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SBI PO 2026: Exam Pattern, Eligibility & Study Plan

India · 4 subjects · 43 topics · Updated 2026-04-06

SBI PO (Probationary Officer) is one of the most sought-after banking examinations in India, conducted by the State Bank of India for recruitment to officer cadre positions. The three-stage selection process comprises Preliminary Examination (objective online test), Main Examination (objective + descriptive online test), and Group Exercise & Interview. The Prelims tests Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language in a time-bound format. The Mains is more comprehensive with Reasoning, Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, and an English Descriptive Test. The exam demands both speed and accuracy, with negative marking of 0.25 in Prelims and 0.25 in Mains objective questions. Success in SBI PO opens doors to a prestigious career in India's largest public sector bank with attractive compensation and growth opportunities.

Live status

Verified 2026-04-24
Year
2026
Subjects
4
Topics
43

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📋 Exam Pattern

Preliminary Exam (100 marks, 1 hour): Reasoning (35 questions), Quantitative Aptitude (35 questions), English Language (30 questions). Main Examination (250 marks, 3 hours 20 min): Reasoning (45 questions), Data Analysis (35 questions), English Language (35 questions), General/Economy/Banking Awareness (40 questions), plus English Descriptive Test (Letter and Essay, 50 marks). Group Exercise (20 marks) and Interview (30 marks) follow for shortlisted candidates. Final merit list is prepared from Main (200) + GE (20) + Interview (30).

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must be Indian citizens aged between 21-30 years for general category with educational relaxation. A bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university is mandatory. Final year students are not eligible. The age relaxation is 5 years for SC/ST, 3 years for OBC, and 5 years for persons with disabilities. Computer working knowledge is essential. There is no separate banking awareness test but it forms a major part of the General Awareness section.

Subjects & Topics Covered — 43 topics across 4 subjects

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Frequently Asked Questions — SBI PO

Everything you need to know about SBI PO. Scroll down for the complete study guide.

What is SBI PO and how does admission work?
SBI PO (Probationary Officer) is a prestigious recruitment exam conducted by the State Bank of India for appointment as Probationary Officers (Assistant Manager) in SBI branches across India. SBI PO is considered one of the most sought-after banking jobs in India due to the attractive salary, allowances, and rapid career progression. After selection, POs undergo a probation period of 2 years during which they receive structured training across various banking operations. The exam is conducted annually by SBI through its official website sbi.co.in.
What is the SBI PO exam pattern?
SBI PO has three stages: Preliminary (Phase 1), Main (Phase 2), and Interview/Group Discussion (Phase 3). The Preliminary exam has 100 questions (English Language: 30, Numerical Ability: 35, Reasoning Ability: 35) to be completed in 1 hour. The Main exam has 200 questions in four sections: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (45 questions), Data Analysis & Interpretation (35), General/Economy/Banking Awareness (40), and English Language (35), plus a Descriptive Test (Letter Writing & Essay) of 50 marks. The final merit list is based on Main marks + Interview marks (weightage: 75:25).
What is the SBI PO salary and growth path?
SBI PO receives a starting basic pay of ₹41,960 (in ₹41,960–1,340–51,670–1,460–62,330–1,840–73,870–2,050–85,580) plus allowances (DA, HRA, Transport Allowance, etc.), totaling approximately ₹58,000–₹65,000 per month in hand at metro centres. After probation, POs are confirmed as Assistant Managers (Scale-I). Career progression: PO → Assistant Manager → Branch Manager → Deputy Manager → Chief Manager → Assistant General Manager → Deputy General Manager → General Manager. Top performers can reach the level of Chairman/Managing Director.

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Exam Name SBI PO
Country 🇮🇳 India
Subjects Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, General Awareness
Total Topics 43
Official Source https://example.com
Last Updated 2026-04-06