Probationary Officer Recruitment 2026 – Latest Official Notification

The State Bank of India (SBI) has announced a significant opportunity for aspiring banking professionals with the release of its Probationary Officer Recruitment 2026-27 notification. This highly anticipated recruitment drive aims to fill 1500 vacancies for the prestigious Probationary Officer (PO) post across India. Indian citizens holding a Graduation degree in any discipline are invited to apply online for this coveted government banking career. The application window is set from June 18, 2026, to July 08, 2026. This is an excellent chance to join India’s largest public sector bank and embark on a rewarding career path.

Job Overview

The role of a Probationary Officer (PO) at State Bank of India is a dynamic and challenging position that offers immense growth potential. Selected candidates will undergo comprehensive training and will be responsible for various banking operations, customer service, and administrative tasks, eventually taking on leadership roles. This recruitment is managed by the State Bank of India, Central Recruitment & Promotion Department, offering postings across India. The position falls under the Junior Management Grade Scale-I, promising an attractive salary package and extensive benefits.

Probationary Officer Recruitment 2026: Vacancy Details

SBI has officially declared a total of 1500 Probationary Officer (PO) vacancies for the 2026-27 recruitment cycle. This substantial number of openings provides a great opportunity for a wide range of candidates. The vacancies are distributed across various categories as detailed below:

Category-wise Vacancies

*PwBD (Horizontal Vacancies): VI# 15, HI# 16, LD# 14, d & e# @ 16

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates interested in the SBI Probationary Officer position must meet specific eligibility requirements concerning their educational qualifications and age. It is crucial to review these criteria carefully before applying to ensure your candidature is valid.

Educational Qualification (as on 30.09.2026)

• Applicants must possess a Graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized University or any equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government.
• Candidates who are in the Final Year/Semester of their Graduation are also eligible to apply provisionally. However, they must provide proof of passing the graduation examination on or before September 30, 2026.
• Those with Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) certificates must ensure their date of passing the IDD is on or before September 30, 2026.
• Qualifications such as Medical, Engineering, Chartered Accountant, Cost Accountant, etc., are also considered eligible.

Age Limit (as on 01.04.2026)

• Minimum Age: 21 years
• Maximum Age: 30 years
• Candidates must have been born not later than 01.04.2005 and not earlier than 02.04.1996 (both days inclusive).

Age Relaxation

Relaxation in the upper age limit is applicable for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per government norms:

• Other Backward Classes (OBC) (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
• Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST): 5 years
• Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD):
  • PwBD (UR/EWS): 10 years
  • PwBD (OBC): 13 years
  • PwBD (SC/ST): 15 years
• Ex-Servicemen: 5 years

Salary Details and Emoluments

Joining SBI as a Probationary Officer offers an attractive remuneration package, making it one of the most sought-after banking jobs. The starting basic pay for a Probationary Officer is ₹48,480/-, which includes 4 advance increments in the Junior Management Grade Scale-I. The pay scale is ₹48480-2000/7-62480-2340/2-67160-2680/7-85920.

In addition to the basic pay, officers are eligible for various allowances and perquisites as per Bank rules, which include:

• Dearness Allowance (DA)
• House Rent Allowance (HRA)
• City Compensatory Allowance (CCA)
• Provident Fund (PF)
• Contributory Pension Fund (NPS)
• Leave Fare Concession (LFC)
• Medical Facility
• Lease rental facility
• Other allowances

The approximate Cost to Company (CTC) at the initial scale of pay at the Mumbai Centre is estimated to be Rs. 21.97 Lacs per annum, reflecting the comprehensive benefits package offered by SBI.

Application Fee (Non-Refundable)

The application fee for the SBI Probationary Officer Recruitment varies based on the candidate’s category:

• Unreserved / EWS / OBC candidates: ₹750/-
• SC / ST / PwBD candidates: Nil (Exempted from fee)

The fee must be paid online during the application process. Please note that the application fee is non-refundable.

Selection Process

The selection for SBI Probationary Officers is a rigorous three-phase process designed to identify the most suitable candidates. Each phase is crucial and candidates must qualify in each stage to proceed further.

Phase-I: Preliminary Examination

• This is an Online Objective Test conducted for 100 marks.
• Duration: 1 hour.
• Sections:
  • English Language: 40 Questions, 20 minutes
  • Quantitative Aptitude: 30 Questions, 20 minutes
  • Reasoning Ability: 30 Questions, 20 minutes
• There will be no sectional cut-off.
• Candidates approximately 10 times the number of vacancies will be shortlisted for the Main Examination.

Phase-II: Main Examination

• This phase comprises an Online Objective Test for 200 marks and a Descriptive Test for 30 marks.
• Objective Test Duration: 3 hours.
• Objective Test Sections:
  • Reasoning & Computer Aptitude
  • Data Analysis & Interpretation
  • General Awareness / Economy / Banking Knowledge
  • English Language
• Descriptive Test Duration: 30 minutes.
• Descriptive Test Focus: Communication Skills (Emails, Situation Analysis, Reports writing/Precis Writing).
• Both sectional and aggregate qualifying scores will be decided by the Bank.
• Candidates approximately 3 times the number of vacancies will be shortlisted for Phase-III.

