The State Bank of India (SBI) introduced several major changes in the SBI PO 2025 notification, which have been carried forward in the SBI PO 2026 cycle. These changes reflect SBI’s evolving approach towards a more practical, skill-based recruitment process. As of now, the 2026 notification follows the same structure, and any further updates or modifications introduced this year will be updated accordingly once officially announced.
- Changes were introduced in 2025 and continue in 2026
- Focus on practical and analytical skills
- High competition due to limited vacancies
- Any new 2026 updates will be revised accordingly
Changes in SBI PO Exam Pattern
The SBI PO Prelims exam pattern was revised in 2025, with increased emphasis on the English language section. The same pattern is being followed in 2026, ensuring continuity in the evaluation approach. Candidates should prepare accordingly while staying alert for any official updates this year.
- English Language: 40 questions, 40 marks
- Quantitative Aptitude: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Reasoning Ability: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Total: 100 questions, 100 marks, 1 hour
- No sectional cut-off
Prelims (Objective):
The SBI PO Prelims exam for 2025 retains its duration and total number of questions but introduces a new marks distribution across sections, emphasizing English Language proficiency.
| Section | 2024 Pattern | 2025 Pattern |
| English Language | 30 Qs, 30 marks, 20 min | 40 Qs, 40 marks, 20 min |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 Qs, 35 marks, 20 min | 30 Qs, 30 marks, 20 min |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 Qs, 35 marks, 20 min | 30 Qs, 30 marks, 20 min |
| Total | 100 Qs, 100 marks, 1 hr | 100 Qs, 100 marks, 1 hr |
The overall structure remains unchanged, but the focus has shifted toward the English Language section.
Mains (Objective):
The SBI PO Mains exam has undergone significant restructuring, increasing the total number of questions and adjusting weightage across sections.
| Section | 2024 Pattern | 2025 Pattern |
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 40 Qs, 50 marks, 50 min | 40 Qs, 60 marks, 50 min |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 40 Qs, 50 marks, 45 min | 30 Qs, 60 marks, 45 min |
| General/Economy/Banking Awareness | 50 Qs, 50 marks, 35 min | 60 Qs, 60 marks, 45 min |
| English Language | 35 Qs, 40 marks, 40 min | 40 Qs, 20 marks, 40 min |
| Total | 155 Qs, 200 marks, 3 hrs | 170 Qs, 200 marks, 3 hrs |
The increase in questions from 155 to 170 tests candidates’ endurance, while section-specific adjustments highlight a broader evaluation strategy.
Descriptive Test:
The Descriptive Paper now emphasizes practical communication skills, shifting focus from traditional essays and letters.
| Aspect | 2024 Pattern | 2025 Pattern |
| Structure | 30 mins, 50 marks | 30 mins, 50 marks |
| Components | Letter Writing and Essay | Emails, Reports, Situation Analysis & Precis Writing |
The updated Descriptive Test aligns with SBI’s focus on real-world readiness.
Changes in SBI PO Salary and Emoluments
The financial package for SBI PO has been significantly enhanced, making the role even more attractive.
- Starting Basic Pay: Increased from ₹41,960 to ₹56,480.
- Pay Scale: ₹48,480–85,920 (Junior Management Grade Scale-I).
- CTC: Up to ₹18.67 lakhs annually for Mumbai postings, including benefits like DA, HRA, NPS, LFC, lease rental, and medical facilities.
SBI PO Vacancy 2025 Vs 2026
The sharp reduction in vacancies seen in 2025 has significantly increased competition, and the same trend is expected to continue in 2026. Candidates should be prepared for higher cut-offs and tougher competition.
- Major drop in vacancies in 2025
- Competition remains high in 2026
- Higher cut-off trends expected
- Performance consistency is crucial
SBI PO Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility cut-off dates for SBI PO have been revised to offer more flexibility.
- Age: Calculated as of April 1, 2024.
- Educational Qualification: Must be completed by April 30, 2025.
Unified Scoring Approach
- Prelims: No sectional cut-offs, allowing candidates to focus on overall performance.
- Mains: Minimum scores required in each section remain mandatory.
Conclusion
The SBI PO 2026 process continues the changes introduced in 2025, focusing on a more practical and comprehensive evaluation of candidates. Aspirants must align their preparation with the updated pattern while staying alert for any new changes announced this year. Any updates for SBI PO 2026 will be incorporated as soon as they are officially released.
- Follow updated exam pattern
- Focus on communication and analytical skills
- Stay updated with official notifications
- Prepare strategically for all stages
- Adapt quickly to any new changes
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Hi, I’m Tripti, a senior content writer at Oliveboard, where I manage blog content along with community engagement across platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. With 3+ years of experience in content and SEO optimization related to banking exams, I have led content for popular exams like SSC, banking, railway, and state exams.