The ECGC PO Exam Pattern 2026 helps candidates understand the structure of the examination and the stages involved in the selection process. The recruitment process consists of two main stages: an online written examination and an interview. Candidates must qualify in both stages to be considered for final selection. The online written examination is divided into two parts—an objective test and a descriptive test. Qualifying in both sections of the written exam is mandatory to move forward to the interview round.
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How is the ECGC PO written examination structured?
The ECGC PO written examination includes an objective test and a descriptive paper. The Objective Test is conducted online and consists of multiple-choice questions, while the Descriptive Test evaluates writing and language skills. A negative marking of 0.25 marks is applicable for each incorrect answer in the objective test. The total duration of the objective test is 140 minutes, comprising 200 questions.
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What is the ECGC PO Objective Test Pattern 2026?
The ECGC PO Objective Test is the first stage of the selection process. It assesses candidates on key areas such as reasoning ability, English language, quantitative aptitude, general awareness, and computer knowledge. For specialist posts, professional knowledge is also included. The test is designed to evaluate a candidate's speed, accuracy, and conceptual clarity.
What is the objective test pattern for ECGC PO generalist posts?
For generalist posts, the objective test covers reasoning ability, English language, quantitative aptitude, computer knowledge, and general awareness. The test consists of a total of 200 questions carrying 200 marks and is conducted over a duration of 140 minutes. Each section has a fixed time limit, and candidates must manage their time efficiently across all sections.
| Sr. No. | Name of the Test | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|
| 1 | Reasoning Ability | 50 | 50 | 40 minutes |
| 2 | English Language | 40 | 40 | 30 minutes |
| 3 | Computer Knowledge | 20 | 20 | 10 minutes |
| 4 | General Awareness | 40 | 40 | 20 minutes |
| 5 | Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 140 minutes |
What is the objective test pattern for ECGC PO specialist posts?
Candidates applying for Specialist (Rajbhasha/Hindi) posts appear for an objective test that includes reasoning ability, English language, general awareness, quantitative aptitude, and professional knowledge. The overall structure remains the same, with 200 questions for 200 marks and a total duration of 140 minutes.
| Sr. No. | Name of the Test | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|
| 1 | Reasoning Ability | 40 | 40 | 30 minutes |
| 2 | English Language | 40 | 40 | 20 minutes |
| 3 | General Awareness | 30 | 30 | 10 minutes |
| 4 | Quantitative Aptitude | 40 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| 5 | Professional Knowledge | 50 | 50 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 140 minutes |
What is the ECGC PO Descriptive Test Pattern 2026?
The Descriptive Test is conducted after the Objective Test and focuses on evaluating a candidate's writing skills. This test is conducted online, and answers must be typed within the given time limit.
- The test includes two questions – one essay writing and one précis writing.
- For each type, two topics will be given, and candidates need to choose one.
- The total marks for this section are 40 marks.
- The total duration is 40 minutes.
- Answers must be typed on the computer within the given time limit.
- This paper is an essential part of the exam, as it measures communication and comprehension skills, which are highly valued in the banking sector.
Descriptive Paper – Probationary Officers (Generalists)
For Generalist posts, the descriptive test checks how well candidates can write in English. It includes essay writing and precis writing. Candidates need to attempt one question from each type.
| S. No. | Type of Activity | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|
| 1 | Essay Writing (one out of two options) | 1 | 20 | 40 minutes for both questions |
| 2 | Precis Writing (one out of two options) | 1 | 20 |
Descriptive Paper – Probationary Officers (Rajbhasha / Hindi Specialist)
For Rajbhasha/Hindi Specialist posts, the descriptive test checks English essay writing and translation skills. Candidates must attempt one question from each activity, showing proficiency in both languages.
| S. No. | Type of Activity | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Allotted |
|---|
| 1 | Essay Writing (in English, one out of two options) | 1 | 20 | 40 minutes for both questions |
| 2 | Translation (one out of two options) | 1 | 20 |
What happens in the ECGC PO interview round?
Candidates who qualify in both the objective and descriptive tests are shortlisted for the interview round, which is the final stage of the ECGC PO selection process. The interview carries 60 marks and assesses professional knowledge, communication skills, and overall suitability for the probationary officer role. To qualify the interview, candidates must secure a minimum of 40% marks for the General category and 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD categories. The final merit list is prepared by giving 80% weightage to the online examination and 20% weightage to the interview.
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