The SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2025 consists of three stages: Preliminary Examination, Mains Examination, and Language Proficiency Test (LPT). Below is a detailed breakdown of each stage based on the latest information:
SBI Clerk Prelims Exam Pattern 2025
The Preliminary Examination is the first hurdle, designed to screen candidates for the Mains. It’s a 1-hour online test with 100 objective questions worth 100 marks. Key features include sectional timing (20 minutes each) and no sectional cut-offs—shortlisting is based on overall performance (about 10 times the vacancies).
| Section | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration | Medium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 min | English |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 min | English/Hindi/Regional |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 min | English/Hindi/Regional |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 min | – |
Key Notes on SBI Clerk Prelims Pattern:
- Focus on speed and accuracy due to time constraints.
- Topics: English (Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test), Numerical (Simplification, Data Interpretation), Reasoning (Puzzles, Syllogism).
- Qualifying in nature; aim for 70+ marks for a safe shortlist.
SBI Clerk Mains Exam Pattern 2025
The Mains is the decisive stage, with 190 questions for 200 marks over 2 hours and 40 minutes. It has four sections with separate timings. There’s no sectional cut-off, but candidates must meet the overall minimum aggregate (relaxed by 5% for reserved categories). The merit list is prepared state-wise and category-wise based on Mains scores.
| Section | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration | Medium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General/Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 35 min | English/Hindi/Regional |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 35 min | English |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 45 min | English/Hindi/Regional |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 50 | 60 | 45 min | English/Hindi/Regional |
| Total | 190 | 200 | 160 min | – |
Key Notes on SBI Clerk Mains Pattern:
- Higher weightage in Reasoning & Computer (60 marks for 50 questions).
- Topics: Awareness (Current Affairs, Banking), English (Grammar, Vocabulary), Quant (Arithmetic, Algebra), Reasoning (Coding-Decoding, Input-Output), Computer (Basics, MS Office).
- Final selection depends on this stage; target 120+ marks for top ranks.
SBI Clerk Language Proficiency Test (LPT) 2025
Post-Mains, shortlisted candidates undergo the Language Proficiency Test to verify their command over the local language of the applied state/UT. It’s qualifying in nature and doesn’t add to the final score.
- Eligibility for Exemption: Candidates who studied the local language in Class 10th or 12th (proof via certificate/mark sheet) are exempt.
- Format: Typically includes reading, writing, and speaking components (e.g., comprehension and essay). It may have objective (15 marks) and subjective (20 marks) parts.
- Medium: Conducted in the state’s official language (e.g., Hindi in Uttar Pradesh, Kannada in Karnataka).
- Consequence: Failure leads to disqualification, regardless of Mains performance.
The LPT ensures candidates can handle customer interactions effectively in regional languages.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2025: Quick Overview
To align with the exam pattern:
- Prelims Syllabus: Basic concepts in English, Math, and Logical Reasoning.
- Mains Syllabus: Advanced topics plus General Awareness (6 months’ current affairs) and Computer Knowledge. For detailed subject-wise topics, refer to official resources.
Preparation Tips for SBI Clerk 2025
- Understand the Pattern: Practice with mock tests to master sectional timing.
- Daily Study Plan: Dedicate time to weak areas; focus on Quant and Reasoning for high scores.
- Current Affairs: Read newspapers and apps for Awareness section.
- Previous Papers: Solve last 5 years’ questions to gauge difficulty.
- Language Prep: If not exempt, brush up on local language basics.
- Health & Time Management: Stay consistent and avoid burnout.
FAQs on SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2025
Is there negative marking in SBI Clerk 2025?
Yes, 0.25 marks per wrong answer in both Prelims and Mains.
What is the total duration of SBI Clerk Mains?
2 hours 40 minutes, with sectional timings.
Do Prelims marks count in final selection?
No, only Mains marks are considered.
How many vacancies are there in SBI Clerk 2025?
6589, including backlog.
Is LPT mandatory for all?
No, exempt if local language was studied in school