Phase-III: Psychometric Test, Group Exercises & Interview

• This phase assesses personality and communication skills.
• Psychometric Test: For personality profiling (qualifying in nature).
• Group Exercise: 20 marks.
• Interview: 30 marks.
• Minimum qualifying marks for Group Exercise & Interview will be determined by the Bank.

Final Selection & Penalty for Wrong Answers

• The final merit list will be prepared by aggregating the normalized marks obtained in Phase-II (Main Examination) and Phase-III (Group Exercise & Interview).
• Penalty for Wrong Answers: A deduction of 1/4th of the marks assigned to a question will be applied for each wrong answer in the Objective Tests of both Preliminary and Main Examinations.

Important Dates

Candidates should mark these crucial dates for the SBI Probationary Officer Recruitment 2026 in their calendars to avoid missing any deadlines:

How To Apply for SBI PO 2026

Candidates must apply online through the official SBI careers website. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful application for the Probationary Officer Recruitment:

1. Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the official SBI careers website at https://sbi.bank.in/web/careers/current-openings.
2. Register and Fill Application: Click on the “Apply Online” link for the Probationary Officer recruitment. Register yourself and proceed to fill out the online application form with accurate details.
3. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your recent passport-style photograph, signature, left-hand thumb impression, and a hand-written declaration. Ensure these documents adhere to the specific size and format guidelines mentioned in the official notification.
4. Pay Application Fee: Pay the requisite application fee online using Debit Card/Credit Card/Internet Banking/UPI.
5. Review and Submit: Carefully review all the details entered in the application form before final submission. No changes will be permitted after submission.
6. Print Application: After successful submission, take a printout of the system-generated online application form and the e-receipt for your future reference.

It is highly recommended that candidates apply well in advance of the last date, July 08, 2026, to avoid any potential technical issues or website congestion.

Important Links

Access all essential resources for the SBI Probationary Officer Recruitment 2026 directly from here:

• Apply Online: https://sbi.bank.in/web/careers/current-openings
• Download Official Notification PDF: Official Notification PDF
• Official Website: https://sbi.bank.in/web/careers/current-openings
• Helpdesk for Application Issues: http://cgrs.ibps.in (Mention ‘RECRUITMENT OF PROBATIONARY OFFICERS IN STATE BANK OF INDIA – 2026’ in the subject line)
• Helpdesk Contact Number: 022-22820427 (11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on working days)

Why This Recruitment Is Important

Joining SBI as a Probationary Officer is not just a job; it’s a gateway to one of India’s most prestigious and rewarding banking careers. This recruitment offers unparalleled opportunities and benefits:

• Leadership Opportunities: Fast-tracked career progression with opportunities to take on leadership roles early in your career.
• Attractive Salary & Benefits: A competitive salary package, comprehensive allowances, and a robust benefits structure, including a high CTC.
• Nationwide Exposure: Opportunities to work in various locations across India, gaining diverse experience.
• World-Class Training: Extensive training programs designed to develop banking expertise and leadership skills.
• Cutting-Edge Digital Banking Experience: Exposure to modern banking technologies and digital innovations.
• Job Security: A stable and secure career path within India’s largest public sector bank.
• Contribution to Nation Building: An opportunity to serve the nation and contribute to India’s economic growth within its vast banking network.

This Probationary Officer Recruitment is a chance to build a fulfilling career with significant impact and personal growth.

Who Should Apply

This recruitment is an ideal opportunity for ambitious graduates from any discipline who are seeking a challenging, dynamic, and rewarding career in the banking sector. Specifically, individuals who meet the following criteria are strongly encouraged to apply:

• Graduates aged between 21 and 30 years (with applicable age relaxations for reserved categories).
• Candidates possessing strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
• Individuals who are keen on continuous learning and professional development.
• Even final-year students who are confident of completing their graduation by the specified date (September 30, 2026) can apply provisionally.

If you aspire to a prestigious career with India’s leading bank, the SBI Probationary Officer role is for you.

Documents Required

Candidates will need to prepare and upload scanned copies of specific documents during the online application process. Additionally, original documents will be required for verification during the interview phase.

For Online Application:

• Recent Passport-style Photograph: Ensure it is clear and meets the specified dimensions.
• Signature: On white paper with black ink.
• Left-Hand Thumb Impression: On white paper with black or blue ink.
• Hand-Written Declaration: In English, on white paper with black ink, as per the format provided in the official notification.

