The IBPS Clerk exam is conducted in two primary online stages: the Preliminary Exam and the Main Exam. While the Preliminary stage is qualifying in nature, the marks from the Main Exam are used for final merit and selection. There is no interview for the IBPS Clerk position.
1. Preliminary Examination (Qualifying)
The Prelims is an objective test designed to screen candidates. It consists of 100 questions for 100 marks with a total duration of 60 minutes.
| Section | No. of Questions | Max Marks | Sectional Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes |
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer.
- Cut-offs: Candidates must clear both sectional and overall cut-offs to qualify for the Mains.
2. Main Examination (Final Selection)
The Main Exam is more comprehensive and follows a revised pattern for 2026. It features 155 questions for a total of 200 marks.
| Section | No. of Questions | Max Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/Financial Awareness | 40 | 50 | 20 Minutes |
| General English | 40 | 40 | 35 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 | 35 Minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 50 | 30 Minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 120 Minutes |
- Scoring: Like the Prelims, a penalty of 0.25 marks applies for each incorrect response.
- Language: The exam is available in English, Hindi, and 13 regional languages, except for the English Language section.
3. Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT)
Candidates who pass the Mains must clear a local language test in the official language of the state they applied for. This test evaluates reading, writing, and speaking skills and is mandatory for final allotment.