SEBI Grade A Exam Analysis
The SEBI Grade A Exam Analysis 2024 provides a detailed overview of the difficulty level, question pattern, and topic-wise distribution of both Phase 1 examination conducted by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). This analysis helps aspirants understand the nature of the exam, identify important areas, and refine their preparation strategy for upcoming SEBI Grade A exams.
The Phase 1 exam serves as a screening test consisting of two papers—Paper 1 (General Awareness, English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning) and Paper 2 (Stream-specific subjects).
Through this analysis, candidates can get insights into:
- The overall and section-wise difficulty levels of both phases.
- The types of questions asked in each section.
- The topics carrying the most weightage in each paper.
- Good attempts and expected cut-off trends based on the exam pattern and performance feedback.
This comprehensive review of SEBI Grade A 2024 aims to guide future aspirants in understanding the exam structure, improving accuracy, and maximizing their scores in both phases.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Analysis of Phase 1
The SEBI Grade A 2024 Phase 1 (prelims) exam was held on 27 July 2024. Here is the subject-wise difficulty level of the SEBI Grade A 2024 Phase 1 exam:
| SEBI Grade A 2024 Phase 1 Exam Analysis | Subject | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Reasoning Ability | Moderate |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Moderate | |
| English Language | Moderate | |
| General Awareness | Moderate | |
| Overall (Paper 1) | Moderate | |
| Paper 2 | Commerce and Accountancy | Moderate |
| Management | Easy | |
| Finance | Moderate | |
| Costing | Easy | |
| Companies Act | Moderate | |
| Economics | Easy | |
| Overall (Paper 2) | Easy to Moderate |
Based on the analysis, we can say that the overall difficulty level of the SEBI Grade A 2024 Phase 1 exam was Easy to Moderate compared to last year’s Moderate level.
After getting an overview of the Phase 1 exam analysis, let’s now take a look at the section-wise analysis of the SEBI Grade A 2024 Phase 1 exam.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Reasoning Ability Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 6 |
| Moderate | 10 |
| Difficult | 4 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Reasoning Ability Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Seating Arrangement | 8 |
| Puzzle | 4 |
| Blood Relation | 3 |
| Alphabetical Series | 2 |
| Analytical Reasoning | 2 |
| Alphanumeric Series | 1 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
Key Takeaways from the Reasoning Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The overall difficulty level of the reasoning section in 2024 was moderate, with only 4 difficult questions.
- Around 60% of the reasoning questions came from Seating Arrangement and Puzzles, which are usually time-consuming and appear in sets of 4–5 questions.
- Focusing on these topics can help cover the majority of the reasoning syllabus.
Highlights from the 2024 exam:
- Seating Arrangement:
- One arrangement involved 6 persons who liked different vegetables and was fairly easy.
- Another arrangement included uncertain persons and north-facing positions, which was more time-consuming.
- Analytical Reasoning: Included Statement and Inference-based questions.
- Blood Relations: 3 questions were asked, whereas none appeared in 2022.
- Syllogism and Inequality: No questions were asked in 2024.
Preparation Tips:
- Practice reasoning questions regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
- Take time-bound mock tests to simulate exam conditions, assess your preparation, and identify areas that need improvement.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Quantitative Aptitude Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 6 |
| Moderate | 12 |
| Difficult | 2 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Quantitative Aptitude Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Data Interpretations | 9 |
| Quadratic Equations | 4 |
| Number Series | 2 |
| Compound Interest | 1 |
| Mixture & Alligation | 1 |
| Profit & Loss | 1 |
| Ages | 1 |
| Number System | 1 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
Key Takeaways from the Quantitative Aptitude Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The overall difficulty level of the quant section in 2024 was moderate, with only 2 difficult questions.
- Around 50% of the questions were from Data Interpretation (DI), which are usually time-consuming and appear in sets of 4–5 questions.
- Quadratic Equations were relatively easy to solve.
- Number Series questions were difficult and time-consuming.
Data Interpretation Highlights:
- One DI set had 5 table-based questions, which were calculative and moderate in difficulty.
- Another DI set had 4 caselet-based questions, which were easy to solve.
Other Observations:
- No questions were asked from Partnership, Time & Work, Simple Interest, and Percentage in 2024. However, these topics remain important and should not be skipped.
Preparation Tips:
- Practice regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
- Solve a variety of questions from different topics to enhance problem-solving skills.
- Practice previous year SEBI Grade A papers and take time-bound mock tests to improve speed and time management.
SEBI Grade A 2024 English Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 10 |
| Moderate | 7 |
| Difficult | 3 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 English Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 7 |
| Fill Ups | 5 |
| Error Detection | 4 |
| Rearrangement | 4 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
Key Takeaways from the English Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The SEBI Grade A 2024 English exam was easy to moderate.
