Conducting Authority

Institute of Banking Personnel Selection

Recruitment Cycle

CRP PO/MT-XVI

Interview Marks

100

Minimum Qualifying Marks—General/EWS

40%

Minimum Qualifying Marks—SC/ST/OBC/PwBD

35%

Mains Weightage in Final Merit

80%

Interview Weightage in Final Merit

20%

Prelims Marks in Final Merit

Not included

Personality Test

Conducted before the Common Interview

Final Selection

Combined performance in Mains and Interview

Banking Knowledge

Understanding of banking operations, RBI and financial concepts

Current Affairs

Awareness of major banking, economic and national developments

Communication

Clear, concise and logically structured answers

Personality

Confidence, maturity, honesty and self-awareness

Customer Orientation

Ability to listen, explain and resolve customer concerns

Decision-Making

Practical and policy-compliant responses

Leadership

Ability to take responsibility and guide a team

Integrity

Ethical judgment and resistance to improper influence

Adaptability

Willingness to relocate, learn and handle changing responsibilities

Suitability for Banking

Motivation and understanding of the Bank PO role

1

Tell me about yourself.

“I am a graduate in [subject] from [university]. During my education and banking-exam preparation, I developed strong analytical, communication and problem-solving skills. I am interested in banking because it combines customer service, financial decision-making and opportunities to contribute to financial inclusion. My immediate objective is to learn banking operations thoroughly and perform responsibly as a Probationary Officer.”

2

What are your strengths?

“My key strengths are disciplined execution, adaptability and calm decision-making. I organise my work according to priority, learn quickly from feedback and remain composed while solving problems under pressure.”

3

What is your weakness?

“I sometimes spend more time than necessary reviewing important work. I am improving this by setting clear deadlines, using checklists and distinguishing between tasks that require detailed review and those that require faster decisions.”

4

Why should we select you?

“I offer a combination of analytical ability, willingness to learn, integrity and customer orientation. I understand that a Bank PO must manage operations, serve customers, achieve business goals and follow regulations. I am prepared to learn continuously and accept responsibility wherever the bank assigns me.”

5

Why do you want to join the banking sector?

“Banking directly supports individuals, businesses and economic development. The sector offers meaningful responsibilities in customer service, credit, financial inclusion and digital banking. It also provides a structured career in which performance, knowledge and leadership are continuously developed.”

6

Why banking instead of another private-sector career?

“I respect the opportunities available in the private sector, but the Bank PO role is more closely aligned with my interests in finance, customer service and responsible decision-making. It offers exposure to operations, credit, compliance and business development while allowing me to serve customers from diverse backgrounds.”

7

What motivates you?

“I am motivated by measurable progress, challenging responsibilities and opportunities to learn. Completing a difficult task accurately or helping someone resolve a genuine problem gives me professional satisfaction.”

8

What are your hobbies?

“My hobbies are [mention genuine hobbies]. For example, reading helps me explore new ideas, while playing a team sport has taught me coordination and discipline.”

9

What is your greatest achievement?

“One achievement I value is [specific achievement]. It required consistent effort, planning and the ability to overcome setbacks. It taught me that disciplined improvement produces better results than short-term effort.”

10

How would you describe your personality?

“I would describe myself as responsible, adaptable and composed. I listen before responding, accept constructive feedback and try to approach problems with a practical and positive mindset.”

11

What was your graduation subject?

“I completed my graduation in [subject] from [institution]. It helped me develop [relevant skills], which can support my work in banking.”

12

How is your academic background useful in banking?

“My academic background has strengthened my analytical ability, numerical understanding, communication and problem-solving. These skills are useful in customer interaction, data interpretation, operational work and informed decision-making.”

13

Explain your graduation project.

“My project was based on [topic]. Its objective was to [objective]. I was responsible for [role], and the project taught me research, teamwork, time management and the practical application of theoretical concepts.”

14

Why did you receive low marks in graduation?

“My performance during that period was affected by [brief genuine reason]. I accept responsibility for the outcome. The experience taught me to plan better, seek help earlier and remain consistent. My subsequent preparation demonstrates the improvement I have made.”

15

Why is there a gap in your education or employment?

“I used this period for focused competitive-exam preparation and skill development. I followed a structured study plan, improved my banking and current-affairs knowledge and strengthened my aptitude and communication skills.”

16

Why do you want to change your current job?

“My present role has given me useful experience in [skills], but I want a career with broader responsibilities in finance, customer service and leadership. The Probationary Officer role is better aligned with my long-term professional goals.”

17

Why did you not pursue a career related to your graduation subject?

“My graduation developed valuable transferable skills, but during my preparation I discovered a stronger interest in banking, financial services and customer-facing responsibilities. I believe banking offers the right combination of learning, responsibility and career growth for me.”

18

What is a bank?

A bank is a regulated financial institution that accepts deposits, provides credit and offers payment, remittance and other financial services. It acts as an intermediary between depositors and borrowers.

19

What are the major types of banks in India?

