About the Recruitment
The State Bank of India (SBI) has announced a major recruitment initiative for the position of Probationary Officer (PO) for the year 2026, inviting applications from eligible Indian citizens. This recruitment drive, managed by the Central Recruitment & Promotion Department, aims to fill 1,500 vacancies, offering a prestigious career path within India's largest public sector bank. Aspiring candidates have a unique opportunity to join a leading financial institution that plays a crucial role in the nation's economic growth and serves millions of lives daily. The selection process involves a rigorous three-phase examination, ensuring that only the most capable individuals are chosen to become future leaders of the banking industry.
Post-wise and Category-wise Vacancy Details
The SBI PO 2026 recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 1,500 Probationary Officer positions. These vacancies are distributed across various categories, including both regular and backlog positions, to ensure inclusive representation. The detailed breakdown of vacancies is provided in the table below:
| Category | Regular Vacancies | Backlog Vacancies | Total Vacancies |
|---|
| Scheduled Caste (SC) | 210 | 18 | 228 |
| Scheduled Tribe (ST) | 105 | 36 | 141 |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC) | 390 | 0 | 390 |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | 144 | 0 | 144 |
| Unreserved (UR) | 588 | 0 | 588 |
| Grand Total | 1437 | 54 | 1500 |
Additionally, horizontal reservation for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) is provided across the total vacancies:
| PwBD Category | Horizontal Vacancies |
|---|
| Visually Impaired (VI) | 15 |
| Hearing Impaired (HI) | 15 |
| Locomotor Disability (LD) | 14 |
| Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD-M) / Mental Illness (MI) / Multiple Disabilities (MD) | 14 |
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the Probationary Officer position with State Bank of India must meet specific educational qualifications as of 30 September 2026. The primary requirement is a graduation degree in any discipline from a university recognized by the Central Government of India, or any equivalent qualification deemed acceptable by the Central Government.
Applicants who are currently in their final year or final semester of graduation are also eligible to apply provisionally. However, such candidates must provide proof of having passed their graduation examination on or before 30 September 2026, if they are called for an interview. Similarly, candidates holding an Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) certificate must ensure that their passing date is on or before 30 September 2026. Professionals with qualifications such as Medical, Engineering, Chartered Accountancy, or Cost Accountancy are also considered eligible for this recruitment. The date of passing the eligibility examination will be determined by the date appearing on the mark sheet or provisional certificate issued by the University or Institute. If the result is posted online, the date of posting on the website will be considered the passing date.
Age Limit and Relaxation
The age limit for candidates applying for the SBI PO 2026 recruitment is set as of 01 April 2026. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and not older than 30 years. This means candidates should have been born not earlier than 02 April 1996 and not later than 01 April 2005, with both dates inclusive.
Age relaxation provisions are available for candidates belonging to specific reserved categories as per government norms. The details of these relaxations are outlined in the table below:
| Category | Age Relaxation (in years) | Maximum Age (as of 01.04.2026) |
|---|
| Other Backward Classes (OBC) (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 | 33 years |
| Scheduled Castes / Scheduled Tribes (SC / ST) | 5 | 35 years |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) (UR / EWS) | 10 | 40 years |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) (OBC) | 13 | 43 years |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) (SC / ST) | 15 | 45 years |
| Ex-Servicemen, Commissioned Officers (including ECOs / SSCOs) | 5 | 35 years |
It is important to note that cumulative age relaxation will not be available. Candidates seeking age relaxation must submit necessary certificates during the Group Exercise/Interview stage. No changes to the category will be permitted after online registration.
Application Fee and Payment Method
Candidates applying for the SBI PO 2026 recruitment are required to pay an application fee, which is non-refundable. The fee structure varies based on the candidate's category:
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|
| Unreserved (UR) / Economically Weaker Section (EWS) / Other Backward Classes (OBC) Candidates | ₹750/- |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) Candidates | Nil |
The application fee must be paid exclusively through online modes. Accepted payment methods include debit cards, credit cards, Internet Banking, and UPI. Any transaction charges incurred during the online payment process will be borne by the candidate. Once the fee is paid, it will not be refunded under any circumstances, nor can it be held in reserve for any other examination or selection process. Candidates are advised to complete the payment within the specified dates to ensure their application is successfully registered.
Selection Process
The selection process for the State Bank of India Probationary Officer (PO) position is comprehensive and structured into three distinct phases to identify suitable candidates.
- Phase-I: Preliminary Examination
This is the initial stage, consisting of an online objective test for 100 marks. It serves as a qualifying examination, and marks obtained in this phase are not considered for the final merit list. Candidates are shortlisted for the Main Examination based on their aggregate scores in this phase, with approximately 10 times the number of vacancies in each category moving forward.
