Comparing the Syllabi of IBPS PO and SBI PO: Key Differences

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) Probationary Officer (PO) and State Bank of India (SBI) Probationary Officer (PO) exams are key pathways for aspiring professionals to enter the banking sector in India. While both exams share a similar structure and cover a range of subjects, there are notable differences in terms of focus and structure. This article will provide a detailed comparison of the syllabi and exam patterns for both IBPS PO and SBI PO.

Common Subjects Covered in Both Exams

Both IBPS PO and SBI PO exams typically cover the following subjects:

Reasoning Ability

Verbal and non-verbal reasoning Puzzles and seating arrangements Syllogism

Quantitative Aptitude

Number systems Percentages Ratios Time and work

English Language

Reading comprehension Grammar Vocabulary

General Awareness

Current affairs Banking awareness Financial awareness

Computer Awareness

Basic computer knowledge Software and hardware

Exam Pattern Differences

Both IBPS PO and SBI PO exams are divided into three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. However, there are some unique features that set them apart.

IBPS PO

Preliminary: This phase comprises three sections – Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. Mains: This phase further includes General Awareness and Computer Knowledge. Interview: This phase assesses candidates' personal and professional skills.

SBI PO

Preliminary: Similar to IBPS PO, it includes three sections: Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. Mains: This is more comprehensive and includes General Awareness, Descriptive Paper, and Computer Knowledge. Group Exercise: Unique to SBI PO, this phase evaluates teamwork and communication skills. Interview: This phase evaluates candidates' personality and situational responses.

Differences in Weightage and Difficulty Level

The difficulty levels and weightage of each section can vary between IBPS PO and SBI PO.

SBI PO

Higher difficulty level in the Mains exam, especially in Reasoning and English sections. Place stronger emphasis on banking and financial awareness in General Awareness.

Descriptive Paper in SBI PO

SBI PO includes a Descriptive Paper in the Mains exam, which requires candidates to write essays and letters. This is a unique component that is not present in the IBPS PO Mains exam.

Interview Process

While the interview process is similar in nature, there can be some differences in the specifics.

IBPS PO and SBI PO

Both exams assess candidates' personal and professional skills. SBI PO interview often focuses more on personality and situational responses.

In conclusion, while the IBPS PO and SBI PO exams share many commonalities in their syllabi, there are significant variations in terms of the focus, structure, and weightage of different sections. Candidates aiming to take either of these exams should carefully review the official notifications to gain the most accurate and detailed information for their preparation.