Information checked in October 2026. This comparison is independent.
Public sector bank jobs remain attractive for their stability, pensions and growth paths. Many IT and private-sector employees move into banking through IBPS PO and Clerk, SBI PO and Clerk, and RBI Assistant or Grade B exams. Exam calendars and patterns are announced by the recruiting bodies each year, so always confirm the latest on their official sites.
Typical structure (check each notification)
- Prelims: English, Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude, with sectional timing.
- Mains: Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, English, and General, Economy and Banking Awareness. PO Mains often includes a descriptive paper.
- PO only: an interview and, for SBI, a group exercise.
Coaching or self-study?
| You are… | Suggested approach |
|---|---|
| Strong in maths and English | Self-study, plus a good mock test series and a monthly current affairs PDF |
| Weak in quant or reasoning basics | A recorded online course for concepts, plus a mock series |
| Short on time, needing structure | A low-cost online batch from a banking-focused platform, focused on live doubt sessions |
A weekly plan around a 9-to-6 job
- Weekday mornings (45 min): current affairs and banking awareness.
- Weekday evenings (1.5 hours): alternate days on quant and reasoning puzzles, plus 2 sectional tests a week.
- Saturday: a full mock plus analysis.
- Sunday: fix weak topics, practise English reading comprehension, and write descriptive answers (for PO).
Mock test strategy
- Speed and accuracy matter more than knowing everything. Learn which puzzle and DI types to skip.
- Track your sectional scores against previous cut-offs, which are published by IBPS and SBI.
- Practise on a computer, not only on your phone. The real exam is computer-based.
Before you resign for a bank job
Compare the full package: pay, DA, HRA or leased accommodation, pension (NPS for new joiners), and the transfer and posting policy. A PO role often involves rural or semi-urban postings early in your career. Talk to current officers before deciding.
Official sources
- IBPS: ibps.in
- SBI Careers: sbi.co.in/web/careers
- RBI Opportunities: opportunities.rbi.org.in
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