- Reading Comprehension (RC) had a maximum of 7 questions, which is lower compared to 10 questions in 2022.
- The RC passage focused on the presence of humans beyond Earth and related challenges.
- No questions were asked from Cloze Test, Odd One Out, Double Fillers, and Idioms & Phrases.
- Overall, the paper was doable within the given time limit.
- English was the most scoring section among Quantitative, Reasoning, and English (QRE).
- To excel, focus on grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- The comprehension questions were direct and factual, while the rest of the section mainly tested vocabulary and grammar.
- Practice MCQs and take mock tests to improve speed, accuracy, and overall performance in this section.
SEBI Grade A 2024 General Awareness (GA) Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 10 |
| Moderate | 6 |
| Difficult | 4 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 GA Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions/Marks* |
|---|---|
| Government Schemes | 4 |
| Finance (Static) | 4 |
| First in News | 2 |
| Sports | 2 |
| Awards | 2 |
| Places in News | 2 |
| Finance (Current Affairs) | 2 |
| Reports and Indices | 2 |
| Total Questions/Marks | 20 |
Key Takeaways from the General Awareness (GA) Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The GA section in SEBI Grade A 2024 was moderate in difficulty.
- Most questions came from Government Schemes, so it’s important to focus on these, especially schemes related to SEBI.
- No lengthy, statement-based questions were asked, making this section less time-consuming and easier to attempt.
- Questions were generally straightforward, particularly for candidates with a basic understanding of finance.
- Most questions were from recent current affairs (3–4 months old), with a few from 5–8 months prior.
- To improve knowledge and exam readiness, regular mock tests are essential for assessing preparation and identifying weak areas.
- Stay updated by solving daily or weekly current affairs quizzes.
After reviewing the SEBI Grade A 2024 Phase 1 Paper 1, let’s now move on to a detailed analysis of the Phase 1 Paper 2 exam.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Management Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 6 |
| Moderate | 3 |
| Difficult | 0 |
| Total Questions | 9 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Management Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| General Management | 4 |
| HRD | 3 |
| Communication | 1 |
| Leadership | 1 |
| Total Questions | 9 |
Key Takeaways from the Management Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The Management section in Phase 1 Paper 2 of SEBI Grade A 2024 was easy overall.
- Most questions came from General Management, which are straightforward if your basic concepts are clear.
- No questions were asked from Motivation.
- Focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization.
- Take regular mock tests to evaluate your knowledge and identify areas that need improvement.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Finance Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 7 |
| Moderate | 3 |
| Difficult | 1 |
| Total Questions | 11 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Finance Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Bonds | 3 |
| Primary and Secondary Market – Equity | 2 |
| Primary and Secondary Market – Debt | 2 |
| Financial Institutions | 1 |
| Financial Inclusion | 1 |
| Basics of Derivatives – Futures, Forwards, and Swaps | 1 |
| Functions of SEBI | 1 |
| Total Questions | 11 |
Key Takeaways from the Finance Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The Finance section in Phase 1 Paper 2 of SEBI Grade A 2024 was moderate in difficulty.
- All 11 questions in Paper 2 were from Finance, making it a high-priority section.
- In 2024, there was a noticeable focus on Debt Market, Bonds, and Financial Inclusion, so devote sufficient time to these topics during preparation.
- Topics like Functions of SEBI and Basics of Derivatives remain consistent, so don’t ignore them.
- Although Basics of Derivatives (Options) and Mutual Funds were not asked in 2024, these topics are still important.
- The maximum number of questions (3) came from Bonds, so ensure you understand the concepts thoroughly.
- Regularly take mock tests and solve sectional questions to improve both conceptual clarity and speed in Finance topics.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Commerce and Accountancy Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 4 |
| Moderate | 2 |
| Difficult | 0 |
| Total Questions | 6 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Commerce and Accountancy Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Fund Flow Statement | 1 |
| Cash Flow Statements | 1 |
| Ratio Analysis | 1 |
| Recording Transactions | 1 |
| Presentation and Preparation of Final Company Accounts | 1 |
| AS for PPE | 1 |
| Total Questions | 6 |
Key Takeaways from the Commerce and Accountancy Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The Commerce and Accountancy section was moderate in difficulty.
- Only 6 questions were asked in Phase 1 Paper 2, making it the smallest section compared to others.
- These 6 questions were from 6 different topics, with no topic repeated.
- There were fewer numerical questions in accounts and costing, a noticeable change from the 2022 exam.
- Topics like Introduction to Accounting, AS for Revenue Recognition, Accounting for Buyback of Shares, and Accounting for Bonus Shares were not asked, though they appeared in 2022.
- Only 2 topics were repeated from previous exams:
- Presentation and Preparation of Final Company Accounts
- AS for PPE
- Aspirants should ensure a strong grasp of basic accounting principles, financial statements (Balance Sheet, Profit & Loss), and key concepts like cash flow statements and ratio analysis.
