RBI Non-CSG Recruitment 2026: Complete Notification, Eligibility, Exam Pattern & Apply Online

RBI Recruitment 2026 – Overview

The Reserve Bank of India Services Board (RBISB) has announced a significant recruitment drive for various professional posts in its Non-CSG (Central Services Group) cadres. Under Advertisement No. RBISB/DA/05/2025-26, a total of 21 vacancies are open across five distinct specialist roles: Legal Officer ‘B’, Manager (Technical-Civil) ‘B’, Manager (Technical-Electrical) ‘B’, Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) ‘A’, and Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) ‘A’. This recruitment presents a premier opportunity for qualified lawyers, engineers, language experts, and ex-servicemen to join India's central banking institution. The selection process involves a rigorous combination of online/offline examinations followed by a personal interview.

Eligibility, Selection Process & Key Highlights

Candidates must meticulously check the post-specific eligibility criteria concerning age, educational qualification, and essential experience as of the cut-off date of 01 February 2026. The age limits vary significantly between posts, with the Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) role having the highest upper limit of 40 years. Applications must be submitted exclusively online through the RBI website within the stipulated window. It is crucial for applicants, especially those claiming reservation benefits or age relaxation, to have all valid documents (caste, disability, experience certificates) ready in the prescribed formats to avoid last-minute discrepancies and potential rejection.

About Important Dates

The timeline for the RBI Non-CSG recruitment is strict and non-negotiable. The entire application window is open for just 20 days, from 06 to 26 February 2026. A critical point is the cut-off date of 01 February 2026, which is the reference date for calculating age, checking educational qualifications, and verifying work experience. Your status (age, degree completion, experience duration) must meet the criteria on or before this date. The exam is scheduled for 14 March 2026, a Saturday, giving candidates a limited preparation time post-application closure. Missing the final print deadline of 13 March 2026 to download your application with fee details can cause issues during later stages, even if you've applied successfully. Always complete the process well before the last day to avoid server overload and technical glitches.

About Application Fees

The application fee structure is designed to be inclusive while covering administrative costs. SC, ST, and PwBD candidates pay only ₹100 + GST as intimation charges, exempting them from the full application fee. This is a key reservation benefit. For General, OBC, and EWS candidates, the fee is ₹600 + GST. It's vital to note that the GST is an additional component; the total payable will be higher than the base fee. RBI staff who meet specific internal circular criteria are fully exempt. The fee is non-refundable under any circumstances, so candidates must double-check their eligibility before payment. All transaction charges levied by the bank or payment gateway must be borne by the candidate, and payment must be completed online—no offline modes are accepted. A successful payment generates an e-receipt, which is proof of application completion.

About Vacancy Details

The total of 21 vacancies is distributed across five specialist domains, reflecting RBI's need for diverse expertise. The Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) has the highest number of vacancies (8), indicating a significant requirement for ex-servicemen officers in this role. The Legal Officer ‘B’ post has 6 vacancies, catering to the legal department's needs. The technical posts (Civil and Electrical) have a combined 3 vacancies, which are highly specialized. The Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) has 4 vacancies, including one reserved for PwBD category ‘B’. It's important to understand that these are *panel year* vacancies for 2026, and selection is made against this panel. Candidates must apply for a specific post; there is no common application for all. The competition ratio varies per post, so choosing which post to apply for should be based on your precise qualifications and the number of openings.

About Age Limit

The age limit is calculated as of 01 February 2026, and the permissible date of birth range is explicitly defined for each post. This is not a standard relaxation; it's the absolute boundary. For instance, for the Legal Officer post, you must be born on or after 02.02.1994 and on or before 01.02.2005. Being even a day outside this range makes you ineligible. The Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) post has a uniquely higher age bracket (25-40 years) and notably does not offer any further age relaxation for SC/ST/OBC categories, which is an exception. For other posts, the basic age limits mentioned here are before applying permissible relaxations for reserved categories, higher qualifications (like LL.M./Ph.D. for Legal Officer), ex-servicemen, etc. Always calculate your age precisely against 01.02.2026 before applying.

