Key Points
- The SBI Clerk Prelims is the first stage of the recruitment process for Junior Associates at the State Bank of India, assessing basic aptitude in reasoning, numerical ability, and English.
- It seems likely that candidates need a graduation degree, must be Indian citizens, and typically aged 20–28, with relaxations for certain categories.
- The exam pattern includes 100 questions for 100 marks in 60 minutes for prelims, and a mains exam with 190 questions for 200 marks in 160 minutes.
- Research suggests effective preparation involves understanding the syllabus, practicing past papers, and taking mock tests.
Introduction to SBI Clerk Prelims
The SBI Clerk Prelims is the initial screening exam for the position of Junior Associate (Customer Support and Sales) at the State Bank of India (SBI). This role involves customer interactions, cash transactions, and deposit handling, making it a sought-after banking job. The exam tests candidates’ basic skills in reasoning, numerical ability, and English language proficiency, serving as a gateway to further stages like the mains exam and a local language test.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible, candidates must be Indian citizens with a graduation degree or equivalent from a recognized university. The age limit is typically 20–28 years, with relaxations for SC, ST, OBC, and PWD categories, as detailed in the official notification at SBI Careers. The application process is online, requiring candidates to fill out forms, upload documents, and pay a fee of Rs. 750 for general category (waived for SC, ST, OBC, PWD).
Exam Details
The prelims exam consists of:
- Reasoning Ability: 35 questions, 35 marks
- Numerical Ability: 35 questions, 35 marks
- English Language: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Total: 100 questions, 100 marks, 60 minutes
The mains exam, for those who qualify, includes:
- General English: 40 questions, 40 marks
- Quantitative Aptitude: 40 questions, 40 marks
- Reasoning Ability and Computer Aptitude: 40 questions, 40 marks
- General/Financial Awareness: 70 questions, 80 marks
- Total: 190 questions, 200 marks, 160 minutes
Survey Note: Comprehensive Guide to SBI Clerk Prelims for Maximum Organic Traffic
This detailed guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of the SBI Clerk Prelims, optimized for search engines to attract maximum organic traffic. It covers all aspects of the exam, from eligibility to preparation strategies, ensuring it remains relevant for future candidates while addressing current 2025 specifics.
Overview of SBI Clerk Prelims
The SBI Clerk Prelims is the preliminary examination for the recruitment of Junior Associates (Customer Support and Sales) at the State Bank of India, a prestigious public sector bank in India. This exam, conducted annually, attracts lakhs of applicants due to the job’s security, salary, and growth opportunities. The role involves customer support, cash handling, and sales activities, making it essential for candidates to demonstrate strong aptitude in reasoning, numerical ability, and English language skills.
For the 2025 recruitment, SBI announced 14,191 vacancies, with the prelims held on February 22, 27, 28, and March 1, 2025, and the mains scheduled for April 10, 2025. Given the current date, March 26, 2025, the prelims results are expected soon, with candidates eagerly awaiting updates on the official website at SBI Careers.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the SBI Clerk exam, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include:
- Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
- Educational Qualification: A graduation degree in any stream from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government. Candidates with Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) certificates must ensure the passing date aligns with notification guidelines.
- Age Limit: Typically, candidates must be between 20 and 28 years as of the reference date in the notification (e.g., April 1, 2024, for the 2024-25 cycle). Age relaxations are provided as follows:
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC | 3 years |
| PWD (Gen/EWS) | 10 years |
| PWD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| PWD (OBC) | 13 years |
| Ex-Servicemen/Disabled Ex-Servicemen | Actual service period + 3 years (max 50 years) |
| Widows/Divorced Women | 7 years (max age 35 for Gen/EWS, 38 for OBC, 40 for SC/ST) |
Candidates should refer to the official notification for exact details, as these may vary yearly.
Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The SBI Clerk selection process consists of two online tests: Prelims and Mains, followed by a local language test. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Prelims Exam Pattern
- Structure: Three sections with sectional timings.
