The IBPS PO syllabus 2026 covers English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning for Prelims. The IBPS PO mains syllabus consists of Reasoning, Data Analysis and Interpretation, English, General/Economy/Banking/Digital/Financial Awareness (including RBI circulars), and a Descriptive English paper. The interview tests clarity, confidence, and understanding of the banking role.
The IBPS PO exam syllabus has been revised for 2026. The Prelims marks distribution has changed. The Mains now has 170 objective questions instead of 145. The Descriptive paper now includes Essay and Comprehension only. Letter writing has been removed. A Personality Test has also been added before the Interview.
This article covers the complete IBPS PO detailed syllabus for Prelims, Mains, and Interview, along with pattern changes, important topics, and preparation timelines.
What are the Changes in IBPS PO Syllabus 2026?
The IBPS PO exam pattern changed significantly for the 2026 cycle. Here is a clear before-and-after comparison.
Prelims Changes (2026 vs earlier)
| IBPS PO 2026 Prelims Syllabus 2026 vs Earlier | ||
| Section | Earlier Marks | 2026 Marks |
| English Language | 30 | 30 (no change) |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 30 |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 40 |
| Total | 100 | 100 |
Mains Changes (2026 vs earlier)
| IBPS PO 2026 Syllabus 2026 vs Earlier | ||
| Parameter | Earlier | 2026 |
| Total objective questions | 145 | 170 |
| Total objective marks | 200 | 200 (no change) |
| Reasoning questions/marks | 45 / 60 | 40 / 60 |
| GA questions/marks | 40 / 40 | 50 / 60 |
| English questions/marks | 35 / 40 | 40 / 20 |
| DI questions/marks | 35 / 60 | 40 / 60 |
| Descriptive paper | Essay + Letter | Essay + Comprehension |
| Personality Test | Not present | Added (mandatory, non-qualifying) |
Key Takeaways from the Changes:
- Reasoning got lighter in Mains: fewer questions (40 vs 45), same marks.
- GA got heavier: 10 more questions, 20 more marks. RBI circulars and Digital/Financial Awareness explicitly added.
- English got lighter in marks: 40 questions for only 20 marks.
- DI/Quant got heavier: 40 questions for 60 marks.
- Letter writing removed from Descriptive paper. Comprehension added instead.
What is the IBPS PO Prelims Syllabus?
The IBPS PO prelims syllabus has three sections. Each section is separately timed for 20 minutes. You cannot carry over time from one section to another.
- English Language
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Reasoning Ability
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks per wrong answer. No penalty for unattempted questions.
- PYQs of 2025
- PYQs of 2024
- PYQs of 2023
- PYQs of 2022
IBPS PO English Language Syllabus
Here are the topics that you need to cover from the IBPS PO English syllabus for Prelims:
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Para Jumbles
- Word Usage & Word-Swap
- Fill in the Blanks
- Error Detection / Error Spotting
- Paragraph Completion
- One-Word Substitution
- Miscellaneous vocabulary-based questions
You must focus on the below areas from the IBPS PO English syllabus:
- Grammar
- Vocabulary
- Comprehension
IBPS PO Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
Here is the full IBPS PO Prelims syllabus of Quantitative Aptitude:
- Simplification & Approximation
- Profit & Loss
- Mixtures & Allegations
- Simple & Compound Interest
- Surds & Indices
- Time & Work
- Time, Speed & Distance
- Mensuration (Cylinder, Cone, Sphere)
- Data Interpretation (Table, Pie, Bar, Line)
- Ratio & Proportion
- Quadratic Equation
- Percentage
- Number Series
- Sequence & Series
- Permutation & Combination
- Probability
The table below lists the most important topics that you must cover in the IBPS PO syllabus of Quantitative Aptitude:
