An objective-type online examination consisting of 100 questions (English: 30, Quant: 35, Reasoning: 35) for 100 marks. There is a sectional timing of 20 minutes for each section, but NO sectional cut-offs.
Screening nature only. Marks obtained in Phase-I will not be added to the final merit list. Selection for Mains is typically 10 times the category-wise vacancies.
Phase-I (Preliminary Examination)100 marks · 1 hour (20 minutes per section)
- 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer penalty
Preparation Timeline
Suggested phase-by-phase study plan
Phase 1: Foundation Building (Months 1-3)3 Months
Clear fundamental concepts across all subjects with an emphasis on rigorous calculation speed for Quant.
Master Vedic math tricks, squares (1-50), cubes (1-20), and fractional percentages.
Complete core arithmetic chapters (Percentage, Ratio, Time/Work) and basic Data Interpretation.
Solve 5 Puzzles and 5 Seating Arrangements daily to build logical agility.
Read 'The Hindu' or 'Financial Express' daily; note down vocabulary and current affairs.
Shift to highly difficult variables, Critical Reasoning, and typing practice.
Solve Mains-level DI (Caselets, Variable-based, Arithmetic DI) and High-level Puzzles.
Revise the last 6 months of comprehensive Current Affairs capsules.
Type 2 Essays and 2 Letters weekly on a PC keyboard to build speed for the 30-min Descriptive Test.
Attempt one full-length 3.5-hour Mains mock test every weekend to build endurance.
Exam Details
Concise and stable information snapshot
Overview
SBI PO is the most sought-after banking job in India, offering fast-track career growth and overseas postings. The selection process consists of three phases: Phase-I (Preliminary Exam), Phase-II (Main Exam - Objective & Descriptive), and Phase-III (Psychometric Test, Group Exercise, and Personal Interview). Notably, unlike IBPS PO, SBI PO does NOT have sectional cut-offs in Prelims or Mains.