banking and financial knowledge, and suitability for the Officer Grade B role. |
| Topics Covered | – Current economic and financial issues. – Motivation and career goals. – General awareness and professional suitability. |
| Marks | 100 marks. |
| Weightage | 25% weightage given to achievements in extracurricular activities (sports, cultural events, leadership roles). |
| Evaluation Criteria | – Responses during the interview. – Confidence and clarity of thought. – Communication skills. |
SIDBI Grade B Manager Post Final Selection
The final selection for the SIDBI Grade B Officer position is based on a candidate’s performance in Phase II (Examination) and Phase III (Interview). The combined scores from these stages are used to create the final merit list. Here’s a breakdown of how the selection works:
- Phase II (Examination): Candidates must perform well in both the objective and descriptive papers. The marks obtained in this phase play a critical role in the selection process and are weighted heavily in the final decision.
- Phase III (Interview): The interview evaluates the candidate’s personality, communication skills, and knowledge of the banking sector. The marks earned in this stage are crucial for the final selection.
- Merit List Creation: The final merit list is determined by combining the scores from Phase II (examination) and Phase III (interview). Candidates with the highest total marks across both phases are selected for the position.
- Interview Evaluation: During the interview, candidates are assessed on confidence, clarity of thought, and awareness of current economic issues. Extracurricular achievements may also influence the interview score, contributing to up to 25% weightage.
SIDBI Exam Pattern – Important Points
Check out the important points related to SIDBI Exam Pattern below:
- Syllabus Scope: The syllabus is illustrative, not exhaustive; candidates should prepare broadly and stay updated on current developments and acts in their field.
- Language of Exam: All tests (except English Language & Descriptive Test) are available in both English and Hindi.
- Objective Test Format: Questions are multiple-choice with one correct answer; candidates must click the correct option.
- Negative Marking: 1/4th mark will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Scoring Method: Scores are adjusted for penalties and made equivalent across sessions to ensure fairness.
- Cutoff Criteria: Cutoffs are applied in two stages: individual test scores and total scores for qualification/merit.
- Sectional and Total Cutoffs: Cutoffs will be determined for each objective test, total objective test, and Descriptive Test.
- Descriptive Test: Candidates must type answers using the keyboard; ensure it functions properly before starting.
- Merit List Preparation: Merit lists are Grade/Stream-wise based on performance in each phase.
- Phase II Shortlisting: Minimum qualifying marks in each section and total score in Phase II are required to be shortlisted for the interview.
- Interview Details: Interview is worth 100 marks; 25% weightage for extracurricular achievements (proof required); candidates may opt for Hindi or English.
- Interview Shortlisting Ratio: The calling ratio for Phase II is 1:25, subject to reduction.
- Tie-Breaking Criteria: In case of tied scores, higher Phase II marks, older age, or higher qualifications will be considered.
- Analysis of Responses: The Bank may analyze patterns to detect unfair practices, and candidature may be canceled if suspected.
- Exam Structure Modifications: SIDBI reserves the right to modify the exam structure, with updates provided on the official website.
- Information Handout: Detailed exam information will be provided in an Information Handout, available along with the call letters on SIDBI’s website.
Will SIDBI Grade B Exam have negative marking?
Yes, SIDBI Grade B exam will have negative marking. For every wrong answer marked, 1/4 of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as a penalty.
How are SIDBI Grade B Scores Calculated?
Check out the pointers below to know how SIDBI Grade B Scores are calculated.
- The number of questions answered correctly by a candidate in each objective test is considered for arriving at the corrected score after applying a penalty for wrong answers.
- The corrected scores so obtained by a candidate are made equivalent to take care of the minor difference in difficulty level, if any, in each of the objective tests held in different sessions to arrive at the Equated Scores* (*Scores obtained by candidates on any test are equated to the base form by considering the distribution of scores of all the forms.)
- Test wise scores and scores on total are reported with decimal points up to two digits.
SIDBI Grade B Qualifying Criteria
Check out the detailed SIDBI Grade B Qualifying Criteria in the pointers below:
- Qualifying Section: Includes English Language, Reasoning Aptitude, Quantitative Aptitude, and Computer Knowledge; assesses basic aptitude and language skills.
- Merit Section: Covers General Awareness (Banking, Financial Sector, Economic & Social Issues), MSMEs (Policy, Regulatory, Legal Framework, Finance, Management), and Stream Specific Test (as per candidate’s stream); scores determine merit and eligibility for Phase II.
- Shortlisting for Phase II: Based on marks in the Merit Section only; scores from the Qualifying Section are not considered for shortlisting.
| Topper’s Corner | Topper’s Corner |
| SIDBI Grade A Topper Aniket Tembhurne | SIDBI Grade A Topper Dayyala Krishna |
SIDBI Grade B Syllabus – Conclusion
Preparing for the SIDBI Grade B exam requires a solid understanding of the SIDBI Grade B Syllabus and Exam Pattern. Candidates should focus on all sections and keep themselves updated with current affairs. With the right approach and preparation, candidates can increase their chances of success in the exam.
SIDBI Grade B Syllabus – FAQs
A total of 200 multiple-choice questions will be asked.
The SIDBI Grade B Syllabus includes English Language, Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, Finance & Management, and MSME-related topics.
Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in the objective paper.
Each correct answer is awarded 1 mark, and 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer.
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