- Phase-II: Main Examination
The Main Examination is conducted online and comprises two parts: an Objective Test for 200 marks and a Descriptive Test for 30 marks. The descriptive test is administered immediately after the objective test, requiring candidates to type their answers on a computer. Candidates must achieve a minimum qualifying score in each section of the Main Examination.
- Phase-III: Psychometric Test, Group Exercise & Personal Interview
Candidates shortlisted from Phase-II undergo a Psychometric Test, which assesses personality profiles. The findings of this test are used by the Interview panel. This phase also includes a Group Exercise (20 marks) and a Personal Interview (30 marks). Candidates must qualify in both the Group Exercise and Interview stages.
- Final Selection
The final merit list is prepared by combining the normalized marks obtained in Phase-II (Main Examination) and Phase-III (Group Exercise & Personal Interview). The marks from the Preliminary Examination are not included in the final selection. Provisional selection lists are generated based on the top merit-ranked candidates in each category.
- Document Verification
Selected candidates will undergo thorough verification of their original documents to confirm their eligibility and the accuracy of information provided in their application.
- Medical Examination
Appointment is contingent upon candidates being declared medically fit as per the Bank's requirements.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The SBI PO recruitment examination is structured into three phases, each with a specific pattern and syllabus.
Phase-I: Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is an online objective test with a total duration of 1 hour and 100 marks. It consists of three sections:
| Subject | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 1 hour |
There is no sectional cut-off in the preliminary examination. Candidates are shortlisted for the Main Examination based on their aggregate scores.
Phase-II: Main Examination
The Main Examination is an online test comprising both objective and descriptive sections.
(i) Objective Test
This section has a duration of 3 hours and carries a total of 200 marks, divided into four sections:
| Test | Name of the Test | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|
| I | Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 | 50 minutes |
| II | Data Analysis & Interpretation | 30 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| III | General Awareness / Economy / Banking Knowledge | 50 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| IV | English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 3 hours |
(ii) Descriptive Paper: Communication Skills
This section is administered immediately after the objective test, with a duration of 30 minutes and a total of 30 marks. Candidates must type their answers on the computer. It typically includes:
- Emails (1 out of 2 options)
- Situation Analysis (1 out of 2 options)
- Either Reports writing or Precis Writing (Anyone out of 2 options)
The grand total for the Main Examination (Objective + Descriptive) is 230 marks over 3 hours and 30 minutes. Candidates must achieve a minimum qualifying score in each test/section of the Main Examination.
Penalty for Wrong Answers
A penalty system is in place for both Preliminary and Main Objective Tests. For every question answered incorrectly, one-fourth (1/4th) of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted as a penalty. No penalty is applied for questions left blank.
Phase-III: Psychometric Test, Group Exercise & Personal Interview
This phase consists of a Psychometric Test, a Group Exercise (20 marks), and a Personal Interview (30 marks), totaling 50 marks. The Psychometric Test helps in personality profiling, and its findings are used by the interview panel. Candidates must achieve minimum qualifying marks in the Group Exercise and Interview combined.
Pay Scale and Benefits
The State Bank of India offers an attractive remuneration package for Probationary Officers (POs), designated as Junior Management Grade Scale-I. Currently, the starting basic pay for a PO is ₹48,480/-, which includes four advance increments. In addition to the basic pay, officers are eligible for various allowances and perquisites as per the Bank's rules in force from time to time. These include Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), City Compensatory Allowance (CCA), Provident Fund (PF), Contributory Pension Fund (NPS), Leave Fare Concession (LFC), Medical Facility, and Lease Rental Facility. The approximate Cost to Company (CTC) at the initial scale of pay for a posting in Mumbai Centre is ₹21.97 Lacs per annum.
Upon joining, selected candidates will be designated as Probationary Officers and will undergo a probation period of two years. They will be subject to continuous assessment, and their confirmation in service will depend on meeting the Bank's performance standards. The Bank also requires selected candidates to execute a bond for ₹2.00 Lacs, committing to serve the Bank for a minimum period of three years. This bond will be invoked if a candidate resigns from service before the completion of three years. SBI provides immense opportunities for career growth, including potential postings abroad, and a robust promotion policy that allows meritorious officers to reach top management grades swiftly.
How to Apply — Step by Step
Candidates interested in applying for the SBI PO 2026 recruitment must complete their application online. No other mode of application will be accepted. The application window is from 18 June 2026 to 08 July 2026.
Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process:
- Pre-requisites: Ensure you have a valid email ID and mobile number, which must remain active until the declaration of results for all communications from the Bank.
