Syllabus and Exam Pattern for IBPS SO Exam 2024
The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts the Specialist Officer (SO) exam annually to recruit candidates for various specialist posts in public sector banks. The exam is conducted in two phases: Preliminary and Mains.
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Important Dates
| Event | Tentative Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | October 2023 |
| Online Application | October 2023 – November 2023 |
| Prelims Exam | December 2023 – January 2024 |
| Mains Exam | February 2024 – March 2024 |
| Interview | April 2024 – May 2024 |
| Final Result | June 2024 |
Note: These dates are tentative and may vary. Candidates are advised to refer to the official IBPS website for the latest updates.
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Indian Citizen
- Age Limit: Varies depending on the post. Refer to the official notification for details.
- Educational Qualification: Varies depending on the post. Refer to the official notification for details.
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Exam Pattern
Phase I: Preliminary Exam
The Preliminary Exam is a computer-based test that consists of three sections:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 20 minutes |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 20 minutes |
| English Language | 30 | 20 minutes |
| Total | 100 | 60 minutes |
Note: There is a sectional time limit for each section. Candidates need to clear the sectional cut-off to qualify for the Mains Exam.
Phase II: Mains Exam
The Mains Exam is also a computer-based test that consists of four sections:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 60 | 60 minutes |
| General Awareness with Special Reference to Banking Industry | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 40 | 40 minutes |
| English Language | 40 | 40 minutes |
| Total | 180 | 200 minutes |
Note: There is a sectional time limit for each section. Candidates need to clear the sectional cut-off to qualify for the interview.
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Syllabus
Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude
- Reasoning Ability:
- Analogies
- Classification
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Direction Sense
- Seating Arrangement
- Puzzles
- Syllogisms
- Data Sufficiency
- Input-Output
- Critical Reasoning
- Computer Aptitude:
- Computer Basics
- Operating Systems
- MS Office Suite
- Networking
- Data Security
- Internet and Web Technologies
- Database Management Systems
- Programming Concepts
General Awareness with Special Reference to Banking Industry
- Current Affairs: National and International events, Banking and Financial sector news, Economic developments, Budget and Finance related news, Government schemes and policies.
- Banking Awareness: History of Banking in India, Banking System in India, RBI and its functions, Financial Institutions, Banking Regulations, Recent Developments in the Banking Sector.
- Static GK: Indian Economy, Indian Polity, Geography, History, Culture, Awards and Honors, Books and Authors.
Data Analysis & Interpretation
- Data Interpretation:
- Tables
- Bar Graphs
- Line Graphs
- Pie Charts
- Mixed Graphs
- Data Sufficiency
- Caselets
- Quantitative Aptitude:
- Number Systems
- Percentages
- Profit and Loss
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Time and Work
- Speed, Time and Distance
- Averages
- Ratios and Proportions
- Mixtures and Allegations
- Permutations and Combinations
- Probability
English Language
- Reading Comprehension:
- Passages from various topics
- Inferential questions
- Vocabulary based questions
- Grammar:
- Tenses
- Articles
- Prepositions
- Conjunctions
- Subject-Verb Agreement
- Active and Passive Voice
- Direct and Indirect Speech
- Vocabulary:
- Synonyms
- Antonyms
- One-word substitutions
- Idioms and Phrases
- Verbal Ability:
- Cloze Test
- Sentence Completion
- Error Spotting
- Para Jumbles
- Para Completion
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Thoroughly go through the syllabus for each section and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Prepare a Study Plan: Create a realistic study plan that covers all the topics and allows for regular revision.
- Refer to Relevant Study Material: Use standard textbooks, study guides, and online resources for preparation.
- Practice Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level and identify areas that need improvement.
- Analyze Your Performance: Analyze your mock test results to understand your strengths and weaknesses and focus on improving your weaker areas.
- Time Management: Practice time management skills to ensure you can complete the exam within the allotted time.
- Stay Updated with Current Affairs: Regularly read newspapers, magazines, and online resources to stay updated with current affairs.
- Focus on Banking Awareness: Develop a strong understanding of the banking industry, its regulations, and recent developments.
- Improve Your English Language Skills: Practice reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary to improve your English language skills.
- Stay Motivated: Stay motivated and focused throughout your preparation journey.
