Embarking on the journey to become an SBI Clerk (Junior Associate) involves a structured selection process designed to identify the most suitable candidates. From your initial application to receiving your joining letter, each stage plays a crucial role in your path to success.
Selection Stages
Apply Online
This is the first step where candidates must register and submit their application through the official SBI careers website. You can apply for vacancies in only one State or Union Territory. The process includes filling in personal and academic details, uploading necessary documents, selecting your preferred examination center, and paying the application fee (₹750 for General/OBC/EWS; ₹0 for SC/ST/PwBD/XS/DXS). The application window for SBI Clerk 2026-27 was from August 11, 2026, to August 31, 2026.
Preliminary Examination
The Preliminary Exam is an online objective test, serving as a qualifying stage. It consists of 100 questions for 100 marks, to be completed in 60 minutes, with sectional timings of 20 minutes each for English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability. Marks obtained in this stage are not counted for the final selection. Approximately 10 times the number of vacancies will be shortlisted for the Main Examination. The preliminary exam is expected to be held on September 26, 27, and October 3, 2026.
Main Examination
Candidates who qualify in the Prelims will proceed to the Main Examination. This is also an online objective test, comprising 190 questions for a total of 200 marks, with a duration of 2 hours 40 minutes. It includes four sections: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude, each with separate time limits. There are no sectional qualifying marks, but candidates must secure minimum aggregate marks as decided by the bank. The main exam is tentatively scheduled for November 23, 2026.
Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
If you qualify in the Main Exam and have not studied the specified local language of the chosen State/UT in Class 10 or 12, you must appear for a Local Language Proficiency Test. This test is qualifying in nature and is conducted before joining. Proficiency in the local language is mandatory for appointment.
Document Verification
The final stage involves document verification for candidates who have qualified in the Main Exam and, if applicable, the Local Language Proficiency Test. You will need to present all original documents for verification to confirm your eligibility and details provided in the application.
How The Final Merit Is Made
The final state-wise and category-wise merit list for the SBI Clerk (Junior Associate) 2026-27 recruitment is prepared solely based on the aggregate marks obtained in the Main Examination. It is crucial to note that marks from the Preliminary Examination are not considered for the final selection. Additionally, candidates must successfully qualify the Local Language Proficiency Test (where applicable) to be considered for appointment. There is no interview stage in the SBI Clerk recruitment process.
Documents You'll Need
- Printout of the online application form
- Proof of Date of Birth (e.g., Class 10th Marksheet/Certificate)
- Photo Identity Proof (e.g., PAN Card, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID, Aadhaar Card)
- Educational Qualification Certificates (Mark sheets and Degree/Provisional Certificate for Graduation)
- Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC) if applicable, in the prescribed format
- EWS Certificate if applicable
- Disability Certificate if applicable (for PwBD candidates)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed in Government/Semi-Government/PSU
- Any other relevant documents as specified in the official notification
Selection FAQs
Q1: Are marks from the Preliminary Exam counted for the final selection?
A1: No, marks obtained in the Preliminary Examination are only for qualifying to the Main Examination and are not counted towards the final merit list.
Q2: Is there an interview stage for SBI Clerk recruitment?
A2: No, there is no interview in the SBI Clerk (Junior Associate) selection process. The final merit list is based solely on the marks obtained in the Main Examination.
Q3: What is the Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT)?
A3: The LPT is a qualifying test for candidates who haven't studied the local language of their chosen State/UT in Class 10 or 12. Proficiency in the local language is mandatory for final appointment.
Q4: Is there negative marking in the SBI Clerk exams?
A4: Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer (1/4th of the mark assigned) in both the Preliminary and Main Examinations.