Is There Enough Time for Civil Services Preparation While Working as a Bank Clerk or PO?

Everyone has time. Just prioritize it.

After a long day at work, relax for an hour or so. Then, dedicate 3-4 hours daily to study. This regimen can be effective during the early stages of your preparation.

Challenges of Civil Services Preparation as a Bank Clerk and PO

For a Bank Clerk, it is feasible to prepare but for a PO, it's virtually impossible.

Bank Clerk:

Clerks can leave office by 5:30 PM, thus they have ample time for preparation. Responsibilities are limited, making it easier to manage time.

Bank PO (Probationary Officer):

Officer roles are more demanding, leading to work fatigue by the end of the day. Uncertain work schedules can make evening study sessions impractical. Prepare for the Civil Services Exam if you are ready to sacrifice comfort and sleep.

Chances of Clearing the Civil Services Exam While Working at SBI

Clearing the UPSC Civil Services Exam is possible with SBI as a PO, although it is highly challenging.

There are specific conditions that must be met:

Strong Foundation in General Studies: Have a solid understanding of General Studies. Subject for the Optional Paper: Choose a subject for your optional paper and familiarize yourself with its basics. Backward Sacrifice: Be prepared to forgo the comfortable work-life balance. Sleep: Work even with restricted sleep, around 5-6 hours.

Based on personal experience, it is not impossible to clear the exam. However, success comes from consistent preparation over several years. The preparation timeline is typically around six years, with two years before joining the bank and four years of consistent preparation after joining.

Conclusion

With hope, determination, and unwavering will, success is within reach. Stay focused and dedicated. Good luck!

Source: Rohit Singh Parmar, a Bank Clerk turned PO who has seen people clear the Civil Services Exam while working with SBI.