The SBI Clerk 2026-27 recruitment process involves two main examination stages: the Preliminary Exam and the Main Examination, followed by a Local Language Proficiency Test. Both stages are online objective tests with a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
Preliminary Examination
The Prelims is an online objective test designed to screen candidates for the Main Examination. It assesses basic aptitude across three core subjects.
| 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 wrong answer.
This stage is qualifying in nature, meaning your marks here do not count towards the final merit list, but you must pass it to proceed. There are sectional timings for each subject.
Main Examination
The Mains is a comprehensive online objective test that determines your final selection. It covers a broader range of subjects and has a higher weightage.
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/Financial Awareness | 50 | 50 | 35 |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 35 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 50 | 50 | 45 |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 50 | 60 | 45 |
| Total | 190 | 200 | 160 |
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer.
Marks obtained in the Main Examination are crucial as they are considered for the final merit list. This stage also features sectional timings.
Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
Candidates provisionally selected after the Main Examination, who have not studied the specified local language in Class 10th or 12th, must undergo an LPT. This test is qualifying; failure to pass will lead to cancellation of the appointment offer. No marks are awarded for the LPT, and it does not contribute to the final merit list.
Marking & Normalization
For both the Preliminary and Main Examinations, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer. There is no explicit mention of normalization for the SBI Clerk exam in the provided information. The final merit list is prepared solely based on the aggregate marks obtained in the Main Examination, subject to qualifying the Local Language Proficiency Test and document verification.
Pattern FAQs
- What are the stages of the SBI Clerk 2026-27 exam?
- The SBI Clerk 2026-27 exam consists of a Preliminary Examination, a Main Examination, and a Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT).
- Is there negative marking in the SBI 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 counted for the final selection?
- No, marks obtained in the Preliminary Examination are only for qualification to the Mains and are not counted for the final merit list. The final selection is based on Mains marks.
- Is the Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT) mandatory?
- The LPT is mandatory for candidates who have not studied the local language in Class 10th or 12th. It is qualifying in nature, and failing it will lead to disqualification.