SBI PO Exam Shift Timings 2026: Prelims & Mains Schedule and Duration

SBI PO Shift Timing 2026

The official SBI PO exam shift timings, specific reporting time, and total duration are clearly printed on your candidate call letter. Please refer to it for your specific batch details.

• The exam is usually conducted in a single shift.
• Candidates must report to the exam centre well before the reporting time mentioned on their admit card.
• Late entry is not allowed, so reaching the venue on time is very important.
• The total exam duration will include both the Objective Test and the Descriptive Test.
• Exact shift timing and instructions will be updated once SBI officially releases the admit card.

SBI PO Prelims Shift Timing 2026

The SBI PO Prelims exam is conducted in four daily shifts: Shift I (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM), Shift II (11:30 AM – 12:30 PM), Shift III (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM), and Shift IV (4:30 PM – 5:30 PM). To ensure a stress-free entry and complete your biometric verification on time, we strongly advise candidates to arrive at the exam center well before their designated reporting time.

SBI PO Mains Shift Timing 2026

Unlike the Prelims, the SBI PO Mains examination is held in a single shift. The total duration for the Mains exam is 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering both objective and descriptive sections.

SBI PO Exam Duration and Breaks

SBI PO exam durations vary significantly between stages. While the Prelims exam is a 1-hour session, the Mains exam spans 3 hours and 30 minutes, inclusive of the descriptive test. As there are no designated breaks, candidates should practice effective time management to complete every section within the specified limits.

SBI PO Exam: Reporting Time and Gate Closure Rules

Candidates must strictly follow the reporting time specified on their admit card. Exam center gates close promptly, and late arrivals will be strictly denied entry. To account for mandatory security frisking, document verification, and biometric registration, please plan your transit to reach the venue ahead of time.

Documents to Carry for SBI PO Exam

To gain entry into the examination hall, you must present a printed copy of your call letter along with a valid original photo identity proof:

• a valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, voter ID, or driving license). The ID must be original and match the details provided in the application.
• Recent passport-size photographs

Important Instructions for SBI PO Exam Day

All candidates must adhere to SBI exam day guidelines. Prohibited items—including electronic gadgets, smartwatches, calculators, and study materials—are strictly forbidden. Please cooperate fully with security personnel during biometric checks. Adhering to invigilator instructions is essential to maintain the integrity of the examination process and avoid disqualification.