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Important Resources
- IBPS Official Website: https://www.ibps.in/
- Online Study Platforms:
- Bankers Adda
- Gradeup
- Oliveboard
- Testbook
- Adda247
- Books:
- Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal
- Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal
- Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi
- Banking Awareness by Disha Experts
- Current Affairs by Manorama Yearbook
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Salary and Benefits
The salary and benefits for IBPS SO posts vary depending on the bank and the specific post. However, generally, the salary package includes:
- Basic Pay: Varies depending on the post and experience.
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Calculated as a percentage of basic pay.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Varies depending on the location of posting.
- City Compensatory Allowance (CCA): Applicable for postings in certain cities.
- Special Allowance: Varies depending on the post and bank.
- Other Benefits:
- Provident Fund (PF)
- Gratuity
- Medical Insurance
- Leave Encashment
- Pension Scheme
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Career Growth
IBPS SO posts offer a promising career path with opportunities for growth and advancement. Candidates can progress through the ranks based on their performance, experience, and qualifications. Some of the career progression opportunities include:
- Promotions: Candidates can get promoted to higher positions within the bank, such as Senior Specialist Officer, Assistant Manager, and Deputy Manager.
- Lateral Transfers: Candidates can apply for lateral transfers to other departments or branches within the bank.
- Specialization: Candidates can specialize in specific areas of banking, such as credit, treasury, or investment banking.
- Higher Education: Candidates can pursue higher education, such as an MBA or a postgraduate degree in banking and finance, to enhance their career prospects.
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Tips for Interview
- Prepare for Common Interview Questions: Research common interview questions related to your specialization and banking in general.
- Practice Your Answers: Practice answering common interview questions aloud to improve your confidence and fluency.
- Know Your Resume: Be familiar with your resume and be prepared to discuss your work experience and skills.
- Research the Bank: Learn about the bank’s history, mission, and values.
- Dress Professionally: Dress professionally for the interview to make a good first impression.
- Be Confident and Enthusiastic: Project confidence and enthusiasm during the interview.
- Ask Questions: Ask thoughtful questions at the end of the interview to show your interest and engagement.
IBPS SO Exam 2024: Conclusion
The IBPS SO exam is a challenging but rewarding exam that offers a promising career path in the banking sector. By following the preparation tips and resources mentioned above, candidates can increase their chances of success in the exam and secure a coveted position in a public sector bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Short Answers
1. What is the eligibility criteria for the IBPS SO Exam?
The eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific post. Refer to the official notification for details on age limit, educational qualifications, and other requirements.
2. When will the IBPS SO Exam 2024 notification be released?
The notification is expected to be released in October 2023. However, it’s best to check the official IBPS website for the latest updates.
3. What is the exam pattern for the IBPS SO Exam?
The exam is conducted in two phases: Preliminary and Mains. The Preliminary Exam consists of Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and English Language. The Mains Exam includes Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude, General Awareness, Data Analysis & Interpretation, and English Language.
4. What is the syllabus for the IBPS SO Exam?
The syllabus covers topics like Reasoning Ability, Computer Aptitude, General Awareness, Data Analysis & Interpretation, and English Language. Specific topics within each section are detailed in the official notification.
5. How can I prepare for the IBPS SO Exam?
Prepare a study plan, refer to relevant study material, practice mock tests, analyze your performance, and stay updated with current affairs.
6. What are some good resources for preparing for the IBPS SO Exam?
Refer to the official IBPS website, online study platforms like Bankers Adda, Gradeup, Oliveboard, and Testbook, and standard textbooks for each subject.
7. What is the salary and benefits for IBPS SO posts?
The salary and benefits vary depending on the bank and specific post. Generally, it includes basic pay, DA, HRA, CCA, special allowance, and other benefits like PF, gratuity, medical insurance, and leave encashment.
8. What are the career growth opportunities for IBPS SO posts?
Candidates can progress through promotions, lateral transfers, specialization, and higher education to enhance their career prospects.
9. What are some tips for the IBPS SO Exam interview?
Prepare for common interview questions, practice your answers, know your resume, research the bank, dress professionally, be confident and enthusiastic, and ask thoughtful questions.
10. How can I stay updated on the latest information about the IBPS SO Exam?
Regularly visit the official IBPS website for the latest notifications, exam dates, and other important updates.