IBPS PO 2025 Syllabus and Preparation Guide: Complete Section-wise Topics
IBPS PO 2025 Syllabus and Preparation Guide: The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has released the official notification for Probationary Officer (PO) recruitment 2025. Candidates planning to appear for this prestigious banking examination need a comprehensive understanding of the latest syllabus and effective preparation strategies. This article provides the complete IBPS PO 2025 syllabus for both Prelims and Mains examinations along with section-wise preparation tips.
| IBPS PO 2025 Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | IBPS PO (Probationary Officer) 2025 |
| Conducting Body | Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) |
| Exam Levels | Preliminary, Main, Interview |
| Selection Process | Three-stage: Prelims, Mains, and Interview |
| Preliminary Exam | October 2025 |
| Main Exam | November 2025 |
| Interview | January-February 2026 |
| Official Website | www.ibps.in |
IBPS PO 2025 Exam Pattern
Preliminary Examination Pattern
| Section | Number 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 |
Main Examination Pattern
| Section | Number 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 |
IBPS PO Prelims Syllabus 2025
1. English Language Syllabus
| Topics | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Economy, Banking, Social issues, Business scenarios |
| Grammar | Articles, Prepositions, Conjunction, Tenses, Subject-Verb Agreement, Error Spotting |
| Vocabulary | Synonyms, Antonyms, Word Formation, Spelling Correction, Phrase Replacement |
| Verbal Ability | Para Jumbles, Cloze Test, Fill in the Blanks, Sentence Completion |
2. Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
| Topics | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Number Series | Finding wrong/missing number, Pattern recognition |
| Simplification & Approximation | BODMAS, Decimals, Fractions, Surds & Indices |
| Data Interpretation | Bar Graphs, Line Charts, Tabular Data, Pie Charts, Mixed DI |
| Arithmetic Problems | Percentage, Profit & Loss, SI & CI, Time & Work, Speed & Distance, Averages, Ratio & Proportion, Mixtures & Alligations, Mensuration, Time & Distance, Boats & Streams, Pipes & Cisterns, Partnership |
| Quadratic Equations | Finding roots, Relationship between variables |
3. Reasoning Ability Syllabus
| Topics | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Logical Reasoning | Syllogisms, Statement & Assumptions, Statements & Conclusions, Statements & Arguments, Course of Action |
| Puzzles & Seating Arrangement | Linear & Circular Seating, Double Line-up, Box-based Puzzles, Floor Puzzles, Scheduling, Blood Relations |
| Alphanumeric Series | Number, Alphabet & Symbol Series |
| Direction Sense | Direction & Distance Problems |
| Order & Ranking | Ranking & Arrangement |
| Coding-Decoding | Letter & Number Coding, Fictitious Language |
| Inequality | Direct & Coded Inequality |
IBPS PO Mains Syllabus 2025
1. Reasoning & Computer Aptitude
| Topics | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Verbal Reasoning | Syllogisms, Statement & Assumptions, Statements & Conclusions, Statements & Arguments, Course of Action, Critical Reasoning |
| Non-Verbal Reasoning | Series, Analogy, Classification, Mirror Images, Paper Folding & Cutting, Hidden/Embedded Figures |
| Complex Puzzles | Multi-level Puzzles, Complex Scheduling, Mixed Conditions |
| Data Sufficiency | Analyzing given conditions for sufficiency |
| Computer Knowledge | Hardware & Software, Operating Systems, Internet & Networks, MS Office, Computer Abbreviations, Computer Security, Database Management, Emerging Technologies (AI, Blockchain, Cloud Computing) |
2. English Language
| Topics | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Reading Comprehension | Complex passages on Economy, Banking, Business, Social Issues (with inferential questions) |
| Grammar & Usage | Error Correction, Sentence Improvement, Phrase Replacement |
| Vocabulary | Word Usage, Idioms & Phrases, Contextual Usage, Phrasal Verbs |
| Advanced Verbal Ability | Para Jumbles with multiple sentences, Complex Cloze Tests, Sentence Connectors |
