SBI PO 2025 Changes, A Comparative Analysis with 2024: The State Bank of India (SBI) has introduced notable changes in its SBI PO Notification 2025, showcasing its evolving approach to recruitment. These updates aim to assess candidates more comprehensively, reflecting the dynamic needs of the banking industry. With a reduced number of vacancies and revamped exam patterns, the competition for SBI PO is fiercer than ever. Below is a detailed analysis of the key differences between the 2024 and 2025 notifications.
Changes in SBI PO Exam Pattern
One of the major changes introduced in SBI PO is in the exam pattern. There are changes in SBI PO Prelims, Mains, and Descriptive Test. Take a look at it:
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 2024
The number of SBI PO vacancies has been drastically reduced.
- 2024 Vacancies: 2000 positions.
- 2025 Vacancies: 600 positions.
This steep decline significantly increases competition and is likely to raise cut-off scores.
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 Notification 2025 underscores SBI’s intent to evaluate candidates on diverse competencies while raising the bar for entry into this prestigious role. The revamped exam patterns, reduced vacancies, and enhanced emoluments reflect the bank’s commitment to attracting top talent. Aspirants must adapt their preparation strategies to excel in this increasingly competitive landscape.
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