The IBPS PO Exam Pattern 2025 is structured into three key stages Prelims, Mains, and Interview. The Preliminary exam is qualifying in nature and acts as the first filter for shortlisting candidates. The Mains exam plays a crucial role in determining the merit rank. Both Prelims and Mains are conducted in an online CBT format, featuring sectional timing and negative marking for incorrect answers. The final selection for IBPS PO 2025 is based on the combined score of the Mains exam and the Interview round.
IBPS PO Exam Pattern 2025
The IBPS PO Exam Pattern 2025 outlines the structure of the examination, including the number of questions, marking scheme, duration, and sectional weightage. Candidates preparing for the IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) exam must be familiar with the Prelims, Mains, and Interview stages to enhance their preparation strategy. The IBPS PO selection process is conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Exam—Qualifying in nature
- Mains Exam—Determines merit ranking
- Interview—Final selection round
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IBPS PO Prelims Revised Exam Pattern 2025
The preliminary exam consists of three sections with a total of 100 questions. The exam is objective (MCQ-based) and has a sectional time limit for each part.
- Negative marking: 1/4th of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Candidates must qualify in each section to proceed to the Mains.
IBPS PO Mains Revised Exam Pattern
The IBPS PO Mains Exam includes four objective sections along with a descriptive test for the English Language. The total duration of the exam is 3 hours and 10 minutes.
- The exam consists of objective (MCQs) and descriptive questions.
- Negative marking: 1/4th or 0.25 of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Candidates must clear both the sectional and overall cutoff to qualify for the interview.
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Medium of Exam | Time Duration |
|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 | English & Hindi | 50 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | English only | 40 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 50 | English & Hindi | 45 minutes |
| General Economy & Banking Awareness | 35 | 50 | English & Hindi | 25 minutes |
| Total (Objective) | 145 | 200 | | 160 minutes |
| English Language (Descriptive) | 2 | 25 | English only | 30 minutes |
| Grand Total | 147 | 225 | | 3 hours 10 minutes |
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IBPS PO Interview Process
Candidates who qualify the Main Exam are shortlisted for the interview, which assesses their personality, communication skills, and suitability for the banking sector.
- Total Marks: 100
- Qualifying Marks: 40% for General category; 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates
- Assessment Areas: Banking knowledge, current affairs, communication skills, leadership qualities, and problem-solving abilities
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IBPS PO Final Selection Criteria
The final selection of candidates for the Probationary Officer post is based on the combined performance in the Main Exam and Interview.
Mains Exam Weightage: 80%
- Interview Weightage: 20%
- Candidates who rank high in the merit list are selected as Probationary Officers (POs).
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IBPS PO Marking Scheme
The IBPS PO exam follows a strict marking scheme in both Prelims and Mains. Each correct answer awards 1 mark, while 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions. This makes accuracy essential for scoring well.
| Exam Stage | Correct Answer | Wrong Answer | Unattempted Questions |
|---|
| Prelims | Varies | -1/4th of the marks assigned to a question | No penalty |
| Mains (Objective) | Varies | -1/4th of the marks assigned to a question | No penalty |
| Mains (Descriptive) | Evaluated separately | Not applicable | Not applicable |