Major categories include commercial banks, public-sector banks, private-sector banks, foreign banks, regional rural banks, cooperative banks, small finance banks and payments banks.

20

What is the Reserve Bank of India?

The Reserve Bank of India is India’s central bank and monetary authority. It regulates and supervises the financial system, manages monetary policy, oversees payment systems, manages foreign-exchange reserves and acts as banker to the government and banks.

21

What are the principal functions of RBI?

RBI formulates monetary policy, regulates banks, manages currency circulation, oversees payment systems, maintains financial stability, manages foreign-exchange reserves and acts as banker and debt manager to the government.

22

What is the repo rate?

The repo rate is the interest rate at which RBI provides short-term liquidity to banks against eligible collateral under the liquidity-adjustment framework. Changes in the repo rate influence borrowing costs, liquidity and monetary conditions.

23

What is the reverse repo rate?

The fixed reverse repo rate is the rate at which RBI can absorb liquidity from banks against eligible securities. However, the Standing Deposit Facility currently performs the role of the floor of the liquidity-adjustment corridor.

24

What is CRR?

Cash Reserve Ratio is the prescribed percentage of a bank’s Net Demand and Time Liabilities that must be maintained as cash balance with RBI.

25

What is SLR?

Statutory Liquidity Ratio is the prescribed percentage of Net Demand and Time Liabilities that banks must maintain in specified liquid assets such as cash, gold and approved securities.

26

What is an NPA?

For a term loan, an account is generally classified as a Non-Performing Asset when interest or principal remains overdue for more than 90 days. Separate criteria apply to overdraft, cash-credit and agricultural accounts. RBI’s NPA guidance provides the detailed classification rules.

27

What is financial inclusion?

Financial inclusion means ensuring affordable and appropriate access to banking, credit, payments, insurance, pension and other financial services for all sections of society, particularly underserved groups.

28

What is NEFT?

National Electronic Funds Transfer is a nationwide electronic fund-transfer system that processes transactions in half-hourly batches and operates 24×7. RBI does not prescribe a minimum or maximum transfer amount, although individual banks may impose limits based on their policies. RBI NEFT FAQ

29

What is RTGS?

Real Time Gross Settlement transfers funds individually and in real time, without netting transactions against one another. It is primarily used for high-value transfers. The minimum amount is ₹2 lakh, with no RBI-prescribed upper ceiling. RBI RTGS FAQ

30

What is IMPS?

Immediate Payment Service is an instant interbank electronic fund-transfer facility available 24×7 through participating banks and authorised channels.

31

What is UPI?

Unified Payments Interface is an instant payment system developed by NPCI that allows users to transfer money between bank accounts using mobile applications and identifiers such as a UPI ID.

32

What are Basel norms?

Basel norms are international standards developed by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision. They aim to strengthen capital adequacy, liquidity, risk management and disclosure practices in banks.

33

What is KYC?

Know Your Customer is the process through which banks verify a customer’s identity and address, understand the nature of the relationship and monitor transactions to manage fraud, money-laundering and regulatory risks.

34

What is CASA?

CASA refers to Current Account and Savings Account deposits. These are generally lower-cost deposits for a bank compared with term deposits, making the CASA ratio an important indicator of deposit quality and funding cost.

35

What is priority-sector lending?

Priority-sector lending requires banks to direct a prescribed portion of eligible credit towards sectors considered important for inclusive development, including agriculture, MSMEs, education, housing and weaker sections, subject to RBI guidelines.

36

What is deposit insurance?

Deposit insurance protects eligible bank deposits if an insured bank fails. In India, DICGC currently insures eligible deposits up to ₹5 lakh per depositor per bank, including principal and interest, subject to applicable rules.

37

What is inflation?

Inflation is a sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services, which reduces the purchasing power of money. In India, retail inflation is commonly measured through the Consumer Price Index.

38

What is GDP?

Gross Domestic Product is the monetary value of all final goods and services produced within a country’s domestic territory during a specified period.

39

What is fiscal deficit?

Fiscal deficit is the difference between the government’s total expenditure and its total non-debt receipts. It indicates the amount the government needs to borrow to finance the gap.

40

What is monetary policy?

Monetary policy refers to the actions taken by RBI to manage interest rates, liquidity, inflation and overall monetary conditions while supporting growth and financial stability.

41

What is the difference between fiscal and monetary policy?

Fiscal policy relates to government taxation, expenditure and borrowing. Monetary policy is formulated by RBI and deals mainly with interest rates, liquidity, inflation and money supply.

42

What recent banking developments should candidates prepare?

Candidates should prepare the latest RBI monetary-policy decisions, major RBI circulars, digital-payment developments, banking regulations, financial-inclusion initiatives, bank results, cybersecurity measures and important government financial schemes. The answer must be updated close to the Interview date.

43

How should you answer a question about a recent RBI decision?

State the decision, explain its purpose, discuss its likely effect on banks, borrowers, depositors and inflation, and conclude with a balanced view. Quote exact rates or dates only after checking the latest RBI release.

