The NABARD DA exam pattern 2026 consists of two main stages: Preliminary Examination (qualifying) and Main Examination (merit-based), followed by a Language Proficiency Test. Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for strategic preparation [citation:10].
Key Features of NABARD DA Exam Pattern
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer in objective tests [citation:4]
- Sectional Timing: Each section has fixed time limits - you cannot switch between sections
- Prelims: Qualifying in nature - marks not counted in final merit
- Mains: Marks counted for final selection - merit list prepared state-wise [citation:10]
NABARD DA Prelims Exam Pattern 2026
The Prelims exam is conducted online and serves as a screening test to shortlist candidates for Mains.
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
Note: Based on the February 21, 2026 exam analysis, good attempts in Prelims ranged from 71 to 77 questions with high accuracy [citation:8].
NABARD DA Mains Exam Pattern 2026
The Mains exam determines final selection and includes both objective and descriptive tests.
| Test | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 | 30 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 30 | 30 minutes |
| General Awareness (with special reference to agriculture, rural development, and banking) | 50 | 50 | 25 minutes |
| Computer Knowledge | 40 | 40 | 20 minutes |
| Objective Test Total | 150 | 150 | 105 minutes |
| English Language (Descriptive) - Essay, Précis, Letter/Report | 3 | 50 | 30 minutes |
| Overall Total | 153 | 200 | 135 minutes |
Source: [citation:5][citation:10]
NABARD DA Hindi Officer Exam Pattern
Prelims Pattern (Hindi Officer)
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 20 mins |
| Professional Knowledge (Hindi/English) | 30 | 30 | 20 mins |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 | 20 mins |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 mins |
Mains Pattern (Hindi Officer)
| Test | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability | 20 | 20 | 25 mins |
| Professional Knowledge (Hindi/English) | 50 | 50 | 35 mins |
| General Awareness (Agriculture, Rural Development & Banking) | 40 | 40 | 25 mins |
| Computer Knowledge | 40 | 40 | 20 mins |
| English Language (Descriptive) | 3 | 50 | 30 mins |
| Total | 153 | 200 | 135 mins |
Source: [citation:10]
Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
The LPT is a qualifying test conducted after Mains to assess proficiency in the official language of the state applied for. Candidates who studied the local language in Class 10 or 12 may be exempted with valid proof. Failure in LPT leads to disqualification [citation:10].