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:
Details | Description |
Conducting Body | State Bank of India |
Post Name | Probationary Officer |
Selection Stages | Prelims, Mains, Interview |
Marks Distribution | Prelims: 100, Mains: 200 |
Negative Marking | 0.25 marks per wrong answer |
Location | Across India |
Official Website | www.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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- Preliminary Exam
- Main Exam
- 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.
Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Allotted |
English Language | 40 | 40 | 20 minutes |
Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
Total | 100 | 100 | 1 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:
Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Allotted |
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 | 50 minutes |
General Economy/Banking Awareness | 60 | 60 | 45 minutes |
English Language | 40 | 40 | 40 minutes |
Data Analysis & Interpretation | 30 | 60 | 45 minutes |
Total (Objective) | 170 | 200 | 3 Hours |
Descriptive Paper Structure
Task | Marks | Time Allotted |
Letter Writing & Essay Writing | 50 | 30 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?
- Understand the Pattern and Syllabus: Begin by thoroughly reviewing the exam structure and topics.
- Focus on Core Areas: Strengthen quantitative aptitude, reasoning, English, and general awareness.
- Practice Writing: Work on essay and letter writing to excel in the descriptive test.
- Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
- Stay Updated: Read current affairs and banking news for interview preparation.
- Enhance Communication Skills: Prepare for the Group Exercise and Interview by practicing with peers or mentors.
- SBI PO Exam Centres 2025 – PET, Prelims & Mains Exam Centres
- SBI PO Exam Date 2025, Check Prelims & Mains Exam Schedule
- SBI PO Work Life Balance, Job Profile and Work Explained
- Ideal Typing Speed For SBI PO Mains Descriptive Exam
- SBI PO Previous Year Cut Off 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018
- SBI PO 2025 Notification, Prelims Exam Date Out, Admit Card Link
SBI PO Selection Process – FAQs
A1. The SBI PO Selection process is based on three stages i.e. Prelims, Mains and Psychometric Test (Group Talk/Interview).
A2. Yes, SBI PO Prelims has a 0.25 negative mark for every incorrect answer.
A3. Yes, SBI PO Mains has a 0.25 negative mark for every incorrect answer.
A4. Yes, the SBI PO Mains exam has a descriptive writing section of 2 questions, 50 marks.
A5. The SBI PO Psychometric Test is a personality test that is used to study how a potential employee behaves in different situations.
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.
A7. The SBI PO Personal Interview has a weightage of 30 out of 50 marks.
A8. The SBI PO Group Exercise has a weightage of 20 out of 50 marks.

Hello, I’m Aditi, the creative mind behind the words at Oliveboard. As a content writer specializing in state-level exams, my mission is to unravel the complexities of exam information, ensuring aspiring candidates find clarity and confidence. Having walked the path of an aspirant myself, I bring a unique perspective to my work, crafting accessible content on Exam Notifications, Admit Cards, and Results.
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