IBPS SO Prelims Cut Off 2026
Institute of Banking & Personnel Selection (Website)
Location: IndiaExam Date: 2026-08-29
| Age Limit | As per IBPS SO notification guidelines, typically 20-30 years with standard category relaxations. |
Job Description
Overview
The Institute of Banking & Personnel Selection (IBPS) manages the recruitment process for Specialist Officer (SO) positions across various public sector banks. This process involves a preliminary examination, a main examination, and a final interview stage to determine candidate suitability. The cut-off marks serve as the essential threshold for candidates to progress from the preliminary stage to the main examination.
Key Responsibilities
- Candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying marks in each section and the overall aggregate to be shortlisted.
- The selection board evaluates performance based on the difficulty level of the specific shift and the total number of available vacancies.
- Normalization procedures are applied to ensure fairness across multiple examination shifts.
- The cut-off marks are determined post-examination to reflect the competitive landscape of the current year.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in the subsequent main examination phase.
- Final selection is contingent upon meeting the cumulative requirements of all three stages of the recruitment process.
Why Apply
Securing a position as a Specialist Officer provides a stable career path within the banking sector with significant professional growth opportunities. The role offers competitive compensation packages and the chance to contribute to the core operations of nationalized banks.
Important Dates
- Prelims Exam Date: 29 August 2026
Quick Facts
- Organization: IBPS
- Exam: Specialist Officer (SO) Prelims
- Category: Banking Exams
Age Limit (Detail)
As per IBPS SO notification guidelines, typically 20-30 years with standard category relaxations.
Selection Process
The selection process for IBPS SO consists of three distinct stages. First, the preliminary examination acts as a screening test where candidates must clear sectional and overall cut-offs. Second, those who qualify proceed to the main examination, which tests professional knowledge relevant to the specific post. Finally, successful candidates are called for a personal interview to assess their suitability for the banking role. Final merit lists are prepared based on the combined scores of the main exam and the interview.
Exam Pattern
The preliminary examination pattern varies by post but generally includes sections on Reasoning, English Language, and Quantitative Aptitude or General Awareness. Each section has a specific time limit and carries a set number of marks. Negative marking is applicable for every incorrect answer provided by the candidate.
Application Fee
Fees are determined by category: General, OBC, and EWS candidates typically pay a standard fee, while SC, ST, and PwBD candidates are often eligible for reduced fees or exemptions. Payments must be made through the online portal using credit cards, debit cards, or net banking.
Vacancy Details
Vacancies are distributed across various specialist roles including IT Officer, Agricultural Field Officer, Rajbhasha Adhikari, Law Officer, HR/Personnel Officer, and Marketing Officer.
How to Apply
- Visit the official IBPS website at www.ibps.in.
- Navigate to the Specialist Officer recruitment section.
- Complete the registration process by providing basic personal and contact details.
- Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and required certificates.
- Proceed to the payment gateway to submit the application fee.
- Review all entered information carefully before final submission.
- Download and print the application form for your future reference.
Detailed Notification Link
| Official Website | View Notification |
