Mains Exam | Held on 31 August 2024
The SEBI Grade A Phase II (Mains) Descriptive English paper 2024 marked a clear shift in the regulator’s expectations. The paper tested not just language ability, but analytical depth, structure, word-limit discipline, and policy awareness—qualities expected from a future SEBI officer.
This detailed analysis is based strictly on the actual questions and structure observed in the 2024 exam and is intended to guide aspirants preparing for SEBI Grade A 2025 & 2026.
📝 Essay Writing Section (30 Marks)
Strict Word Limit: 250–270 words
One of the most important changes in SEBI Grade A 2024 was the strict enforcement of an upper word limit. Unlike previous years—where only a minimum word count existed—candidates were required to stay within 250–270 words.
🔹 Essay Pattern
- 4 essay topics were given
- Candidates had to attempt only ONE
- Topics were varied, contemporary, and thought-provoking
🔹 Essay Topics Asked in SEBI Grade A 2024
1️⃣ Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Norms: How They Impact Global Business
This topic tested awareness of:
- Sustainable finance
- Global investment practices
- Corporate governance and risk management
A regulatory and balanced approach was crucial.
2️⃣ How Would Organisations & Managers Develop Organisational Culture
A management-oriented topic focusing on:
- Leadership values
- Ethical conduct
- Long-term institutional stability
Abstract theory without structure would not fetch marks.
3️⃣ Social Healthcare Expenditure: How Can Banks Push Social Healthcare Expenditure into the Root of the Country
A highly banking-relevant and India-centric topic examining:
- Role of banks in healthcare financing
- Financial inclusion
- Insurance penetration and social responsibility
This tested the candidate’s ability to think like a policy-aware banker.
4️⃣ Machine Learning vs Human Beings: Can Machines Replace Human Beings
A technology-driven topic requiring:
- Balanced arguments
- Ethical considerations
- Recognition of human judgment vs automation
Extreme or emotional opinions were likely penalised.
✍️ Precis Writing (30 marks)
Word Limit: 140–160 words
As per the snapshot analysis:
- The precis passage was titled “Evolution of the Gaming Industry since 2000”
- The passage was longer than in previous years
- A specific word limit of 140–160 words was prescribed
This section tested:
- Compression skills
- Neutral tone
- Ability to retain core ideas without distortion
Vocabulary alone was not enough—discipline and clarity mattered.
📖 Reading Comprehension (40 marks)
Passage Title: “Dawn of Social Influence”
Theme: Evolution of Social Influencers
- Total 5 questions
- Recommended answer length: 70–80 words per question
- Questions were analytical, not direct lift-and-copy
The passage discussed the rise of social media influencers, their societal impact, and changing patterns of influence.
Candidates who wrote short, under-developed answers struggled to score well.
🔍 Key Observations from SEBI Grade A 2024 English Paper
✔ Strict word-limit enforcement across sections
✔ Essays demanded policy awareness + structure
✔ Precis tested discipline, not paraphrasing
✔ RC answers required clear expression within limits
✔ Descriptive English acted as a strong differentiator
🎯 What This Means for SEBI Grade A Aspirants
SEBI has made it clear:
Descriptive English is not a formality.
To succeed, aspirants must:
- Practise exam-oriented essays regularly
- Master word-limit discipline
- Develop the ability to express views clearly and concisely
- Align answers with a regulatory mindset
🚀 How Bank Whizz Prepares You for This Exact Pattern
At Bank Whizz, our Descriptive English preparation mirrors the actual SEBI exam structure:
- ✔ Strict word-limit practice
- ✔ SEBI-relevant essay themes
- ✔ Line-by-line evaluation
- ✔ Regulator-tone writing framework
- ✔ Real exam-level mocks
Because cracking SEBI Phase II requires precision, not guesswork.
📌 Final Takeaway
The SEBI Grade A Phase II English paper 2024 reinforced one message loud and clear:
👉 Clear thinking + structured writing within limits = success.
If you are targeting SEBI Grade A 2025 or 2026, now is the time to treat Descriptive English as a core scoring subject.