IBPS Clerk 2026 Notification Released: 11,403 Vacancies
The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has officially released the recruitment notification for the Common Recruitment Process (CRP Clerks-XVI) for the financial year 2026. This recruitment drive aims to fill a massive 11,403 vacancies for clerical positions in participating public sector banks across India. As one of the most prominent bank exams in the country, lakhs of banking aspirants are expected to apply. Eligible graduates can submit their applications online through the official IBPS portal. This article provides all the crucial details, including application fees, eligibility criteria, exam patterns, selection processes, and step-by-step guidelines.
1. IBPS Clerk 2026 Recruitment Overview
Refer to this summary table for quick information regarding the clerical recruitment process:
| Particulars / Feature | Official Details |
|---|---|
| Name of Organization | Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) |
| Post Name | CRP Clerk-XVI (Clerical Cadre) |
| Total Number of Vacancies | 11,403 Posts (State-wise distribution) |
| Pay Scale Group | Basic Pay Rs. 19,900/- in public sector banks |
| Application Start Date | July 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Application | August 21, 2026 |
| Preliminary Exam Dates | October 2026 (Tentative) |
| Main Exam Dates | November 2026 (Tentative) |
| Official Web Address | ibps.in |
2. Detailed Vacancy Distribution and Participating Banks
Vacancies are distributed state-wise and bank-wise. Eleven public sector banks are participating in this recruitment drive. The banks include Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Bank of Maharashtra, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Punjab National Bank, Punjab & Sind Bank, UCO Bank, and Union Bank of India. Candidates must choose their preferred state when applying, as local language proficiency is verified before final appointment.
3. Eligibility Criteria & Age Limit Specifications
Candidates must fulfill the minimum eligibility criteria regarding nationality, age, and academic qualifications as of the cut-off date:
- Academic Qualification: A candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree (Graduation) in any discipline from a recognized University or any equivalent qualification recognized as such by the Central Government. Candidates must possess a valid degree certificate at the time of online registration.
- Computer Literacy: Operating and working knowledge of computer systems is mandatory. Candidates must have a certificate, diploma, or degree in computer operations/language, or must have studied Computer/Information Technology as a subject in High School or College.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the official local language of the state or union territory for which the candidate is applying is highly preferred and tested during document verification.
- Age Limit: Minimum age is 20 years and Maximum age is 28 years. Age relaxation rules apply for reserved categories as follows:
– OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 Years relaxation
– SC / ST Candidates: 5 Years relaxation
– PwD Candidates: 10 Years relaxation
4. Application Fee and Payment Process
The application fee must be paid online using debit cards, credit cards, internet banking, or UPI portals. Fees are non-refundable:
- SC / ST / PwBD / ESM Candidates: Rs. 175/- (inclusive of GST)
- All Other Categories (General, OBC, EWS): Rs. 850/- (inclusive of GST)
5. Selection Process and Detailed Exam Syllabus
The selection process for IBPS Clerk contains two stages of computer-based tests. There is no interview round for clerical positions in public sector banks.
Stage 1: Preliminary Examination (CBT)
The preliminary exam consists of 100 objective questions for 100 marks, to be solved in 60 minutes. There is a sectional time limit of 20 minutes for each section. A penalty of 0.25 marks is deducted for every incorrect response.
| Section Name | Questions | Maximum Marks | Duration per Section |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 Questions | 30 Marks | 20 Minutes |
| Numerical Ability | 35 Questions | 35 Marks | 20 Minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 Questions | 35 Marks | 20 Minutes |
| Total Assessment | 100 Questions | 100 Marks | 60 Minutes |
Stage 2: Main Examination (CBT)
Candidates who qualify the preliminary exam cut-off are called for the main exam, which consists of 190 questions for 200 marks, to be solved in 160 minutes. Sectional timing applies. The questions are harder and test logical analysis, advanced quantitative aptitude, general financial awareness, and computer applications.
6. Step-by-Step Online Application Guide
Follow these guidelines to submit your application form without mistakes:
- Go to the official IBPS portal at `ibps.in`.
- Click on the link *”Apply Online for CRP-Clerks-XVI”* and select **”New Registration”**.
- Fill in your basic details (Name, Contact Number, Email ID) to generate your Registration Number and Password.
- Upload your scanned passport photo (20-50 KB) and signature (10-20 KB) in the specified formats.
- Fill in your educational qualifications, work experience (if any), and select your bank preferences.
- Upload your scanned left thumb impression and a handwritten declaration.
- Pay the application fee online and download the submitted PDF application form for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is there an interview for IBPS Clerk?
No, there is no interview round. The final selection is based entirely on the marks scored in the main examination.
Q2. Can I apply for vacancies in a different state?
Yes, you can apply for any state, but you must be proficient in the local language of that state, as language tests are conducted during document verification.
Q3. What is the penalty for wrong answers?
For both Prelims and Mains, a negative marking of 0.25 (1/4th) of the marks assigned to that question is applied for incorrect answers.
Q4. What is the text of the handwritten declaration?
The standard text is: *”I, (Name of candidate), hereby declare that all the information submitted by me in the application form is correct, true and valid. I will present the supporting documents as and when required.”*
Q5. What is the basic starting salary of an IBPS Clerk?
The starting basic pay is Rs. 19,900/-. The total gross salary (including DA, HRA, and allowances) ranges between Rs. 28,000 to Rs. 33,000 per month depending on the city of posting.
Q6. Can final year students apply?
No, candidates must have completed their graduation and possess a valid degree certificate on or before the online application cut-off date.
Q7. Are B.Tech graduates eligible for IBPS Clerk?
Yes, graduates from any recognized discipline (including engineering, arts, science, and commerce) are eligible to apply.
Q8. How many times can I attempt the IBPS Clerk exam?
There is no limit on the number of attempts. You can apply as long as you meet the age eligibility criteria.
Q9. What are the passing criteria for Prelims?
You must clear both the sectional cut-offs and the overall state-wise cut-off to qualify for the main examination.
Q10. Can I pay the fee offline?
No, the fee can only be paid online through integrated payment gateways (Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI).
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Details are compiled from the official IBPS Clerk 2026 notification. Candidates are advised to verify details and apply through the official portal at ibps.in.
Ramavtar is a passionate career researcher dedicated to helping job seekers find the latest government job notifications across India. He covers SSC, Railway, Banking, Police, and State PSC recruitments to keep aspirants informed and ahead.