Everything About IBPS PO Exam from Basics – exam pattern, syllabus, job profile, career growth, number of vacancies out, starting salary, preparation strategy, best books, courses, and test series, admit card, result, previous year cut-off analysis, and duration of preparation.
IBPS PO Exam Overview
| Name of Examination | IBPS PO |
| Full-Form of IBPS PO | Institute of Banking Personnel Selection Probationary Officer |
| Exam Organised Body | IBPS |
| Salary | ₹36000 |
| Vacancy Notification | every year |
| Notification release month | August-December |
| Application mode | Online |
| Qualification | graduation (Minimum Qualification) |
| Age Limit | 20 years-30 years |
| Application Fee | ₹600/- for GEN/OBC/EWS ₹100/ for SC/ST/PH/Female |
| Selection Process | Preliminary Examination, Mains Examination, Interview |
| Official Website | www.ibps.in |
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About IBPS PO Exam
The IBPS PO (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection Probationary Officer) exam is a highly competitive examination conducted by the IBPS for the recruitment of probationary officers in public sector banks in India. It is a three-stage selection process consisting of a preliminary exam, a main exam, and an interview. The exam assesses candidates’ proficiency in English, quantitative aptitude, reasoning ability, Computer Aptitude, and general awareness. It is conducted online and follows a standardized pattern across all participating banks. The IBPS PO exam provides a gateway to a promising career in the banking sector, offering candidates an opportunity to secure a prestigious position as a probationary officer in public sector banks.
Vacancy Notification
The notification for IBPS PO vacancies has varied from year to year. However, the average month when IBPS PO vacancies are typically notified is around August to December. The exact timing may vary depending on the specific year and the requirements of participating banks. It’s important for candidates to regularly check the official IBPS website (www.ibps.in) for the most up-to-date information regarding the notification of IBPS PO vacancies.
Number of Vacancies
The average number of vacancies in the IBPS PO exam is around 6,000. The number of vacancies varies from year to year, depending on the number of vacancies that are released by the participating banks. In 2022, there were a total of 6,932 vacancies for the IBPS PO exam.
The number of vacancies is expected to remain around the same in 2023. The IBPS PO exam is a very competitive exam, and lakhs of candidates apply for it every year. The competition for the IBPS PO exam is expected to remain high in the coming years.
Job Profile after Selection in IBPS PO Exam
After selection in the IBPS PO exam, candidates are appointed as Probationary Officers (PO) in public sector banks. The job profile of an IBPS PO involves a range of responsibilities. They handle customer queries, manage accounts, provide assistance in loan processing, and execute various banking operations. POs also analyze financial statements, assess creditworthiness, and make lending decisions. They are responsible for promoting banking products, achieving sales targets, and maintaining customer relationships. Additionally, POs may also be involved in administrative tasks, branch management, and implementing government policies. The job offers opportunities for career growth, learning, and a chance to contribute to the banking sector’s development.
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Post after Selection
After selection in the IBPS PO exam, candidates are appointed as Probationary Officers (PO) in public sector banks. As a PO, you will undergo a probationary period, typically ranging from 1 to 2 years, during which you will receive on-the-job training and exposure to various banking functions. Upon successful completion of the probationary period, you can be posted in different roles within the bank, such as branch manager, loan officer, credit analyst, relationship manager, or operations manager, depending on your performance, skills, and the bank’s requirements.
As a PO, you will be responsible for handling customer accounts, providing banking services, processing loans, managing cash transactions, resolving customer queries, and promoting bank products. You will also analyze financial documents, assess creditworthiness, and make lending decisions.
The job offers opportunities for career growth, promotions, and skill development. With experience and performance, you can aspire to reach higher positions like Assistant General Manager, Deputy General Manager, or General Manager within the bank.
Starting Salary
The starting salary of an IBPS PO after the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission varies based on several factors, including the bank’s policies and the location of the posting. However, as a general estimate, the basic pay of an IBPS PO after the 7th Pay Commission is ₹ 36000.
In addition to the basic pay, an IBPS PO is entitled to various allowances and benefits such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Medical Allowance, Travel Allowance, and Provident Fund (PF). These allowances and benefits may vary depending on the bank and the place of posting.
