Banking Exams in India 2024

Banking exams are an essential step towards securing a promising career in the finance industry. These exams serve as a gateway to secure a job in public sector banks, private banks, and regional rural banks. If you are considering a career in the banking industry, it is crucial to be aware of the different bank exams conducted in India. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of all the bank exams scheduled for 2024.

List of Bank Exams 2024: All Bank Exams in One Place

1. SBI PO: The State Bank of India Probationary Officer exam is one of the most prestigious bank exams in India. It is conducted by the State Bank of India to recruit candidates for the position of probationary officer.
2. SBI Clerk: The State Bank of India Clerk exam is conducted by SBI to recruit candidates for clerical positions across its branches.
3. IBPS PO: The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection Probationary Officer exam is conducted by IBPS for the recruitment of probationary officers in various public sector banks.
4. IBPS Clerk: The IBPS Clerk exam is conducted by IBPS to recruit candidates for clerical positions in public sector banks.
5. RBI Grade B Officer: The Reserve Bank of India conducts this exam for recruiting officers in Grade B.
6. RBI Assistant: The RBI Assistant exam is conducted by RBI to recruit candidates for assistant positions across its branches.
7. NABARD Grade A and B Officer: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development conducts this exam to recruit Grade A and B officers.
8. LIC Assistant Administrative Officer (AAO): Life Insurance Corporation conducts this exam to recruit assistant administrative officers for various departments like finance, marketing, IT, etc.
9. Canara Bank PO: Canara Bank conducts this exam to recruit probationary officers.
10. IDBI Executive: IDBI Bank conducts this exam to recruit for executive-level positions.
11. Indian Bank PO: Indian Bank conducts this exam for the recruitment of probationary officers.
12. Punjab National Bank (PNB) PO: Punjab National Bank conducts this exam for the recruitment of probationary officers.
13. Syndicate Bank PO: Syndicate Bank conducts this exam to recruit probationary officers.
14. Central Bank of India SO: The Central Bank of India conducts this exam for the recruitment of specialist officers in various domains.
15. Oriental Insurance AO: Oriental Insurance Company Limited conducts this exam to recruit administrative officers in generalist and specialist disciplines.
16. South Indian Bank PO: South Indian Bank conducts this exam for the recruitment of probationary officers.
17. Federal Bank Officer and Clerk: Federal Bank conducts separate exams for the recruitment of probationary officers and clerks.
18. Karur Vysya Bank PO and Clerk: Karur Vysya Bank conducts separate exams for the recruitment of probationary officers and clerks.
19. Dena Bank PO and Clerk: Dena Bank, now merged with the Bank of Baroda, conducted separate exams for the recruitment of probationary officers and clerks.
20. Manipal School of Banking (PGDBF): Manipal School of Banking offers a one-year Post Graduate Diploma in Banking and Finance programme, wherein candidates are selected through an entrance exam followed by an interview process, leading to employment as probationary officers in various banks after successful completion of the course.

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List of SBI Bank Exams 2024 in India

The State Bank of India (SBI) is one of the leading banks in India and conducts several exams every year to hire candidates for various positions. Here is a list of some of the top SBI bank exams in 2024 that you should consider:

SBI Clerk Exam

1. The SBI Clerk Exam is conducted to recruit eligible candidates for the position of junior associate (customer support and sales).
2. Candidates must have completed their graduation from a recognised university and should be between 20 and 28 years old.
3. The exam consists of two stages: preliminary and main.
4. The preliminary exam has three sections: English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability. The main exam also includes these sections along with General/Financial Awareness and Computer Aptitude.
5. The preliminary exam is conducted for one hour, while the main exam lasts for two hours and forty minutes.

SBI PO Exam

1. The SBI PO Exam is held to select candidates for the position of probationary officer (PO) in the State Bank of India.
2. Applicants should have completed their graduation from a recognised university and be between 21 and 30 years old.
3. The exam consists of three phases: preliminary, main, and group exercises and interviews.
4. The preliminary exam has three sections: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability.
5. The main exam includes four sections: Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, and English Language.
6. The preliminary exam is conducted for one hour, while the main exam lasts for three hours.

