Upcoming Bank Exams 2026: SBI, IBPS, IBPS RRBs, Insurance Exams

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Published on 23 December 2025 by
Upcoming Bank Exams 2026

Banking exams continue to be one of the most preferred career options in India. Every year, major organizations like IBPS, SBI, and RRB conduct national-level exams to recruit candidates for various posts such as PO, Clerk, SO, Assistant, and Officer roles. If you are planning to build a career in banking, staying updated with the exam calendar for 2026 is essential for timely preparation. Below are expected upcoming bank exams in 2026, based on the tentative exam schedule.

Upcoming Bank Exams 2026

The following table lists important banking exams expected in 2026, along with tentative exam timelines and registration periods. Dates marked as “–” indicate that official details are yet to be announced.

Exam NameExam Dates (Expected)Registration Dates
PNB LBO 2025–26December 2025 / January 20263rd–23rd November 2025
ECGC PO 2025–2611th January 202611th Nov – 2nd Dec 2025
SBI Clerk 2026Prelims & Mains: —August 2026
IBPS Clerk 2026Prelims & Mains: —August 2026
SBI PO 2026Prelims & Mains: —July 2026
IBPS PO 2026Prelims & Mains: —July 2026
IBPS SO 2026Prelims & Mains: —July 2026
SBI CBO 2026Online Exam: —May 2026
RBI Assistant 2026Prelims & Mains: ——
IDBI Junior Assistant Manager 2026Online Exam: ——
IDBI SO 2026Online Exam: ——
SBI Apprentice 2026Online Exam: ——
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Upcoming Insurance Exams 2026

Insurance exams are also an important opportunity for aspirants targeting stable government jobs. Below are the key insurance exams expected in 2026.

Exam NameExam Dates (Expected)Registration Dates
OICL AO 2026Prelims: 10 Jan 2026
Mains: 28 Feb 2026		3rd–18th Dec 2025
OICL Assistant 2026Exam Date: ——
NICL AO 2026Exam Date: ——
NICL Assistant 2026Exam Date: ——
NIACL AO 2026Exam Date: ——
NIACL Assistant 2026Exam Date: ——
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Major Recruiting Bodies Conducting Bank Exams

Most banking examinations in India are conducted by a few key organizations. These bodies release notifications, conduct exams, and manage the recruitment process every year.

  • Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS)
  • State Bank of India (SBI)
  • Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
  • NABARD
  • IDBI Bank
  • Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)
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Selection Process for Bank Exams 2026

The selection process generally includes multiple stages depending on the post. Most exams follow a two- or three-stage format.

  • Preliminary Examination
  • Main Examination
  • Interview / Language Proficiency Test (where applicable)

Bank Exams vs. Insurance Exams: What to Choose?

Both sectors provide stable careers, but they differ in job roles, work profile, and exam pattern. Below are clear comparison pointers to help aspirants decide better:

Bank Exams

  • Faster and more frequent recruitment throughout the year
  • Roles include PO, Clerk, SO, Assistant, and RRB Officer
  • Work involves customer handling, operations, and financial services
  • Higher transfer chances, especially in public sector banks
  • Good career growth with regular promotions

Insurance Exams

  • Fewer vacancies but more specialized officer-level posts
  • Roles focus on underwriting, claims, risk assessment, and administration
  • Comparatively stable postings with fewer transfers
  • The work profile is more desk-oriented and technical
  • Suitable for candidates preferring structured and specialized roles

Which Is Better?

  • Choose bank exams if you want frequent opportunities and faster entry
  • Choose insurance exams if you prefer officer-level roles with specialization
  • Applying for both increases overall selection chances

FAQs

Q1: When will the bank exam notifications for 2026 be released?
A1: Most bank exam notifications for 2026 are expected to be released between May and September 2026, depending on the exam and conducting authority.

Q2: Can I apply for multiple bank exams in 2026?
A2: Yes, candidates can apply for multiple bank exams in the same year as long as they meet the eligibility criteria for each exam.

Q3: Are the Bank Exam 2026 dates officially confirmed?
A3: No, the dates mentioned are expected or tentative. Official confirmation will be released through notifications by IBPS, SBI, RBI, and other bodies.

Q4: Is the syllabus similar for bank and insurance exams?
A4: The basic sections like quantitative aptitude, reasoning, and English are similar, but insurance exams include more focus on professional knowledge and insurance awareness.

Q5: Is 2026 a good year to start preparing for bank exams?
A5: Yes, starting preparation in 2026 is ideal, as it gives aspirants enough time to build concepts, practice mock tests, and revise effectively before the exams.