It’s important to note that the salary structure and allowances may be revised from time to time by the respective banks and as per government regulations. Candidates are advised to refer to the official notifications and specific bank policies for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the salary structure of IBPS PO after the 7th Pay Commission.
Career Growth
A career in IBPS PO offers ample opportunities for growth and progression. After joining as a Probationary Officer (PO), the career growth path typically involves the following stages:
- Assistant Manager: As a newly appointed PO, you start your career as an Assistant Manager. During the probationary period, you receive training and gain exposure to various banking functions.
- Branch Manager: With experience and performance, you can be promoted to the position of Branch Manager. As a Branch Manager, you will have increased responsibilities and manage the operations of a branch.
- Assistant General Manager (AGM): After gaining significant experience and demonstrating strong leadership skills, you can progress to the position of Assistant General Manager. In this role, you may be responsible for overseeing multiple branches or handling specialized departments.
- Deputy General Manager (DGM): Further progression in the hierarchy can lead you to the position of Deputy General Manager. As a DGM, you will have more strategic responsibilities and contribute to the bank’s decision-making processes.
- General Manager (GM): The highest position on the career ladder is that of General Manager. In this role, you will hold a senior leadership position, oversee multiple departments, and play a crucial role in shaping the bank’s policies and strategies.
It’s important to note that the time taken to progress through these stages may vary based on individual performance, vacancies, and other factors. Career growth in IBPS PO is based on merit, performance, and opportunities provided by the participating banks.
Selection Procedure of IBPS PO Exam
Selection Process For IBPS PO Examination 2023
The selection procedure for the IBPS PO exam involves three stages. Here are the stages,
Preliminary Exam: The IBPS PO Prelims exam is the first stage of selection, consisting of three sections: English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning. It is conducted online with a total duration of one hour.
Mains Exam: IBPS PO mains exam is the second stage of selection. It consists of five sections and is both objective and descriptive in nature. The total number of questions varies each year, but there is typically a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in the objective section.
Interview: The IBPS PO interview is the final stage of selection. It assesses the candidate’s personality, communication skills, and banking knowledge. There is no negative marking in the interview.
1. Preliminary Examination
The IBPS PO Preliminary Examination is the initial stage of the selection process. It is conducted online and comprises three sections: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability. The exam is of objective type with a total of 100 marks, and candidates are given one hour to complete it. Each correct answer carries one mark, while there is a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect response due to a negative marking. Qualifying for this exam is essential to progress to the Main Examination.
2. Mains Examination
The IBPS PO Mains Examination is the second stage of the selection process. It is conducted online and consists of sections: English Language, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, General / Economy /Banking Awareness, and English Language (Letter Writing & Essay). The exam is a combination of objective and descriptive type questions. The total marks for the mains exam generally range from 200 to 225, and there is typically a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in the objective section.
3. Interview
The IBPS PO interview is the final stage of the selection process. It evaluates the candidate’s communication skills, personality traits, and banking knowledge. It is conducted by participating banks. The interview assesses the candidate’s ability to handle various banking situations and their suitability for the role of a Probationary Officer. The interview carries significant weight in the final selection process. There is no negative marking in the interview.
Exam pattern
Preliminary
| Paper | No of Questions | Total Marks | Duration |
| English language | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 1 Hour |
The exam is of objective type with a total of 100 marks, and candidates are given one hour to complete it. Each correct answer carries one mark, while there is a penalty of 0.25 marks for each incorrect response due to a negative marking.
Mains
| Paper | No of Questions | Total Marks | Duration |
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (Section A and Section B) | 45 | 60 | 60 Minutes |
| English Language (Section A and Section B) | 35 | 40 | 40 Minutes |
| Data Analysis and Interpretation (Section A and Section B) | 35 | 60 | 45 Minutes |
| General, Economy/Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | 35 Minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 3 Hours |
| English Language (Letter Writing & Essay) | 2 | 25 | 30 Minutes |
| Total | 157 | 225 | 3 Hours 30 Minutes |
The IBPS PO Mains exam is divided into two parts:
Objective Test: This is a 155-question, 200-mark test that is divided into four sections, Reasoning & Computer Aptitude
English Language, Data Analysis & Interpretation, and General, Economy/Banking Awareness. There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in the objective test.
Descriptive Test: This is a 2-question that consists of a letter writing task and an essay writing task. The descriptive test does not have any negative markings.
