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What is IBPS PO?
The IBPS PO (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection Probationary Officer) exam is a highly competitive, national-level examination conducted annually to recruit Probationary Officers / Management Trainees in various Public Sector Banks (PSBs) across India.
The selection process is structured into three progressive stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Prelims): An online objective test evaluating English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability.
- Main Examination (Mains): A comprehensive online exam testing Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, English Language, Data Analysis & Interpretation, along with a Descriptive Paper.
- Personal Interview: The final stage evaluating the candidate’s personality, communication skills, and banking aptitude.
Aspirants who fulfill the strict eligibility criteria specified by IBPS can apply online. Due to the high number of applicants, structured preparation with regular syllabus revision, previous years’ question papers, and high-quality mock tests is essential to succeed.
IBPS PO Eligibility 2025
To apply for the IBPS PO/MT recruitment drive, candidates must satisfy the following fundamental eligibility parameters:
1. Educational Qualification
- Degree Requirement: Candidates must possess a valid Bachelor’s Degree (Graduation) in any discipline (Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering, etc.) from a university recognized by the Government of India, or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government.
- Percentage Criteria: There is no minimum percentage requirement specified by IBPS; a simple passing status is sufficient.
- Documentary Evidence: Candidates must hold a valid degree certificate or official mark sheet showing they cleared graduation at the time of online registration.
2. Age Limit (As on 01.07.2026)
- Minimum Age: 20 years
- Maximum Age: 30 years
- Date of Birth Window: Candidates must have been born not earlier than 02.07.1996 and not later than 01.07.2006 (both dates inclusive).
3. Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation
Upper age relaxation is applicable to candidates belonging to reserved categories as per Government of India guidelines:
| Category | Age Relaxation | Maximum Eligible Age |
|---|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 Years | 35 Years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 Years | 33 Years |
| PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) | 10 Years | 40 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen / Commissioned Officers | 5 Years | 35 Years |
| Persons affected by 1984 riots | 5 Years | 35 Years |
IBPS PO Exam Pattern
IBPS PO Selection Process & Exam Pattern
The selection process for the IBPS PO position consists of a comprehensive three-phase evaluation model. Candidates must clear each successive tier to move forward in the recruitment drive.
- Phase 1: Preliminary Examination (Screening Test)
- Phase 2: Main Examination (Objective + Descriptive)
- Phase 3: Personal Interview
Phase 1: IBPS PO Preliminary Exam Pattern
The Preliminary Examination is an online computer-based test (CBT) that serves as a screening stage to shortlist candidates for the Main examination. Marks scored in the Prelims phase are qualifying in nature and are not counted toward the final merit list.
Prelims Section-Wise Weightage
| Name of the Test | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration | Version |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes | English |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes | Bilingual (Eng/Hindi) |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes | Bilingual (Eng/Hindi) |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes (1 Hour) | — |
- Mode of Exam: Online (Computer-Based Test).
- Sectional Timing: Each section has a dedicated time limit of 20 minutes; candidates cannot switch between sections.
- Negative Marking: There is a penalty of 0.25 marks for every incorrect multiple-choice answer. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
- Sectional Cut-off: Candidates must secure the minimum qualifying marks in each of the three sections as well as the overall cut-off to qualify for the Mains exam.
Phase 2: IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern
Candidates who clear the Preliminary phase are eligible to write the Main examination. The Mains phase consists of two parts: an Objective Test and a Descriptive Test, both conducted online on the same day.
Mains Section-Wise Weightage
| Name of the Test | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration | Medium of Exam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 Minutes | Bilingual (Eng/Hindi) |
| General/ Economy/ Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | 35 Minutes | Bilingual (Eng/Hindi) |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 Minutes | English |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | 45 Minutes | Bilingual (Eng/Hindi) |
| Total (Objective Test) | 155 | 200 | 3 Hours (180 Mins) | — |
| Descriptive Paper (Letter & Essay Writing) | 2 | 25 | 30 Minutes | English |
| Grand Total | 157 | 225 | 3 Hours 30 Minutes | — |
- Mode of Exam: Online (Computer-Based Test). The descriptive answers must be typed using the computer keyboard.
- Negative Marking: A penalty of 0.25 marks of the weightage assigned to that specific question applies to wrong objective answers.
- Mains Cut-off Criteria: Candidates need to score the minimum qualifying marks in each individual section and the overall aggregate score to be shortlisted for the interview.
Phase 3: Personal Interview (Final Stage)
Candidates who successfully qualify in both the objective and descriptive sections of the Main examination are called for a face-to-face Personal Interview round.
