Latest Update: The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has released the official notification for IBPS PO Recruitment 2025 on its official website. Candidates preparing for this prestigious bank examination can access the complete IBPS PO 2025 syllabus below. This comprehensive guide covers the detailed syllabus for both Preliminary and Mains examinations, along with section-wise weightage, important topics, and effective preparation strategies to help you secure a banking job.
More About Ibps
Important Notice: The IBPS PO 2025 online application process has begun on the official IBPS website. Candidates can apply online at www.ibps.in before the last date. Make sure to check your eligibility criteria before applying for the examination. The preliminary examination is scheduled to be conducted in October-November 2025.
| Organization | Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) |
| Post Name | Probationary Officer (PO) |
| Vacancies | 4500+ (Expected) |
| Selection Process | Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, Interview |
| Exam Pattern | Online Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Official Website | www.ibps.in |
IBPS PO 2025 Important Dates
| Notification Release Date | July 2025 |
| Online Application Start Date | August 2025 |
| Online Application End Date | September 2025 |
| Preliminary Exam Date | October-November 2025 |
| Preliminary Exam Result | November 2025 |
| Main Exam Date | December 2025 |
| Main Exam Result | January 2026 |
| Interview | February 2026 |
| Final Result | April 2026 |
IBPS PO 2025 Exam Pattern
The IBPS PO 2025 examination will be conducted in three phases:
- Preliminary Examination
- Main Examination
- Personal Interview
IBPS PO Preliminary Examination Pattern
| 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 |
Note: The Preliminary Examination is qualifying in nature. Candidates need to qualify in each section as well as in the aggregate to be eligible for the Main Examination. There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer.
IBPS PO Main Examination Pattern
| Section | No. of Questions | Maximum Marks | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 45 | 60 | 60 minutes |
| English Language | 35 | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 | 45 minutes |
| General Economy & Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | 35 minutes |
| Total | 155 | 200 | 180 minutes |
Note: The Main Examination carries a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer. The final selection will be based on the combined scores of Main Examination and Interview.
IBPS PO Detailed Syllabus 2025
1. Preliminary Examination Syllabus
English Language Syllabus
| Topic | Expected Questions |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | 7-10 |
| Cloze Test | 5-7 |
| Para Jumbles | 3-5 |
| Spotting Errors | 3-5 |
| Fill in the Blanks | 3-5 |
| Sentence Improvement | 2-3 |
| Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Word Usage) | 4-5 |
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
| Topic | Expected Questions |
|---|---|
| Simplification/Approximation | 5-7 |
| Number Series | 5 |
| Data Interpretation (Bar Graph, Line Chart, Tabular, Pie Chart, Mixed DI) | 5-10 |
| Quadratic Equations | 5 |
| Percentage, Profit & Loss, Discount | 2-3 |
| Simple & Compound Interest | 1-2 |
| Time & Work, Pipes & Cisterns | 1-2 |
| Time, Speed & Distance | 1-2 |
| Mensuration (2D & 3D) | 1-2 |
| Ratio & Proportion, Mixture & Alligation | 1-2 |
| Number System & HCF-LCM | 1-2 |
Reasoning Ability Syllabus
| Topic | Expected Questions |
|---|---|
| Puzzles & Seating Arrangement (Linear, Circular, Square, etc.) | 10-15 |
| Inequality | 5 |
| Syllogism | 5 |
| Direction Sense & Blood Relation | 3-5 |
| Order & Ranking | 2-3 |
| Coding-Decoding | 3-5 |
| Alphanumeric Series & Symbol Based | 2-3 |
| Data Sufficiency | 2-3 |
| Input-Output | 0-5 |
2. Main Examination Syllabus
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude Syllabus
Reasoning Topics
- Verbal Reasoning
- Syllogism
- Circular Seating Arrangement
- Linear Seating Arrangement
- Double Lineup
- Scheduling
- Input-Output
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Order & Ranking
- Coding-Decoding
- Data Sufficiency
- Course of Action
- Critical Reasoning
- Analytical & Decision Making
Computer Aptitude Topics
- Basic Computer Fundamentals
- History of Computers
- Hardware & Software
- Operating Systems
- Computer Networks
- Internet Terminology
- MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Database Management System
- Basic Programming Concepts
- Security Tools
- Computer Memory
- Input-Output Devices
- Social Media Platforms
- Mobile/Smartphone Technology
- Computer Abbreviations
English Language Syllabus
- Reading Comprehension (2-3 passages)
- Grammar (Error Detection, Fill in the Blanks, Phrase Replacement)
