SBI PO Recruitment 2025 Selection Process – The SBI PO Recruitment 2025 selection process is one of the most competitive and sought-after banking exams in India. Every year, thousands of aspirants apply for the prestigious Probationary Officer (PO) role at the State Bank of India (SBI), making it crucial to understand the entire selection process, from the preliminary exam to the final interview.
In this guide, we will break down every stage of the selection process, offering practical advice, expert tips, and detailed insights to help you prepare effectively.
SBI PO Recruitment 2025 Selection Process
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | SBI PO Recruitment 2025 |
| Conducting Body | State Bank of India (SBI) |
| Selection Phases | Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, Psychometric Test, Group Exercise & Interview |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Prelims & Mains) |
| Official Website | sbi.co.in |
| Total Marks | Prelims – 100, Mains – 250, Final Merit – 100 |
| Negative Marking | Yes (Prelims & Mains) |
| Final Selection Criteria | Based on Mains Exam + Group Exercise & Interview Scores |
| Job Location | Anywhere in India |
| Expected Vacancies | Around 2000+ (Varies Yearly) |
| Salary | Approx ₹41,960/- per month (Basic Pay) + Allowances |
The SBI PO Recruitment 2025 selection process is rigorous, but with proper preparation, candidates can secure a position in India’s largest public-sector bank. By focusing on concept clarity, time management, and consistent practice, aspirants can increase their chances of success. Stay updated with official notifications and practice diligently to excel in all phases of the selection process.
SBI PO Selection Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The SBI PO Recruitment 2025 involves multiple phases, each designed to assess candidates’ aptitude, reasoning ability, and professional skills. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Preliminary Examination (Phase 1)
The SBI PO Prelims Exam is the first step in the selection process. It serves as a qualifying stage, and candidates must clear this round to proceed to the Mains Exam.
Exam Pattern for SBI PO Prelims:
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
Key Points:
- The exam is conducted online.
- Each section has a separate time limit.
- There is negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
- The cut-off varies each year based on overall performance.
2. Mains Examination (Phase 2)
Candidates who clear the Preliminary Exam move to the Mains Exam, which is more in-depth and carries a higher weightage in the final selection.
Exam Pattern for SBI PO Mains:
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| General Awareness (Economy/Banking) | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Descriptive Test (Essay & Letter Writing) | 2 | 50 | 30 minutes |
| Total | 155 | 250 | 3.5 hours |
Key Points:
- The Objective Test (200 marks) is followed by a Descriptive Test (50 marks).
- The Descriptive Test is evaluated only if you clear the Objective Test.
- There is a 0.25 negative marking for incorrect answers in the Objective Test.
3. Psychometric Test, Group Exercise & Interview (Phase 3)
Once candidates pass the Mains Exam, they are shortlisted for the final assessment stage:
Psychometric Test:
- Conducted to assess candidates’ personality traits.
- Helps SBI evaluate leadership, teamwork, and decision-making skills.
Group Exercises & Interview:
| Round | Marks |
|---|---|
| Group Exercises | 20 |
| Personal Interview | 30 |
Final Merit List Calculation:
- Mains Exam Score (Objective + Descriptive) is weighted at 75%
- Group Exercise & Interview combined score is weighted at 25%
- Final score is normalized to 100 marks.
Preparation Strategy for SBI PO Recruitment 2025?
1. Make a Study Plan
- Allocate time for each subject based on strengths and weaknesses.
- Focus on high-weightage topics first.
2. Master Quantitative Aptitude & Reasoning
- Solve previous year question papers.
- Focus on puzzles, seating arrangements, and number series.
3. Strengthen English Language Skills
- Improve grammar and vocabulary.
- Practice reading comprehension and essay writing.
4. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
- Read financial newspapers and RBI updates.
- Follow monthly current affairs magazines.
5. Take Regular Mock Tests
- Helps improve accuracy and time management.
- Identify weak areas and work on them.
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FAQs
1. What is the salary of an SBI PO?
The basic pay of an SBI PO is ₹41,960/- per month, along with allowances and benefits.
2. How many attempts are allowed for SBI PO?
The number of attempts varies by category:
- General: 4
- OBC: 7
- SC/ST: No limit
3. Is there negative marking in SBI PO?
Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for each wrong answer in Prelims and Mains.
4. Can I apply for SBI PO while in my final year of graduation?
Yes, final-year students can apply, provided they produce proof of graduation before the final selection.
5. How can I apply for SBI PO Recruitment 2025?
Candidates must apply online at sbi.co.in during the application window.