The IBPS PO Mains Exam is a very competitive exam, and the cut-offs are usually very high. To clear the exam, it is important to prepare well and to answer as many questions correctly as possible.
Interview
The IBPS PO interview is the final stage of the selection process. It assesses a candidate’s communication skills, confidence, personality, and knowledge. The interview holds significant weightage in the final selection of candidates for the Probationary Officer position.
Detailed Syllabus of IBPS PO Exam
Preparation Strategy
Preparing for the IBPS PO exam requires a systematic and comprehensive approach. Here are some key strategies to help you in your preparation:
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus to know what topics and sections to focus on.
- Create a Study Plan: Make a study schedule that covers all the subjects and topics. Allocate dedicated time for each section and set achievable goals.
- Study Material: Gather the relevant study material, including books, online resources, and previous year’s question papers. Utilize trusted sources and study materials specifically designed for IBPS PO preparation.
- Understand Concepts: Focus on building a strong foundation in all the subjects. Understand and clarify basic concepts before moving on to advanced topics.
- Time Management: Practice time management while solving questions. Solve mock tests and previous year’s papers within the given time limits to improve speed and accuracy.
- Mock Tests and Practice: Regularly take mock tests and practice papers to assess your progress. Analyze your performance and identify weak areas to work on.
- Current Affairs: Stay updated with current affairs, especially in the banking and financial sector. Read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to enhance your knowledge.
- Revision: Regularly revise the topics you have studied to reinforce your learning. Make concise notes for quick revision during the final days.
- English Language Proficiency: Improve your English language skills by reading newspapers, books, and online articles. Practice grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension exercises.
- Stay Positive and Confident: Maintain a positive mindset and believe in your abilities. Stay motivated throughout the preparation process.
- Professional Guidance: Consider joining coaching classes or seeking guidance from experienced professionals to get expert tips and insights.
Remember, consistent effort, discipline, and regular practice are key to succeeding in the IBPS PO exam.
Best Books
Preparing for the IBPS PO exam involves referring to reliable and comprehensive study materials. While there are several books available in the market, here are some popular ones that candidates often consider for IBPS PO preparation:
- “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal
- “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning” by R.S. Aggarwal
- “Objective General English” by S.P. Bakshi
- “Banking Awareness” by Arihant Publications
- “Banking Awareness Guide” by Disha Publication
- “Data Interpretation & Data Sufficiency” by Kiran Publication
- “English Grammar in Use” by Raymond Murphy
- “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis
- “The Complete Success Package – Bank PO Recruitment Examination” by Arihant Publications
- “Objective Computer Awareness” by Arihant Publications
These books cover the various sections of the IBPS PO exam, such as quantitative aptitude, reasoning ability, English language, banking awareness, and computer knowledge. However, it’s important to note that book preferences may vary from person to person, and it is advisable to choose the ones that align with your learning style and needs.
Test Series
Nishant eAcademy is an online platform that provides test series specifically designed for the IBPS PO exam. Their test series aims to help candidates prepare effectively and assess their readiness for the actual examination. The test series offered by Nishant eAcademy typically include a wide range of mock tests, including both preliminary and main exams, to simulate the exam environment. These test series are designed to cover the entire syllabus and provide detailed solutions and explanations for better understanding. Utilizing a test series like Nishant eAcademy’s can be beneficial for candidates to practice and enhance their time management, accuracy, and overall performance in the IBPS PO exam.
Duration of Preparation
The duration of preparation for the IBPS PO exam can vary depending on various factors, including the candidate’s prior knowledge, study routine, availability of time, and learning abilities. However, it is generally recommended to allocate a sufficient amount of time for thorough preparation.
On average, candidates typically dedicate around 4 to 6 months for comprehensive preparation for the IBPS PO exam. This duration allows for covering the entire syllabus, understanding concepts, practicing mock tests, and revising the topics.
During the preparation period, candidates should establish a structured study routine, allocate dedicated time for each subject, solve practice questions, and regularly assess their progress through mock tests. Consistency, discipline, and regular practice are crucial for effective preparation.
It is important to note that the duration mentioned above is a general guideline, and individual circumstances may vary. Some candidates may require more or less time depending on their background knowledge, study commitments, and learning pace. It is advisable to create a personalized study plan and adjust the duration based on your specific needs and circumstances.
