The IBPS Clerk Prelims 2026 will be conducted in four daily shifts, each lasting 60 minutes. Your specific reporting time, shift, and exam center location are clearly indicated on your official Hall Ticket. Please ensure you arrive well before the gate closing time to avoid any complications.
Understanding the IBPS Clerk Prelims 2026 shift timings is crucial for a stress-free exam day. The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) holds the preliminary examination across multiple shifts and days to manage high applicant volumes effectively. This guide covers the complete shift-wise schedule, exam duration, mandatory reporting protocols, and essential instructions to help you succeed.
IBPS Clerk Prelims 2026 Shift Timings & Schedule
The IBPS Clerk 2026 Preliminary exam is set for October 10 and 11, 2026, with the Mains examination following on December 27, 2026. Please verify your exact shift allocation and arrival time directly on your IBPS Clerk Admit Card 2026.
Candidates are advised to reach the designated test center well ahead of the reporting time. Early arrival allows sufficient buffer for mandatory document verification, biometric data capture, and other entry formalities; please note that entry is strictly prohibited after the gate closing time.
IBPS Clerk Exam Shift Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Conducting Body |
Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS)
|
| Exam Name |
IBPS Clerk (Customer Service Associate) 2026
|
| Exam Stages |
Prelims and Mains
|
| Prelims Duration | 60 Minutes |
| Number of Shifts | 4 (Expected) |
| Mains Duration | 120 Minutes |
| Official Website | www.ibps.in |
Detailed IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings 2026
The IBPS Clerk Preliminary exam typically follows a four-shift daily schedule. It is mandatory for candidates to adhere strictly to the reporting time specified on their official hall ticket.
| Shift | Reporting Time | Handwriting Sample Time | Exam Start | Exam End |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shift 1 | 08:00 AM | 08:55 AM | 09:00 AM | 10:00 AM |
| Shift 2 | 10:30 AM | 11:25 AM | 11:30 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Shift 3 | 01:00 PM | 01:55 PM | 02:00 PM | 03:00 PM |
| Shift 4 | 03:30 PM | 04:25 PM | 04:30 PM | 05:30 PM |
IBPS Clerk 2026 Exam Pattern Structure
The total duration of the IBPS Clerk Prelims exam is 60 minutes. The exam features sectional timing, where you are allotted 20 minutes for each of the three sections; switching between sections is not permitted. Please be aware of the negative marking scheme: 0.25 marks will be deducted for every incorrect response.
| Section | Questions | Marks | Duration |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 Minutes |
| Numerical Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 Minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes |
Essential Documents for IBPS Clerk Exam Center
To be granted entry into the examination hall, candidates must carry the required documentation:
|
Required Documents
|
|
Printed Hall Ticket
|
|
Original Photo Identity Proof
|
|
Passport-size Photographs
|
|
Photocopy of ID Proof
|
Strategies for a Successful Exam Day
Follow these helpful tips to ensure your exam day proceeds smoothly according to the IBPS Clerk Prelims 2026 schedule: