||After Graduation (Government & Professional Jobs/Banking & Insurance )||

Written by Mumtaj Khan

Oct 29, 2025

Complete Guide to SBI PO and Clerk Exams: Salary, Syllabus & Online Application

Overview of SBI PO and Clerk Exams

The SBI PO exam is conducted to recruit Probationary Officers, who are entry-level management professionals responsible for supervising branch operations, managing customer services, and ensuring smooth financial activities. The SBI Clerk exam, on the other hand, recruits Junior Associates, who handle front-desk operations, customer queries, and account management. Both positions provide excellent growth opportunities in India’s largest public sector bank.

SBI PO Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the SBI PO exam, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. The age limit is generally between 21 to 30 years, with relaxation for SC/ST/OBC and other reserved categories as per government norms. Final-year students can also apply, provided they can produce proof of graduation at the time of document verification.

SBI Clerk Eligibility Criteria

For the SBI Clerk exam, candidates must also possess a Bachelor’s degree in any stream from a recognized university. The minimum age requirement is 20 years, and the upper age limit is 28 years, with relaxation for reserved categories. Candidates should also have basic computer knowledge and proficiency in the official language of the state where they apply.

SBI PO Exam Pattern

The SBI PO exam pattern consists of three stages — Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, and Interview/Group Discussion.

Prelims: This stage includes three sections — English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability — conducted online for 100 marks.

Mains: It includes Objective and Descriptive tests. The objective test covers Reasoning, Data Analysis, General Awareness, and English, while the descriptive test includes essay and letter writing.

Interview: Shortlisted candidates from Mains appear for Group Exercises and Interviews to evaluate leadership, communication, and analytical abilities.

SBI Clerk Exam Pattern

The SBI Clerk selection process includes two stages — Preliminary and Main Examination.

Prelims: The exam consists of English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability for a total of 100 marks.

Mains: This stage includes General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude. The final selection is based on the marks obtained in the Main exam only.

SBI PO Syllabus

The SBI PO syllabus covers a wide range of topics from quantitative aptitude to general awareness. Important areas include simplification, data interpretation, number series, puzzles, seating arrangement, syllogism, reading comprehension, and grammar. For general awareness, candidates must stay updated with current events, economic developments, and banking awareness.

SBI Clerk Syllabus

The SBI Clerk syllabus is similar to that of PO but slightly easier. It includes reasoning ability, quantitative aptitude, English language, and general/financial awareness. Candidates should also focus on computer aptitude and basic knowledge of banking terminologies to score well in the exam.

SBI PO and Clerk Salary Structure

The SBI PO salary starts at a basic pay of around ₹41,960 per month, excluding allowances such as HRA, DA, CCA, and other perks. The gross monthly salary can go up to ₹70,000 per month. The SBI Clerk salary starts at a basic pay of around ₹19,900, with total in-hand salary ranging from ₹26,000 to ₹32,000, depending on location and allowances. Both roles come with benefits like medical facilities, pension, loan concessions, and leave encashment.

Career Growth in SBI

The career growth in SBI is one of the best among public sector banks. A Clerk can be promoted to Trainee Officer, Junior Manager, and eventually to senior managerial positions. Similarly, a PO can rise to the level of Deputy Manager, Branch Manager, AGM, DGM, and even General Manager. The bank also offers internal exams and training programs for faster promotions.

How to Apply for SBI PO / Clerk Exam

Candidates can apply online through the official SBI website (www.sbi.co.in). The process includes registration, filling in personal and academic details, uploading a photo and signature, and paying the application fee. Applicants must ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria before applying. After successful submission, candidates can download their admit cards from the website.

SBI PO / Clerk Exam Preparation Tips

Preparation for SBI exams requires a balanced approach between speed and accuracy. Aspirants should start by understanding the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly. Regular practice of mock tests and previous year papers helps improve performance. Reading newspapers like The Hindu or Economic Times strengthens general awareness and vocabulary. Time management and daily revision are key to clearing these exams.

Importance of SBI PO / Clerk Job

Working with the State Bank of India is not just a career—it’s an opportunity to serve the nation’s largest bank and impact millions of lives. The job offers financial stability, respect, and opportunities for both professional and personal growth. It’s an ideal choice for students seeking a long-term, secure, and rewarding government career.

Why Choose a Career in SBI?

SBI provides one of the best work environments in the Indian banking industry. With exposure to modern banking practices, digital systems, and customer service excellence, employees gain valuable skills that ensure continuous career progression. The job also provides opportunities for foreign postings and advanced training programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Candidates must have a graduation degree from a recognized university and be between 21 to 30 years old.

A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline is required. The age limit is between 20 and 28 years.

No, the selection for SBI Clerk is based on marks obtained in the Mains examination only.

An SBI PO earns around ₹70,000 per month including allowances, while an SBI Clerk earns between ₹26,000 and ₹32,000.

Focus on conceptual clarity, practice mock tests regularly, and stay updated with banking and current affairs.

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