3. Data Analysis & Interpretation
| Topics | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Advanced DI | Multi-level DI (Combination of Charts), Data Sufficiency, Missing Data Cases |
| Data Analysis | Tabulation, Probability, Permutation & Combination, Venn Diagrams |
| Advanced Quantitative Problems | Logarithms, Progressions (AP, GP, HP), Percentages, Ratios, Profit & Loss, Interest, Averages, Time & Work, Speed & Distance, Mensuration |
| Number System | LCM & HCF, Divisibility Rules, Remainders, Aliquot Sums |
4. General Economy & Banking Awareness
| Topics | Sub-topics |
|---|---|
| Banking Awareness | History of Banking, Banking Terms, Banking Regulations, RBI Policies, Types of Banks, Banking Products & Services, Priority Sector Lending, NPA, BASEL Norms, Financial Inclusion, Digital Banking |
| Indian Financial System | Money Market, Capital Market, SEBI, Mutual Funds, Insurance, Primary & Secondary Markets |
| Indian Economy | Economic Surveys, Budget, Five-Year Plans, Economic Indicators (GDP, GNP, NNP), Taxation, GST, Fiscal & Monetary Policy |
| Current Affairs | Banking & Financial News, Government Schemes, International Economic Organizations, Economic Agreements & Summits |
| International Economy | World Bank, IMF, WTO, ADB, Global Economic Trends, International Trade, Foreign Exchange |
IBPS PO 2025 Section-wise Preparation Strategy
English Language Preparation Tips
- Reading Habit: Develop a daily reading habit of newspapers (The Hindu, The Economic Times) and magazines to improve comprehension and vocabulary.
- Grammar Basics: Strengthen your grammar foundation using books like Wren & Martin or online resources.
- Vocabulary Enhancement: Learn 10-15 new words daily and use them in sentences. Focus on banking and economy-related terminology.
- Practice Reading Comprehension: Read diverse topics, especially banking and economy-related articles, and practice answering inference-based questions.
- Error Spotting Practice: Dedicate 30 minutes daily to practice error detection in sentences.
Quantitative Aptitude Preparation Tips
- Concept Clarity: Build a strong foundation in basic mathematical concepts and formulas.
- Calculation Speed: Practice shortcuts and approximation techniques to improve calculation speed.
- Data Interpretation: Practice various types of DI sets daily (bar graphs, tables, pie charts, line graphs, etc.).
- Quant Topics Priority: Focus on high-weightage topics like Number Series, Quadratic Equations, and DI sets.
- Regular Practice: Solve at least 50 questions daily from various sources and previous year papers.
Reasoning Ability Preparation Tips
- Puzzles & Seating Arrangement: Practice at least 2-3 sets daily to improve your analytical and logical thinking.
- Syllogism: Understand the rules of syllogism thoroughly and practice various types of questions.
- Inequality: Master the concepts of direct and coded inequalities.
- Practice Variety: Solve different types of reasoning questions to be prepared for any type that appears in the exam.
- Time Management: Practice solving puzzles and seating arrangements within time constraints.
General Economy & Banking Awareness Preparation Tips
- Daily News Reading: Read banking and economy sections of newspapers and financial magazines daily.
- Banking Basics: Understand fundamental banking concepts, terminologies, and functions of various financial institutions.
- Current Affairs: Stay updated with the latest happenings in the banking and financial sector for the past 6 months.
- Government Schemes: Learn about recent government initiatives related to banking, finance, and economy.
- Banking History: Study the evolution of banking in India and important milestones.
Computer Aptitude Preparation Tips
- Basic Concepts: Understand the fundamentals of computer hardware, software, and networking.
- Latest Technologies: Stay updated with emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, and Fintech.
- MS Office: Learn the basic functions and shortcuts of MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Banking Technology: Focus on digital banking services, payment systems, and cybersecurity measures.
