SBI PO Notification Released: Application Process, Fees, and Selection Stages Explained

If you’ve been waiting for a golden opportunity to step into the world of banking, here’s your cue—SBI PO Notification 2025 has officially been announced! The much-awaited notification is now live, setting the stage for one of the most competitive and prestigious exams in the country. Aspiring candidates across India are gearing up to make the most of this opportunity to join the State Bank of India as Probationary Officers.

This blog will take you through all the key highlights—important dates, eligibility criteria, and exam pattern—so you’re fully equipped to begin your preparation with clarity and confidence.

SBI PO Notification 2025 – What’s New This Year?

The SBI PO Notification 2025 has sparked excitement among banking aspirants by bringing timely clarity on the recruitment process. This year’s notification outlines the total number of vacancies, updated eligibility norms, and an expected timeline that gives candidates ample room to plan ahead.

Here are some key details revealed in the notification:

• Release Date: The official notification was released in the first week of July 2025.

• Online Application Start Date: 24 June, 2025.

• Last Date to Apply Online: 14 July 2025.

• Prelims Exam Date: Scheduled for late July or early September 2025.

• Mains Exam Date: Tentatively set for September 2025.

What’s noteworthy is that SBI continues its trend of providing early notice, which is a great advantage for serious aspirants.

Eligibility Criteria – Are You the Right Fit?

Before diving into the preparation, it’s essential to check if you meet the eligibility requirements. The SBI PO Notification 2025 outlines specific age and qualification standards that candidates must fulfill:

Educational Qualification:

• A graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university or equivalent qualification is mandatory.

• Final year students can also apply, provided they produce proof of graduation before the interview.

Age Limit:

• Minimum Age: 21 years

• Maximum Age: 30 years (as of 1st April 2025)

• Age relaxation is available for reserved categories as per government rules.

Nationality:

• The applicant must be a citizen of India.

• Subjects of Nepal, Bhutan, or Tibetan refugees who came to India before 1st January 1962 are also eligible under certain conditions.

SBI PO Selection Process – Step-by-Step

The recruitment process follows a three-tier selection structure, ensuring that only the most capable and well-rounded candidates make it through.

1. Preliminary Exam – Objective-type, qualifying in nature

2. Main Examination – Objective + Descriptive test

3. Group Exercise & Interview – Final stage for shortlisted candidates

Candidates must qualify at each stage to progress to the next. The final merit list will be based on marks scored in the Mains and Interview.

SBI PO Exam Pattern – A Smart Preparation Guide

The SBI PO Exam Pattern is designed to assess a candidate's aptitude, reasoning, and general awareness through a structured three-stage process—Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Understanding the SBI PO Exam Pattern helps aspirants plan effectively, manage time wisely, and focus on high-scoring areas to improve their chances of clearing the exam with confidence.

Prelims Exam Pattern:

• English Language – 30 Questions (20 mins)

• Quantitative Aptitude – 35 Questions (20 mins)

• Reasoning Ability – 35 Questions (20 mins)

• Total: 100 Questions | 100 Marks | Duration: 1 Hour

Note: No sectional cut-offs, but there is negative marking (0.25 per wrong answer).

Mains Exam Pattern:

• Reasoning & Computer Aptitude – 45 Questions | 60 mins | 60 marks

• Data Analysis & Interpretation – 35 Questions | 45 mins | 60 marks

• General/Economy/Banking Awareness – 40 Questions | 35 mins | 40 marks

• English Language – 35 Questions | 40 mins | 40 marks

• Descriptive Test (Essay + Letter) – 2 Questions | 30 mins | 50 marks

Why This Update Matters for Aspirants

This announcement has set the tone for what could be your breakthrough year. Many aspirants were eagerly awaiting confirmation so they could align their preparation timelines with official dates. The early release ensures that every serious candidate now has a realistic window to practice, revise, and plan mock tests accordingly.

If you've already been preparing, it's time to accelerate. If you're just getting started, you still have time to catch up—with the right approach.

Conclusion: Start Strong, Finish Stronger

The SBI PO Notification 2025 is not just another job update—it’s a doorway to a career full of prestige, purpose, and professional growth. Whether you're a first-time aspirant or a returning candidate, now is the moment to act decisively.

Don’t wait till the last date to apply. Stay tuned to Smartkeeda for regular updates, expert mock tests, and exam strategies that can boost your performance from average to excellent.