IBPS Clerk vs IBPS PO, What’s the Difference?

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The IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO exams, both conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection, are key recruitment tests for public sector banks in India. The IBPS Clerk exam recruits candidates for clerical posts across 11 public sector banks. It is held annually and consists of two stages such as the preliminary exam and the mains. Successful candidates are selected for clerical posts. On the other hand, the IBPS PO exam recruits candidates for the role of Probationary Officers. This exam has three stages such as prelims, mains, and an interview. Both exams have been conducted annually, with the 2024 exams marking the 14th edition for both the Clerk and PO exams. While the Clerk exam focuses on filling clerical posts, the PO exam is aimed at selecting future bank managers and leaders.

Difference between IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO

By understanding the differences between IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO, aspirants can make a more informed decision about their career path in the banking sector.

CriteriaIBPS ClerkIBPS PO
RoleCustomer service, account management, office workSupervisory role, loan processing, customer relationship management, financial management
Educational QualificationDegree in any disciplineDegree in any discipline
Age Limit20-28 years20-30 years
Selection ProcessPreliminary Exam, Main ExamPreliminary Exam, Main Exam, Interview
Basic PayApprox. ₹19,900 per monthApprox. ₹36,000-₹38,000 per month
AllowancesDA, HRA, Transport AllowanceDA, HRA, Special Allowance, CCA
Career GrowthClerk > Senior Clerk > Special Assistant > Assistant Manager > Branch ManagerPO > Assistant Manager > Branch Manager > Senior Manager > Chief Manager > AGM > GM
Work-Life BalanceBetterMore challenging

IBPS Clerk vs IBPS PO – Overview

Below table provides a clear comparison between IBPS Clerk 2024 and IBPS PO 2024, highlighting their differences and similarities in terms of vacancy, recruitment process, eligibility criteria, and more. It serves as a useful reference for candidates planning to appear for these exams.

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ParameterIBPS Clerk 2024IBPS PO 2024
Post NameClerkProbationary Officer
Vacancy6,128To be notified
Participating Banks1111
Application ModeOnlineOnline
Exam ModeOnlineOnline
Recruitment ProcessPrelims + Main ExamsPrelims – Mains – Interview
Education QualificationGraduateGraduate
Age Limit20 years to 28 years20 years to 30 years
Application FeeSC/ST/PWD – Rs. 175, General and Others – Rs. 850Not specified
Official Websitewww.ibps.inwww.ibps.in

IBPS Clerk 2024 vs IBPS PO 2024 – Important Dates

Below table highlights the key dates for IBPS Clerk 2024 and IBPS PO 2024 exams, including notification release, application periods, admit card availability, and exam dates. Candidates can use this information to plan their preparation and application timelines effectively.

EventsIBPS Clerk 2024 DatesIBPS PO 2024 Dates
IBPS Clerk Notification 202430th June 2024July 2024
IBPS Clerk Apply Online Start Date1st July 2024
IBPS Clerk Apply Online Last Date21st July 2024
IBPS Clerk Prelims Admit Card 2024August 2024
IBPS Clerk Prelims Exam Date 202424th, 25th and 31st August 2024
IBPS Clerk Exam Date 202413th October 2024
IBPS PO Prelims Exam Date 202419th, 20th October 2024
IBPS PO Mains Exam Date 202430th November 2024

IBPS Clerk 2024 vs IBPS PO 2024 – Eligibility Criteria

Both exams require candidates to be graduates with basic computer knowledge. IBPS Clerk has a narrower age range and prefers proficiency in the state’s official language, whereas IBPS PO offers a wider age limit and emphasizes language proficiency as desirable. Candidates should ensure they meet these criteria before applying for either exam.

CriteriaIBPS Clerk 2024IBPS PO 2024
Age Limit20 years to 28 years20 years to 30 years
Age RelaxationSC/ST: 5 yearsSC/ST: 5 years
OBC: 3 yearsOBC: 3 years
PWD: 10 yearsPWD: 10 years
Ex-Servicemen: service period + 3 yearsEx-Servicemen: 5 years
Widows, Divorced Women: up to 35 years (General/EWS)Widows, Divorced Women: 9 years
Persons affected by 1984 riots: 5 yearsPersons affected by 1984 riots: 5 years
Educational QualificationGraduate in any disciplineGraduate in any discipline
Computer LiteracyMandatoryMandatory
Language ProficiencyPreferableDesirable
Nationality / CitizenshipIndian, Nepali, Bhutanese, Tibetan Refugee, PIOIndian, Nepali, Bhutanese, Tibetan Refugee, PIO

IBPS Clerk 2024 vs IBPS PO 2024 – Selection Process

In IBPS Clerk 2024, only the performance in the mains exam determines selection, while IBPS PO 2024 includes an interview phase after the mains. Aspirants should prepare accordingly to succeed in these respective banking exams.

