Candidates preparing for the IBPS PO exam should familiarize themselves with the exam pattern. It provides insight into how the exam is structured and the types of questions asked. Below is a detailed breakdown of the IBPS PO Exam Pattern for each stage.
IBPS PO Prelims Exam Pattern
The prelims stage is the first phase of the IBPS PO exam and serves as a screening round.
- The Prelims exam consists of three sections with a total duration of 1 hour.
- It includes 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), carrying a maximum of 100 marks.
- A negative marking of 25 marks is applicable for each incorrect answer.
- Candidates must secure the minimum cut-off marks in all tests to
Subjects Marks Duration : 20 minutes
| Subjects | Marks | Questions | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 1 Hour |
IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern
The mains exam is the second phase of the IBPS PO selection process.
- It consists of four sections, along with an additional descriptive test, conducted on the same exam date.
- The exam includes both objective and subjective questions, carrying a total of 200 marks for the objective part and 25 marks for the descriptive test.
- Questions in Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, English Language, and Data Analysis & Interpretation are divided into Section A and Section B, with questions from Section A carrying 2 marks and those from Section B carrying 1 mark.
- A negative marking of 0.25 marks is applicable for every incorrect answer.
- Each section has a designated time limit, similar to the Prelims
- Candidates must pass each section individually to succeed.
IBPS PO Mains Exam Pattern 2025 |
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| S. No. | Name of test | No. of Questions | Max. Marks | Medium of Examination | Time Allotted |
| 1 | Reasoning & Computer Aptitude (Section A and Section B) |
45 | 60 | English & Hindi | 60 minutes |
| 2 | English Language (Section A and Section B) |
35 | 40 | English only | 40 minutes |
| 3 | Data Analysis and Interpretation (Section A and Section B) |
35 | 60 | English & Hindi | 45 minutes |
| 4 | General, Economy/Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | English & Hindi | 35 minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 180 minutes | ||
| English Language (Letter Writing & Essay) | 02 | 25 | English | 30 minutes | |
| Total | 157 | 225 | 3 hours 30 minutes | ||
Descriptive Test
The descriptive test carries 25 marks and evaluates candidates’ writing skills through an essay and a letter. A minimum cut-off mark is required to pass this test.
IBPS PO Interview
The interview stage assesses candidates’ knowledge and suitability for the Probationary Officer role.
- The interview carries a weightage of 100 marks.
- A minimum score of 40% (or 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD candidates) is required to
- The final selection is based on the combined scores of the Mains exam and the interview, in a weightage ratio of 80:20.
Preparation Tips for the Interview
Focus on:
- General knowledge and current
- Key topics related to finance and banking
This structured understanding of the IBPS PO exam pattern will help candidates prepare effectively for each stage of the examination.