SBI Specialist Cadre Officer (SCO) Exam

1. The SBI SCO Exam is conducted to hire candidates for various specialist officer positions such as relationship manager, deputy manager, IT security expert, and economist.
2. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific position applied for.
3. The exam pattern also varies based on the position. It generally includes sections like Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and Professional Knowledge.
4. The duration of the exam varies based on the position and number of sections.

SBI Junior Associate (Clerical) Exam

1. This exam is conducted to recruit candidates for the post of junior associate (customer support and sales).
2. Candidates should have completed their graduation from a recognised university and should be between 20 and 28 years old.
3. The exam consists of two stages: preliminary and main.
4. The preliminary exam has three sections: Numerical Ability, English language, and Reasoning Ability. The main exam has similar sections along with General/Financial Awareness and Computer Aptitude.
5. The preliminary exam is conducted for one hour, while the main exam lasts for two hours and forty minutes.

 SBI Apprentice Exam

1. This exam is conducted to select candidates for the apprenticeship programme in various branches of the State Bank of India.
2. Applicants should have completed their graduation from a recognised university and be between 20 and 28 years old.
3. The selection process consists of an online written test followed by a local language test.
4. The duration of the written test may vary.

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List of IBPS Bank Exams 2024 in India

Apart from the SBI bank exams, the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) also conducts various bank exams to recruit candidates for different positions in nationalised banks across India. Here is a list of some of the top IBPS bank exams in 2024:

IBPS PO Exam

1. The IBPS PO Exam is conducted to select candidates for the position of probationary officer (PO) in nationalised banks.
2. Applicants should have completed their graduation from a recognised university and should be between 20 and 30 years old.
3. The exam consists of three phases: preliminary, main, and interview.
4. The preliminary exam has three sections: English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability.
5. The main exam includes four sections: Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, and English Language.
6. The preliminary exam is conducted for one hour, while the main exam lasts for three hours.

IBPS Clerk Exam

1. The IBPS Clerk Exam is conducted to hire candidates for clerical positions in nationalised banks.
2. Candidates must have completed their graduation from a recognised university and should be between 20 and 28 years old.
3. The exam consists of two stages: preliminary and main.
4. The preliminary exam has three sections: English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability. The main exam also includes these sections along with General/Financial Awareness and Computer Aptitude.
5. The preliminary exam is conducted for one hour, while the main exam lasts for two hours and forty minutes.

IBPS RRB Exam

1. The IBPS RRB Exam is conducted to recruit candidates for various positions in regional rural banks (RRBs).
2. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific position applied for.
3. The exam pattern also varies based on the position. It generally includes sections like Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and General Awareness.
4. The duration of the exam varies based on the position and number of sections.

IBPS Specialist Officer (SO) Exam

1. This exam is conducted to select candidates for specialist officer positions such as IT Officer, Agricultural Field Officer, Law Officer, and Marketing Officer in nationalised banks.
2. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific position applied for.
3. The exam pattern also varies based on the position. It generally includes sections like Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English Language, and Professional Knowledge.
4. The duration of the exam varies based on the position and number of sections.

IBPS SO Rajbhasha Adhikari Exam

1. This exam is conducted to hire candidates for the post of Specialist Officer in Rajbhasha Adhikari (Scale I) in nationalised banks.
2. Candidates must have completed their postgraduate degree in Hindi with English as a subject at the graduation level, or vice versa. Additionally, they should be between 20 and 30 years old.
3. The selection process consists of a written examination followed by an interview.
4. The duration of the written examination may vary.

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List of RBI Bank Exams 2024 in India

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducts various banking exams to recruit talented individuals for different positions. These exams are highly competitive and require thorough preparation. Let's take a look at the top five RBI bank exams in India that you should be aware of:

RBI Grade B Officer Exam

1. The RBI Grade B Officer Exam is conducted to recruit officers in the Grade B category for various departments within the RBI.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 60% marks or an equivalent CGPA. There are specific age limits for different categories.
3. The exam consists of three phases: preliminary, main, and interview.
4. The preliminary exam is objective in nature, while the main exam includes both objective and descriptive questions. The duration of each phase varies.

