The SBI Circle Based Officer (CBO) Exam 2025 is a prestigious recruitment drive conducted by the State Bank of India to appoint eligible candidates as officers in its various regional circles across the country. Known for its competitive nature, the exam evaluates a candidate's proficiency through a structured two-stage online assessment comprising an Objective Test and a Descriptive Test. A clear understanding of the exam pattern is crucial for aspirants aiming to secure a position, as it helps streamline preparation, manage time effectively, and maximize performance in both sections of the test.
SBI CBO Exam Pattern 2025
The SBI CBO Exam 2025 is divided into two stages: the Objective Test and the Descriptive Test. The objective test comprises four sections—English Language, Banking Knowledge, General Awareness/Economy, and Computer Aptitude—with a total of 120 questions to be completed in 2 hours. Importantly, there is no negative marking in the objective test, allowing candidates to attempt all questions without fear of penalty. Following the objective test, candidates will take the descriptive test, which includes a formal letter-writing task and an essay on a banking-related topic. This stage evaluates the candidates' writing proficiency, with a total of 50 marks.
SBI Circle Based Officer Exam Pattern
The SBI CBO Exam Pattern 2025 comprises two written stages: an objective test and a descriptive test, both conducted online. The objective section evaluates knowledge across four areas, while the descriptive section tests writing ability.
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SBI CBO Objective Test Pattern
The objective test consists of four sections, each with a specific number of questions and marks. The total duration for the objective test is 2 hours. There is no negative marking, so candidates are encouraged to attempt all questions confidently.
| Section | No. of Questions | Max Marks | Duration |
|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 30 minutes |
| Banking Knowledge | 40 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| General Awareness/Economy | 30 | 30 | 30 minutes |
| Computer Aptitude | 20 | 20 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 120 | 120 | 2 hours |
SBI CBO Descriptive Test Pattern
In the descriptive test, candidates will be required to write a formal letter and an essay on a banking-related topic. This section is designed to assess candidates' writing skills, with a total of 50 marks.
| Topic | No. of Questions | Max Marks | Duration |
|---|
| Letter Writing | 01 | 25 | 30 mins |
| Essay (250 words) | 01 | 25 |
| Total | 02 | 50 |
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SBI CBO Marking Scheme
The SBI CBO exam has two parts: Objective Test (120 marks) and Descriptive Test (50 marks). There is no negative marking in the objective section, so you can attempt all questions without losing marks for wrong answers. The descriptive test includes letter and essay writing, which checks your writing skills. Marks from both tests are important for your final selection.
