IBPS PO Exam Pattern: The IBPS PO Exam Pattern is divided into three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview. The Prelims exam is qualifying in nature, while the Mains exam determines the candidate's merit ranking. Both Prelims and Mains are conducted online with sectional timings and negative marking for wrong answers. Final selection is based on the combined scores of the Mains exam and the Interview.
IBPS PO Exam Pattern 2025
The IBPS PO Exam Pattern 2025 outlines the structure of the examination, including the number of questions, marking scheme, duration, and sectional weightage. Candidates preparing for the IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) exam must be familiar with the Prelims, Mains, and Interview stages to enhance their preparation strategy. The IBPS PO selection process is conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Exam—Qualifying in nature
- Mains Exam—Determines merit ranking
- Interview—Final selection round
Attempt IBPS PO Mock Test
IBPS PO Prelims Exam Pattern
The preliminary exam consists of three sections with a total of 100 questions. The exam is objective (MCQ-based) and has a sectional time limit for each part.
- Each correct answer carries one mark.
- Negative marking: 0.25 marks deducted for every incorrect answer.
- Candidates must qualify in each section to proceed to Mains.
IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern
The IBPS PO Mains Exam includes four objective sections along with a descriptive test for English Language. The total duration of the exam is 3 hours 30 minutes.
- The exam consists of objective (MCQs) and descriptive questions.
- Negative marking: 0.25 marks deducted for every incorrect answer.
- Candidates must clear both the sectional and overall cutoff to qualify for the interview.
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Medium of Exam | Time Duration |
|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | English & Hindi | 60 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | English only | 40 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | English & Hindi | 45 minutes |
| General Economy & Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | English & Hindi | 35 minutes |
| Total (Objective) | 155 | 200 | | 180 minutes |
| English Language (Descriptive) | 2 | 25 | English only | 30 minutes |
| Grand Total | 157 | 225 | | 3 hours 30 minutes |
Check IBPS PO Syllabus
IBPS PO Interview Process
Candidates who qualify the Main Exam are shortlisted for the interview, which assesses their personality, communication skills, and suitability for the banking sector.
- Total Marks: 100
- Qualifying Marks: 40% for General category; 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates
- Assessment Areas: Banking knowledge, current affairs, communication skills, leadership qualities, and problem-solving abilities
Solve IBPS PO Previous Year Papers
IBPS PO Final Selection Criteria
The final selection of candidates for the Probationary Officer post is based on the combined performance in the Main Exam and Interview.
Mains Exam Weightage: 80%
- Interview Weightage: 20%
- Candidates who rank high in the merit list are selected as Probationary Officers (POs).
Explore IBPS PO Online Courses
IBPS PO Marking Scheme
The IBPS PO exam follows a strict marking scheme in both Prelims and Mains. Each correct answer awards 1 mark, while 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions. This makes accuracy essential for scoring well.
| Exam Stage | Correct Answer | Wrong Answer | Unattempted Questions |
|---|
| Prelims | +1 mark | -0.25 mark | No penalty |
| Mains (Objective) | +1 mark | -0.25 mark | No penalty |
| Mains (Descriptive) | Evaluated separately | Not applicable | Not applicable |