RBI Assistant Exam

1. The RBI Assistant Exam is conducted to recruit assistants who assist in various clerical and administrative tasks within the RBI.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50% marks or an equivalent CGPA. Age limits are specified for different categories.
3. The exam consists of two phases: preliminary and main.
4. Both phases include objective-type questions, testing reasoning ability, numerical ability, English language skills, computer knowledge, and general awareness.

RBI Office Attendant Exam

1. The RBI Office Attendant Exam is conducted to select candidates for the post of office attendant who perform supportive tasks in the RBI offices.
2. Candidates must have passed class 10th (SSC/Matriculation) from a recognised board. Age limits apply as per category requirements.
3. The exam consists of two phases: the online test (objective) and the language proficiency test (LPT).
4. The online test covers subjects like reasoning, general English, general awareness, and numerical ability.

RBI Legal Officer Exam

1. The RBI Legal Officer Exam is conducted to recruit legal officers who handle legal matters within the RBI.
2. Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in law from a recognised university. Relevant work experience may also be required.
3. The exam consists of two phases: a written examination and an interview.
4. The written exam includes both objective and descriptive questions, testing knowledge of law, analytical ability, and drafting skills.

RBI Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) Exam

1. The RBI Assistant Manager (Rajbhasha) Exam is conducted to recruit assistant managers who specialise in Rajbhasha (official language) functions within the RBI.
2. Candidates must hold a master's degree in Hindi or Hindi translation with English as a subject at the bachelor's degree level or vice versa. Age limits are specified for different categories.
3. The exam consists of two phases: a written examination and an interview.
4. The written exam includes both objective and descriptive questions, focusing on professional knowledge, translation skills, etc.

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Other Banking Exams in India

Apart from the exams conducted by the State Bank of India (SBI), the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS), and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), several other banking exams provide opportunities for aspiring candidates. Here are a few popular banking exams you should consider:

NABARD Grade A/B Officer Exam

1. The NABARD Grade A/B Officer Exam is conducted by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development to recruit officers for various grades.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree with specified percentages based on different categories. Age limits apply accordingly.
3. The exam consists of different phases, like preliminary, main, and interview, with variations depending on the grade.

IDBI Bank Executive Exam

1. The IDBI Bank Executive Exam is conducted to recruit executives who handle clerical and administrative tasks within the bank.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university. Age limits apply as per category requirements.
3. The exam consists of a single online test covering subjects like reasoning ability, working English language proficiency, and quantitative aptitude.

LIC AAO (Assistant Administrative Officer) Exam

1. The LIC AAO Exam is conducted by the Life Insurance Corporation of India to recruit assistant administrative officers responsible for various functions.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognised university. Age limits apply accordingly.
3. The exam consists of different phases, like preliminary, main, medical examination, etc., with variations based on the specific requirements.

RBI Grade C Officer Exam

1. The RBI Grade C Officer Exam is conducted to recruit officers in the Grade C category for specialised roles within the RBI.
2. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific role and department. Candidates are required to possess relevant qualifications and experience.
3. The exam pattern and duration depend on the specific role applied for within Grade C.

SIB Probationary Officer (PO) Exam

1. The South Indian Bank Probationary Officer Exam is conducted to recruit probationary officers who handle various banking operations within the bank.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university with a specified percentage based on category requirements. Age limits apply accordingly.
3. The exam consists of different phases, like the online test, group discussion (GD), personal interview (PI), etc., with variations based on specific requirements.

Canara Bank PO Exam

1. The Canara Bank Probationary Officer Exam is conducted to recruit probationary officers who handle various banking operations within the bank.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university with specified percentages based on category requirements. Age limits apply accordingly.
3. The exam consists of different phases, like the online test, group discussion (GD), interview, etc., with variations based on specific requirements.

