SBI PO Exam 2026 – Check Expected Vacancies, Dates & Details

The State Bank of India (SBI) is gearing up for one of its biggest recruitment drives in recent years. The SBI Probationary Officer (PO) exam is one of the most popular banking exams in India, offering graduates a chance to start a career in one of the country’s largest financial institutions. In a recent press meeting, SBI confirmed that it plans to recruit over 3,500 officers, including Probationary Officers, by March 2026. This announcement has created excitement among banking aspirants, marking a strong hiring phase for the upcoming year.

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SBI PO Exam 2026: Key News Highlights

• SBI has officially indicated a large-scale recruitment plan for the 2026 financial year.

• Around 3,500 officer-level employees will be hired by March 2026.

• The recruitment includes various officer posts, with a significant share for the PO category.

• The SBI PO 2026 Mains exam is expected to be conducted around September 2026.

• The bank also mentioned a focus on diversity, aiming for 30% of its workforce to be women.

• The move aligns with SBI’s goal to strengthen branch staffing and digital banking operations across India.

In short, this year’s SBI recruitment will be among the most crucial for young graduates looking to enter the banking sector.

SBI PO Exam 2026: Overview 

The overview table below highlights the key details of the SBI PO Exam 2026, including the conducting body, selection stages, and exam mode for quick reference.

SBI PO 2026 – Important Dates

The following table gives an overview of the expected timeline for the SBI PO 2026 recruitment process based on current updates.

SBI PO Exam 2026: Expected Vacancy Details

The SBI PO Exam 2026 is one of the most awaited recruitment drives in the banking sector. While the official notification is yet to be released, reliable sources indicate that around 3,500 vacancies will be announced for Probationary Officer posts. This includes both regular and backlog categories across various circles.

SBI PO Exam 2026: Eligibility

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility conditions set by the State Bank of India. The criteria are based on nationality, age limit, and educational qualification.

1. Nationality

• The candidate must be a citizen of India.

• Subjects of Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees (who came to India before 1st January 1962) may also apply, provided they have valid eligibility certificates issued by the Government of India.

2. Age Limit 

Age Relaxation:

3. Educational Qualification 

• Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

• Final-year students may also apply, provided they can produce proof of graduation by the time of interview.

• Dual degree or integrated course students should ensure their results are declared before the cutoff date.

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SBI PO Exam 2026: Exam Pattern

The SBI PO Exam will continue to follow its three-stage selection process – Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, and Interview/Group Exercise. The pattern is expected to remain similar to previous years.

Preliminary Exam (Objective – Online)

Note: There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.

Main Exam (Objective + Descriptive)

Final Stage: Interview and Group Exercise

• Candidates shortlisted from the Mains exam will be called for Group Exercises and Interview.

• The final merit list will be prepared based on marks obtained in Mains and Interview stages only.

SBI PO 2026 – Salary & Allowances

The SBI Probationary Officer (PO) post offers one of the most rewarding salary structures among public sector banks. The pay scale follows the Junior Management Grade Scale-I (JMGS-I) standard and includes multiple allowances and perks.

In addition to these components, SBI POs receive medical benefits, provident fund contributions, travel allowance, furniture allowance, and concessional loans. The salary structure ensures excellent growth potential, with steady increments and promotional opportunities to higher managerial roles like Assistant Manager and Deputy Manager.

Selection Process

The SBI PO selection process will likely follow the same structure as previous years:

1. Preliminary Exam – Objective test with English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning sections.

2. Main Exam – Includes both objective and descriptive parts (essay and letter writing).

3. Final Stage – Group Discussion, Interview, and Psychometric Test.

The final merit list will consider performance in the Mains and Interview stages.

SBI PO 2026 – How to Apply Online

Candidates can apply for the SBI PO Exam 2026 through the official website once the notification is released. The application process will be completely online, and no other mode of submission will be accepted.

Steps to Apply for SBI PO 2026:

1. Visit the Official Website:
   Go to the State Bank of India career portal (sbi.co.in/careers).

2. Find the Recruitment Link:
   Click on “Recruitment of Probationary Officers (PO) 2026” under the latest announcements.

3. Register as a New User:
   Enter basic details like name, mobile number, and email ID to generate a registration number and password.

4. Fill the Application Form:
   Log in using your credentials and complete personal, educational, and communication details carefully.

5. Upload Documents:
   Upload a recent passport-size photograph, signature, thumb impression, and handwritten declaration in the prescribed format.

6. Pay Application Fee:
   Pay the fee online through Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking before the last date.

7. Preview and Submit:
   Verify all entered details before final submission, as no changes will be allowed later.

8. Print Application Form:
   Download and keep a copy of the submitted form and fee receipt for future reference.

Important Instructions:

• Make sure to use a valid email ID and mobile number throughout the recruitment process.

• Keep scanned copies of required documents ready before applying.

• The application form will be rejected if incomplete or incorrect details are entered.

• Candidates are advised to apply well before the last date to avoid technical issues.

SBI PO 2026 – Application Fee

Candidates are required to pay the application fee online through debit card, credit card, or net banking.

Note: The application fee once paid is non-refundable under any circumstances.

Preparation Tips

• Start Early: Focus on core subjects — reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and English comprehension.

• Understand the Pattern: Practice sectional mock tests and learn time management.

• Stay Updated: Keep track of current affairs, especially related to the banking and financial sector.

• Work on Writing Skills: Practice descriptive writing for essays and letters in the Mains stage.

• Take Regular Mock Tests: Analyze mistakes and work on weak areas weekly.

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Conclusion

The SBI PO 2026 recruitment drive is set to open new doors for thousands of graduates. With over 3,500 officers to be hired by March 2026, it marks one of the most promising years for banking aspirants. While the official notification is still awaited, the recent announcements make it clear that the recruitment process will begin shortly.

Are you are planning to appear for SBI PO 2026? Then now is the time to strengthen your preparation. Stay alert for official updates from SBI, follow a structured study plan, and aim to perform well across all stages. This hiring phase could be your entry into a stable and rewarding career in India’s largest public sector bank.