IBPS Recruitment 2024 – Apply, Prepare & Clear the Exams

If you want a banking job, IBPS Recruitment is the first place to look. Every year the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) releases notifications for posts like Clerk, PO, and Specialist Officer. This guide shows you the latest dates, who can apply, and how to study smart.

Latest IBPS Notification at a Glance

The most recent IBPS announcement came out in March 2024. It lists the exams, application window, and official fees. Key points:

  • Clerk exam: online application opens on 15 March, closes on 30 April.
  • PO exam: registration opens on 20 March, closes on 5 May.
  • Application fee: ₹400 for Clerk, ₹650 for PO (online payment only).
  • Admit cards will be released two weeks before the test date.

All dates are posted on ibps.in, so bookmark the site and set reminders.

How to Apply in Simple Steps

1. Create a login on the IBPS portal using your email and mobile number.

2. Fill in personal details exactly as they appear on your ID proof.

3. Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and ID (passport size photo, Aadhaar, etc.). The file size must be under 100 KB.

4. Pay the fee through net banking or credit/debit card. Keep the receipt; you’ll need the transaction ID while downloading the admit card.

5. Submit the form and note the application number. You’ll use it for all future communications.

Don’t rush – a typo can lead to a rejected application.

Eligibility Quick Check

For Clerk:

  • Graduate with at least 50 % marks (45 % for SC/ST).
  • Age 20‑30 years (relaxation up to 5 years for reserved categories).

For PO:

  • Graduation from a recognized university (any discipline).
  • Age 21‑30 years (relaxation up to 5 years for reserved categories).

Make sure you meet these before you spend time on the application.

Exam Pattern – What to Expect

Both exams have three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. The prelims are objective, 100 questions in 60 minutes. Topics covered:

  • English Language – grammar, comprehension, synonyms.
  • Quantitative Aptitude – data interpretation, algebra, arithmetic.
  • Reasoning Ability – puzzles, seating arrangements, data sufficiency.
  • General Awareness – banking, current affairs, economics.

Only those who clear the prelims move to the mains, which is a longer objective test with a higher difficulty level. The interview is the final hurdle for PO candidates.

Practical Preparation Tips

Start with a study plan. Allocate 2‑3 hours daily, split into theory and practice. Use a calendar to mark mock test dates.

Focus on weak areas. If you struggle with reasoning, spend extra time on puzzles and logical sequences.

Use previous year papers. They show the exact question style and help you manage time.

Take online mock tests. Websites like Testbook or Oliveboard offer timed exams that mimic the real test environment.

Keep current affairs updated. Read a concise daily news roundup – no need to skim through the whole newspaper.

Remember to review your mistakes after each mock test. That’s where real learning happens.

Cut‑off and Result

After the interview round, IBPS releases a merit list based on total marks (prelims + mains + interview). The cut‑off varies each year depending on the number of vacancies and difficulty level. Keep an eye on the official result page and be ready with your documents for document verification.

Landing a banking job through IBPS Recruitment takes consistent effort, but the steps are clear. Follow the timeline, prepare with the right resources, and stay disciplined. Good luck!