Indian Bank PO Exam

1. The Indian Bank Probationary Officer Exam is conducted to recruit probationary officers for various branches of the bank.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from a recognised university with specified percentages based on category requirements. Age limits apply accordingly.
3. The exam consists of different phases, like preliminary, main, and interview, with variations depending on specific requirements.

Union Bank of India Specialist Officer (SO) Exam

1. The Union Bank of India Specialist Officer Exam is conducted to recruit specialist officers in various domains like IT, HR, law, etc.
2. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific domain and role applied for. Candidates must possess relevant qualifications and experience.
3. The exam pattern and duration depend on the specific role applied for within the specialist officer category.

Indian Overseas Bank Clerk/PO Exam

1. The Indian Overseas Bank Clerk/PO Exam is conducted to recruit clerks and probationary officers for various branches of the bank.
2. Candidates must have a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognised university with specified percentages based on category requirements. Age limits apply accordingly.
3. The exam consists of different phases, like preliminary, main, and interview, with variations based on specific requirements.

Punjab National Bank Specialist Officer (SO) Exam

1. The Punjab National Bank Specialist Officer Exam is conducted to recruit specialist officers in various domains like IT, HR, law, etc.
2. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific domain and role applied for. Candidates must possess relevant qualifications and experience.
3. The exam pattern and duration depend on the specific role applied for within the specialist officer category.

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Latest Bank Exam Notification

In 2024, there have been some important notifications and changes in the banking exam landscape in India. These updates aim to make the recruitment process more inclusive, transparent, and efficient.

1. One significant development is the introduction of the National Recruitment Agency (NRA), which will conduct a Common Eligibility Test (CET) for various government exams, including bank exams. This initiative will streamline the selection process by conducting a single preliminary exam for multiple banking institutions.
2. Additionally, there has been an emphasis on digitalization in the recruitment process. With online applications, payments, and examinations becoming more prevalent, aspirants must be well-versed in computer-based tests.
3. Another notable change is the inclusion of financial awareness as a separate section in banking exams. This highlights the importance of understanding basic financial concepts and current affairs related to the banking industry.

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Job Profile Based on Various Bank Exams in 2024

1. Probationary Officer (PO): As a probationary officer, you will undergo rigorous training to handle different banking operations, such as customer service, loan disbursement, account management, and branch operations.
2. Clerk: As a bank clerk, your responsibilities include handling customer queries, updating passbooks, cash handling, and maintaining records. It is an entry-level position that offers growth opportunities within the banking sector.
3. Assistant Manager: After clearing the bank exams, you can become an assistant manager responsible for overseeing branch operations, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with banking regulations.
4. Specialist Officer: Banks also recruit specialist officers in various domains such as IT, HR, marketing, law, agriculture, and more. These officers handle tasks specific to their area of expertise.
5. Regional Rural Bank Officer (PO/Clerk): Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) play a crucial role in rural development. Clearing the RRB exams can lead to job roles as probationary officers or clerks in these banks.
6. Credit Analyst: Banks require credit analysts to assess loan applications and determine the creditworthiness of borrowers. They analyse financial statements, evaluate risks, and recommend loan approvals or rejections.
7. Relationship Manager: As a relationship manager, you will be responsible for building and maintaining relationships with high-net-worth individuals or corporate clients. Your goal will be to cross-sell banking products and provide personalised services.
8. Branch Manager: After gaining experience in the banking sector, you can aspire to become a branch manager. In this role, you will oversee all branch operations and ensure smooth functioning while achieving business targets.
9. Investment Banker: Some banks have investment banking divisions that offer services like mergers and acquisitions, fundraising for companies through capital markets, and financial advisory services.
10. Wealth Manager: Wealth managers help clients manage their finances by providing investment advice and creating customised portfolios based on their financial goals and risk appetite.
11. Forex Officer: Forex officers handle foreign exchange transactions for customers who need currency conversions or want to send money abroad.
12. Risk Manager: Banks hire risk managers to identify potential risks, develop risk management strategies, and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks.
13. Treasury Officer: As a treasury officer, you will be responsible for managing the bank's funds, optimising cash flows, and executing trades in financial instruments like bonds and currencies.
14. Data Analyst: With the increasing reliance on data-driven decision-making, banks are in need of data analysts to analyse customer trends, improve operational efficiency, and identify growth opportunities.
15. IT Officer: IT officers handle the technological infrastructure of banks by ensuring the smooth functioning of software systems, cybersecurity measures, and the implementation of new technology solutions.

