SBI Clerk Local Language Test, LPT Preparation Tips

Published on 13 August 2025 by
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SBI Clerk LPT 2025: After the release of the SBI Clerk Waiting List 2025, provisionally shortlisted candidates may have to appear for the Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT). This step is crucial for final selection. Those without proof of having studied the regional language in school must clear the LPT. Failing this test can lead to disqualification, even if other stages are cleared, so candidates should prepare well.

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SBI Clerk Local Language Test 2025

To secure a clerk position in the State Bank of India, candidates must clear the preliminary and main examinations. Those who pass both stages are required to appear for the Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT), which assesses their ability to communicate in the regional language of the chosen state or union territory. In 2025, SBI has announced 14,191 clerk vacancies across different circles. Candidates with valid proof of studying the local language in school (up to Class 10 or 12) may be considered for exemption from the LPT, subject to the bank’s final approval.

SBI Clerk LPT, Why it is important?

Customer-facing roles demand strong communication skills tailored to the demographic being served. The State Bank of India, through the LPT, ensures that its clerks can comfortably interact with customers in their native or preferred language, especially in rural and semi-urban branches. This aligns with SBI’s goal of inclusive, accessible, and community-driven banking services.

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Who Needs to Take the SBI Clerk LPT?

Not every candidate needs to sit for the Local Language Test. Here’s how to know if you’re required to appear:

  • Exempted: Candidates who submit their 10th or 12th mark sheet/certificate showing that the local language was one of the subjects studied are exempt from the test.
  • Required: Candidates who lack such proof must take the test as part of the final selection stage.

SBI Clerk LPT Expected Questions

While it’s not designed to be difficult, the test ensures candidates are functionally fluent in everyday usage of the language. The LPT generally includes:

  • Reading comprehension of simple regional texts
  • Basic writing exercises such as paragraph writing or word translation
  • Oral interaction to assess speaking fluency (varies by state)
CriteriaDescription
Test RequirementMandatory for those without proof of language studied in school
Language Skills TestedReading, writing, and basic speaking/comprehension
TimingPost-Mains exam, before final appointment
Consequence of FailingDisqualification from final selection
No Transfer PolicyCandidates must work in the same state they applied for; no inter-state transfers allowed

SBI Clerk LPT Languages

Below is a snapshot of some states and their corresponding local language requirements. A full list can be found in the official notification.

CircleState/UTLanguage(s)
AhmedabadGujaratGujarati
HyderabadTelanganaTelugu/Urdu
ChennaiTamil NaduTamil
KolkataWest BengalBengali/Nepali
LucknowUttar PradeshHindi/Urdu
ThiruvananthapuramKeralaMalayalam
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Type of Questions Asked in SBI Clerk Local Language Test

The following questions are asked in the SBI Clerk LPT:

  1. Identifying the incorrect spellings:
    • This task involves assessing a candidate’s ability to recognize and correct misspelled words. Candidates may encounter a list of words where they need to identify and rectify the incorrectly spelled ones.
  2. Basic MCQs or questions based on the local language:
    • Candidates will face multiple-choice questions (MCQs) that test their understanding of fundamental concepts, grammar, and vocabulary in the chosen local language. This ensures a broad evaluation of their language proficiency.
  3. Answering questions based on a paragraph/passage in the opted local language:
    • Candidates are presented with a passage or paragraph written in the chosen local language. They must comprehend the content and answer questions related to it, demonstrating both reading comprehension and analytical skills.
  4. Translation of a passage/paragraph in the opted local language:
    • This task assesses the candidate’s ability to convey the meaning of a given passage or paragraph from one language to another, emphasizing translation skills and linguistic accuracy.
  5. Fill in the blanks:
    • Candidates are provided with sentences with missing words, and they are required to fill in the blanks with the appropriate words. This evaluates their knowledge of vocabulary and contextual usage.
  6. Match the following:
    • This involves pairing items in one column with corresponding items in another column. Candidates need to correctly match elements, showcasing their understanding of language concepts, relationships, and associations.
  7. Write the Synonyms & Antonyms for the given words:
    • Candidates are presented with specific words, and they are tasked with providing synonyms (words with similar meanings) and antonyms (words with opposite meanings). This evaluates their depth of vocabulary and language nuances.
  8. Basic numerology based on the opted language can be asked:
    • This aspect involves incorporating basic numerology concepts into language-related questions. Candidates may need to associate numerical values with letters or words in the chosen language.
  9. Find lingual errors in the given passage:
    • Candidates are required to identify and correct errors in grammar, syntax, or language usage within a provided passage. This assesses their attention to detail and understanding of linguistic rules.

How to Prepare for the SBI Clerk LPT?

Preparing for the SBI Clerk LPT requires a focused approach to ensure proficiency in the chosen language. Here are some preparation tips to help you succeed:

  1. Understand the Test Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the test pattern, including the types of questions mentioned earlier. Understand how each section contributes to the overall assessment.
  2. Language Basics: Strengthen your understanding of basic grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure in the chosen local language. Focus on commonly used phrases and expressions.
  3. Reading Practice: Regularly read articles, passages, or books in the local language to enhance your reading comprehension skills. Pay attention to diverse topics and writing styles.
  4. Translation Practice: Practice translating passages from English or another language into the opted local language and vice versa. This helps improve your translation skills.
  5. Vocabulary Enhancement: Work on expanding your vocabulary by learning new words, their synonyms, and antonyms. Practice using them in sentences to ensure proper contextual understanding.
  6. Spellings and Grammar: Practice identifying and correcting spelling errors. Brush up on grammar rules, including verb conjugation, tenses, and sentence structure.
  7. Regular Practice: Consistency is key. Regular and focused practice is essential to build and retain language skills. Set aside dedicated study time each day for language preparation.
  8. Seek Guidance: If possible, seek guidance from language experts or teachers who can provide insights into specific language nuances and offer constructive feedback on your performance.
SBI Clerk scorecard 2025

What If You Don’t Clear the SBI Clerk LPT Test?

Unfortunately, failing the local language test leads to disqualification from the recruitment process—regardless of how well you’ve performed in earlier stages. That’s why it’s essential to either present valid documentation upfront or begin your preparation early if you’re required to take the test.