- Conducting Authority: The interview is conducted by the participating public sector banks and coordinated by IBPS at select nodal centers.
- Total Weightage: The interview round is evaluated out of 100 marks.
- Minimum Qualifying Marks: The minimum qualifying score in the interview is 40% for General/EWS candidates and 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD candidates.
- Final Selection Weightage: The final merit ranking is prepared based on a combined weightage ratio of 80:20 between the Mains Exam score and the Interview score, respectively. Prelims marks are completely excluded.
IBPS PO Exam Syllabus
To clear the IBPS PO exam, candidates must have a clear understanding of the section-wise topics and their weightage. Below is the comprehensive breakdown of the syllabus for both Preliminary and Main Examinations.
1. English Language (Prelims & Mains)
This section evaluates a candidate’s command over English grammar, vocabulary, and reading proficiency.
Topic-Wise Syllabus Detail
- Reading Comprehension: Comprehensive passages followed by direct, inferential, and vocabulary-based (Synonyms/Antonyms) questions.
- Grammar & Sentence Structure: Core concepts including Parts of Speech, Subject-Verb Agreement, Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, and Conjunctions.
- Vocabulary: Idioms & Phrases, Word Meanings, Word Substitution, and Homonyms.
- Cloze Test: Passages with contextual blanks to test vocabulary and reading comprehension simultaneously.
- Sentence Improvement & Correction: Identifying and rectifying grammatical errors in given sentences.
- Para Jumbles / Sentence Rearrangement: Rearranging a set of jumbled sentences to form a logically coherent paragraph.
- Fill in the Blanks: Single or double blanks to be filled with the most appropriate words.
Estimated Marks Weightage
| Topic | Expected Marks Range |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 10–15 Marks |
| Error Detection & Sentence Correction | 5–10 Marks |
| Para Jumbles | 5–10 Marks |
| Cloze Test & Vocabulary | 5–10 Marks |
| Core Grammar Concepts | 5–10 Marks |
2. Quantitative Aptitude & Data Analysis (Prelims & Mains)
This section assesses mathematical proficiency, calculation speed, and data interpretation skills.
Topic-Wise Expected Weightage
| Core Topic | Sub-Topics Covered | Expected Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Data Interpretation (DI) | Bar Graphs, Line Charts, Pie Charts, Tabular DI, Radar DI, and Caselet DI | 10–15 Marks |
| Arithmetic Topics | Percentages, Profit & Loss, Simple & Compound Interest, Ratio & Proportion, Averages, Partnership, Problems on Ages, Time & Work, Time, Speed & Distance | 10–15 Marks |
| Number Series | Missing Number Series and Wrong Number Series | 5–10 Marks |
| Simplification / Approximation | BODMAS rules, Fractions, Surds, Indices, and Percentages | 5–10 Marks |
| Quadratic Equations | Comparison of variables (x and y) | 0–5 Marks |
| Data Sufficiency | Checking sufficiency of statements for Arithmetic problems | 0–5 Marks |
3. Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (Prelims & Mains)
This section checks the logical mindset, analytical ability, and basic computing knowledge of the candidate.
Topic-Wise Expected Weightage
| Topic | Sub-Topics / Focus Areas | Expected Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Puzzles & Seating Arrangement | Linear, Circular, Square, Box, Floor, Scheduling, and Matrix Puzzles | 20–25 Marks |
| Coding-Decoding | Conditional Coding, Fictitious Language Coding, and New Pattern Coding | 5–7 Marks |
| Logical Reasoning | Statement & Assumption, Cause & Effect, Course of Action, Inferences | 5–7 Marks |
| Syllogism | Standard Syllogism, Reverse Syllogism, ‘Only a few’ cases | 3–5 Marks |
| Inequalities | Coded and Direct Inequality relations | 3–5 Marks |
| Blood Relations | Family tree puzzles and Coded Blood Relations | 3–5 Marks |
| Direction Sense | Distance and Direction tracking, Coded Directions | 2–4 Marks |
| Order & Ranking | Position-based ordering and comparison scales | 2–4 Marks |
| Input-Output | Machine rearrangement based on numbers and words shift | 0–5 Marks |
| Data Sufficiency | Logical statements evaluation | 2–4 Marks |
| Alphanumeric Series | Element arrangement and symbol-number series | 2–4 Marks |
Computer Aptitude Syllabus
- Weightage: Combined with Reasoning in the Mains Exam.
- Core Topics: Basics of Computer Hardware & Software, Operating Systems, Networking, Internet & Cybersecurity, MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Important Keyboard Shortcuts, and Technical Computer Abbreviations.