For Interview/Document Verification (Originals & Self-Attested Copies):

• Educational Certificates (Mark sheets and Degree Certificates)
• Caste Certificate (if applicable, for SC/ST/OBC)
• PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
• EWS Certificate (if applicable)
• Identity Proof (Passport, Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Driving License, Voter’s ID Card, Bank Passbook with photograph)
• Any other relevant documents as specified in the official notification.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

To ensure a smooth application process for the Probationary Officer Recruitment, candidates should be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Submitting Multiple Applications: Only the last valid application will be considered. Submit only one complete application.
• Incorrect Document Uploads: Failing to upload clear, correctly sized, and formatted photograph, signature, thumb impression, and hand-written declaration. Always double-check the specifications.
• Last-Minute Application: Waiting until the final days to apply can lead to technical issues due to heavy website traffic. Apply well before the deadline.
• Ignoring CIBIL Score: Not checking your CIBIL score/status before applying. Adverse credit history can lead to disqualification.
• Missing Certificate Deadlines: Failing to produce required certificates (e.g., OBC Non-Creamy Layer, EWS, PwBD) on or before the specified dates for eligibility.
• Inaccurate Information: Providing false or incorrect information in the application form, which can lead to disqualification at any stage.

Important Tips for Candidates

Maximizing your chances in the SBI Probationary Officer Recruitment requires careful planning and execution. Here are some essential tips:

• Active Communication Channels: Ensure your registered email ID and mobile number remain active throughout the entire recruitment process, as all important communications will be sent there.
• Photograph Copies: Keep at least 8-10 copies of the photograph uploaded during registration for use in future stages of the recruitment.
• Practice Typing: For the descriptive test in Phase-II, practice typing regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
• Holistic Preparation: Prepare thoroughly for all three phases: Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, and Psychometric Test/Group Exercise/Interview.
• Stay Updated: Regularly check the official SBI careers website for any updates, announcements, or corrigendum related to the recruitment.
• Honesty and Accuracy: Be honest and accurate while filling out the application form. Any discrepancy or false information can lead to disqualification.
• Read Notification Carefully: Before applying, read the official notification PDF thoroughly to understand all requirements and guidelines.

Preparation Tips

A strategic approach to preparation is key to cracking the SBI Probationary Officer exam. Here’s how you can prepare for each phase:

Phase-I (Preliminary Exam)

• Focus Areas: Concentrate on improving speed and accuracy in English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability.
• Mock Tests: Practice a large number of mock tests regularly to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern, time management, and identify your strong and weak areas.
• Sectional Practice: Dedicate specific time to each section. For Quantitative Aptitude, focus on concepts and shortcuts. For Reasoning, practice various puzzle types. For English, improve vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.

Phase-II (Main Exam)

• In-depth Knowledge: Prepare in-depth for Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, General Awareness / Economy / Banking Knowledge, and English Language.
• Current Affairs: Stay updated on current affairs, especially those related to the economy, banking, and finance, for the General Awareness section.
• Descriptive Paper: For the Descriptive Paper, practice essay writing, precis writing, and letter writing. Focus on clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Read editorials and articles to enhance your writing skills.
• Data Interpretation: Practice complex data interpretation sets, including tables, graphs, and caselets.

Phase-III (Psychometric Test, Group Exercises & Interview)

• Personality Development: Work on your overall personality, communication skills, and confidence.
• General Awareness: Be well-versed with current national and international events, banking industry trends, and general knowledge.
• Group Discussions: Participate in mock group discussions to improve your ability to articulate thoughts, listen actively, and contribute constructively.
• Mock Interviews: Practice mock interviews to get comfortable with common interview questions, body language, and presenting yourself effectively. Be prepared to discuss your academic background, career aspirations, and knowledge about SBI.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions regarding the SBI Probationary Officer Recruitment 2026:

Q1: What is the last date to apply for SBI PO Recruitment 2026?
A1: The last date for online registration and payment of fees is July 08, 2026.

Q2: How many vacancies are available for SBI PO 2026?
A2: There are a total of 1500 vacancies for Probationary Officers in this recruitment drive.

Q3: What is the minimum educational qualification required for SBI PO?
A3: Candidates must have a Graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized University. Final year students can also apply provisionally.

Q4: What is the age limit for SBI PO 2026?
A4: Candidates should be between 21 and 30 years of age as on April 01, 2026. Age relaxations apply for reserved categories.

Q5: What is the application fee for SBI PO?
A5: The application fee is ₹750/- for Unreserved/EWS/OBC candidates, while SC/ST/PwBD candidates are exempted from fees.

Q6: What is the selection process for SBI PO?
A6: The selection process consists of three phases: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Psychometric Test, Group Exercises & Interview.

Q7: What is the starting salary for an SBI Probationary Officer?
A7: The starting basic pay is ₹48,480/- (Plus 4 advance increments) with an approximate CTC of Rs. 21.97 Lacs at the Mumbai Centre, along with other allowances.

Q8: Can final year students apply for SBI PO 2026?
A8: Yes, final year/semester students can apply provisionally, provided they produce proof of passing their graduation examination on or before September 30, 2026.

Q9: Where can I find the official notification and apply online?
A9: The official notification and online application link are available on the SBI careers website: https://sbi.bank.in/web/careers/current-openings. You can also download the Official Notification PDF directly.

Q10: Is there any negative marking in the SBI PO exam?
A10: Yes, there is a penalty of 1/4th of the marks assigned to a question for each wrong answer in the Objective Tests of both Preliminary and Main Examinations.