IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern 2026: Prelims & Mains Exam Pattern, Marking Scheme and Section-wise Weightage

The IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern 2026 has been prescribed by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) in the official CRP CSA-XVI notification. The recruitment process consists of two online examinations—the Preliminary Examination and the Main Examination. Candidates must qualify the Preliminary Exam to become eligible for the Main Exam, while the final selection is based on performance in the Main Examination.

Understanding the latest IBPS Clerk exam pattern is essential for candidates to plan their preparation strategy, manage time effectively, and focus on high-scoring sections.

IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern 2026 Overview

IBPS Clerk Preliminary Exam Pattern 2026

The IBPS Clerk Preliminary Examination is qualifying in nature and consists of 100 objective-type questions carrying a total of 100 marks. The exam is divided into three sections, each with a separate time limit.

The official notification denotes these sections with an asterisk () for the examination medium.

Key Points

• The Preliminary Exam is conducted online.

• Candidates must qualify each section by securing the cut-off marks decided by IBPS.

• Based on the cut-off and vacancy requirements, shortlisted candidates will be called for the Main Examination.

IBPS Clerk Mains Exam Pattern 2026

Candidates who qualify the Preliminary Examination will appear for the IBPS Clerk Main Examination. The Main Exam consists of 160 questions carrying 200 marks with a total duration of 125 minutes.

Each section has a separate time limit.

IBPS Clerk 2026 Section-wise Weightage

The Main Examination gives the highest weightage to Reasoning Ability, which carries 60 marks. Candidates should also prepare thoroughly for General/Financial Awareness and Quantitative Aptitude, as each contributes significantly to the overall score.

Important Points About the IBPS Clerk Exam Pattern 2026

Candidates should keep the following points in mind while preparing:

• The recruitment process consists of two online examinations.

• The Preliminary Examination is qualifying in nature.

• Candidates must secure the minimum cut-off marks decided by IBPS in each test of the Preliminary Examination.

• Only shortlisted candidates will be eligible for the Main Examination.

• The Main Examination plays a crucial role in the recruitment process.

• Each section in both Prelims and Mains has separate sectional timing.

• Any change in the examination pattern will be notified only through the official IBPS website.

IBPS Clerk 2026 Preparation Tips Based on the Exam Pattern

Candidates can improve their chances of success by following these preparation strategies:

• Practice sectional mock tests to adapt to the separate time limits.

• Strengthen Reasoning Ability and Quantitative Aptitude, as they carry higher weightage in the Main Examination.

• Read current affairs and banking news daily for the General/Financial Awareness section.

• Improve speed and accuracy through regular practice.

• Solve previous years' question papers to understand the exam pattern and question trends.