Legal Officer in Grade ‘B’

Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LL.B. with minimum 50% marks, 45% for SC/ST/PwBD on reserved posts). Degree must be from a UGC & Bar Council recognized institution.
Essential Experience: Enrolment as an Advocate with the Bar Council. Post-enrolment, at least 2 years of experience as a practicing Advocate, OR as a Law Officer in specified organizations, OR as a full-time teacher of law.

Manager (Technical-Civil) in Grade ‘B’

Educational Qualification: B.E./B.Tech in Civil Engineering or equivalent with minimum 60% marks (55% for SC/ST on reserved posts).
Essential Experience: 3 years post-qualification experience in planning/designing/construction of large buildings, tendering, etc., in a responsible position.

Manager (Technical-Electrical) in Grade ‘B’

Educational Qualification: B.E./B.Tech in Electrical Engineering or Electrical & Electronics with minimum 60% marks (55% for SC/ST on reserved posts).
Essential Experience: 3 years post-qualification experience in electrical installations, central AC plants, lift systems, etc., in a responsible position.

Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) in Grade ‘A’

Educational Qualification: Second Class Master’s Degree in Hindi/Hindi Translation with English at Bachelor’s level, OR Master’s in English with Hindi at Bachelor’s level and PG Diploma in Translation, OR other specified combinations.
Experience: Not Applicable.

Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) in Grade ‘A’

Educational Qualification: Not specified separately; focus is on experience.
Essential Experience: Minimum 10 years (5 years for PwBD) of commissioned service in the Regular Army/Navy/Air Force as an officer. Must possess a valid Ex-Serviceman Identity Card.

About Category-Wise Vacancies

The category-wise breakdown is crucial for understanding your competition and the reservation framework. Vacancies are reserved for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), SC, ST, and EWS as per government norms. The EWS category has only 1 vacancy across all posts (in Legal Officer). It's important to apply under the correct category. If you are an OBC candidate applying for a post where there is no OBC vacancy (like Manager Technical-Electrical), you will be considered under the Unreserved (UR) category, but you must still meet the UR age limit (without OBC relaxation) and pay the General category fee. Your OBC certificate will not grant you age relaxation in such a case. The final selection and appointment are contingent upon submitting a valid caste certificate in the prescribed format (Appendix V for OBC, Appendix VII for SC/ST) during the interview stage.

About PwBD Reservations and Suitability

The approach to Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) is nuanced. Only the Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) post has a *horizontal reservation* (1 seat for PwBD Category B). For all other posts, while there is no reserved vacancy, PwBD candidates are encouraged to apply if the post is identified as suitable for their specific disability (as per the detailed PwBD suitability table in the notification). They will compete in the UR or other reserved categories but receive age relaxation (10 years for General-PwBD, 13 for OBC-PwBD, 15 for SC/ST-PwBD). Furthermore, eligible PwBD candidates are entitled to a scribe and compensatory time. The notification strictly requires a permanent disability certificate (minimum 40% disability) as per the RPwD Act, 2016 format. Temporary disabilities do not qualify for reservation benefits.

Legal Officer ‘B’

Papers: Paper-I (General Knowledge of Law: Objective + Descriptive, 150 marks) & Paper-II (English Descriptive, 100 marks).
Total Written Marks: 250
Interview: 40 marks
Final Selection: Based on combined score of Papers and Interview.

Manager (Technical-Civil/Electrical) ‘B’

Papers: Paper-I (Objective Professional Knowledge, 100 marks) & Paper-II (Descriptive, 100 marks).
Interview: 35 marks
Key Point: Paper-II evaluated only for candidates scoring sufficiently high in Paper-I.

Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) ‘A’

Paper-I (Objective): Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Professional Knowledge (150 marks).
Paper-II (Descriptive): Official Language test (50 marks).
Interview: 35 marks
Note: Sectional timing in Paper-I; negative marking applies.

Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) ‘A’

Single Online Exam: Tests on Reasoning, English Language, General Awareness (Banking), and Professional Knowledge (200 marks).
Interview: 35 marks
Final Selection: Based on online exam and interview performance.

