Is it Possible to Prepare for the UPSC While Working in the RBI?

Yes, absolutely. You can prepare for any exam, including the UPSC, while working in the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Understanding Your Time Constraints

While working in the RBI, you need to recognize that you have less time compared to non-working aspirants. Therefore, it's essential to study smartly. Since you can't join a traditional coaching class, online classes and resources become your go-to methods. Applications like Unacademy are highly beneficial, as they provide video lectures on each topic.

Real-Life Success Stories

Every year, candidates successfully get into the UPSC while working in various government departments or private sectors such as PSUs (Public Sector Undertakings), RBI, SEBI, SAIL, banks, and other private sector jobs. Many of these candidates manage their time effectively by studying after working hours and during weekends. While some may find it particularly challenging due to long working hours, there are still successful examples of people who have cleared the UPSC while working in RBI and other similar organizations.

Specific Examples

As a general rule, if you are a bank clerk, you typically leave office by 5 pm and have weekends off. Therefore, you have significant downtime for studying. However, if you are an SBI officer, working from 9 am to 8 pm, it becomes practically impossible to fit in study time. Therefore, if you are pursuing the UPSC, it is advisable to join RBI or SBI as a clerk, where the flexibility is greater.

Optimizing Your Study Time in RBI

In the Reserve Bank of India, the Assistant position is more favorable for those looking to prepare for the UPSC. The typical working hours in an RBI Assistant role are from 10 am to 5 pm, with no overtime expected. This allows for a more structured study schedule. Proper planning and discipline can significantly enhance your chances of success in this challenging task.

Sustaining a disciplined study routine can be demanding, particularly when free time and holiday breaks are redirected towards studying. However, with careful planning and a positive mindset, it is entirely possible to achieve your UPSC goals even while working in the RBI.