The IBPS PO Prelims examination is expected to be conducted in four shifts. The expected timings are given below for candidates to understand the likely exam schedule.
| Shift | Reporting Time | Exam Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Shift 1 | Around 8:00 AM | 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM |
| Shift 2 | Around 10:30 AM | 11:30 AM to 12:30 AM |
| Shift 3 | Around 1:00 PM | 02:00 PM to 03:00 AM |
| Shift 4 | Around 3:30 PM | 04:30 PM to 05:30 AM |
Note: The above timings are expected timings for reference. Candidates should consider the exam date, shift, and reporting time printed on their individual call letter as final.
IBPS has scheduled the PO/MT-XVI Preliminary Examination for August 22 and 23, 2026. The exam will be conducted for 1 hour (60 minutes), and candidates are advised to regularly check the official IBPS website for the latest examination-related updates.
The IBPS PO/MT-XVI Preliminary Examination is scheduled to be conducted on August 22 and 23, 2026. The official window notification mentions these dates for the Preliminary Examination.
Candidates will receive their individual examination details through the call letter. These details include the allotted examination date, session, and reporting time.
The IBPS PO Preliminary Examination has a total duration of 60 minutes. The exam consists of three sections, with separate time allotted to each section.
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 minutes |
Candidates should note that the sections are separately timed. Therefore, the time allotted to one section cannot be carried forward to another section.
The IBPS PO reporting time is provided on the candidate's call letter. Candidates should reach the examination centre before the prescribed reporting time so that they can complete the required examination formalities on time.
Candidates should therefore:
Candidates can check their IBPS PO exam shift and reporting time through the Preliminary Examination call letter.
IBPS advises candidates to regularly visit its official website for updates related to the recruitment process.
After downloading the call letter, candidates should carefully check all examination-related information, including:
The call letter is particularly important because the date, session and reporting time allotted to the candidate are specific to that candidate.
Candidates should keep the following points in mind before appearing for the IBPS PO Prelims 2026:
IBPS states that candidates must bring a valid call letter for the respective examination session along with the required photo identity proof.