4. General, Economy & Banking Awareness (Mains Only)
This section plays a crucial role in improving the overall merit score.
Topic-Wise Expected Weightage
| Segment | Core Focus Areas | Expected Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Banking & Financial Awareness | RBI Functions & Circulars, Monetary Policy, Banking Terms, Types of Accounts, Capital & Money Market, NPA, Basel Norms | 20–25 Marks |
| Current Affairs | National & International News, Summits, MoUs, Government Schemes, Economy Updates, Awards, Sports, and Appointments (Last 6 Months) | 10–15 Marks |
| Static GK | Headquarters of Banks/International Orgs, National Parks, Dams, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Currencies & Capitals, Important Days | 5–10 Marks |
5. Descriptive Writing Test (Mains Only)
Conducted online immediately after the completion of the Mains objective paper.
- Total Marks: 25 Marks
- Syllabus Areas:
- Letter Writing (15 Marks): Formal letters (e.g., to Bank Manager, Editor) or Informal letters (e.g., to family/friends on specific issues).
- Essay Writing (10 Marks): Essays on current social issues, financial/economic developments, or banking technology trends.
- Important Note: Marks obtained in the Descriptive Writing section are added to the Mains objective marks to calculate the final aggregate score for shortlisting candidates for the Personal Interview round and compiling the final merit list.
Final Calculation of IBPS PO Exam
The final selection of a candidate is purely based on their combined performance in the Main Examination and the Personal Interview round. Marks scored in the Preliminary Examination are only qualifying in nature and are completely excluded from the final merit compilation.
Final Selection Weightage & Conversion
The final merit list is prepared by converting the marks of the Main Exam and Interview into a combined score with an 80:20 weightage ratio.
- Mains Exam Conversion: The total marks scored out of 225 (Objective + Descriptive) are scaled down to a weightage of 80.
- Interview Conversion: The marks scored out of 100 in the interview are scaled down to a weightage of 20.
The Final Score Formula:
Note: Penalty for wrong answers (negative marking of 0.25) is already deducted directly from your objective section scores during the calculation of individual Mains marks.
Based on the aggregate Final Score out of 100, IBPS prepares a state-wise and category-wise merit list for the provisional allotment of Probationary Officers across participating nationalized banks.
List of Participating Banks in IBPS PO
Following the recent mega-mergers of Public Sector Banks (PSBs) by the Government of India, many older entities (like Allahabad Bank, Andhra Bank, Corporation Bank, Vijaya Bank, etc.) have been consolidated. Currently, there are exactly 11 Participating Public Sector Banks that recruit through the IBPS PO Common Recruitment Process:
- Bank of Baroda
- Bank of India
- Bank of Maharashtra
- Canara Bank
- Central Bank of India
- Indian Bank
- Indian Overseas Bank
- Punjab National Bank (PNB)
- Punjab & Sind Bank
- UCO Bank
- Union Bank of India
Salary Structure of IBPS PO (12th Bipartite Settlement)
The salary structure of a Bank Probationary Officer (Scale-I) has been significantly upgraded under the 12th Bipartite Settlement. Below is the updated monthly pay structure for a newly joined IBPS PO:
Monthly Salary Breakdown
| Salary Component | Amount / Details |
|---|---|
| Revised Basic Pay | ₹48,480 per month (Initial Stage) |
| Pay Scale Structure | ₹48480 – 2000/7 – ₹62480 – 2340/2 – ₹67160 – 2680/7 – ₹85920 |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | Variable (Revised quarterly based on Consumer Price Index) |
| Special Allowance | Calculated as a fixed percentage of the basic pay |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | 8% to 10% of basic pay (Varies based on Area 1/2/3 posting location) |
| City Compensatory Allowance (CCA) | Varies based on the tier classification of the city |
| Learning Allowance | Fixed monthly allowance for skill progression |
| Gross Monthly Salary | ₹88,000 to ₹92,000 (Approximate, based on city posting) |
| Estimated Net In-Hand Salary | ₹74,000 to ₹79,000 per month (After PF, NPS, and Tax Deductions) |
Annual & Periodic Reimbursements (Perks)
Apart from the monthly cash components, an IBPS PO is entitled to multiple perks and official allowances:
- Medical Allowance: Approximately ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 per annum.
- Newspaper Allowance: Fixed monthly reimbursement.
- Travel Allowance / Conveyance: Monthly reimbursement for fuel or official transit costs.
- Leased Accommodation: In lieu of HRA, banks provide official quarters or pay direct house lease rent to the landlord, ranging heavily depending on the city tier.