ProcessIBPS Clerk 2024IBPS PO 2024
StagesPreliminary Examination, Mains ExaminationPreliminary Examination, Mains Examination, Interview
InterviewNo interview processInterview required
WeightageMains exam result carries 100% weightageMains exam and interview contribute to final selection
Process DescriptionCandidates must clear both prelims and mainsPrelims qualification necessary for mains and interview

IBPS Clerk 2024 vs IBPS PO 2024 – Salary Structure

IBPS Clerks start with a lower basic pay but have a fixed structure of allowances, resulting in an in-hand salary of approximately Rs 29,453. In contrast, IBPS POs enjoy a higher starting in-hand salary ranging from Rs 52,000 to Rs 55,000, which includes various allowances and benefits, reflecting a higher overall compensation package.

ComponentIBPS Clerk 2024IBPS PO 2024
Basic PayRs 19,900 – Rs 47,920 per monthRs 36,000 (Initial basic pay)
In-hand SalaryApproximately Rs 29,453Rs 52,000 to Rs 55,000 (Including allowances and benefits)
AllowancesDearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, Medical Allowance, Transport AllowanceDearness Allowance, Special Allowances, Other Benefits
RevisionFixed basic pay with allowancesBasic pay and allowances as per the 11th Bipartite Agreement

IBPS Clerk 2024 vs IBPS PO 2024 – Career Growth and Promotions

IBPS Clerk

  • Promotions: Can move up to officer level through internal exams and good performance.
  • Career Path: Clerk > Senior Clerk > Special Assistant > Assistant Manager > Branch Manager.

IBPS PO

  • Promotions: Faster promotions compared to clerks, based on performance and exams.
  • Career Path: PO > Assistant Manager > Branch Manager > Senior Manager > Chief Manager > Assistant General Manager > General Manager.

IBPS Clerk 2024 vs IBPS PO 2024 – Work-Life Balance

IBPS Clerk

  • Work Hours: Generally fixed working hours with less work pressure.
  • Work-Life Balance: Better compared to POs due to fewer responsibilities.

IBPS PO

  • Work Hours: May involve longer hours and more responsibilities.
  • Work-Life Balance: More challenging due to higher responsibilities and targets.

IBPS Clerk 2024 vs IBPS PO 2024 – Which is Better?

Advantages of IBPS Clerk

  • Ease of Entry: Easier selection process with no interview.
  • Stable Job: Less pressure and stable work environment.
  • Work-Life Balance: Better work-life balance compared to POs.

Advantages of IBPS PO

  • Higher Salary: Better pay and more benefits.
  • Career Growth: Faster promotions and career advancement opportunities.
  • Varied Responsibilities: Diverse job roles and responsibilities.

Also Check,

IBPS Clerk Notification 2024Click here to Check
IBPS Clerk Apply Online 2024Click here to Check
IBPS Clerk Eligibility CriteriaClick here to Check
IBPS Clerk SalaryClick here to Check
IBPS Clerk Syllabus 2024Click here to Check


IBPS Clerk vs IBPS PO – FAQs

Q1. What are the main differences between IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO?

Ans. IBPS Clerk handles customer interactions and banking transactions, while IBPS PO supervises operations and makes decisions.

Q2. What qualifications do I need for IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO?

Ans. Both require a university degree.

Q3. How much do IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO earn?

Ans. IBPS Clerk starts around Rs. 19,900, while IBPS PO earns Rs. 52,000 to 55,000 initially.

Q4. What tasks do IBPS Clerk and IBPS PO perform?

Ans. IBPS Clerk handles transactions and customer service, while IBPS PO manages operations and policies.

Q5. Which exam is more competitive, IBPS Clerk or IBPS PO?

Ans. IBPS PO exams are more competitive due to higher pay and career opportunities.

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