IBPS PO Exam is a highly competitive and sought-after examination within the realm of banking and financial services. As one of the premier recruitment processes in the banking sector, the IBPS PO exam serves as a gateway for individuals aspiring to join various public sector banks as Probationary Officers.
Overview of the IBPS PO Exam

The IBPS PO exam is conducted annually to select suitable candidates for the role of Probationary Officer, an entry-level managerial position in public sector banks across India. The exam’s significance lies not only in the opportunity it offers to kick-start a career in banking but also in the comprehensive selection process that evaluates candidates’ aptitude, skills, and knowledge.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility Criteria | Details |
---|---|
Nationality | Indian citizen, subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or Tibetan refugee settled in India before January 1, 1962, with the intention of permanent settlement. A person of Indian origin who has migrated from other countries with the intention of permanent settlement. |
Age Limit | 20 to 30 years (age relaxations apply to reserved categories and certain other cases) |
Educational Qualification | Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university or equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government |
Percentage Criteria for Graduation | Generally, there is no specific percentage requirement, but some banks may have certain percentage criteria. |
Language Proficiency | Proficiency in the official language of the State/UT is essential (candidates should be able to read, write, and speak the language). |
Computer Literacy | Basic knowledge of computer operations is preferred. |
Maximum Number of Attempts | Generally, there is a limit on the number of attempts. For example, General category candidates have a certain number of attempts, and relaxation is provided for reserved categories. |
Exam Pattern
Phase | Mode | Subjects/Sections | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks |
---|---|---|---|---|
Preliminary | Online | English Language | 30 | 30 |
Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | ||
Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | ||
Main | Online | English Language | 35 | 40 |
Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | ||
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | ||
General/Economy/Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | ||
Descriptive Paper (Essay & Letter) | 2 | 25 |
Syllabus
Phase | Subjects | Topics (Not exhaustive) |
---|---|---|
Preliminary Exam | English Language | Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Vocabulary |
Quantitative Aptitude | Simplification, Data Interpretation, Number Series, Quadratic Equations | |
Reasoning Ability | Puzzles, Seating Arrangements, Syllogism, Coding-Decoding | |
Main Exam | English Language | Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary, Verbal Ability |
Data Analysis & Interpretation | Data Interpretation, Data Sufficiency, Data Analysis | |
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | Critical Reasoning, Computer Awareness, Analytical Reasoning | |
General/Economy/Banking Awareness | Current Affairs, Banking and Financial Awareness | |
Main Exam (Descriptive) | English Language (Descriptive Paper) | Essay Writing, Letter Writing |
Interview | – | Personal Interview, Group Discussion |
IBPS PO Application Form 2023
The steps to fill IBPS PO online form are given below:
- Visit the official website of IBPS
- Go to the ‘IBPS PO 2023 Advertisement’
- Register for the exam first by clicking ‘New Registration’ tab
- Fill in the required details to register.
- Registration ID and password are generated
- Upload scanned photograph and signature
- Fill the basic details, personal details, and educational qualifications, enter details of computer certification courses, select the languages known, enter preferences of banks, etc
- Preview the application form
- Upload left thumb impression and handwritten declaration
- Pay the application fees
- Submit IBPS PO application form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Coaching can be beneficial, especially if you need structured guidance and study materials. However, many candidates also succeed through self-study using online resources.
The IBPS PO Exam is a recruitment examination conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) to select candidates for the position of Probationary Officer (PO) in various public sector banks in India.
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university and meet the age criteria (generally between 20 to 30 years) to be eligible for the exam.
The public sector banks offer a good salary to candidates selected through IBPS PO exam. The basic salary is INR 23,700- (980 x 7) -30,560- (1145 x 2)-32850- (1310 x 7)-42,020. IBPS PO inhand salary ranges between INR 52,000 to 55,000 with dearness allowances, special allowances, HRA, and other perks.
Conclusion
The journey of preparing for and conquering the IBPS PO Exam is an exhilarating one that opens the doors to a rewarding career in the banking sector. As you navigate through the different phases of the exam, from the Preliminary to the Main Exam, and finally the Interview, you’ll be testing not only your knowledge but also your dedication, time management skills, and determination.