- Retirement Benefits: Covered under the Provident Fund (PF) and Pension contributions via the National Pension System (NPS) with matching bank contributions.
Selection Process
The selection journey of an IBPS Probationary Officer is structured across three definitive stages. A candidate must qualify in each stage to advance further:
- Phase 1: Preliminary Examination – An online objective test serving as a screening qualifier.
- Phase 2: Main Examination – An intense online exam consisting of both Objective and Descriptive sections. Candidates clearing this are shortlisted for the interview.
- Phase 3: Personal Interview – The final face-to-face evaluation round that determines the ultimate merit allotment alongside the Mains score.
Step-by-Step IBPS PO Application Process
Eligible aspirants must complete their application online through the official portal of IBPS during the active registration window. The online submission involves the following streamlined steps:
- Step 1: New Registration – Visit the official website, click on the active registration link, and provide basic contact details (Name, Mobile Number, and Email ID) to generate a unique Provisional Registration Number and Password.
- Step 2: Filling the Application Form – Log in using the credentials to input personal background details, permanent address, educational qualifications, and exam center choices.
- Step 3: Uploading Documents – Scan and upload the required documents strictly adhering to the specified file sizes:
- Recent Passport-size Photograph
- Clear Signature (on white paper with black ink)
- Left Thumb Impression
- A Handwritten Declaration (in the candidate’s own handwriting)
- Step 4: Indicating Bank Preferences – Orderly select and lock the preference of participating public sector banks where you wish to get recruited.
- Step 5: Fee Payment & Final Submission – Pay the applicable registration charges online, review all data, and download the automatically generated application printout and e-receipt for future verification.
Application Fees & Charges
The registration fee is non-refundable and includes all integrated GST charges. The fee matrix is categorized as follows:
| Category | Application Fee & Intimation Charges |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹850 (Inclusive of GST) |
| SC / ST / PwBD | ₹175 (Intimation charges only, inclusive of GST) |
- Online Payment Gateways: The application charges can be seamlessly paid through the official payment gateway using Debit Cards (RuPay/Visa/MasterCard/Maestro), Credit Cards, Internet Banking, IMPS, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), or Mobile Wallets. Offline modes of payment are strictly not accepted.
Exam Overview & Logistics
1. Conducting Authority
The entire selection architecture, framework layout, center mapping, online examination infrastructure, and merit compilation are managed by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS).
2. Exam Frequency
The IBPS PO Common Recruitment Process (CRP) is conducted strictly once a year. The registration typically opens in the mid-year window, followed by consecutive execution of Prelims and Mains phases.
IBPS PO cutoff scores for Prelims, Mains, Interview, and Final selection
1. IBPS PO Cutoff 2025
Prelims & Mains Category-Wise Cutoff
- Prelims Exam Total: 100 Marks
- Mains Exam Total: 225 Marks (Objective + Descriptive)
| Category | Prelims Cutoff (Out of 100) | Mains Cutoff (Out of 225) | Final Cutoff (Out of 100) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 49.21 | 75.75 | 46.11 |
| EWS | 49.21 | 72.50 | 43.64 |
| OBC | 49.21 | 75.75 | 44.04 |
| SC | 45.96 | 59.00 | 38.53 |
| ST | 40.96 | 51.75 | 36.73 |
2. IBPS PO Cutoff 2024
Prelims & Mains Category-Wise Cutoff
| Category | Prelims Cutoff (Out of 100) | Mains Cutoff (Out of 225) | Final Cutoff (Minimum Score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 48.50 | 66.50 | 42.69 |
| EWS | 48.50 | 64.75 | 39.93 |
| OBC | 48.50 | 66.00 | 40.18 |
| SC | 48.00 | 54.25 | 35.91 |
| ST | 41.00 | 47.50 | 33.69 |
3. IBPS PO Cutoff 2023
Prelims & Mains Category-Wise Cutoff
| Category | Prelims Cutoff (Out of 100) | Mains Cutoff (Out of 225) | Final Cutoff (Minimum Score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 54.25 | 63.00 | 41.13 |
| EWS | 54.25 | 61.00 | 38.71 |
| OBC | 54.25 | 62.25 | 38.69 |
| SC | 49.50 | 50.25 | 34.73 |
| ST | 43.00 | 41.00 | 31.93 |
4. IBPS PO Cutoff 2022
Prelims & Mains Category-Wise Cutoff
| Category | Prelims Cutoff (Out of 100) | Mains Cutoff (Out of 225) | Final Cutoff (Minimum Score) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General (UR) | 49.75 | 71.25 | 43.47 |
| EWS | 49.75 | 70.50 | 41.76 |
| OBC | 49.75 | 69.75 | 41.38 |
| SC | 46.75 | 59.25 | 38.02 |
| ST | 40.75 | 53.25 | 36.24 |
Key Takeaways from Cutoff Trends
- Consistency in Prelims: Over the past few years, the Preliminary cutoff for the General, OBC, and EWS categories has remained identical, meaning competition at the screening phase is neck-and-neck across these slots.
