• Updated on 4 Jul, 2026 by Gazal Arora
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SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026 outlines the complete subject-wise topics for both the Preliminary and Main examinations conducted by the State Bank of India for the recruitment of Junior Associates (Customer Support & Sales). Candidates preparing for the SBI Clerk 2026 Exam must thoroughly understand the latest syllabus and exam pattern to plan an effective preparation strategy. The syllabus covers Reasoning Ability, Numerical Ability, English Language, General Awareness, and Computer Aptitude.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026 is divided into two stages, including Prelims and Mains. The Preliminary Examination evaluates candidates on their aptitude and language skills, while the Main Examination includes advanced reasoning, quantitative aptitude, banking awareness, computer aptitude, and English language. Since the final merit list is prepared based only on the Mains examination, candidates should prepare every section comprehensively.
Table of Contents
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Exam Overview
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026 is designed to assess a candidate's aptitude, reasoning ability, language proficiency, banking awareness, and computer knowledge. The recruitment process consists of a Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and Local Language Proficiency Test (where applicable). While the Preliminary Examination is qualifying in nature, the final merit list is prepared based on marks obtained in the Main Examination.
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Conducting Body | State Bank of India |
| Exam Name | SBI Clerk 2026 |
| Post Name | Junior Associate (Customer Support & Sales) |
| Exam Level | National Level |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Selection Process | Prelims, Mains, Local Language Test |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| Prelims Exam Date (Expected) | September 26, 27 & October 3, 2026 |
| Mains Exam Date (Expected) | November 23, 2026 |
| Language of Paper | English & Hindi (except English section) |
| Official Website | sbi.co.in |
Read: SBI Clerk Vacancies 2026
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Stage-wise Syllabus
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026 is prescribed separately for the Preliminary and Main examinations. The Prelims syllabus focuses on basic aptitude and reasoning skills, whereas the Mains syllabus includes advanced reasoning, quantitative aptitude, banking and financial awareness, computer aptitude, and English language. Candidates should prepare according to the syllabus of each stage to maximise their chances of selection.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Prelims Syllabus
SBI Clerk Prelims Syllabus 2026 comprises three sections, including English Language, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning Ability. The Preliminary Examination carries 100 marks and serves as the qualifying stage for the Main Examination. The section-wise syllabus is provided below:
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Mains Syllabus
SBI Clerk Mains Syllabus 2026 consists of four sections: Reasoning Ability, General Awareness, General English, and Quantitative Aptitude. Compared to the Preliminary Examination, the Main Examination includes more analytical and application-based questions. Since the final merit list is prepared based on Mains marks, candidates should prepare every section thoroughly.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Exam Pattern
SBI Clerk Exam Pattern 2026 helps candidates understand the number of questions, marking scheme, sectional timing, and duration of both the Preliminary and Main examinations. Familiarity with the exam pattern enables candidates to manage their time effectively during the examination.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Prelims Exam Pattern
SBI Clerk Prelims Exam Pattern 2026 consists of three sections with separate sectional timings. The examination is conducted online and includes objective-type multiple-choice questions. The Preliminary Examination is qualifying in nature, and marks scored in this stage are not considered for preparing the final merit list.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Mains Exam Pattern
SBI Clerk Mains Exam Pattern 2026 consists of four sections carrying a total of 190 questions for 200 marks. The examination is conducted online with sectional timing, and only the marks obtained in the Main Examination are considered for the final selection of candidates.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Local Language Proficiency Test
SBI Clerk Local Language Proficiency Test is conducted after the Main Examination for candidates who cannot produce valid proof of having studied the specified local language in Class 10 or Class 12. Candidates must be able to read, write, speak, and understand the local language of the State/UT they have applied for. Failure to qualify in the Local Language Test will lead to cancellation of candidature. The structure of the test is as follows:
- Non-Verbal Test: Includes three passages in the objective format with 15 questions for 15 marks, and three passages in the subjective format with 15 questions for 15 marks.
- Verbal Test: Consists of 20 questions to assess a candidate’s command of the local language.
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Marking Scheme
SBI Clerk Marking Scheme 2026 includes one mark for every correct answer, while 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect response in both the Preliminary and Main examinations. No marks are deducted for unanswered questions. If the examination is conducted in multiple shifts, scores are normalised before the declaration of results.
