Understanding NABARD DA cutoff trends helps candidates set target scores for preparation. Based on the Prelims exam analysis conducted on February 21, 2026, and previous year patterns, here is an analysis of expected cutoffs [citation:8].
Factors Affecting NABARD DA Cutoff
- Number of Vacancies: 162 vacancies (including Hindi posts) - higher vacancies typically mean lower cutoffs [citation:1]
- Difficulty Level: Overall Prelims difficulty was Easy to Moderate, with Quantitative Aptitude slightly tougher [citation:8]
- Number of Candidates: Large number of banking aspirants appear for clerical-level exams
- Category: Cutoffs vary significantly for General, OBC, SC, ST, and EWS categories
- State-wise Variation: Cutoffs differ by state as merit lists are prepared state-wise [citation:10]
NABARD DA Prelims 2026 - Good Attempts Analysis
Based on the exam analysis of February 21, 2026 (Shift 1), the estimated good attempts with high accuracy are [citation:8]:
| Section | Questions | Good Attempts |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | 40 | 29-31 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 21-23 |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 21-23 |
| Overall | 100 | 71-77 |
Expected Prelims Cutoff (Qualifying Marks)
Since Prelims is qualifying in nature, candidates need to score above the cut-off to shortlist for Mains. Expected sectional and overall cut-offs [citation:6]:
- General Category: Overall 70-75 marks out of 100
- OBC Category: Overall 65-70 marks
- SC Category: Overall 55-60 marks
- ST Category: Overall 50-55 marks
NABARD DA Mains Expected Cutoff 2026 (Out of 200 Marks)
The Mains cutoff determines final selection. Expected category-wise cutoffs based on previous trends [citation:6]:
| Category | Expected Cutoff Range (Out of 200) |
|---|---|
| General | 130-145 marks |
| OBC | 120-135 marks |
| EWS | 115-130 marks |
| SC | 100-115 marks |
| ST | 90-105 marks |
| PwD | 80-95 marks |
Sectional Target Scores for Mains (Safe Score)
To achieve a safe score for General category (135+ marks), aim for [citation:6]:
- Reasoning Ability (30 marks): 22-25 marks
- Quantitative Aptitude (30 marks): 22-25 marks
- General Awareness (50 marks): 35-40 marks
- Computer Knowledge (40 marks): 32-35 marks
- Descriptive English (50 marks): 30-35 marks
State-Wise Cutoff Variation
Cutoffs vary by state based on candidate preference and competition:
- High Demand States: Maharashtra, Delhi NCR, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu - Higher cutoffs
- Medium Demand States: Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh - Moderate cutoffs
- Lower Demand States: North Eastern states, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand - Relatively lower cutoffs
Safe Score Recommendations for NABARD DA 2026
- General Category: Aim for 140+ marks out of 200 in Mains
- OBC Category: Target 130+ marks
- SC Category: Target 115+ marks
- ST Category: Target 105+ marks
Note: Since negative marking applies, focus on accuracy over attempts [citation:4].