Clearing JAIIB while managing a full-time banking job is already challenging. Doing it alongside SBI PO Mains preparation makes it even tougher. Yet, Ayanshu Srivastava managed to clear all four JAIIB papers in his very first attempt with a clear strategy, smart revision, and focused preparation.
Ayanshu Srivastava, a PCM graduate from Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, began his banking journey with SBI Clerk in April 2023, later joined RRB PO, and now joined as SBI PO. Despite not having a commerce background, he cleared JAIIB in his first attempt, proving that the right approach matters more than academic background.
Success Story of JAIIB Topper Ayanshu Srivastava
In this conversation, Ayanshu shares how he managed time, handled difficult subjects like AFM, and used marathon sessions effectively to clear JAIIB.
1. What was your score in JAIIB?
I scored 67 out of 100 in IIBF, 56 in AFM, and 58 in RBWM. My target was simple – aim for 60 so that even if the paper gets tough, I comfortably cross 50. I never focused on scoring 80+. The goal was to clear the exam safely.
2. How did you manage preparation along with your job and SBI PO Mains?
I started lightly after filling out the form by going through the syllabus and some memory-based questions. But the real preparation happened toward the end. My first JAIIB paper was on the 4th, and SBI PO Mains was on the 5th, so things were very hectic. I decided not to mix subjects. I focused on one subject at a time. In the one-week gap between papers, I divided the days – three days for one subject, then three days for another. That helped me stay clear and avoid confusion.
3. How did Oliveboard marathon sessions help in your preparation?
When the admit card came, I realized I had to switch to revision mode. I started watching Oliveboard module-wise revision videos and long marathon sessions. The 5-6 hour Oliveboard marathon classes before the exam were extremely helpful. I even watched them at 1.5x or 2x speed for quick revision. Everything was explained in detail, and I never felt bored. Those sessions were more than enough for last-minute consolidation.
4. Which paper was toughest for you?
AFM was the toughest because I don’t have a commerce background. Initially, even the word “accountancy” felt intimidating. But once I started understanding concepts step by step, especially numericals like EMI and depreciation, things became manageable. Learning proper calculator usage was very important. I also focused on taxation because it helped me secure decent marks from the theoretical portion.
5. How was RBWM this time?
RBWM felt easy in the beginning while preparing, but the actual paper was moderate to tough. There were lengthy case-study based questions, especially from loans like home loans and vehicle loans. The time pressure was real because reading the case study itself took time. So time management becomes very important in this paper.
6. Did you attempt mock tests?
I attempted a couple of Oliveboard mock tests, but most of my preparation relied on Oliveboard’s revision videos, PYQs, marathon sessions, and practice questions. The 300+ practice questions PDF available before the exam was particularly helpful. Some one-liner questions in the exam were directly from that practice set.
7. What would be your paper-wise advice for aspirants?
For IIBF, focus on Banking Regulation Act, RBI Act, and banking history. Many conceptual and section-based questions come from there. For AFM, do not ignore numericals. If your formulas are clear and you practice with the calculator properly, you can secure easy marks. In PPB, clarity of concepts related to day-to-day banking helps a lot. For RBWM, prepare for case studies and manage time wisely.
8. What is your final advice for candidates appearing in the upcoming JAIIB exam?
Don’t run behind too much content. Study limited but relevant material and revise it properly. If you study formulas, practice questions from them. Simply reading won’t help. Our goal is not to score the highest marks but to clear the exam and move ahead in our careers. If you target 60, you will safely cross 50. Stay exam-focused and consistent.
The success story of JAIIB Topper Ayanshu Srivastava clearly shows that even without a commerce background, JAIIB can be cleared in the first attempt with smart planning, focused revision, and the right exam strategy.
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