Many economics graduates struggle to decide between the UPSC Economics Optional and the RBI Grade B DEPR (Department of Economic and Policy Research). Both exams are prestigious, open doors to impactful careers, and demand a high level of expertise in economics. But which one is tougher? In this blog, we’ll break down the structure, syllabus, difficulty, and preparation strategies for both, helping you decide which path is right for you.
1. Exam Overview
RBI Grade B DEPR
The Reserve Bank of India administers the RBI Grade B DEPR exam to economists who want to work in its policy research division. There are three stages to the selection process:
- Phase 1: Objective Economics + Descriptive English
- Phase 2: Descriptive Economics (two papers)
- Phase 3: Interview
Eligibility is strict—only those with a postgraduate degree in Economics or related fields can apply.
UPSC Economics Optional
The UPSC Economics Optional is a part of the Civil Services Examination. Any graduate can choose it, but an economics background is highly beneficial. The exam comprises:
- Two three-hour descriptive papers (Papers I and II), each worth 250 points.
- It is a part of the UPSC Mains, which is followed by an interview.
2. Exam Pattern and Structure
| Feature | RBI DEPR | UPSC Economics Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Papers | 4 (2 Objective/Descriptive + 2 Descriptive) | 2 (Both Descriptive) |
| Phases | 3 (including Interview) | 1 (as part of Mains) |
| Marks | 400 (Written) + 75 (Interview) | 500 (Written) |
| Duration per Paper | 2 hours | 3 hours |
| Question Types | Objective, Descriptive, Numerical | Descriptive, Analytical, Numerical |
| Syllabus Breadth | Focused on Economics, Econometrics | Broader, includes Indian Economy, Theory, Current Affairs |
3. Syllabus and Content Depth
RBI DEPR
The RBI DEPR syllabus is tightly focused on economics, with a heavy emphasis on:
- Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
- Quantitative Economics and Econometrics
- Indian Economy
- Questions involving numbers and applications, particularly in statistics and econometrics
You’ll need to solve complex problems, often without a calculator, and demonstrate postgraduate-level understanding.
UPSC Economics Optional
UPSC’s syllabus is vast and diverse, covering:
- Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
- Growth and Development, International Economics
- Indian Economy, Public Finance, and Current Economic Issues
Paper II, in particular, demands awareness of current economic policy and developments. Answers must be analytical, well-structured, and supported by relevant diagrams and examples.
4. Difficulty Level
RBI DEPR
- Technical Rigor: The exam’s numerical and econometric questions are challenging and require speed and accuracy.
- Resource Scarcity: There’s a lack of standard preparation material, making self-study difficult.
- Postgraduate Standard: The questions are at the master’s level, demanding deep conceptual clarity.
UPSC Economics Optional
- Syllabus Breadth: The range of topics is huge, requiring year-long, disciplined preparation.
- Analytical Depth: Answers must integrate theory, current affairs, and real-world examples.
- Competition: The pool of aspirants is large, and high scores in optional subjects are crucial for selection.
5. Preparation Strategies
RBI DEPR
- Concept Mastery: Focus on core economics and econometrics.
- Practice by working through past years' papers and taking frequent practice exams.
- Stay Updated: Read economic research and policy updates.
UPSC Economics Optional
- Strong Foundation: Build a solid base before moving to advanced topics.
- Current Affairs: Integrate news and policy changes into your answers.
- Answer Writing: Practice writing structured, analytical answers with diagrams and examples.
6. Which Is Tougher? — Key Considerations
- RBI DEPR is tougher in terms of technicality, numerical rigor, and the need for postgraduate-level expertise. The exam’s focus on problem-solving and econometric proofs, combined with limited resources, makes it a formidable challenge.
- UPSC Economics Optional is tougher in terms of breadth, analytical depth, and the need to link theory with current affairs. The competition is intense, and scoring high is essential for overall success.
In short, RBI DEPR tests your technical economics skills under pressure, while UPSC Economics Optional tests your ability to synthesize, analyze, and communicate economic ideas across a broad canvas.
Conclusion
The “tougher” exam depends on your strengths and career goals:
- If you love technical economics, quantitative analysis, and research, RBI DEPR may be your calling—but be prepared for a highly technical and competitive exam.
- If you prefer a broader, analytical approach and can integrate theory with current affairs, UPSC Economics Optional is your path—but it demands sustained, comprehensive preparation.