The PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 has created significant buzz among graduates seeking entry into the banking sector. Punjab National Bank (PNB), one of India’s leading public sector banks, has officially released the notification for 5138 Apprentice posts under the Apprentices Act, 1961, for the financial year 2025-26.
This is a golden opportunity for fresh graduates to gain hands-on training in banking operations while earning a stipend. If you’re searching for “PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026,” “PNB 5138 vacancies,” or “how to apply for PNB Apprentice 2026,” this comprehensive guide covers everything you need.
Key Highlights of PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026
- Organization: Punjab National Bank (PNB)
- Post Name: Apprentice
- Total Vacancies: 5138
- Notification Release Date: 5th February 2026
- Online Application Start Date: 8th February 2026
- Last Date to Apply Online: 24th February 2026
- Online Exam Date: Tentatively 1st week of March 2026
- Training Duration: 1 year (52 weeks)
- Official Website: www.pnbindia.in (Applications via BFSI SSC portal as mentioned in notifications)
This recruitment aims to fill apprentice positions across various states and union territories in India, providing valuable exposure to banking activities.
Eligibility Criteria for PNB Apprentice 2026
To apply for the PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree (Graduation) in any discipline from a recognized university or equivalent. Final-year students may apply provisionally if they complete their degree before joining.
- Age Limit (as on the specified cutoff date in notification): Minimum 20 years and maximum 28 years. Age relaxation applies as per government norms (e.g., SC/ST: 5 years, OBC: 3 years, etc.).
- Nationality: Indian citizen.
- Other Requirements: Candidates should be proficient in the local language of the state/UT they apply for and meet medical fitness standards.
Always refer to the official notification PDF (available on www.pnbindia.in) for exact details, including any state-specific requirements.
Vacancy Details: 5138 Posts Breakdown
The total of 5138 apprentice vacancies are distributed state-wise and category-wise (UR, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, etc.). Specific breakdowns (e.g., higher vacancies in populous states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar) are detailed in the official notification. This large number of openings makes it one of the biggest apprentice drives by a public sector bank recently.
Selection Process for PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026
The selection follows a merit-based and exam-oriented process:
- Online Written Examination (Objective type, 100 marks, 60 minutes duration)
- English Language: 25 questions / 25 marks
- Reasoning Ability: 25 questions / 25 marks
- Quantitative Aptitude: 25 questions / 25 marks
- General Awareness (with focus on banking): 25 questions / 25 marks
- Negative marking: 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
- Merit List & Document Verification: Based on exam scores (state-wise/category-wise).
- Medical Examination: Final fitness check.
No interview is required—selection is purely merit-based on the online exam.
Stipend and Benefits
Selected apprentices will receive:
- Stipend: ₹12,300 per month (Rural/Semi-Urban/Urban areas) or ₹15,000 per month (Metro cities).
- Training: Practical exposure in branches covering customer service, accounts, loans, digital banking, etc.
- Certificate: On successful completion, a certificate under the Apprentices Act is issued, boosting future job prospects in banking.
Note: Apprenticeship does not guarantee permanent employment but provides excellent experience and a strong resume for future bank exams like IBPS PO/Clerk, SBI, etc.
How to Apply Online for PNB Apprentice 2026
Follow these steps to submit your application before the last date (24th February 2026):
- Visit the official PNB website: www.pnbindia.in.
- Navigate to the “Recruitments” or “Careers” section.
- Find the link for “Engagement of Apprentices 2025-26” or similar.
- Register and fill the online application form (via linked BFSI SSC portal).
- Upload scanned documents (photo, signature, qualification certificates).
- Pay the application fee (if applicable—check notification; often nominal or category-based).
- Submit and download the confirmation page.
Application fee details and exact portal link will be available in the official notification.
Preparation Tips for PNB Apprentice Exam 2026
- Focus on speed and accuracy in Quant, Reasoning, English, and Banking Awareness.
- Practice previous year apprentice/bank exams (similar pattern to IBPS RRB).
- Stay updated on current affairs (last 6 months), especially banking and economy news.
- Use mock tests to simulate the 100-question, 60-minute format.
Why Apply for PNB Apprentice 2026?
With 5138 vacancies, this is a high-chance opportunity for graduates to enter the prestigious banking sector. Gain real-world experience, earn while learning, and build a foundation for a banking career.
Don’t miss the deadline—apply soon! For the latest updates, regularly check the official PNB website or reliable sources.
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