IBPS Clerk Exam: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Banking Career

The IBPS Clerk Exam is one of the most sought-after banking exams in India. Conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS), this exam serves as a gateway to clerical positions in various public sector banks. Every year, thousands of aspirants apply for the exam, hoping to secure a stable and prestigious banking job.

If you’re planning to appear for the IBPS Clerk Exam, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the exam structure, eligibility criteria, syllabus, preparation tips, and career prospects.

Understanding the IBPS Clerk Exam

The IBPS Clerk Exam is conducted in two stages:

1. Preliminary Examination (Prelims)
2. Main Examination (Mains)

Unlike some other banking exams, there is no interview round for the IBPS Clerk Exam. Candidates who clear both Prelims and Mains are directly considered for appointment in participating banks.

IBPS Clerk 2025: Important Dates

While the exact dates may vary each year, IBPS generally releases the official notification in July or August, with the Prelims conducted in September or October and the Mains in December or January.

Aspirants must regularly check the IBPS official website (www.ibps.in) for the latest updates on the exam schedule.

Eligibility Criteria for IBPS Clerk Exam

Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria:

1. Educational Qualification

   • A Bachelor’s Degree (in any discipline) from a recognized university.
   • Computer literacy is a mandatory requirement.

2. Age Limit

   • Minimum: 20 years
   • Maximum: 28 years
   • Age relaxation applies to reserved categories as per government norms.

3. Nationality

   • Indian citizen OR
   • A subject of Nepal/Bhutan OR
   • A Tibetan refugee who migrated to India before January 1, 1962.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Preliminary Examination

The Prelims consist of three sections:

• Each question carries 1 mark, and 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer.

Main Examination

• Mains carries 200 marks, with a similar negative marking system as Prelims.

How to Prepare for IBPS Clerk Exam?

Aspirants should follow a structured preparation strategy to ace the IBPS Clerk Exam. Here are some effective tips:

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Before starting your preparation, go through the syllabus thoroughly. Focus on important topics based on previous years’ trends.

2. Follow a Daily Study Plan

Divide your time efficiently among all subjects. Allocate time for mock tests, revision, and practice questions.

3. Focus on Speed and Accuracy

The IBPS Clerk Exam is time-bound, so candidates must focus on solving questions quickly and accurately.

4. Practice Previous Year Papers

Solving past question papers helps in understanding question trends and difficulty levels.

5. Attempt Mock Tests Regularly

Online mock tests simulate the real exam and help improve time management. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses to enhance performance.

6. Strengthen Your English and General Awareness

For General Awareness, stay updated with current affairs, banking awareness, and financial news. Read newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and banking-related magazines.

Career Growth and Salary of an IBPS Clerk

A clerical job in a public sector bank offers a stable career with growth opportunities.

Salary Structure

The IBPS Clerk salary is attractive, with a starting basic pay of ₹19,900 – ₹20,000 per month, along with allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Special Allowance. The gross monthly salary can range between ₹28,000 – ₹30,000.

Promotions and Career Growth

After joining as a Clerk, employees can get promoted through internal exams or experience-based promotions. The promotion hierarchy is:

1. Clerk
2. Officer Assistant
3. Probationary Officer (PO)
4. Branch Manager
5. Senior Manager