Understanding the Four Dates for SBI PO Exam 2017: A Comprehensive Guide

The Syndicate Bank Probationary Officer (SBI PO) examination in 2017 was a highly competitive event, with thousands of applicants vying for limited spots. The examination schedule for the 2017 SBI PO included four distinct dates, each playing a crucial role in the process. This article provides an in-depth look at the reasons behind these multiple dates and the events scheduled for each phase.

Timeline of Events for SBI PO 2017 Examination

Release of Online Application Form: 1st week of May 2017 Last Date of Online Application Form: End of May 2017 Release of E-Admit Card for Preliminary Exam: End of June 2017 SBI PO Preliminary Exam: 1st week of July 2017 SBI PO Preliminary Exam Result: 2nd week of July 2017 Release of E-Admit Card for Main Exam: 3rd week of July 2017 SBI PO Main Exam: 4th week of July 2017 SBI PO Main Exam Result: 2nd week of August 2017 Release of E-Admit Card for Interview: End of August 2017 Declaration of Final Result: End of September 2017

Reasons for Multiple Exam Dates

One of the primary reasons for the given four dates in the SBI PO exam schedule was the overwhelming number of applicants. Approximately 20 million candidates applied for the 2017 SBI PO exam, making it one of the largest banking exams in India. Given that the exam is conducted online, one or two dates would be insufficient to accommodate such a large number of participants all at once.

The process of dividing the exam into multiple dates allows SBI to effectively manage the heavy volume of applicants. The exam takes place in batches, often on Saturdays or Sundays, to ensure that a sufficient number of centers are allocated for the candidates to sit for their exams. This is a common practice adopted by many major examinations in India to manage the logistics and ensure a smooth process for all candidates.

Addressing the Question: Why Four Dates?

The number of candidates appearing for SBI PO has consistently exceeded 50 lakhs (5 million) in recent years. Given the online exam format and the vast number of candidates, it becomes impractical to conduct the exam in a single day or even for just two days. Therefore, SBI has chosen to provide four tentative dates to manage and administer the preliminary and main exams in a structured and efficient manner.

Conclusion

In summary, the multiple dates for the SBI PO 2017 exam were strategically planned to address the overwhelming number of applicants and to ensure the efficient and smooth conduct of the examination process. By conducting the exams in batches over several dates, SBI can better manage infrastructure and resources while maintaining a high level of fairness for all candidates.