IBPS PO (Bank Probationary Officer)
Complete roadmap to become a Bank PO through IBPS — SBI, PNB, BOB & more
Education Path
Step-by-step education requirements to become eligible
Pass 10th & 12th
Any stream. Start building Maths and English skills early — banking exams test these heavily.
Complete Graduation
Any degree accepted — BA, BSc, BCom, BTech, BCA. No minimum percentage. Must have degree before joining.
Computer Knowledge
Learn MS Office, internet banking basics, computer fundamentals. This is a separate section in the exam.
Learn Basic Financial Terms
Understand banking terms — NPA, CRR, SLR, Repo Rate, NEFT, RTGS. Read financial newspapers.
Preparation Strategy
How to prepare — duration, subjects, books & coaching options
Duration: 6-10 months
Subjects to Cover:
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Reasoning Ability (Logical + Analytical)
- English Language
- General/Financial Awareness
- Computer Knowledge
Coaching vs Self Study
Recommended Books & Resources
Exam Pattern
Understand every stage of the selection process
Prelims (Online)
100 questions, 60 minutes. English (30), Quant (35), Reasoning (35). Sectional cutoff + overall cutoff.
Mains (Online)
200 questions, 3 hours. Reasoning + Computer (45), English (35), Quant (35), General Awareness (40), Descriptive English (25 marks, 30 min).
Interview
100 marks. Tests personality, banking knowledge, current affairs, communication skills.
Provisional Allotment
Mains (80%) + Interview (20%) = Final score. Bank allotment based on preference and merit.
Exam Timeline & Important Dates
From notification to final result — know every milestone
Notification Released
August every year (ibps.in)
Online Application
August-September (20 days)
Prelims Exam
October
Prelims Result
October-November
Mains Exam
November-December
Mains Result
December-January
Interview
January-February
Provisional Allotment
March-April
Salary & Perks
What you'll earn after selection
Starting (Basic)
₹36,000-63,840 = ~₹45,000-52,000 in-hand (metro cities)
After 5 Years
~₹60,000-70,000 in-hand
Scale II Officer
~₹75,000-90,000 in-hand
Perks
DA, HRA, Medical, Leased accommodation, LFC, Pension, Loan benefits at lower rates
Pro Tips for Success
- Sectional cutoffs are strict — don't ignore any section
- Puzzles and Seating Arrangement dominate Reasoning — practice daily
- Speed is everything — learn shortcuts for Quant
- Read Economic Times for banking awareness questions
- Apply for SBI PO also — same preparation works for both
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