Read: SBI Clerk Selection Process 2026
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Recommended Books
SBI Clerk Books 2026 play an important role in building conceptual clarity and improving question-solving speed. Candidates should refer to standard books covering Reasoning, Quantitative Aptitude, English, Banking Awareness, and Computer Aptitude, along with regular mock tests and previous year papers.
| Section | Recommended Books |
| English Language | High School English Grammar and Composition – Wren & Martin
Objective General English – Arihant Publications
Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis |
| Reasoning Ability | Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal
Analytical Reasoning – M.K. Pandey
A New Approach to Reasoning: Verbal & Non-Verbal – B.S. Sijwali & Indu Sijwali |
| Numerical/Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude – R.S. Aggarwal
Data Interpretation – Arun Sharma
Objective Mathematics for Competitive Exams – Tarun GoyalFast Track Arithmetic – Rajesh Verma |
| General/Financial Awareness | India Year Book Manorama Yearbook
Lucent's General Knowledge
Banking Awareness – Arihant Publications |
| Computer Aptitude |
Banking & Computer Aptitude – Adda247 Publications
Computer Knowledge – Disha Publication
Computer Awareness – Arihant Publications
Objective Computer Knowledge & Literacy – Kiran Publication |
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026: Preparation Tips
SBI Clerk Preparation Tips 2026 can help candidates improve their accuracy, speed, and overall performance in both stages of the examination. Along with completing the syllabus, candidates should focus on mock tests, previous year papers, current affairs, and regular revision.
| Particulars | Preparation Tips |
| English Language |
• Read an English newspaper daily to improve vocabulary and comprehension.
• Practise 2 Reading Comprehensions (RCs) every day.
• Revise grammar rules and create flashcards for vocabulary, idioms, and phrases. |
| Quantitative Aptitude |
• Memorise tables (up to 25), squares (up to 50), and cubes (up to 20).
• Practise Data Interpretation (DI) sets daily.
• Revise formulas for SI/CI, Probability, Time & Work, and Percentage regularly. |
| Reasoning Ability |
• Solve puzzles and seating arrangement questions daily under timed conditions.
• Attempt sectional mock tests regularly.
• Focus on Input-Output, Critical Reasoning, and Logical Reasoning for Mains. |
| General/Financial Awareness |
• Prepare the last 6 months' current affairs thoroughly.
• Revise RBI notifications, banking awareness, and economic updates regularly.
• Refer to monthly current affairs PDFs and banking magazines for revision. |
| Computer Aptitude | • Practise Computer Awareness MCQs regularly.
• Revise MS Office, shortcut keys, internet concepts, and basic computer fundamentals. |
SBI Clerk Syllabus 2026 FAQs
What are the stages of SBI Clerk recruitment 2026?
SBI Clerk recruitment process in 2026 consists of two main stages: the Preliminary exam and the Main exam. There is no interview round involved. Candidates must qualify in the Preliminary exam to be eligible to appear for the Main exam, which finalises the selection.
Are the Prelims marks added to the final selection marks?
No, the marks obtained in the Preliminary exam are only for qualifying purposes and are not added to the final merit list. The final selection is based solely on the marks scored in the Main exam.
What is the weightage of the General/Financial Awareness section in SBI Clerk Mains?
The General/Financial Awareness section carries significant importance in the Main exam, comprising 50 questions worth 50 marks. This section plays a crucial role in the overall final score, and candidates must prepare it thoroughly to improve their chances of selection.
Is there sectional timing in the SBI Clerk exam?
Yes, both Preliminary and Main exams have fixed sectional time limits. Candidates are required to complete each section within the stipulated time and are not allowed to switch between sections during the exam. Time management for each section is crucial to avoid missing questions.
How many months of Current Affairs should candidates prepare for the SBI Clerk?
Candidates should ideally prepare at least 6 months’ worth of current affairs before the exam, with special priority given to the most recent 3 months leading up to the exam date. This ensures updated knowledge of the latest events, schemes, and developments.
What is the difficulty level of the SBI Clerk compared to the SBI PO exams?
SBI Clerk exams are generally of moderate difficulty. In comparison, the SBI PO exam is more challenging as it includes additional stages like descriptive tests and group discussions/interviews, making it a tougher overall selection process.
Is Computer Aptitude tested in the Prelims stage of SBI Clerk?
No, Computer Aptitude questions are not part of the Preliminary exam. They are included only in the Main exam stage. Candidates should focus on other core sections like Reasoning, Numerical Ability, and English Language for the Prelims.
Is there a sectional cutoff in SBI Clerk 2026?
Yes, candidates must clear not only the overall cutoff but also the sectional cutoffs in both Preliminary and Main exams. Failing to meet sectional cutoff criteria in any section can result in disqualification, regardless of the overall score.
Which sections should beginners prioritize when preparing for SBI Clerk?
Beginners are advised to focus first on Numerical Ability and Reasoning Puzzles, as these sections require more practice and problem-solving skills. Building strong basics early will help improve speed and accuracy.
What is a recommended strategy to ensure success in SBI Clerk 2026?
The best approach is to ensure clearing the cutoff in all sections of the Preliminary exam first. After qualifying, devote focused time to strengthening banking General Knowledge and Computer Awareness for the Main exam. Consistent practice, accuracy, and revision of these areas are key to success.