IBPS SO Exam Shift Timings 2025: The IBPS SO Exam 2025 is among the most competitive banking recruitment tests in India, drawing a huge number of candidates from across the country. To ensure a smooth exam experience, knowing the IBPS SO Exam Shift Timings 2025, reporting time, and exam day guidelines is extremely important.
Candidates appearing for the IBPS SO prelims exam on 30.8.2025 should follow these timings accordingly.
Being aware of the shift schedule not only helps aspirants plan their travel but also prevents unnecessary last-minute pressure.
The IBPS SO Preliminary exam will be conducted in multiple sessions. Those looking for the timing details of the IBPS SO Prelims first and second shifts can find the information in this article. In addition to the shift schedules for the 2025 prelims, candidates can also review important details such as the reporting time at the exam center, the exact start and finish times of the exam, and other crucial guidelines to follow on exam day.
It is recommended that candidates arrive at the examination venue at least 15 minutes before the reporting time specified on their admit cards. The duration of the IBPS SO Preliminary exam is 120 minutes. Continue reading to get complete information about the IBPS SO exam time slots 2025.
The IBPS SO Prelims Exam 2025 will be conducted in multiple shifts across the exam days. Each session includes biometric verification and handwriting sample collection before the exam begins.
Candidates must arrive at least 30 minutes before the reporting time to complete verification smoothly.
Here is the IBPS SO Prelims Shift Timings 2025 in a table format:
IBPS SO Prelims Shift Timings 2025 |
||
Schedule |
Shift 1 |
Shift 2 |
Reporting Time |
8 AM |
12 Noon |
Exam Start Time |
9 AM |
1 PM |
Exam End Time |
11 AM |
3 PM |
The officials will release the IBPS SO Prelims Admit Card 2025 for the candidates who are found eligible for the Specialist Officer posts after screening the online application. The IBPS SO Exam Shift Timings 2025 will be mentioned in the respective call letters of the candidates.
IBPS SO Prelims Admit Card 2025 Out- Click Here
Unlike the prelims, the IBPS SO Mains Exam 2025 will be held in a single shift on the scheduled date. Since the Mains paper has descriptive questions along with objective sections, the exam duration is longer than the prelims.
Reporting Time: 8:30 AM
Exam Time: 9:30 AM onwards
Reaching the exam centre on time is crucial. Candidates who report late will not be allowed entry under any circumstances. Reporting time is decided to ensure biometric verification, ID checks, and other pre-exam formalities are completed without delay.
Reporting Time for IBPS SO Exam:
Candidates are required to arrive at the exam centre well in advance, ideally between 45 minutes to 1 hour before the exam begins. Early reporting is crucial to complete essential pre-exam formalities such as security checks, verifying identity, allocation of seating, and biometric authentication. For instance,
It is recommended that candidates reach the venue at least 30 to 60 minutes before the exam starts. Note that entry gates close 30 minutes before the exam, and candidates arriving after this cut-off will not be allowed entry under any circumstances.
Biometric Verification and Document Checking:
Upon arrival at the examination centre, candidates must undergo biometric verification. This process involves capturing fingerprint or thumb impression scans and may include facial recognition checks to ensure that the individual taking the test matches the biometric details submitted during the application phase.
Alongside biometric procedures, candidates are required to present their admit card, a valid photo ID, and any other documents specified by the exam authorities. This dual verification step is designed to uphold exam security by preventing impersonation and other fraudulent activities.
Exam Duration and Conduct:
The duration of the IBPS SO exam varies depending on the stage (Preliminary or Mains) and the syllabus pattern for that particular year. Candidates must adhere strictly to the exam timings and are generally not permitted to leave the examination hall before the official conclusion of the test, except in special cases or emergencies as determined by the exam rules.
Exit Protocol Post-Examination:
Candidates can only leave the exam centre after the exam has officially ended. Any attempt to exit early without authorization may result in penalties such as disqualification or cancellation of the exam results.
Furthermore, biometric verification may be conducted once again at the time of exit to confirm attendance and validate the identity of the candidate as they depart from the venue.
To avoid last-minute issues, candidates should carefully follow these guidelines:
Carry your IBPS SO Admit Card 2025 along with a valid Photo ID proof.
Bring a passport-size photograph (same as uploaded in the application form).
Reach the exam centre before the IBPS SO reporting time 2025.
Electronic gadgets, notes, calculators, or stationery items are strictly prohibited.
Follow the invigilator’s instructions throughout the exam.