u/Emotional-Cash460

Hey everyone,

I’m currently a UPSC aspirant, and after this year’s Prelims I’m planning to seriously shift focus towards regulatory body exams.... especially the IFSC(A) Grade A exam since it’s expected sometime in the last quarter of this year.

I wanted some guidance from people who are already preparing for it or have cleared similar exams like SEBI, RBI, NABARD, etc.

A few things I wanted to know:

• Is IFSC(A) Grade A realistically doable in around 4 months of focused preparation?
• What is the exact syllabus and preparation strategy for Phase 1 and Phase 2?
• Which subjects need the most attention?
• Are there any good coaching institutes (online/offline) specifically for regulatory body exams?
• Is it better to prepare through SEBI/RBI material since IFSC(A) syllabus overlaps a bit?
• Any good sources for current affairs/economy/finance preparation?
• How difficult is the exam compared to banking or UPSC prelims?
• How many hours per day would realistically be needed?

My background:

• Strong in polity/economy due to UPSC prep
• Average in quant/reasoning
• Beginner in finance/management concepts

Would really appreciate honest guidance, strategy tips, book lists, Telegram groups, mock test suggestions, or anything else I should know before starting.

Thanks in advance! my_qualifications: UPSC aspirant preparing for Civil Services Examination 2026

Hey everyone,

I’m currently a UPSC aspirant, and after this year’s Prelims I’m planning to seriously shift focus towards regulatory body exams... especially the IFSC(A) Grade A exam since it’s expected sometime in the last quarter of this year.

I wanted some guidance from people who are already preparing for it or have cleared similar exams like SEBI, RBI, NABARD, etc.

A few things I wanted to know:

• Is IFSC(A) Grade A realistically doable in around 4 months of focused preparation?
• What is the exact syllabus and preparation strategy for Phase 1 and Phase 2?
• Which subjects need the most attention?
• Are there any good coaching institutes (online/offline) specifically for regulatory body exams?
• Is it better to prepare through SEBI/RBI material since IFSC(A) syllabus overlaps a bit?
• Any good sources for current affairs/economy/finance preparation?
• How difficult is the exam compared to banking or UPSC prelims?
• How many hours per day would realistically be needed?

My background:

• Strong in polity/economy due to UPSC prep
• Average to good in quant/reasoning
• Beginner in finance/management concepts

Would really appreciate honest guidance, strategy tips, book lists, Telegram groups, mock test suggestions, or anything else I should know before starting.

Thanks in advance!