The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has officially released its tentative exam calendar for the 2025-26 recruitment cycle. IBPS is a prominent organization that conducts recruitment exams for various positions in Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and Public Sector Banks (PSBs) across India. These exams open opportunities for aspirants aiming to build a career in the banking and financial services sector.
The IBPS exam calendar includes detailed schedules for preliminary and main examinations for posts such as Probationary Officers (PO), Specialist Officers (SO), Clerks, and Officer/Office Assistant positions in RRBs.
About IBPS
The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) was established in 1975 as an autonomous body to promote recruitment and placement in the banking sector. Over the years, IBPS has evolved into a trusted platform for conducting fair and transparent examinations to recruit candidates in government banks and regional rural banks. The organization uses advanced technology and robust testing methods to ensure integrity and efficiency in the recruitment process.
Examinations Conducted by IBPS
IBPS conducts a series of competitive exams throughout the year to recruit for the following positions:
- Probationary Officers (PO): Entry-level managerial position in public sector banks.
- Clerical Cadre: Positions in bank branches responsible for daily operations and customer service.
- Specialist Officers (SO): Recruitment for specialized roles like IT Officer, HR, Marketing, Agriculture Officer, and Law Officer.
- Regional Rural Banks (RRBs): Recruitment for Officer Scale I, II, III, and Office Assistants in regional rural banks.
Eligibility Criteria for IBPS Exams
Educational Qualification:
- For PO and Clerk: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university.
- For SO: Graduation or post-graduation in a specific field (e.g., IT, Agriculture, Law, etc.).
- For RRB Posts: Varies by the position, ranging from graduation to professional qualifications.
Age Limit:
- Clerks: 20 to 28 years
- PO: 20 to 30 years
- Specialist Officers: 20 to 30 years
- RRB Posts: Varies by scale and position (18 to 40 years)
Age relaxations apply for reserved categories as per government norms.
Why Choose a Career Through IBPS?
- Secure Government Job: Working in a public sector bank ensures job security and financial stability.
- Career Growth: Multiple promotional opportunities and career advancement.
- Diverse Opportunities: Positions range from generalist to specialist roles.
- Attractive Perks: Includes a good salary package, medical benefits, and pension schemes.
IBPS Exam Calendar and Dates 2025-26
| Exam | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|
| RRB Officer Scale I | Preliminary Examination | July 27, August 2, August 3, 2025 |
| RRB Office Assistant | Preliminary Examination | August 30, September 6, September 7, 2025 |
| RRB Officer Scale I | Main Examination | September 13, 2025 |
| Clerk | Preliminary Examination | December 6, 7, 13, 14, 2025 |
| PO | Main Examination | November 29, 2025 |
| SO | Main Examination | January 4, 2026 |
IBPS Exam Patterns
| Exam | Phase | Subjects | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preliminary | All Posts | Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language | 60 minutes |
| Main | Clerks and PO | General Awareness, Banking Awareness, Computer Knowledge | Varies by post |
| Specialist Officers | Main | Professional Knowledge | Varies by role |
| Officer Scale II & III | Single Examination | Reasoning, Financial Awareness, Computer Knowledge | 2 hours |