- Vocabulary (Synonyms, Antonyms, Word Usage)
- Verbal Ability
- Para Jumbles
- Cloze Test
- Sentence Completion/Improvement
- Para Completion
- Word Association
- Sentence Connectors
Data Analysis & Interpretation Syllabus
- Tables, Charts, Graphs (Line, Bar, Pie, Mixed)
- Data Sufficiency
- Probability & Permutation-Combination
- Missing Data Interpretation
- Caselet Data Interpretation
- Data Comparison & Analysis
- Advanced Mathematical Concepts
- Quadratic Equations
- Number Series
- Simplification & Approximation
- Mixtures & Alligations
- Percentages, Profit & Loss, Discounts
- Ratio & Proportion
- Time, Speed & Distance
- Work & Time
- Mensuration & Geometry
General Economy & Banking Awareness Syllabus
Banking Knowledge
- Banking Terms & Concepts
- Banking Industry History
- Types of Banks & Their Functions
- RBI & Its Functions
- Monetary Policy
- Banking Committees & Recommendations
- Banking Regulations
- Financial Institutions (NABARD, SIDBI, EXIM)
- Banking Products & Services
- NPA & Recovery Mechanisms
- Priority Sector Lending
- Payment Systems (RTGS, NEFT, IMPS)
- Digital Banking
- Bank Mergers & Acquisitions
Economy & Current Affairs
- Indian Economy Basics
- Economic Indicators
- Government Schemes & Policies
- Union Budget
- Taxes & GST
- International Economic Organizations
- Trade Agreements
- Stock Markets & Capital Markets
- Current National Affairs
- Current International Affairs
- Financial Inclusion Initiatives
- Economic Reforms
- Five-Year Plans & NITI Aayog
- Indian Financial System
IBPS PO 2025 Preparation Strategy
Preparation Tips for Preliminary Examination
English Language Preparation
- Vocabulary Building: Read newspapers, magazines, and novels daily to enhance your vocabulary. Focus on The Hindu, Economic Times, and The Indian Express.
- Grammar Rules: Master basic grammar rules including parts of speech, tenses, articles, prepositions, and subject-verb agreement.
- Reading Comprehension: Practice reading passages with diverse topics and answer questions to improve comprehension skills.
- Error Spotting: Create a list of common grammatical errors and practice identifying them in sentences.
- Mock Tests: Take regular sectional tests focusing on English to improve speed and accuracy.
Quantitative Aptitude Preparation
- Master the Basics: Strengthen your understanding of mathematical concepts, formulas, and shortcuts.
- Fast Calculation: Practice mental calculation and approximation techniques to save time.
- Data Interpretation: Practice various types of DI questions including tables, graphs, charts, and caselets.
- Number Series: Understand different patterns like arithmetic, geometric, and mixed series.
- Regular Practice: Solve at least 50 questions daily from diverse topics to strengthen your problem-solving skills.
Reasoning Ability Preparation
- Puzzles & Seating Arrangement: Practice different types of puzzles and seating arrangements daily as they carry significant weightage.
- Inequality: Learn the basic concepts and different types of inequality questions.
- Syllogism: Master the rules of Venn diagrams and logical deduction for solving syllogism questions.
- Coding-Decoding: Practice different patterns of coding including letter shifting, word coding, and symbolic coding.
- Time Management: Focus on selecting the right questions to attempt first to maximize your score.
Preparation Tips for Main Examination
English Language Preparation
- Advanced Reading Comprehension: Practice reading complex passages on economics, banking, and current affairs.
- Paragraph Formation: Improve your ability to arrange sentences in logical order.
- Error Detection: Focus on subtle grammatical errors and sentence improvement techniques.
- Vocabulary Enhancement: Learn banking and financial terminology.
- Mock Tests: Attempt full-length Main exam English section tests to build stamina.
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude Preparation
- Complex Puzzles: Practice multi-level puzzles and complex seating arrangements.
- Computer Knowledge: Study basic computer fundamentals, operating systems, and latest technological developments.
- Critical Reasoning: Improve logical analysis for arguments, assumptions, and conclusions.
- Decision Making: Practice scenarios requiring analytical decision-making abilities.
- Sectional Time Management: Allocate proper time to reasoning and computer sections as per their difficulty level.
Data Analysis & Interpretation Preparation
- Advanced DI: Practice complex data sets with multiple variables and conditions.
- Missing DI: Learn techniques to solve data interpretation with missing information.
- Caselet DI: Focus on solving paragraph-based data interpretation questions.
- Advanced Mathematics: Strengthen concepts in probability, permutation-combination, and quadratic equations.
- Calculation Speed: Improve calculation accuracy and speed for complex problems.