- Mains Variations: The Mains cutoff fluctuates significantly based on the difficulty index of the Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning sections.
- Interview Normalization: While the minimum qualifying mark for the interview is fixed (40% for General and 35% for reserved classes), scoring well above the Mains baseline cut-off is vital to stay safe in the final compiled 80:20 distribution.
IBPS PO Preparation Tips
Clearing a highly competitive national-level exam like IBPS PO requires a blend of hard work, consistency, and a smart strategy. Here are the top 10 expert-recommended preparation tips to help you ace the exam on your first attempt:
- Master the Exam Pattern & Syllabus: Before picking up your books, download the latest official syllabus. Memorize the section-wise weightage for both Prelims and Mains so you know exactly which topics deserve your maximum attention.
- Create a Realistic Study Schedule: Design a daily timetable that maps out dedicated hours for each section. Balance your time wisely—give extra hours to your weak subjects while maintaining a daily routine for your strong areas.
- Solve Previous Years’ Question Papers (PYQs): Practicing the last 5 years’ actual question papers is the best way to understand the exam’s exact difficulty level. It helps you recognize repeating question patterns and familiarizes you with the examiner’s mindset.
- Take Regular Mock Tests: Treat mock tests as actual exams. Taking online mock tests in a simulated, timed environment helps you evaluate your performance, build stamina for the 3-hour Mains stretch, and boosts your exam-day confidence.
- Maximize Speed and Accuracy: In the Preliminary exam, you only get 60 minutes for 100 questions. Cultivate shortcut methods for Quantitative Aptitude and fast analytical tricks for Reasoning to solve questions accurately without draining your clock.
- Target and Overcome Weak Areas: Analyze your mock test results to pinpoint where you constantly lose marks (e.g., Data Interpretation or Puzzles). Isolate those topics, practice basic concept-building exercises, and take sectional quizzes until you master them.
- Dominate the General & Banking Awareness Section: Stay updated with the last 6 months of current affairs, financial updates, and RBI policy changes. Make it a habit to read daily current affairs capsules and revise monthly banking worksheets.
- Enhance English Comprehension Daily: Read premium English newspapers (like The Hindu or The Indian Express) every day. Focus on editorial pages to naturally improve your Reading Comprehension, contextual vocabulary, and descriptive essay writing skills.
- Prioritize Physical and Mental Well-being: Exam preparation can be stressful, but a tired mind reduces productivity. Ensure you get 7 to 8 hours of sound sleep, maintain a balanced diet, and take short breaks to keep your brain sharp and active.
- Maintain a Positive & Confident Mindset: Consistency is key. Even if your initial mock test scores are low, stay motivated and focus on daily incremental growth. Believe in your preparation strategy and approach the exam hall with complete confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the selection process for IBPS PO Exam?
The selection process for the IBPS PO exam consists of three successive stages: Preliminary Examination (online objective screening test), Main Examination (online objective + descriptive writing test), and a face-to-face Personal Interview. Final selection is based on the combined score of the Mains exam and the Interview in an 80:20 weightage ratio.
Is there any negative marking in IBPS PO Exam?
Yes, there is a penalty for incorrect answers in both the Preliminary and Main objective exams. For every wrong answer, 0.25 marks (one-fourth of the marks assigned to that question) will be deducted as a penalty. No marks are deducted for unanswered or unattempted questions.
Is there any sectional cut off in IBPS PO Exam?
Yes, IBPS PO maintains a strict sectional cut-off policy. Candidates must secure a minimum qualifying score in each individual section (e.g., English, Quant, Reasoning) as well as clear the overall aggregate cut-off in both the Preliminary and Main examinations to qualify for the next round.
Can final year students apply for IBPS PO Exam?
Final year students can apply only if their final graduation results are officially declared on or before the closing date of the online application registration. At the time of filling out the form, candidates must enter their exact graduation percentage and date of passing; hence, those awaiting results cannot apply.
How many attempts are allowed for IBPS PO Exam?
Unlike UPSC or SBI, there is no restriction on the number of attempts for the IBPS PO exam. Candidates can appear for the exam as many times as they want, provided they fulfill the fundamental age criteria (20 to 30 years, with applicable category relaxations) and educational qualifications.