About the Exam Pattern and Stages

The selection process is a multi-stage filter designed to test both professional acumen and general aptitude. For most posts, it involves two written papers (online/offline) followed by an interview. A critical commonality is the interview's significant weightage (35-40 marks), making personality, communication, and domain knowledge during the interview crucial for final ranking. For technical and Rajbhasha posts, there's a progressive evaluation system: only those scoring above a certain threshold in the first objective paper will have their descriptive paper evaluated. This means performing poorly in the first paper can eliminate you regardless of your descriptive paper attempt. The Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) has a streamlined single online test. Understanding the marking scheme, negative marking (1/4th deduction per wrong answer in objective tests), and the bilingual nature of question papers (except English sections) is essential for effective exam strategy.

About the Mode of Selection and Final Merit

The final merit list is not based solely on the written exam. The interview carries substantial marks, and the final selection is determined by the aggregate of written test scores and interview performance. The Board will shortlist candidates for the interview based on their written exam marks, aiming for a ratio like 1:4 or 1:5 per vacancy. The notification uses terms like "sufficiently high marks" and "minimum qualifying marks as decided by the Board", indicating that there are undisclosed cut-offs which can vary each year based on candidate performance. There is no fixed percentage guarantee for an interview call. Simply clearing the written exam does not guarantee selection; your final rank after adding interview marks decides your appointment. The entire process emphasizes a balanced assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical interpersonal skills.

About Physical Eligibility Criteria

Unlike police or paramilitary forces, these RBI posts do not have prescribed physical standards like minimum height, weight, or chest measurements. The recruitment focuses entirely on academic, professional, and experiential qualifications. However, this does not imply that fitness is irrelevant. Selected candidates will likely have to undergo a pre-appointment medical examination to ensure they are medically fit for the duties of the post. For the Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) role, the essential requirement of 10 years as a commissioned officer in the armed forces inherently ensures a certain level of physical fitness and discipline, so separate tests are not outlined. Candidates with benchmark disabilities (PwBD) are assessed based on the functional requirements and suitability of the post for their specific disability, not on general physical prowess.

About Salary, Perks, and Career Growth

The compensation package for RBI Grade ‘A’ and ‘B’ officers is highly attractive and competitive within the public sector. The starting gross emoluments are approximate figures and include various allowances that are revised periodically with inflation (Dearness Allowance). The House Rent Allowance (HRA) is a significant component—if you do not take RBI's bank accommodation, you receive an additional 15% of your basic pay as HRA. Other substantial benefits include: lease rental facility, reimbursement for vehicle maintenance, newspaper, telephone, furnished accommodation allowance, subsidized loans for housing/vehicle/education, comprehensive medical coverage for self and family, Leave Fare Concession (LFC), and contribution to the New Pension Scheme (NPS). The probation period is 2 years, extendable to 4. The career progression to higher grades (C, D, etc.) through promotions is well-structured, making it a financially secure and rewarding long-term career.

About the Syllabus and Preparation

The syllabus for each post is specialized and directly job-related. For the Legal Officer, it's not just about knowing laws but their application in the financial and regulatory domain (like Banking Regulation Act, Negotiable Instruments Act, SARFAESI). The descriptive English paper tests communication skills vital for drafting and correspondence. For Technical Managers, the syllabus is at the B.E. level but with an emphasis on practical application in large-scale building and maintenance projects. The Rajbhasha syllabus uniquely tests Official Language Policy knowledge alongside translation skills. The Protocol & Security syllabus is vast, covering modern security management principles, hardware, and crisis response. Crucially, the notification provides an indicative, not exhaustive list. Candidates should prepare broadly within the domain, focusing on current developments (e.g., new security tech, recent legal amendments) and practical problem-solving scenarios.

About the Online Application Procedure

The application is 100% online and meticulous. Before starting, prepare scanned images of your photograph (20-50 KB), signature (10-20 KB), left thumb impression (20-50 KB), and a handwritten declaration (50-100 KB) as per exact pixel dimensions specified. Any deviation can lead to rejection. During registration, you will also need to capture a live photograph via webcam/mobile. Use a valid email and phone number that remain active until the recruitment ends. Fill all educational and experience details exactly as they appear on your certificates. For experience, ensure the dates align to meet the minimum requirement. The final step of fee payment is critical—only upon successful payment is your application submitted. After submission, no changes are allowed to category or other details. Download and save the application printout and e-receipt for the entire process; you will need them for the exam and interview.

