Most Asked SBI PO Interview Questions, Preparation Tips

Published on 24 October 2025 by
SBI

Most Asked SBI PO Interview Questions: Preparing for the SBI PO Interview 2025 is a crucial step toward securing a career in India’s largest public sector bank. This stage tests not only your knowledge of banking and current affairs but also your communication skills, confidence, and analytical thinking.

A strong performance requires a balance of conceptual clarity, presence of mind, and a professional approach. To help you prepare effectively, we’ve compiled the most asked SBI PO interview questions for freshers and experienced candidates, along with preparation tips and banking awareness topics.

Understanding the SBI PO Interview Process

After clearing the Mains exam and psychometric test, shortlisted candidates face a personal interview (and sometimes a group exercise). The panel assesses your suitability for a managerial role at SBI, focusing on your personality, reasoning, and understanding of banking functions.

Most Asked SBI PO Interview Questions for Freshers

If you’re a recent graduate, the panel expects you to demonstrate awareness, enthusiasm, and a clear sense of purpose. Here are some of the most common questions:

a. Tell us about yourself

A classic opener highlights your educational background, key achievements, and motivation to pursue a career in banking.

b. Why do you want to join the banking sector?

Emphasize the stability, growth potential, and learning opportunities in the banking industry.

c. Why do you want to work with SBI?

Talk about SBI’s legacy, customer-centric approach, digital transformation, and diverse career paths.

d. What is the role of a Probationary Officer (PO)?

Explain that a PO handles operations like loan processing, customer service, branch administration, and compliance.

e. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Be genuine, link your strengths to the banking job, and mention a weakness you’re actively improving.

f. How do you handle stress or pressure?

Provide real examples from academics or internships where you worked efficiently under deadlines.

g. How does your educational background align with banking?

Relate your course (commerce, finance, management, or even engineering) to analytical and decision-making skills needed in banking.

Most Asked SBI PO Interview Questions for Experienced Candidates

If you’re shifting from another industry, expect a mix of HR and role-specific questions. The panel wants to see how your experience adds value to SBI.

a. Why do you want to switch to banking?

Connect your career goals with SBI’s stability, growth prospects, and contribution to the economy.

b. What did you learn from your previous job?

Mention key skills like teamwork, client handling, leadership, or problem-solving—traits that translate well into banking.

c. How will your past experience benefit SBI?

Show how your background can enhance customer satisfaction, branch efficiency, or sales performance.

d. What do you know about SBI’s recent initiatives?

Be updated about SBI’s latest projects like YONO, CSR activities, financial inclusion drives, or sustainability efforts.

e. How would you handle a difficult customer?

Explain that patience, empathy, and effective communication are the best tools to resolve customer issues.

Banking Awareness Questions Asked in SBI PO Interview

Your conceptual understanding of banking will also be tested. Expect factual as well as applied questions such as:

  • What is CRR, SLR, and Repo Rate?
  • Difference between RTGS, NEFT, and IMPS.
  • What are the main functions of the Reserve Bank of India?
  • Explain Priority Sector Lending (PSL).
  • What are Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and how do they impact banks?
Related Links
SBI PO Interview Expected Questions
SBI PO Interview Experience
SBI PO Interview Marks
SBI PO Interview Centres List
SBI PO Psychometric Test, Interview & GD Schedule 2025 Out
SBI PO Group Discussion Important Topics
SBI PO Interview Passing Marks

FAQs

Q1. What is the duration of the SBI PO interview?

A1: The interview usually lasts 15–25 minutes, depending on the panel and the depth of questions.

Q2. How many people are there on the interview panel?

A2: Typically, there are 3–5 panel members, including senior SBI officials and HR representatives.

Q3. Is the SBI PO interview difficult?

A3: It’s moderately challenging. With good preparation on banking concepts, current affairs, and self-awareness, you can perform well.

Q4. What kind of current affairs should I focus on?

A4: Prioritize banking and economic news, RBI policies, government schemes, and SBI’s latest initiatives.

Q5. How should I introduce myself in the SBI PO interview?

A5: Start with your name, educational background, key achievements, and your motivation for joining the banking sector keep it concise and confident.