IBPS PO Result
The average month that the IBPS PO notifies of their results in April. The IBPS PO exam is conducted in the months of October and November, and the results are usually announced in April month.
The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) generally notifies the results of the IBPS PO exam within a few months after the completion of each stage of the selection process. However, the specific month when the results are announced may vary from year to year.
Preliminary exam results are usually announced within a month or two after the exam. The main exam results are typically declared around one to two months after the main exam is conducted. The final results, which include the combined scores of the main exam and interview, are usually published a few months after the interview process is completed.
It’s important to note that the exact timing of the result announcement may depend on various factors, including the number of candidates, the complexity of the evaluation process, and the administrative procedures involved. It is recommended to regularly check the official IBPS website or refer to the IBPS PO notification for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the result announcement.
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FAQs – IBPS PO Exam
How to prepare for the IBPS PO exam without coaching?
Preparing for the IBPS PO exam without coaching is definitely possible with the right approach and dedication. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the exam on your own:
1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the IBPS PO exam syllabus and exam pattern. Understand the topics and sections that need to be covered.
2. Create a Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all the subjects and topics. Allocate time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses. Stick to the plan consistently.
3. Gather Study Material: Collect reliable study materials such as books, online resources, previous year question papers, and mock tests. Utilize trusted sources that cover the entire syllabus comprehensively.
4. Learn from Online Resources: Make use of online resources like video tutorials, blogs, and educational websites that provide free or affordable study materials and practice questions. There are several websites and platforms dedicated to IBPS PO preparation.
5. Solve Previous Year Question Papers: Solve and analyze the previous year’s question papers to get familiar with the exam pattern and understand the types of questions asked. This will help you identify important topics and improve your time management skills.
6. Practice Mock Tests: Take online mock tests regularly to assess your preparation level and identify areas that require improvement. Mock tests help in getting accustomed to the exam environment, improving speed, and enhancing accuracy.
7. Self-Evaluation and Revision: Regularly evaluate your performance and identify weak areas. Revise and strengthen your understanding of important concepts. Take note of your mistakes and work on improving them.
8. Join Online Study Groups: Join online study groups or forums where you can discuss and share knowledge with fellow aspirants. This can provide additional support, guidance, and a platform for discussion.
9. Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read newspapers, follow news websites, and stay updated with current affairs, especially in the banking and financial sectors. This is crucial for the general awareness section of the exam.
10. Stay Motivated and Practice Regularly: Maintain a positive mindset, stay motivated, and be consistent in your preparation. Regular practice and perseverance are key to success.
Remember, self-discipline, dedication, and regular practice are essential when preparing for the IBPS PO exam without coaching. Use the available resources effectively and focus on building a strong conceptual understanding of the subjects.
How to start IBPS PO preparation?
To start your IBPS PO preparation, here are the steps you can follow:
1. Understand the Exam: Familiarize yourself with the IBPS PO exam pattern, syllabus, and selection process. Understand the sections, marking scheme, and time duration of each stage.
2. Create a Study Plan: Develop a study plan that outlines your daily, weekly, and monthly study schedule. Allocate time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses. Ensure that your plan is realistic and achievable.
3. Gather Study Material: Collect reliable study materials such as books, online resources, previous year question papers, and mock tests. Choose reputable sources that cover the entire syllabus comprehensively.
4. Focus on Basics: Start by building a strong foundation in each subject. Understand the basic concepts, formulas, and rules for topics covered in the syllabus.
5. Solve Practice Questions: Practice solving a variety of questions from each section. Start with easy questions and gradually move to more challenging ones. Solve topic-wise questions and gradually progress to full-length mock tests.
6. Take Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to assess your preparation level, identify weak areas, and improve time management and accuracy. Analyze your performance, review the solutions, and work on your weak areas.
7. Revise Regularly: Set aside time for regular revision of all the topics you have studied. Make concise notes or flashcards for quick revision during the final days.
8. Stay Updated with Exam Notifications: Keep an eye on the official IBPS website or other reliable sources for exam notifications, updates, and changes in the exam pattern or syllabus.
Remember, starting early, being consistent, and practicing regularly are key to succeeding in the IBPS PO exam. Stay focused, maintain a disciplined approach, and continuously evaluate your progress to make necessary improvements.