SBI PO Cutoffs Analysis (2017-2024)

The State Bank of India Probationary Officer (SBI PO) examination is one of the most sought-after banking exams in India. Understanding the cutoff trends from previous years can provide valuable insights for aspirants preparing for upcoming exams. This article delves into the SBI PO cutoff analysis from 2017 to 2024, highlighting the variations and patterns observed over the years.

Understanding SBI PO Cutoffs

The SBI PO selection process consists of three phases:

1. Phase-I: Preliminary Examination (Prelims)

   • An online objective test with 100 marks.
   • Comprises English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability sections.
   • No sectional cutoffs; overall merit list is prepared category-wise.

2. Phase-II: Main Examination (Mains)

   • Conducted online with Objective Tests (200 marks) and Descriptive Test (50 marks).
   • Objective Test covers Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General Awareness, and English Language.
   • Candidates must qualify in each section and meet the overall cutoff to proceed to the next phase.

3. Phase-III: Psychometric Test, Group Exercise & Interview

   • Psychometric Test for personality profiling.
   • Group Exercise (20 marks) and Interview (30 marks)—combined weightage of 50 marks.

Final Selection Criteria

• Marks from Prelims are not counted for final selection.
• Mains (250 marks) and Phase-III (50 marks) scores are normalized to 100 marks.
• The final merit list is prepared based on this normalization.

These cutoffs fluctuate yearly based on factors such as the number of vacancies, exam difficulty, and candidate performance.

SBI PO Prelims Cutoff Analysis (2017 – 2024)

The Preliminary Examination serves as the first filter in the selection process. Below is a table summarizing the category-wise cutoff marks for the Prelims from 2017 to 2024:

Note: The 2024 cutoffs are expected ranges based on analysis and may vary upon official release.

Observations:

• The General category cutoff peaked in 2019 at 71 marks, possibly due to a higher number of applicants or an easier exam that year.
• A noticeable dip occurred in 2020, with the cutoff dropping to 58.50, indicating a potentially tougher exam or other influencing factors.
• The introduction of the EWS category in 2019 provided additional reservation benefits, influencing the cutoff trends from that year onward.

SBI PO Mains Cutoff Analysis (2017 – 2024)

The Main Examination is crucial as it significantly impacts the final selection. The table below presents the category-wise cutoff marks for the Mains from 2017 to 2024:

Note: The 2024 cutoffs are projected ranges based on current data and trends.

Observations:

• The General category cutoff reached its highest in 2019 at 104.42, reflecting either a more competitive exam or a larger pool of high-scoring candidates.
• A significant decline is observed in 2023, with the cutoff dropping to 70, which could be attributed to a more challenging exam or other external factors.

Final Selection Cutoff Trends

The final selection considers cumulative scores from the Mains and the Interview & Group Exercises. The following table showcases the category-wise final selection cutoffs from 2017 to 2024:

Note: 2024 cutoffs are projected and subject to official confirmation.

Key Takeaways from the Final Selection Trends

• The highest final selection cutoff for the General category was in 2019 (54.11), while 2023 saw a significant drop (44.60), indicating a tougher selection process.
• The cutoff gap between General and OBC candidates has remained between 4-6 marks, showing consistent trends in reservation benefits.
• The ST category cutoff remains the lowest, which aligns with reservation policies and the overall lower number of applicants from this category.

Aspirants preparing for the SBI PO exam can gain valuable insights from these cutoff trends. While cutoffs fluctuate due to factors like exam difficulty, competition levels, and category-wise reservations, the overall trend suggests a balanced and competitive selection process.

Tips for SBI PO Aspirants Based on Cutoff Trends

• Aim for a higher score: Since cutoffs vary yearly, targeting a score 10-15 marks above the previous year’s cutoff can increase your chances of selection.
• Strengthen Mains preparation: With a higher weightage, the Mains exam is crucial in securing a place in the final list. Focus on accuracy and time management.
• Stay updated: Regularly check official notifications and trends to strategize your preparation accordingly.

Understanding these trends will help SBI PO aspirants set realistic goals and prepare strategically for the upcoming exams. Good luck.