- Regular practice of numerical problems in frequently tested areas is recommended to improve accuracy and speed.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Costing Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 5 |
| Moderate | 2 |
| Difficult | 0 |
| Total Questions | 7 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Costing Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Lean System and Innovation | 3 |
| Overview of Cost and Management Accounting | 1 |
| Standard Costing | 1 |
| Marginal Costing | 1 |
| Activity-Based Costing | 1 |
| Total Questions | 7 |
Key Takeaways from the Costing Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The Costing section was easy, with no particularly difficult questions.
- Questions were straightforward and easy to solve if you have a basic understanding of core concepts.
- A maximum of 3 questions were asked from Lean Systems and Innovation, which is half compared to 2022, when 6 questions were asked from this topic.
- 3 questions came from topics not tested in 2022:
- Standard Costing
- Marginal Costing
- Activity-Based Costing
- No questions were asked from Budget and Budgetary Control, Labour Cost, and Material Cost, but these topics should not be ignored, as they may appear in future exams.
- Focus on understanding and memorizing formulas for Marginal Costing, Standard Costing, and Budgetary Control.
- Practice a wide range of numerical problems to improve speed and accuracy in solving Costing questions.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Companies Act Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 10 |
| Moderate | 0 |
| Difficult | 0 |
| Total Questions | 10 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Companies Act Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Chapter IV – Share Capital and Debentures | 3 |
| Chapter XII – Meeting of Board of Directors | 2 |
| Chapter XXVII – NCLT and NCLAT | 2 |
| Chapter X – Audit and Auditors | 1 |
| Chapter VIII – Declaration and Payment of Dividend | 1 |
| Chapter XI – Appointment and Qualifications of Directors | 1 |
| Total Questions | 10 |
Key Takeaways from the Companies Act Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The Companies Act section was easy in 2024.
- No questions were asked from Chapter III – Prospectus & Allotment of Securities.
- A maximum of 3 questions came from Chapter IV – Share Capital and Debentures.
- No new topics were introduced that weren’t part of the 2022 exam.
- The section is highly factual, so memorization is key.
- The best strategy is to read the law, revise key sections and facts, and memorize important points.
- Creating concise notes helps simplify complex sections, making them easier to recall during the exam.
SEBI Grade A 2024 Economics Difficulty Level
| Difficulty Level | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Easy | 3 |
| Moderate | 3 |
| Difficult | 2 |
| Total Questions | 7 |
SEBI Grade A 2024 Economics Topic-Wise Weightage
| Topic | Number of Questions* |
|---|---|
| Inflation and Phillips Curve | 2 |
| National Income | 2 |
| Demand and Supply | 2 |
| IS-LM Model | 1 |
| Total Questions | 7 |
Key Takeaways from the Economics Section for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
- The Economics section was relatively easy in 2024.
- No questions were asked from Market Structures, Elasticity of Demand, and Balance of Payments, which had appeared in 2022.
- Questions were mostly conceptual, with minimal focus on technical graphs or numerical calculations. The emphasis was on understanding core economic principles.
- Economics questions in SEBI Grade A are generally theory-based, though the depth and framing may vary each year.
- Focus on the core principles of micro and macroeconomics.
- Stay updated with recent economic surveys, budgets, and reports, as these often form the basis for questions.
What Next?
Now that you have a clear understanding of the SEBI Grade A exam phase-1 analysis, it’s time to take action and plan your preparation effectively. Here’s what you should do next:
- Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus:
- Go through the SEBI Grade A exam structure and detailed syllabus thoroughly.
- Focus on High-Weightage Topics:
- Give extra attention to important topics like Inflation, Phillips Curve, and Ratio Analysis.
- Identify Your Weak Areas:
- Work on topics you find challenging to strengthen your overall preparation.
- Learn from Toppers:
- Check out strategies used by SEBI Grade A toppers and create a customized study plan.
- Practice Regularly:
- Take mock tests and solve previous year papers to improve speed and accuracy.
- Analyze Your Performance:
- After each mock test, review your performance and focus on areas that need improvement.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs:
- Keep track of economics, finance, and SEBI-related news.
- Stay Consistent and Positive:
- Stick to your study plan and maintain a positive mindset. Consistency is key to success.
With this approach, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the SEBI Grade A exam confidently!
SEBI Grade A Mentorship Programme 2025
The rests on Fresh classes and does not rest on previously old recorded classes like others. The classes will start from 11th of October and Daily new sessions will be added, those who want to attend can attend live those who can’t go through fresh recorded classes which will be uploaded on daily basis. The classes will be on a mission mode and static portion would be covered by 5th of November and once it’s done whole focus will shift towards its application through Daily MCQ sessions, Current GA with focus on RBI/SEBI and other financial institution and just after that we will start with Test Series.