General Economy & Banking Awareness Preparation
- Daily Current Affairs: Read financial newspapers and banking-focused magazines.
- Banking Fundamentals: Study RBI functions, banking regulations, and committee recommendations.
- Economic Indicators: Understand GDP, inflation, fiscal deficit, and their impact on the economy.
- Government Schemes: Stay updated on recent financial inclusion schemes and initiatives.
- Banking History: Learn about evolution of banking in India, nationalization, and recent developments.
IBPS PO 2025 Recommended Books
| Subject | Recommended Books | Author/Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | Word Power Made Easy High School English Grammar & Composition Objective General English | Norman Lewis Wren & Martin S.P. Bakshi |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations Fast Track Objective ArithmeticData Interpretation | R.S. Aggarwal Rajesh Verma Arun Sharma |
| Reasoning Ability | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning Analytical Reasoning Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal M.K. Pandey Arun Sharma |
| Computer Knowledge | Objective Computer Awareness Computer Knowledge for SBI/IBPS Clerk/PO | Arihant Publications Kiran Publications |
| Banking Awareness | Banking Awareness Banking & Financial Awareness | Arihant Publications Disha Publications |
| Current Affairs | Banking & Financial Awareness with Current Affairs Monthly Magazines | Plutus Academy Banking Service Chronicle |
IBPS PO 2025 Previous Year Cut-Off Marks
Understanding the previous year’s cut-off marks can help you set realistic targets for your preparation. Here are the section-wise and overall cut-off marks for IBPS PO from the last three years:
IBPS PO Preliminary Examination Cut-Off (2024)
| Category | English Language | Quantitative Aptitude | Reasoning Ability | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General/EWS | 7.75 | 7.50 | 7.75 | 62.25 |
| OBC | 6.75 | 6.50 | 6.75 | 55.75 |
| SC | 5.00 | 4.75 | 5.00 | 47.00 |
| ST | 3.25 | 3.00 | 3.25 | 35.50 |
| PwBD | 3.00 | 2.75 | 3.00 | 32.25 |
IBPS PO Mains Examination Cut-Off (2024)
| Category | Overall Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| General/EWS | 47.25 |
| OBC | 42.00 |
| SC | 34.50 |
| ST | 25.75 |
| PwBD | 24.25 |
Note: The above cut-off marks are for reference only. The actual cut-off marks for IBPS PO 2025 may vary based on factors like the difficulty level of the examination, number of vacancies, and the performance of candidates.
Free IBPS PO 2025 Study Material
Here are some reliable free resources to help you prepare for the IBPS PO 2025 examination:
- Official IBPS Website: www.ibps.in – For official notifications, sample papers, and updates
- Government Websites: www.mygov.in – For latest government schemes and policies
- RBI Website: www.rbi.org.in – For banking awareness and monetary policy updates
- YouTube Channels: Several banking exam preparation channels provide free video lectures
- Mock Test Platforms: Many online platforms offer free mock tests for banking examinations
- PDF Notes: Various websites provide free downloadable study material for IBPS PO preparation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the selection process for IBPS PO 2025?
The IBPS PO 2025 selection process consists of three phases: Preliminary Examination (qualifying in nature), Main Examination, and Personal Interview. Candidates must qualify in each stage to proceed to the next. The final merit list is prepared based on the combined scores of Main Examination (80% weightage) and Interview (20% weightage).
How many attempts are allowed for IBPS PO examination?
There is no specific limit on the number of attempts for IBPS PO examination as long as the candidate meets the eligibility criteria, including age limits. General category candidates must be between 20-30 years of age, with relaxations for reserved categories as per government norms.
Is there any negative marking in IBPS PO 2025 examination?
Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in both the Preliminary and Main examinations. Therefore, candidates should be careful while attempting questions and avoid random guessing.
What is the educational qualification required for IBPS PO 2025?
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university or equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government. Candidates in their final year of graduation can also apply provisionally, subject to producing proof of passing the graduation examination on or before the date specified by IBPS.
How should I prepare for the banking awareness section?
For banking awareness, stay updated with current banking news, RBI policies, government schemes, and financial terminology. Read financial newspapers like Economic Times and Financial Express regularly. Focus on banking history, committees, banking regulations, and recent developments in the financial sector. Make concise notes and revise them frequently to retain the information.
Which banks participate in IBPS PO recruitment?
IBPS PO recruitment is conducted for 11 Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in India. These include Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Bank of Maharashtra, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Punjab National Bank, Punjab & Sind Bank, UCO Bank, and Union Bank of India. The specific participating banks may vary year to year based on their requirements.
For more information about banking exams and results, check our articles on SBI PO Final Result 2025 and IBPS PO Final Result 2025.