The official notification contains several strict warnings that candidates must heed to avoid disqualification or debarment.

Grounds for Immediate Rejection and Debarment

Providing false information or suppressing material facts at any stage leads to cancellation of candidature or removal from service if already appointed. The Board explicitly lists misconducts like impersonation, using unfair means in the exam, possessing electronic devices in the exam hall, attempting to influence examiners, creating disorderly scenes, or submitting fabricated documents. Penalties are severe: disqualification from the current process, debarment from future RBI exams (temporary or permanent), and even dismissal from service. The Board's decision after considering the candidate's representation will be final. This underscores the absolute importance of integrity throughout the process.

Operational Rules and Common Pitfalls

No requests for change of exam center will be entertained. The Board reserves the right to cancel or change centers. Admit cards will only be available online for download; they will not be posted. A mismatch between the name on the admit card, photo ID, and certificates (e.g., for married women who changed surnames) must be supported by original gazette notification/marriage certificate at the exam. Community/category change requests after submission are not allowed. EWS vacancies are tentative and subject to government guidelines. Any canvassing or outside influence will be a disqualification. Candidates must also note that the Board may conduct forensic analysis of answer sheets to detect unfair practices like copying, which can lead to score invalidation.

1. What is the last date to apply online for RBI Non-CSG posts 2026?

The last date and time to submit the online application and pay the fee is 26 February 2026, up to 6:00 PM. The application link will deactivate after this time.

2. I have an LL.M. degree. Do I get age relaxation for the Legal Officer post?

Yes. For the Legal Officer ‘B’ post only, candidates with an LL.M. degree get a 3-year age relaxation, and those with a Ph.D. in Law get a 5-year relaxation over the upper age limit of 32 years.

3. Is the Assistant Manager (Protocol & Security) post only for ex-servicemen?

Yes. This post is exclusively for Ex-Servicemen Commissioned Officers from the Regular Army/Navy/Air Force with a minimum of 10 years of commissioned service (5 years for PwBD).

4. Can final year engineering students apply for Manager (Technical) posts?

No. You must have completed your B.E./B.Tech degree and also have the required 3 years of post-qualification experience as of 01 February 2026.

5. What is the salary for an RBI Grade ‘B’ officer?

Selected candidates for Grade ‘B’ posts (Legal/Technical Manager) will have a starting basic pay of ₹78,450 per month. The initial monthly gross emoluments are approximately ₹1,53,675 (without HRA).

6. Is there any negative marking in the online exams?

Yes. For all objective-type tests, there is a negative marking of 1/4th (0.25) of the marks assigned to that question for every wrong answer.

7. Can I apply for more than one post?

No. You must choose and apply for only one post as per your eligibility. Applications for multiple posts will lead to the cancellation of all applications.

8. I am an OBC candidate. What is the validity period of my OBC certificate?

The OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) certificate must be issued on or after 01 April 2025 and should be based on the income for the Financial Years 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25. It must be in the prescribed format (Appendix V).

9. Are there any vacancies for PwBD candidates?

Horizontal reservation for PwBD is only in the Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) post (1 vacancy for Category B). However, PwBD candidates can apply for other suitable posts with age relaxation.

10. Where will the exam centers be located?

The exam will be held in 22 major cities across India including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, etc. You must choose your preferred center while filling the form.

11. What is the probation period after selection?

Selected candidates will be on probation for a period of 2 years, which may be extended at the Bank's discretion up to a maximum of 4 years.

12. Can I use a scribe for the written examination?

Yes, PwBD candidates and those with temporary physical injuries affecting writing can use a scribe with prior permission. The scribe's qualification must be one step below the candidate's (e.g., graduate for a post-graduate candidate).

13. Is the RBI recruitment transferable?

Yes. All posts in RBI are transferable anywhere in India. Selected candidates can be posted to and transferred between any of RBI's offices nationwide.

14. What is the application fee for SC/ST candidates?

SC, ST, and PwBD candidates are required to pay only ₹100 + 18% GST as intimation charges. They are exempt from the application fee component.

15. How can I get the admit card for the exam?

The admit card will be available for download only on the official RBI recruitment website (opportunities.rbi.org.in) approximately one week before the exam. It will not be sent by post.