- Acronyms: Memorize important computer-related abbreviations and their full forms.
Important Books for IBPS PO 2025 Preparation
| Subject | Recommended Books | Author/Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | Word Power Made Easy Objective General English English Grammar & Composition |
Norman Lewis SP Bakshi Wren & Martin |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams Magical Book on Quicker Mathematics Data Interpretation |
RS Aggarwal M Tyra Arun Sharma |
| Reasoning Ability | A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning Analytical Reasoning Puzzle & Seating Arrangement |
RS Aggarwal MK Pandey Disha Experts |
| Banking Awareness | Banking Awareness Banking & Financial Awareness with Current Affairs Banking & Economic Awareness |
Arihant Experts Disha Publication Sriram’s IAS |
| Computer Knowledge | Objective Computer Awareness Computer for Bank PO Exams Computer Fundamentals |
Arihant Publications Kiran Prakashan P.K. Sinha |
IBPS PO 2025 Preparation Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Follow a structured study plan with dedicated time for each section
- Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level
- Analyze your performance after each mock test
- Focus on accuracy first, then speed
- Revise concepts and formulas regularly
- Stay updated with current affairs and banking news
- Practice previous years’ question papers
- Take short breaks during study sessions to maintain focus
Don’ts
- Don’t start new topics close to the exam
- Don’t skip analyzing your mistakes in mock tests
- Don’t ignore any section, even if it’s not your strength
- Don’t study for long hours without breaks
- Don’t rely on a single source of study material
- Don’t get demotivated by low scores in practice tests
- Don’t compromise on sleep during preparation
- Don’t try to cover too many topics in one day
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about IBPS PO 2025
Q1: What is the eligibility criteria for IBPS PO 2025?
Ans: Candidates must be Indian citizens aged between 20-30 years (with relaxation for reserved categories) and should hold a graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
Q2: How many vacancies are expected in IBPS PO 2025?
Ans: Based on previous trends, approximately 4,000-5,000 vacancies are expected across participating public sector banks.
Q3: Is there any negative marking in IBPS PO exam?
Ans: Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each wrong answer in both Prelims and Mains examinations.
Q4: How much time should I dedicate daily for IBPS PO preparation?
Ans: Ideally, 6-8 hours of dedicated study time is recommended, with a balanced focus on all sections.
Q5: Is sectional timing applicable in IBPS PO Prelims?
Ans: Yes, sectional timing is applicable in the Prelims examination. You’ll have 20 minutes each for English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability sections.
Q6: What is the minimum qualifying marks for IBPS PO Prelims and Mains?
Ans: The cutoff marks vary each year based on the difficulty level of the exam and the number of vacancies. Candidates need to score above both sectional and overall cutoffs to qualify.
Q7: How important is the interview stage in the final selection?
Ans: The interview carries a significant weightage of 100 marks. The final merit list is prepared based on the combined scores of Mains examination (weighted 80%) and interview (weighted 20%).
Q8: Can I use a calculator during the IBPS PO exam?
Ans: No, calculators are not allowed. However, an on-screen calculator is provided during the examination.
Q9: What is the validity period of IBPS PO certification?
Ans: The IBPS PO certification is valid for one year from the date of result declaration.
Q10: How many attempts are allowed for IBPS PO examination?
Ans: There is no specific limit on the number of attempts for General category candidates as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.
Important Links
| Description | Links |
|---|---|
| IBPS Official Website | Click Here |
| IBPS PO 2025 Notification | Coming Soon |
| IBPS PO 2025 Apply Online | Coming Soon |
| Previous Year Cut-off | Click Here |
| IBPS PO Previous Papers | Click Here |
We hope this comprehensive guide on IBPS PO 2025 syllabus and preparation strategy helps you in your journey to become a Probationary Officer in a public sector bank. Stay focused, follow a structured approach, and practice regularly to achieve success in this competitive examination. All the best for your preparation!