- Scan Documents: Before applying, prepare scanned (digital) images of your photograph, signature, left-hand thumb impression, and a hand-written declaration as per the specifications provided in Annexure-II of the official notification. You will also need to capture and upload a live photograph via webcam or mobile phone during registration.
- Visit Official Website: Navigate to the Bank's 'Career' website at https://sbi.bank.in/web/careers/current-openings.
- Register Online: Find the advertisement for CRPD/PO/2026-27/09 under 'Current Openings' and click on the online application link.
- Fill Application Form: Carefully fill in all required details in the online application form. You can save your progress and edit the form using the provisional registration number and password generated by the system.
- Upload Documents: Upload the scanned photograph, signature, left-hand thumb impression, and hand-written declaration in the designated spaces. Ensure the images are clear and meet the specified size and format requirements.
- Review and Submit: Before final submission, thoroughly review all entered information for accuracy. No changes or edits will be permitted after final submission.
- Pay Application Fee: Proceed to pay the application fee through the integrated payment gateway using a debit card, credit card, Internet Banking, or UPI.
- Print Confirmation: After successful payment, an e-receipt and the application form will be generated. Print these for your records. If the transaction is unsuccessful, register and pay again.
Candidates provide consent for data collection and processing as per the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, for recruitment purposes. For any issues during application or payment, candidates can contact the helpdesk at 022-22820427 (11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on working days) or lodge a query on
http://cgrs.ibps.in, mentioning 'RECRUITMENT OF PROBATIONARY OFFICERS IN STATE BANK OF INDIA - 2026' in the subject.
Documents Required
Candidates must ensure they have the following documents ready for the application and selection process:
- Scanned Photograph: A recent passport-style color picture, taken against a light-colored, preferably white background.
- Scanned Signature: Signature in black ink on white paper.
- Scanned Left-Hand Thumb Impression: Impression in black or blue ink on white paper. If the left thumb is unavailable, the right thumb impression can be used.
- Scanned Hand-Written Declaration: The declaration text, written in English with black ink on white paper, stating: "I, (Name of the candidate), (Date of Birth) hereby declare that all the information submitted by me in the application form is correct, true and valid. I will present the supporting documents as and when required. The signature, photograph and left-hand thumb impression is of mine".
- Photo Identity Proof: Original and self-attested photocopy of Passport, Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Driving License, Voter's ID Card, Bank Passbook with attested photograph, or Identity Card issued by School/College/Gazetted Officer. This must be presented at the examination hall.
- Call Letters: Preliminary Exam Call Letter (duly authenticated/stamped), Main Exam Call Letter, and Phase-III Call Letter.
- Caste Certificate: For SC/ST/OBC candidates, a valid certificate issued by a Competent Authority in the prescribed Government of India format. OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) certificate must be issued on or after 01 April 2026.
- Income & Asset Certificate: For EWS candidates, a valid certificate issued by a Competent Authority for Financial Year 2025-26, valid for Year 2026-27.
- Disability Certificate: For PwBD candidates, a latest certificate issued by a Competent Authority as per Government of India guidelines, dated on or before the last date of registration.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Required from the employer if currently serving in Government/Quasi Government Offices, Public Sector Undertakings, including Nationalized Banks and Financial Institutions, at the time of interview.
- Aadhaar Card: A valid Aadhaar card is advisable for the process, as online Aadhaar verification may be conducted at various stages.
- Additional Photographs: Retain at least 8 copies of the photograph uploaded during online registration for future stages.
Important Dates
The State Bank of India has outlined a tentative schedule for the Probationary Officer recruitment process. Candidates should note these dates carefully to avoid missing any deadlines.
| Event | Date |
|---|
| Online Registration of Application & Payment of Fees | 18 June 2026 to 08 July 2026 |
| Download of Preliminary Exam Call Letters | 2nd / 3rd week July 2026 onwards |
| Phase-I: Online Preliminary Examination | August 2026 |
| Declaration of Result of Preliminary Examination | August / September 2026 |
| Download of Main Exam Call Letter | August / September 2026 |
| Phase-II: Online Main Examination | September 2026 |
| Declaration of Result of Main Examination | October / November 2026 |
| Download Call Letter for Phase-III | October / November 2026 |
| Phase-III: Psychometric Test, Group Exercises & Interview | October / November 2026 |
| Final Result | November / December 2026 |
| Pre-Examination Training for SC/ ST/ OBC/ PwBD candidates | July 2026 |
Important Links
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates and announcements regarding the SBI PO 2026 recruitment.
The Bank emphasizes that all further announcements and details will be published solely on its career portal. No separate advertisements or corrigendum will be issued.
