IBPS PO 2026: Syllabus, Exam Pattern, and Preparation Tips
Introduction
The IBPS PO 2026 exam is one of the most sought-after banking exams in India for candidates aspiring to become Probationary Officers (PO) in public sector banks. To succeed, candidates must understand the exam pattern, syllabus, and effective preparation strategies. This guide covers everything you need to know about IBPS PO 2026.
IBPS PO 2026 Exam Pattern
The exam is conducted in three stages:
1. Preliminary Exam
Section | No. 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 | 1 hour |
Qualifying in nature: Only marks in Prelims are used for selection to the Mains.
b. Main Examination (Objective and Descriptive)
Sr. No. | Name of Tests (NOT BY SEQUENCE) | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Medium of Exam | Time allotted for each test (Separately timed) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Reasoning | 40 | 60 | English & Hindi | 50 minutes |
2 | General / Economy / Banking Awareness / Digital / Financial Awareness including RBI circulars | 35 | 50 | English & Hindi | 25 minutes |
3 | English Language | 35 | 40 | English | 40 minutes |
4 | Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 50 | English & Hindi | 45 minutes |
TOTAL | 145 | 200 | 160 minutes | ||
5 | Descriptive Paper* (Essay and Comprehension) | 02 | 25 | English | 30 minutes |
Negative marking: 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
Descriptive Paper may be evaluated by an automated scoring mechanism for identifying features related to writing proficiency. This scoring mechanism is duly validated and evaluates proficiency of test takers
c. Personality Test:
Candidates who qualify in the Main examination will be called for a Personality Test (self-report). Personality Profile of the candidates will be placed before the Interview panel.
The Personality Test will be non-qualifying in nature. However, appearing in the Personality Test will be mandatory for being eligible for appearing for the Interview process.
D. Interview
Candidates who have been shortlisted in the Online Main examination and appear for Personality Test for IBPS PO will subsequently be called for an Interview to be conducted by the Participating Banks and coordinated by the Nodal Bank in each State/ UT/ Region with the help of IBPS.
- Candidates qualifying Mains are called for the personal interview.
- Weightage: Mains Exam – 80%, Interview – 20%
IBPS PO 2026 Syllabus
Prelims Syllabus
- English Language: Reading comprehension, cloze test, error spotting, para jumbles, vocabulary.
- Quantitative Aptitude: Number series, simplification, profit & loss, percentages, ratio & proportion, time & work, simple & compound interest.
- Reasoning Ability: Puzzles & seating arrangement, coding-decoding, inequalities, syllogism, blood relations, direction sense.
Mains Syllabus
- Reasoning & Computer Aptitude: Logical reasoning, coding-decoding, puzzles, basic computer knowledge, networking, software.
- Data Analysis & Interpretation: Tables, charts, graphs, data sufficiency, caselet.
- General Awareness: Current affairs, banking awareness, economic news, static GK.
- English Language: Advanced comprehension, grammar, para jumbles, error detection.
Preparation Tips for IBPS PO 2026
- Know the Exam Pattern & Syllabus Thoroughly – Focus on high-weightage topics first.
- Create a Study Schedule – Allocate time for Prelims, Mains, and Interview preparation.
- Practice Mock Tests Regularly – Improves speed, accuracy, and time management.
- Improve Reading Skills – Read newspapers, banking awareness magazines, and online articles.
- Revise Important Formulas & Concepts – Especially for Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs – Focus on banking and finance news.
- Focus on Weak Areas – Analyze mock tests and strengthen weak sections.
Conclusion
With proper planning, understanding of IBPS PO 2026 syllabus and exam pattern, and regular practice, aspirants can crack the PO exam successfully. Start your preparation early and follow a disciplined strategy to secure your dream job in banking.