The SBI PO Phase I Exam 2025 is one of the most sought-after banking exams in India. Every year, thousands of candidates compete for the coveted Probationary Officer (PO) position in the State Bank of India (SBI). With tough competition, strategic preparation and timely updates on the exam schedule and guidelines are essential for success.
SBI PO Phase I Exam Schedule 2025
| Exam Conducting Body | State bank of India (SBI) |
| Exam Name | SBI PO Prelims Exam 2025 |
| Exam Dates | March 8, 16 and 24, 2025 |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Negative Marking | 0.25 deduction/incorrect answer |
| Official Website | https://sbi.co.in/web/careers |
The SBI PO Prelims Exam 2025 is a crucial step for candidates aspiring to secure their career in India’s largest public sector bank. To maximize your chances of success, it is imperative to stay updated with official announcements and prepare with a structured strategy. Candidates should regularly check the official SBI website to track any amendments in the exam dates or guidelines.
Important Dates and Timings
The SBI PO Phase I exam will take place in multiple shifts at designated exam centers across the country. Candidates should check their admit card for their specific date, time, and location. The admit card is expected to be released in the fourth week of February 2025.
Exam Timings for SBI PO Prelims 2025
- Morning Shift: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Afternoon Shift: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
- Evening Shift: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Candidates are advised to reach their respective exam centers at least 60 minutes before the exam starts time to complete the mandatory security checks and biometric verification.
SBI PO Phase I Exam Pattern 2025
The SBI PO preliminary exam follows a structured format designed to test candidates on three main topics:
| Section | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Duration |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes |
Important Note:
- Each question carries one mark, and 0.25 marks will be deducted for each wrong answer.
- No marks will be deducted for unanswered questions.
- The exam will be conducted online in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format.
Preparation Strategy for SBI PO Phase I Exam 2025
To excel in the SBI PO Prelims Exam 2025, candidates must adopt a structured and efficient preparation plan. Here are expert tips to boost performance:
- Understand the detailed Syllabus: A deep understanding of the SBI PO syllabus is essential. To optimise your study plan, focus on high-weightage topics in Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, and English Language.
- Solve Previous Years Papers: Practising previous year’s SBI PO exam papers will give an idea about the difficulty level and question pattern. Aim to solve at least 10-15 full-length mock tests before the exam.
- Develop Strong Time Management Skills: Each section is given a different time, making speed and accuracy the key to scoring well. Candidates should practice completing each section within the allotted 20 minutes.
- Take Regular online Mock Tests: Mock tests simulate the real exam environment and improve overall performance. Websites like Oliveboard, Gradeup, and Testbook provide high-quality mock exams for SBI PO preparation.
- Focus on Weak Areas and Improve Accuracy: Analyze your mock test performance and identify weak sections. Work on improving speed and accuracy, especially in calculation and reasoning-based questions.
- Learn Shortcuts and Tricks: For Quantitative Aptitude, mastering shortcuts for calculations can save a lot of time. Regular practice of Vedic Math techniques can be beneficial.
- Improve Reading and Vocabulary for the English language: Reading newspapers, especially The Hindu or The Economic Times, can increase comprehension and vocabulary, which is important for the English language section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When is the SBI PO preliminary exam 2025 scheduled?
Ans: The SBI PO preliminary exam 2025 is expected to be held on March 8, March 16 and March 24, 2025.
Q: How can I download my SBI PO admit card?
Ans: Candidates can download their SBI PO admit card from the official SBI website after it is released in February 2025.
Q: What is the selection process for SBI PO 2025?
Ans: The SBI PO recruitment process consists of three stages:
- Preliminary Exam (Phase I)
- Main Exam (Phase II)
- Interview and Group Discussion (Phase III)
Q: Is there a negative marking in the SBI PO Preliminary Exam?
Ans: Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for each wrong answer in the SBI PO Preliminary Exam.
Q: How many times can I appear for the SBI PO exam?
Ans: The number of attempts allowed depends on the category of the candidate:
- General: 4 attempts
- OBC: 7 attempts
- SC/ST: No attempt limit
Conclusion
Success in the SBI PO Phase I exam 2025 requires dedicated preparation, constant practice, and a strategic approach. Stay updated with official notifications, follow a disciplined study routine, and use online resources to boost your preparation. With the right mindset and determination, cracking SBI PO Prelims 2025 is within your reach!
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