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Claim Free Beta AccessThe IBPS PO Prelims 2026 consists of a 60-minute, 100-mark objective test covering Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, and English Language. With sectional timing of 20 minutes per subject, candidates must qualify in each section while meeting the overall cut-off to progress to the Mains examination in this highly competitive banking selection.
What is the Exam?
The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts the Probationary Officer (PO) recruitment annually. The Common Recruitment Process (CRP) is a national-level exam designed to shortlist candidates for the post of Probationary Officer and Management Trainee in participating Public Sector Banks across India. We at Exam Bhai view this as the gateway to a prestigious career in the Indian banking sector, requiring high levels of precision, speed, and analytical aptitude.
Key Highlights 2026
- Exam Level: National Level (Banking).
- Mode: Online (Computer-Based Test).
- Total Questions: 100.
- Total Marks: 100.
- Duration: 1 Hour (60 minutes).
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer.
- Selection Process: Three-tier (Prelims, Mains, and Interview).
Syllabus 2026
The IBPS PO Prelims syllabus is designed to test your core aptitude. Success depends on mastering these specific domains:
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude | Simplification, Approximation, Number Series, Quadratic Equations, Data Interpretation (DI), Arithmetic (Percentage, Profit & Loss, SI/CI, Time & Work, Speed-Distance) |
| Reasoning Ability | Puzzles & Seating Arrangement, Inequality, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Coding-Decoding, Syllogism, Order & Ranking, Data Sufficiency |
| English Language | Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Error Detection, Para Jumbles, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Improvement, Vocabulary |
Exam Pattern
The Prelims exam is strictly qualifying in nature. You must clear the sectional cut-off for all three subjects to move to the next stage. As you map out your practice free mock tests for Banking on Exam Bhai, focus on the following distribution:
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 40 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes |
Eligibility Criteria
As per official guidelines from the official IBPS portal, candidates must satisfy the following for 2026:
- Age Limit: 20 to 30 years as of July 1, 2026. Age relaxations apply for SC/ST (5 years), OBC-NCL (3 years), and PwBD candidates.
- Educational Qualification: A Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a recognized University, with results declared on or before the specified date.
- Nationality: Citizen of India, subject of Nepal/Bhutan, or eligible refugees as per government norms.
Application Process
- Registration: Visit the official website, click on the CRP-PO/MT-XVI link, and register using your mobile number and email ID.
- Form Filling: Enter your details, upload the required scanned documents (photograph, signature, left-hand thumb impression, and hand-written declaration).
- Payment: Pay the application fee (₹850 for General/OBC/EWS; ₹175 for SC/ST/PwBD) via online channels only.
- Final Submission: Print the application form and e-receipt for future reference.
Preparation Strategy
We at Exam Bhai believe that a systematic approach is the only way to beat the competition. When you practice free mock tests for Banking on Exam Bhai, prioritize these steps:
- Conceptual Clarity: Build a strong foundation in Arithmetic and Logical Reasoning before jumping into complex puzzles.
- Sectional Mastery: Since sectional timing is fixed at 20 minutes, practice solving 35 questions within that limit to build speed.
- Analyze Performance: Use the practice free mock tests for Banking on Exam Bhai to identify your weak spots after every attempt.
- Consistency: Dedicate at least 4–6 hours daily. Allocate time for static subjects and daily newspaper reading for English comprehension.
Cut-Off Trends
Cut-offs are determined by the difficulty level and the number of vacancies. According to historical trends published on the official IBPS portal, the General category cut-off has consistently hovered between 40 and 50 marks (out of 100) over the last three years. Always aim for at least 5-10 marks above the previous year's trend to ensure safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the IBPS PO Prelims score added to the final merit list? A: No, the Prelims are only for screening. Only the Mains exam and Interview scores are considered for the final merit list.
Q2: Is there a negative marking in the Prelims? A: Yes, there is a penalty of 0.25 marks for every wrong answer marked in the objective tests.
Q3: Can I switch between sections during the exam? A: No, each section has a fixed 20-minute timer. You must complete one section before moving to the next.
Q4: Is it necessary to clear the sectional cut-off? A: Yes, you must clear both the sectional cut-off for every subject and the overall cut-off to qualify for the Mains.
Q5: What is the age limit for the 2026 exam? A: The age limit is 20 to 30 years as of July 1, 2026.
Q6: Can I use a calculator in the exam? A: No, the use of calculators or any electronic devices is strictly prohibited inside the examination hall.
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