The IBPS Clerk (CRP-XVI) 2026 selection process involves a Preliminary Examination, a Main Examination, and a Local Language Proficiency Test. Both the Prelims and Mains exams include a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Examination is an online test designed to screen candidates for the Mains. It assesses basic aptitude in English, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning. This stage is qualifying; its marks are not counted for the final merit list, but candidates must clear both sectional and overall cut-offs.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 |
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
Main Examination
Candidates who qualify in the Prelims proceed to the Main Examination, an online test that forms the basis of the final merit list. This stage comprehensively evaluates general awareness, English proficiency, reasoning, computer aptitude, and quantitative skills.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 35 |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 35 |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 50 | 60 | 45 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 40 | 50 | 45 |
| Total | 180 | 200 | 125 |
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer.
Local Language Proficiency Test (LLPT)
The LLPT is an offline, qualifying test for provisionally shortlisted candidates. It assesses the candidate's proficiency in the official local language of the state/UT for which they have applied. Failure to qualify this test will result in non-allotment.
Marking & Normalization
Scores in both the Preliminary and Main Examinations are subject to a normalization process to account for variations in difficulty across different shifts. Final scores are evaluated out of 100 marks after normalization for cut-off calculation. The final merit list is computed solely based on the marks obtained in the Online Main Examination.
Pattern FAQs
- What is the total duration of the IBPS Clerk Prelims exam?
- The IBPS Clerk Prelims exam has a total duration of 60 minutes (1 hour).
- Is there negative marking in the IBPS Clerk exam?
- Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in both the Preliminary and Main Examinations.
- Are Prelims marks considered for the final merit list?
- No, the Preliminary Examination is qualifying in nature, and its marks are not considered for the final merit list. The final merit list is based only on the marks obtained in the Main Examination.
- What is the Local Language Proficiency Test (LLPT)?
- The LLPT is a qualifying offline test to assess a candidate's proficiency in the official local language of the state/UT they applied for. It is mandatory for provisional allotment.