Aspiring NPS candidates have much to be excited about! Grab a cup of chai, get comfortable in your favorite chair, and let’s talk about the big news that’s got many of you so excited. Yeah, we’re talking about the latest NPS exam pattern change. Sure, we get it, change can be a tad scary and you don’t want this unexpected change messing up the set pattern you’re preparing for. And yeah, change can be as unsettling as hearing that your favorite street food vendor is closed. But have no fear! We have taken it upon ourselves to keep you updating on what’s happening with this new change. So don’t hesitate, just go through our blog and you can get all the information you need on this..
What’s New in the NPS Exam Pattern 2025?
Alright, let’s get to what’s new first. The National Pension System (NPS) has revamped its exam pattern for Grade A and B positions. Here’s the scoop:
Phase I: Online Examination
The Phase 1 of the NPS Trust Grade A and Grade B Exam is for 120 Marks and will held for a duration for 90 minutes. As per the latest we have on the exam, there will be five sections namely English Language, Reasoning and Analytical Skills Numerical Skills and Subject Specialization (if needed) for 25 marks each. On the other hand, the General Awareness section will be for 20 marks. This stage continues to be objective, probing your basic skills in different subjects. You should know that for each wrong answer, you have a negative marking of 1/4 marks, so make sure to prepare carefully.
Phase II: Online Examination
The Phase II will be held for 200 Marks and Paper 1 will be for 100 marks. The Paper 1 will be a descriptive exam for English and General Studies while Paper 2 will also be for 100 marks and it will be an objective exam as per your chosen stream. The Phase 2 takes a deeper dive into your knowledge of the subject matter and analysis skills. It’s where you get to show off your expertise and writing abilities.
Phase III: Interview
The interview assesses your personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for the role. It’s your moment to shine in the flesh. Don’t underestimate the interview phase and make sure to get all the training you need for the exam
New Weightage in Final Selection
Let’s now move on to the best part. The interview previously had a significant 50% weight in the final choice. But as of 2025, the equation has changed:
- Phase II: Now has a whopping 85% weight.
- Interview: Reduced to a 15% weight.
This is where your Phase II performance comes into the spotlight. It’s the entree of the meal—get it right, and dessert (the interview) is just the icing on the cake.
Why This Change?
You might be thinking, “Why fix what isn’t broken?” But the NPS has an agenda in mind:
- Highlight Core Competencies: Highlighting Phase II brings your subject matter knowledge and analytical skill to the forefront, which is critical for the role.
- Minimize Subjectivity: Interviews are subjective. By reducing their weight, there is a more uniform process of assessment.
- Ensure Merit-Based Recruitment: The new weightage ensures that meritorious candidates with good knowledge and skills take center stage.
Preparation Tips for the NPS Exam 2025
Alright, let’s get down to business. How do you prepare for the upcoming exam this new regime?
Master Phase I with a well-balanced preparation Every section is important. Take time to strengthen all areas, especially your specialized subject. Practicing with the NPS Trust Mock Tests can be your time-saving friend and highlight areas that require improvement.
Ace Phase II: Improve your writing skills. Practice writing essays and reports on topical issues and general studies topics. Read widely on your specialized subject. This is where you must show depth of knowledge.
Interview Insights: Be aware of current events, especially those related to the finance and pension sectors with ixamBee’s BeePedia platform Practice with peers or guides to be confident and receive productive criticism.
Opportunities with NPS Trust Exam Pattern Change
Change, as daunting as it may be, brings new prospects. The new pattern of NPS exam is designed to select those who are not only well-versed, but analytical and communicative as well. Use this change as a chance to showcase your true potential. Now that you know the changes in the NPS Trust Grade A and Grade B exam pattern & syllabus, you can start adjusting your exam preparation accordingly right now so that you won’t need to press the panic button when the NPS Trust Grade A and Grade B Notification is out.
Summing Up
Don’t forget that every transformation is a stepping stone to success. The change in NPS exam pattern in 2025 is only an indication of the evolving face of tests, hunting for the best and brightest. So, be prepared, stay on the go, and make your preparations reflect the eagerness of a serious aspirant.
May your preparation be a success, chai always hot, and dreams ever close. Forward and upward!
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