Written by The State Bank of India (SBI) Probationary Officer (PO) Exam 2025 is one of the most sought-after competitive exams in India. To help you prepare effectively, here’s a detailed breakdown of the SBI PO 2025 exam pattern for all phases.
Exam Overview
The selection process consists of three stages:
1. Preliminary Examination
2. Main Examination
3. Psychometric Test, Group Exercise & Interview
Phase I: Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Exam is an objective test conducted online, designed to filter candidates for the Main Examination.
Exam Highlights:
Mode: Online
Duration: 1 hour
Total Marks: 100
Number of Questions: 100
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks | Time Allocated |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
Key Points:
Each incorrect answer carries a negative marking of 0.25 marks.
There are no sectional cutoffs, but overall performance determines qualification for the Main Exam.
Phase II: Main Examination
The Main Exam is divided into an Objective Test and a Descriptive Test.
Objective Test
Mode: Online
Duration: 3 hours
Total Marks: 200
Number of Questions: 155
| Section | No of Question | Marks | Time Allocated |
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| General/Economy/Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 180 minutes |
Descriptive Test
Mode: Online (typing test)
Duration: 30 minutes
Total Marks: 50
Questions: 2 (Letter Writing and Essay)
Key Points:
- The Objective Test has sectional timings; you cannot switch between sections.
- Negative marking of 0.25 marks applies in the Objective Test.
- The Descriptive Test is evaluated only if the candidate qualifies in the Objective Test.
Phase III: Psychometric Test, Group Exercise & Interview
This phase evaluates the candidate’s leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
| Component | Marks |
| Psychometric Test | 50 |
| Group Exercise | 20 |
| Personal Interview | 30 |
| Total | 100 |
Key Points:
- Psychometric tests may include personality assessments, situational judgment tests, and cognitive exercises.
- The combined score of Group Exercise and Interview is normalized to 50 marks.
Final Selection Criteria
The final merit list is prepared based on the combined scores of:
- Main Examination (Objective + Descriptive): 75% weightage
- Phase III (Psychometric Test + Group Exercise + Interview): 25% weightage
Key Points:
- Preliminary Exam scores are not considered in the final selection.
- The marks are normalized to ensure fairness across sessions.
Preparation Tips for SBI PO 2025
- Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the structure and sectional timing.
- Focus on Speed and Accuracy: Especially in the Prelims and Objective Test.
- Stay Updated: Read newspapers daily for General Awareness.
- Practice Mock Tests: Regularly attempt mocks to improve time management.
- Enhance Writing Skills: Practice essay and letter writing for the Descriptive Test.
This comprehensive guide to the SBI PO 2025 Exam Pattern should help you strategize your preparation. Stay consistent, practice rigorously, and ace the exam!
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