SBI Clerk Selection Process 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

SBI Clerk Selection Process 2026

The recruitment framework consists of the Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, Local Language Proficiency Test (LPT) (where applicable), and mandatory Document Verification. Unlike the SBI PO recruitment, there is no interview round for the SBI Clerk position. The final merit list is determined exclusively by the candidate's performance in the Main Examination, provided they have qualified for the Local Language Proficiency Test.

SBI Clerk Selection Process: Overview

SBI Clerk Selection Process 2026: Prelims Phase

The SBI Clerk Prelims exam is a computer-based objective test totaling 100 marks with a strict time limit of 60 minutes.

1. There is a Sectional time limit in the SBI Clerk Prelims Exam. In the exam, each section i.e. Reasoning Ability, Numerical Ability, and English Language, will have a separate time of 20 minutes.
2. There is no sectional cutoff in the prelim exam. 
3. The aspirants will get a deduction of 1/4th mark for the incorrect answer.

SBI Clerk Selection Process 2026: Mains Phase

The State Bank of India determines the number of candidates shortlisted for the Mains based on current requirements. Typically, approximately 10 times the number of total vacancies are selected to advance to the Mains phase.

1. In the Mains examination, there is no Sectional Cut off) for each section.
2. There is the requirement of the overall cutoff for the SBI Clerk Mains Exam. The candidates are required to score minimum percentage marks on aggregate.
3. The aspirants will get a deduction of 1/4th mark for the incorrect answer.

The final merit list for successful candidates is compiled based on both state-specific and category-wise performance in the SBI Clerk Mains exam.

SBI Clerk Selection Process 2026: Language Proficiency Test

1. The candidates who will qualify SBI Clerk Mains Examination will be eligible for the next phase of recruitment i.e., the Local Language Test.
2. Those candidates who can produce the 10th or 12th Certificate, evidencing that they have studied the opted local language need not appear for the Language Test.
3. In the case of others (qualified for selection), specified opted local language tests will be conducted after provisional selection but before joining. Candidates not found proficient in the specified opted local language would be disqualified.

SBI Clerk 2026 Provisional Selection

Following the completion of all selection stages, the State Bank of India publishes a provisional merit list categorized by state and social group. Job postings are allocated based on the preferences indicated by candidates during the registration phase. Please note that selected employees are generally restricted from applying for transfers for a period of 5 years post-joining.

SBI Clerk Waiting List

The SBI Clerk waiting list remains valid for one year from the date of the final result declaration. Candidates from this list are recruited on a quarterly basis to fill vacancies arising from resignations or non-joining by initial selectees of the same batch.

SBI Clerk Probation Period

Newly appointed clerks must successfully complete a 6-month probation period, during which they are required to finish 15 mandatory e-learning lessons.

1. If the aspirants will fail to complete the 15 allotted e-lessons, then the probation period will be automatically extended.
2. Once the allotted e-lessons are completed, the performance of the newly hired clerks will be assessed as per the SBI Clerk Junior Associate Selection Process.