- Details:
- Reasoning Ability: 35 questions, 35 marks
- Numerical Ability: 35 questions, 35 marks
- English Language: 30 questions, 30 marks
- Total: 100 questions, 100 marks, 60 minutes
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer.
Mains Exam Pattern
- Structure: Four sections with sectional timings.
- Details:
- General English: 40 questions, 40 marks
- Quantitative Aptitude: 40 questions, 40 marks
- Reasoning Ability and Computer Aptitude: 40 questions, 40 marks
- General/Financial Awareness: 70 questions, 80 marks
- Total: 190 questions, 200 marks, 160 minutes
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer.
Syllabus
- Prelims Syllabus:
- Reasoning Ability: Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Syllogism, Blood Relations, Coding-Decoding, etc.
- Numerical Ability: Simplification, Data Interpretation, Number Series, Arithmetic (Percentage, Ratio, etc.).
- English Language: Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Spotting, Fill in the Blanks, etc.
- Mains Syllabus: Expands to include Computer Aptitude and General/Financial Awareness, covering topics like banking awareness, current affairs, and computer fundamentals.
Candidates are advised to review previous years’ papers to understand topic weightage, available at Testbook SBI Clerk Syllabus.
Application Process
The application process for SBI Clerk 2025 was open from December 17, 2024, to January 7, 2025, and is conducted online via the SBI website at SBI Careers. Steps include:
- Registering on the portal with personal details.
- Filling out the application form, including educational and category information.
- Uploading scanned copies of photograph, signature, left thumb impression, and handwritten declaration.
- Paying the application fee: Rs. 750 for General/OBC/EWS, waived for SC/ST/PWD.
- Submitting the form and printing a copy for records.
The fee is non-refundable and must be paid online via Credit/Debit Card or Net Banking.
Important Dates
For the 2025 exam, key dates include:
- Application Start Date: December 17, 2024
- Application End Date: January 7, 2025
- Prelims Exam Dates: February 22, 27, 28, and March 1, 2025
- Mains Exam Date: April 10, 2025
- Prelims Result Expected: By March 28, 2025
Note: These dates are specific to 2025 and may vary for future cycles. Candidates should always check the official website for the latest updates.
Preparation Tips
Preparing for SBI Clerk Prelims requires a structured approach. Here are some tips:
- Understand the Syllabus and Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the topics and format to prioritize study areas.
- Create a Study Schedule: Allocate time for each section, focusing on weak areas.
- Practice Previous Years’ Papers: Analyze past papers to understand question trends and improve speed.
- Take Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mock tests to simulate exam conditions and assess progress.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Especially for General/Financial Awareness in mains, read newspapers and banking magazines.
- Improve Time Management: Practice solving questions within the allotted time to enhance efficiency.
- Focus on Health: Ensure adequate sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet to maintain focus during preparation.
Recommended resources include books like “Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations” by R.S. Aggarwal and online platforms like Career Power SBI Clerk for mock tests and study materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To address common queries, here are detailed answers:
- What is the age limit for SBI Clerk?
- Typically 20–28 years, with relaxations for SC/ST (5 years), OBC (3 years), PWD (up to 15 years depending on category), etc. Check the official notification for exact details.
- What is the salary of an SBI Clerk?
- Starting basic pay is Rs. 24,050, with a pay scale of Rs. 24,050–64,480, including allowances like Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, etc.
- How many attempts are allowed for the SBI Clerk exam?
- There is no limit on attempts, provided candidates meet the eligibility criteria each time.
- What is the selection process?
- Involves Prelims (qualifying), Mains (marks counted for final selection), and a local language test (qualifying).
- Is there negative marking in the exam?
- Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for each wrong answer in both Prelims and Mains.
Additional Insights
The SBI Clerk exam is highly competitive, with over 19 lakh applications received for 14,191 vacancies in 2025, highlighting its popularity. An unexpected detail is the significant backlog vacancies (456) included, offering additional opportunities for candidates from reserved categories. This aspect can influence preparation strategies, especially for those targeting specific categories.
This guide aims to be comprehensive, ensuring candidates have all necessary information to prepare effectively and succeed in the SBI Clerk Prelims.