The selection process for SBI Clerk (Junior Associate) 2025 is a comprehensive and multi-phase recruitment structure. It is designed to identify the most competent candidates for clerical roles across various SBI branches in India. The recruitment consists of an online Preliminary Examination, a Mains Examination, followed by a Language Proficiency Test (LPT), and document verification. The process concludes with appointment and a probation period. Unlike many other exams, there is no interview in SBI Clerk selection.

Stage 1 – SBI Clerk Preliminary Examination

The Preliminary Examination is the first stage that applicants must clear. It is a qualifying test, meaning the marks do not count towards the final merit. However, candidates must secure minimum sectional and overall cut-off marks to proceed. This stage is designed to assess the candidate’s basic aptitude in three core areas: English, reasoning, and numerical ability. The test is fast-paced and requires quick thinking, accuracy, and strong fundamentals in each subject area. Preparation should focus on speed and sectional cut-offs.

Stage 2 – SBI Clerk Mains Examination

The Mains Examination is the most crucial part of the selection process. It carries the maximum weightage in the final selection. The test evaluates candidates on multiple dimensions such as awareness of current events, financial knowledge, and analytical and language skills. Unlike the Preliminary Exam, the Mains has sectional time limits, and only overall cut-offs are considered. Performance in this stage is the deciding factor for being shortlisted for the Language Test and further stages. Accuracy and time management are essential for success here.

Stage 3 – Language Proficiency Test (LPT)

Candidates who qualify the Mains Examination are called for the Language Proficiency Test. This stage ensures that the candidate is proficient in the official/local language of the state they have applied for. It may involve reading, writing, and speaking in that language. Candidates who have studied the local language in their 10th or 12th standard may be exempted, provided they produce relevant certificates. Those who fail to qualify the LPT are disqualified from further proceedings, regardless of their Mains scores.

Stage 4 – Document Verification

Once a candidate clears the Mains and LPT, they are called for document verification. This stage ensures that the candidate’s eligibility criteria like age, educational qualifications, category, and local language proficiency are verified. All documents submitted at the time of application must be produced in original. Failure to present valid documents can result in disqualification. Candidates should ensure their name, date of birth, and category status matches across all documents submitted.

Final Stage – Appointment & Probation

Once a candidate is found eligible in all previous stages, SBI issues a provisional appointment. The selected candidates undergo a probation period of six months. During probation, employees are trained through e-lessons that cover various banking functions, customer service protocols, and system training. Completion of this training is mandatory, and failure to do so can result in an extension of probation. The candidate’s performance is also monitored, and unsatisfactory conduct may lead to termination.