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Bank Jobs Salary

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Bank Exams 2024 Eligibility

1. Age Limit: The minimum age requirement is usually 20 years, while the maximum age limit varies from exam to exam.
2. Educational Qualification: Graduation from a recognised university is the minimum educational qualification required for most bank exams. However, there may be additional requirements, depending on the specific exam.
3. Nationality: Candidates must be Indian citizens or meet other eligibility criteria specified by the conducting authorities.

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Bank Exam Pattern and Syllabus

1. Preliminary Examination: This stage acts as a screening test and consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on topics such as English language, quantitative aptitude, and reasoning ability.
2. Mains Examination: The mains exam consists of sections like reasoning ability and computer aptitude, general/economy/banking awareness, data analysis and interpretation, and English language.
3. Interview: Candidates who clear the main examination are called for an interview where their communication skills, general awareness, and personality traits are evaluated.

Bank Exam Selection Process

1. Online Application: Candidates need to fill out an online application form with their personal details, educational qualifications, and other relevant information.
2. Preliminary Examination: This is the first stage of the exam where candidates need to clear a preliminary test consisting of multiple-choice questions.
3. Mains Examination: Those who qualify in the preliminary examination are eligible to appear for the mains examination.
4. Interview: Candidates who clear the main examination are invited for an interview where their communication skills and overall personality are assessed.
5. Final Merit List: The final merit list is prepared based on the candidate's performance in all stages of the selection process.

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How to Prepare for Bank Exams in 2024?

Preparing for bank exams requires a structured approach and dedication. Here are some tips to help you prepare effectively:

1. Understand the Exam Pattern and Syllabus: Familiarise yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus by referring to official notifications or websites. This will help you identify topics you need to focus on.
2. Create a Study Plan: Make a study plan that includes daily or weekly goals, covering all sections of the exam syllabus consistently. Allocate time for revision as well.
3. Gather Study Material: Collect relevant books, study guides, previous-year question papers, and online resources to aid your preparation. Ensure that the study material is updated and covers all topics.
4. Practice Mock Tests: Solve mock tests regularly to improve your speed and accuracy. Analyse your performance to identify weak areas that need more attention.
5. Time Management: Learn time management techniques to efficiently allocate time for different sections during the exam. Practice solving questions within the stipulated time frame.
6. Improve English Language Skills: Enhance your vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, and communication skills through regular reading, writing, and practice.
7. Strengthen Quantitative Aptitude Skills: Work on improving your numerical ability by practicing mathematical problems regularly. Focus on topics like data interpretation, number series, simplification, etc.
8. Enhance Reasoning Ability: Develop logical reasoning and analytical skills by solving puzzles, coding-decoding problems, syllogisms, etc.
9. Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Read newspapers, magazines, and online sources to stay updated with current affairs related to banking, finance, national and international events, and government policies.
10. Revision: Regularly revise what you have studied to reinforce concepts and improve retention.

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FAQs

1. How often are bank exams conducted in India?

Bank exams are conducted regularly throughout the year by organizations like SBI and IBPS.

2. What is the difference between SBI and IBPS bank exams?

SBI conducts its own set of exams exclusively for recruitment within its organisation, while IBPS conducts recruitment exams for multiple participating banks.

3. Are coaching classes necessary to crack bank exams?

Coaching classes can provide guidance and structured preparation methods, but they are not mandatory. Self-study with proper study materials can also help you succeed.

4. Can I apply for multiple bank exams simultaneously?

Yes, you can apply for multiple bank exams as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each exam.

5. How long does it take to prepare for bank exams?

Preparing for bank exams usually takes 6–9 months, depending on your existing knowledge base and daily study hours. Consistency is crucial.

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