Know about SBI Probationary Officer Exam: Eligibility and exam pattern

New Delhi: Banking has become one of the most challenging sectors in the country. The Indian banking can be broadly categorized into nationalized, private banks and specialized banking institutions. The State Bank of India is the country's oldest bank and a premier in terms of balance sheet size, number of branches, market capitalization and profits.Earlier known as the Imperial Bank of India, it got its current name in 1955 after its nationalisation by the government of India. The State Bank of India provides a range of banking products through its vast network of branches in India and overseas, including products aimed at non-resident Indians.The State Bank Group, with over 16,000 branches, has the largest banking branch network in India. This examination is held every year by the Central Recruitment Board, State Bank Group, generally in the month of July. Blank application forms and other particulars are published in the Employment News in the month of March. The last date for submission of applications is generally second week of April. SBI PO Exam: Eligibility and exam patternNationality: IndianAge: Minimum 21 Years; maximum 30 YearsThe maximum age limit specified is applicable to General Category candidates.Relaxation of Upper Age LimitScheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe: 35yearsOther Backward Classes: 33 yearsPersons With Disabilities: 10 yearsEx-Servicemen: 35 yearsCandidates from Kashmir Division: 35 yearsEducational QualificationThe candidate should be a graduate or equivalent. The same should be in any stream from a recognized university with a minimum requisite of 65% average mark for general category 60% for other classes is a must. The candidate selected for the post of Probationary Officer (PO) must also have knowledge about basic computer handling.Exam PatternPhase IObjective Test of English Language, General Awareness, Data analysis and interpretation, Reasoning (200 Marks)Descriptive test of English Language (comprehension, small outline, article and letter writing) 50 MarksPhase IIGroup Discussion 20 MarksGroup Discussion (Rural) 10 MarksInterview 30 MarksExperience 10 MarksThe exam will be conducted in various centers in almost all parts of India.Final SelectionThe marks of Group Discussion and SBI Bank PO Interview will be put together and the candidates who secure minimum 40% marks (minimum 35% in case of SC / ST / OBC / PWD) in group discussion and interview will be considered for final selection. The candidate has to pass both in Phase I & II separately.Phase I & Phase II marks will be aggregated and arranged in descending order (category wise) for candidates who have qualified in both the phases separately and depending on the Latest PO Vacancies in SBI Bank 2011, selection will be made from the top merit ranked candidates in each category.