SBI PO Selection Process 2025 for Prelims, Mains, and Interview

The State Bank of India (SBI) conducts the SBI PO exam annually, attracting aspirants seeking a prestigious government job. Understanding the selection process is crucial for candidates after completing the application process. The SBI PO Selection Process 2025 consists of three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Group Exercises & Interview. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the process, helping you prepare effectively for each phase.

SBI PO Selection Process 2025

The selection process involves two written exams—Prelims and Mains—followed by an interview and group exercise. Below is an overview of the selection process:

DetailsDescription
Conducting BodyState Bank of India
Post NameProbationary Officer
Selection StagesPrelims, Mains, Interview
Marks DistributionPrelims: 100, Mains: 200
Negative Marking0.25 marks per wrong answer
LocationAcross India
Official Websitewww.sbi.co.in

Stages of SBI PO Selection Process

Candidates must qualify at each stage to proceed to the next. Below is an outline of the stages:

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  1. Preliminary Exam
  2. Main Exam
  3. Group Exercises & Interview

SBI PO Prelims Exam Pattern

The Prelims Exam is the first step and evaluates basic aptitude in three sections. It consists of 100 questions for a total of 100 marks, with a time limit of 1 hour.

  • One mark is awarded for each correct answer.
  • There is a penalty of 0.25 marks for incorrect answers.
  • Questions are bilingual (English and Hindi), except for the English section.
SectionNo. of QuestionsMarksTime Allotted
English Language404020 minutes
Quantitative Aptitude303020 minutes
Reasoning Ability303020 minutes
Total1001001 Hour

SBI PO Mains Exam Pattern

The Main Exam is more comprehensive and divided into an Objective Test and a Descriptive Paper.

  • Separate timing is allocated for each section.
  • Negative marking of 0.25 marks applies to objective questions.
  • The Descriptive Paper is mandatory and evaluates writing skills.

Objective Test Structure:

SectionNo. of QuestionsMarksTime Allotted
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude406050 minutes
General Economy/Banking Awareness606045 minutes
English Language404040 minutes
Data Analysis & Interpretation306045 minutes
Total (Objective)1702003 Hours

Descriptive Paper Structure

TaskMarksTime Allotted
Letter Writing & Essay Writing5030 minutes

Group Exercises & Interview

This final stage evaluates a candidate’s personality, communication, and problem-solving abilities. A psychometric test may also be conducted to assist the panel in understanding candidates better. Marks from the Main Exam and Interview are combined to determine the final selection.

How to Prepare for the SBI PO Selection?

  1. Understand the Pattern and Syllabus: Begin by thoroughly reviewing the exam structure and topics.
  2. Focus on Core Areas: Strengthen quantitative aptitude, reasoning, English, and general awareness.
  3. Practice Writing: Work on essay and letter writing to excel in the descriptive test.
  4. Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
  5. Stay Updated: Read current affairs and banking news for interview preparation.
  6. Enhance Communication Skills: Prepare for the Group Exercise and Interview by practicing with peers or mentors.


SBI PO Selection Process – FAQs

Q1. What is the SBI PO Selection Process?

A1. The SBI PO Selection process is based on three stages i.e. Prelims, Mains and Psychometric Test (Group Talk/Interview).

Q2. Is there negative marking in SBI PO Prelims?

A2. Yes, SBI PO Prelims has a 0.25 negative mark for every incorrect answer.

Q3. Is there negative marking in SBI PO Mains?

A3. Yes, SBI PO Mains has a 0.25 negative mark for every incorrect answer.

Q4. Is there a descriptive writing section in SBI PO?

A4. Yes, the SBI PO Mains exam has a descriptive writing section of 2 questions, 50 marks.

Q5. What is the SBI PO Psychometric Test?

A5. The SBI PO Psychometric Test is a personality test that is used to study how a potential employee behaves in different situations.

Q6. What is the SBI PO Group Exercise?

A6. The SBI PO Group Exercise is a selection round conducted as part of the SBI PO recruitment process. It is designed to assess the communication and interpersonal skills of the candidates.

Q7. What is the weightage of the SBI PO Personal Interview?

A7. The SBI PO Personal Interview has a weightage of 30 out of 50 marks.

Q8. What is the weightage of the SBI PO Group Exercise?

A8. The SBI PO Group Exercise has a weightage of 20 out of 50 marks.

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