
The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) will conduct the IBPS Clerk Preliminary Examination 2026 on October 10 and 11 for the recruitment of Customer Service Associates (CSA) in participating public sector banks.
Candidates appearing for the examination should review their admit cards carefully to confirm their allotted examination date, reporting time, shift, and centre address. Since the examination will take place in multiple shifts, the schedule may vary for different candidates.
Candidates should arrive at the examination venue on time and complete the required verification formalities before entering the examination hall. Keeping all mandatory documents ready in advance can help prevent last-minute difficulties.
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The following table highlights the key details of the preliminary examination.
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Name | IBPS Clerk Prelims 2026 |
| Conducting Body | Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) |
| Recruitment | Customer Service Associates (CSA) |
| Exam Dates | October 10 and 11, 2026 |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Examination Stage | Preliminary Examination |
| Reporting Time | As mentioned on the admit card |
| Official Website | ibps.in |
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IBPS Clerk Prelims 2026 will be conducted in four shifts. Candidates must follow the schedule printed on their individual call letters rather than relying solely on a general timetable.
The shift-wise timings are provided below for reference.
| Shift | Reporting Time | Handwriting Sample | Exam Start Time | Exam End Time |
| Shift 1 | 8:00 AM | 8:55–9:00 AM | 9:00 AM | 10:00 AM |
| Shift 2 | 10:30 AM | 11:25–11:30 AM | 11:30 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Shift 3 | 1:00 PM | 1:55–2:00 PM | 2:00 PM | 3:00 PM |
| Shift 4 | 3:30 PM | 4:25–4:30 PM | 4:30 PM | 5:30 PM |
Important: Candidates should reach their allotted centre well before the reporting time. Entry may be refused to candidates who arrive after the prescribed entry deadline. Check the admit card for the instructions applicable to your shift.
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Candidates should arrange their examination documents before the exam day to avoid missing any essential paperwork. The required items include:
A printed copy of the IBPS Clerk Prelims Admit Card 2026 or call letter.
An original, valid photo identity proof.
A photocopy of the same photo identity proof.
A recent passport-size photograph, as instructed on the call letter.
Any additional declaration or document specifically required by IBPS.
Candidates should ensure that the name on their identity proof matches the details required for examination verification. They should also read the instructions on the call letter to confirm whether any additional documents are necessary.
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Candidates must follow the instructions issued by IBPS and the examination centre staff. The following precautions can help ensure a smooth examination-day experience.
Check the venue address and travel route in advance. Leave with sufficient time to account for traffic, transport delays, and entry formalities.
Keep the printed call letter, original photo ID, photocopy, and any other required documents together. Check that the documents are legible and ready for verification.
Candidates may need to undergo identity checks, biometric verification, and frisking as part of the entry process. Follow the instructions provided by the examination staff.
Do not carry electronic devices or other prohibited belongings into the examination area. Check the call letter for the applicable restrictions and follow the centre's instructions.
Appear at the date, time, and centre assigned to you. Candidates should not assume that the same reporting schedule applies to every shift.
The call letter contains important information about the examination venue, reporting requirements, and candidate instructions. Review it before leaving home.
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A little preparation the previous evening can help candidates avoid unnecessary stress on exam day. Use this checklist before going to bed.
Download or recheck the admit card and keep a clear printed copy ready.
Place the original photo ID and its photocopy with the call letter.
Keep the required photograph and any additional documents ready.
Confirm the examination centre's address and plan the journey.
Recheck the reporting time and allotted shift.
Avoid packing unnecessary belongings or prohibited electronic devices.
Make travel arrangements in advance to reduce the risk of arriving late.
Candidates should also check their travel arrangements before entering the examination venue. Any phone or other electronic device must be handled in accordance with the examination centre's rules.
IBPS Clerk Prelims 2026 candidates should prioritise timely arrival, document verification, and compliance with examination instructions. The reporting time printed on the admit card should be treated as essential, and candidates should not wait until the last minute to arrange their documents.
It is also advisable to retain the admit card after the examination for future reference. Candidates should rely on official IBPS updates for any examination-related clarification.
