IBPS Clerk Complete Guide
Your comprehensive guide to cracking IBPS Clerk exam and starting your banking career
What is IBPS Clerk?
IBPS Clerk is a recruitment examination conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) for clerical positions in participating public sector banks, regional rural banks, and other financial institutions across India.
As an IBPS Clerk, you'll be responsible for customer service, cash handling, data entry, and various administrative tasks that form the backbone of banking operations. This position offers excellent job security, growth opportunities, and attractive benefits.
Key Benefits
- Job Security in Banking Sector
- Attractive Salary & Benefits
- Career Growth Opportunities
- Medical & Pension Benefits
- Work-Life Balance
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality
Indian Citizenship required
Education
Graduation in any discipline from recognized university
Age Limit
20-28 years (relaxation for reserved categories)
Computer Knowledge
Basic computer proficiency required
Age Relaxation
Selection Process
Preliminary Examination
Online Test60 minutes
100 questions
Online Test
English Language (30), Numerical Ability (35), Reasoning Ability (35)
Main Examination
Online Test160 minutes
200 questions
Online Test
General/Financial Awareness, General English, Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Quantitative Aptitude
Language Proficiency Test
Optional Test30 minutes
Descriptive Test
Optional Test
Local language test (only if prescribed by participating organization)
Document Verification
VerificationAs per schedule
Original Documents
Verification
Verification of educational and other certificates
Subject-wise Marks Distribution
| Section | Prelims | Mains | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 marks | 40 marks | Moderate |
| Numerical Ability | 35 marks | 50 marks | Moderate to High |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 marks | 50 marks | Moderate |
| General Awareness | Not applicable | 40 marks | Moderate |
| Computer Aptitude | Not applicable | 20 marks | Easy to Moderate |
Participating Banks
Public Sector Banks
Major nationalized banks with extensive branch networks
Regional Rural Banks
Banks focusing on rural and agricultural development
Small Finance Banks
Banks providing financial services to unserved segments
Job Profiles & Salary
| Post | Bank Type | Salary Range | Main Duties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clerk | Public Sector Banks | ₹19,900-63,200 | Customer service, cash handling, data entry |
| Cashier | Regional Rural Banks | ₹19,900-63,200 | Cash transactions, vault operations |
| Data Entry Operator | Cooperative Banks | ₹19,900-63,200 | Digital data management, file handling |
| Customer Service Officer | Various Banks | ₹19,900-63,200 | Customer assistance, query resolution |
| Junior Associate | Public Sector Banks | ₹19,900-63,200 | Banking operations, administrative work |
Important Banking Terms
NPA
Non-Performing Assets - loans that are in default
CRR
Cash Reserve Ratio - percentage of deposits banks must keep with RBI
SLR
Statutory Liquidity Ratio - liquid assets banks must maintain
RTGS
Real Time Gross Settlement - instant large value money transfer
NEFT
National Electronic Funds Transfer - electronic money transfer system
KYC
Know Your Customer - customer identification process
Complete Syllabus
English Language
Numerical Ability/Quantitative Aptitude
Reasoning Ability
General/Financial Awareness
Computer Aptitude
Exam Strategy & Tips
Time Management
Allocate time wisely for each section during the exam
Accuracy Focus
Maintain high accuracy to avoid negative marking penalties
Mock Tests
Regular practice with full-length mock examinations
Speed Building
Improve calculation and reading speed through practice
Current Affairs
Stay updated with last 6 months banking and general news
Weak Areas
Identify and strengthen weak subjects through focused study
Create a comprehensive study schedule covering all subjects equally
Practice English newspaper reading daily for language and current affairs
Solve arithmetic problems regularly to improve calculation speed
Take online mock tests to simulate actual exam conditions
Focus on banking awareness and financial terms specifically
Join study groups or coaching for structured preparation
Maintain a current affairs notebook for quick revision
Practice computer-based questions for familiarity with digital format
Career Progression in Banking
Clerk/Junior Associate
0-2 years
₹19,900-63,200
Senior Clerk
2-5 years
₹23,700-74,200
Officer Scale I
Through IBPS PO
₹23,700-42,020
Assistant Manager
5-8 years
₹31,705-45,950
Manager
8-12 years
₹42,020-66,070
Senior Manager
12+ years
₹50,030-90,820
Ready to Start Your Banking Career?
Begin your IBPS Clerk preparation today and secure your future in the banking sector!