44

Where do you see yourself in five years?

“In five years, I want to be recognised as a dependable banking professional with strong knowledge of operations, credit and customer service. I hope to take on greater responsibilities based on performance and contribute meaningfully to my branch and organisation.”

45

What is leadership?

“Leadership is the ability to establish direction, take responsibility, communicate clearly and help a team achieve a common objective. An effective leader also listens, delegates and remains accountable for results.”

46

Are you a team player?

“Yes. I believe good teamwork combines clear responsibilities, open communication and mutual support. I am comfortable contributing as a team member and taking ownership when leadership is required.”

47

How do you handle stress?

“I identify priorities, divide complex work into manageable tasks and focus on actions within my control. I also review deadlines early and communicate promptly if coordination or support is required.”

48

Are you willing to work in a rural area?

“Yes. I understand that banking is a transferable service and rural postings are an important part of financial inclusion. I am prepared to learn about local needs and serve wherever the bank assigns me.”

49

What are the responsibilities of a Probationary Officer?

“A Probationary Officer may handle customer service, account operations, deposits, loans, compliance, business development and branch administration. The officer is expected to learn different banking functions and gradually assume supervisory and managerial responsibilities.”

50

What will you do if you are not selected?

“I will review my performance objectively, identify areas requiring improvement and continue working towards my professional goals. I would treat the experience as feedback rather than allow one result to define my ability.”

51

How would you handle an angry customer?

“I would listen without interrupting, acknowledge the concern and verify the facts. I would clearly explain the available resolution and expected timeline. If the matter exceeded my authority, I would escalate it to the appropriate officer and keep the customer informed.”

52

What would you do if your senior appeared to be wrong?

“I would first verify the facts and relevant policy. I would then present my concern respectfully and privately. If the matter involved a legal, compliance or ethical violation, I would follow the prescribed escalation and reporting mechanism.”

53

How would you work under pressure?

“I would prioritise tasks according to urgency and risk, remain calm and avoid compromising accuracy or compliance. I would coordinate with the team and communicate early if a critical deadline required additional support.”

54

What would you do if a customer offered you a bribe?

“I would refuse immediately and maintain professional distance. I would document the incident and report it through the bank’s prescribed vigilance or supervisory channel.”

55

A valuable customer asks you to bypass KYC requirements. What would you do?

“I would politely explain that KYC requirements protect both the customer and the bank and cannot be bypassed. I would help the customer complete the required process through an authorised alternative, if available.”

56

Your branch has a long queue and the system is slow. How would you respond?

“I would inform customers about the delay, coordinate available staff, prioritise urgent cases according to policy and guide customers towards suitable digital or self-service channels without pressuring them.”

57

A colleague makes a transaction error. What would you do?

“I would immediately assess the impact, inform the authorised supervisor and follow the prescribed correction process. The priority would be to protect the customer and bank, maintain proper records and prevent recurrence.”

58

How would you manage a conflict between business targets and customer suitability?

“I would pursue legitimate business targets without mis-selling. I would understand the customer’s needs, explain the product transparently and recommend only suitable options while complying with bank policy.”

59

What if you do not know the answer to an Interview question?

“I would honestly say that I am not certain rather than guess. If I know part of the concept, I may explain that limited understanding and express my willingness to learn.”

60

A customer shares an OTP with you and asks you to complete a transaction. What would you do?

“I would not ask for or use the OTP. I would explain that credentials such as OTPs, PINs and passwords must remain confidential and guide the customer through the authorised and secure process.”

P

Point

Begin with a direct answer

R

Reason

Explain why you hold that view

E

Example

Add a brief relevant example

P

Point

Conclude by connecting it to banking

Interview Call Letter

Carry the printed copy

Online Application Form

Carry the printed application

Photo Identity Proof

Original and photocopy

Date-of-Birth Proof

Matriculation certificate or permitted equivalent

Educational Certificates

Mark sheets and certificates

Category Certificate

Must follow the prescribed format and validity

EWS Certificate

Carry the applicable valid certificate

PwBD Certificate

Carry the prescribed disability certificate

Experience Certificate

Required when employment experience has been declared

NOC

Required for candidates employed in government or eligible organisations

Passport-Size Photographs

Carry recent photographs matching the application where required

Self-Introduction

Prepare a natural 60–90 second introduction

Application Form

Review every detail entered in the form

Graduation

Revise fundamental concepts from your subject

Banking Awareness

Study RBI, banking products, NPA, KYC, PSL and payment systems

Current Affairs

Cover recent banking, economy and national developments

RBI Updates

Review the latest monetary policy and important circulars

Hometown

Prepare important economic, cultural and administrative facts

Work Experience

Explain your responsibilities, achievements and career transition

Situational Questions

Practise ethical and customer-service scenarios

Mock Interviews

Record responses and improve clarity and body language

Documents

Arrange originals and photocopies in order

Formal Appearance

Wear clean, simple and professional attire