| IBPS PO 2026 Prelims Important Quant Topics | |
| Topic Name | Important Keys |
| Simplification and Approximation | BODMAS, Square & Cube, Square & Cube Root, Indices, Fraction, and Basic percentage |
| Number Series | Missing Number Series & Wrong Number Series |
| Comparison Based | Quadratic Equation & Quantity Comparison (I and II) |
| Data Interpretation | Table DI, Missing Table DI, Pie Chart DI (single and multiple pie charts), Line Chart DI (Single and multiple lines), Bar Chart DI, Mixed DI, Caselet (Simple table-based caselet, Venn Diagram-based Caselet, and Arithmetic-based caselet) |
| Data Sufficiency | 2/3 Statement-based Data Sufficiency |
| Arithmetic | Ratio and Proportion, Percentage, Average, Age, Partnership, Mixture and Alligation, Simple Interest, Compound Interest, Time and Work, Pipe and Cistern, Profit and Loss, Discount, Speed, Time & Distance, Boat And Stream, and Train. |
IBPS PO Reasoning Syllabus
Here is the full topics list you need to cover in the IBPS PO Reasoning syllabus for Prelims:
- Logical Reasoning
- Alphanumeric Series
- Ranking, Direction & Alphabet Tests
- Data Sufficiency
- Inequalities
- Seating Arrangement
- Puzzles
- Tabulation
- Syllogism
- Critical Reasoning
- Blood Relations
- Input-Output
- Coding-Decoding
Here are the most important topics that you must cover in the IBPS PO syllabus of Reasoning:
| IBPS PO 2026 Prelims Important Reasoning Topics | |
| Topic Name | Important Keys |
| Coding & Decoding | Logic & Conditional |
| Machine Input Output | Mixed and Same Logic-based Question |
| Syllogism | Reverse & Coded |
| Inequality | Reverse and Coded Inequality |
| Direction Sense | Coded and Puzzles on Direction |
| Blood Relation | Family Tree + Puzzles & Coded Blood Relations |
| Seating Arrangement | Circle, Square, Triangle, Linear, Uncertain Number of Persons, and Distance + Direction |
| Puzzles | Category, Comparison, Designation, Box, Box, Day, Month, Year, and Floor & Flat |
| Critical Reasoning | Course of Action, Statement and Assumption, Statement and Conclusion, Statement and Inference, Strength of Argument, and Cause & Effect |
- PYQs of 2025
- PYQs of 2024
- PYQs of 2023
- PYQs of 2022
What is the IBPS PO Mains Syllabus?
The IBPS PO Mains Syllabus is data-heavy and analysis-oriented. The IBPS PO syllabus for mains consists of 5 sections. It has four objective sections and one Descriptive paper.
- Data Analysis and Interpretation
- General/ Economy/ Banking Awareness / Digital/ Financial Awareness including RBI circulars
- Reasoning
- English Language
- English Descriptive Paper
Negative Marking: 0.25 marks per wrong answer in the objective test. No penalty for unattempted questions. No negative marking in Descriptive.
IBPS PO Mains Syllabus: Data Analysis and Interpretation
The DI section now carries 40 questions for 60 marks in IBPS PO Mains 2026, same marks as before but 5 more questions.
- Simplification
- Average
- Percentage
- Mixture & Allegations
- Ratio & Percentage
- Data Interpretation (all formats)
- Mensuration & Geometry
- Quadratic Equations
- Interest (SI/CI)
- Problems on Ages
- Profit & Loss
- Number Series
- Speed, Distance & Time
- Time & Work
- Number Systems
- Data Sufficiency
- Linear Equations
- Permutation & Combination
- Probability
| IBPS PO 2026 Mains Important Quant+DI Topics | |
| Topic Name | Important Keys |
| Data Interpretation | Table DI (2-3 tables), Line Graph DI, Bar Graph DI, Pie Chart DI, Radar DI, Mixed DI sets, Caselet DI (paragraph, graphless, logical DI), Arithmetic DI |
| Data Sufficiency | 2/3 statement Data Sufficiency Question based on Other Quant Topics |
| Quadratic Equation | Quadratic Equation comparisons |
| Number Series | Missing series, Wrong series, Logic-heavy series |
| Probability & Permutation– Combination | Basic to moderate P&C, Probability-based DI |
| Arithmetic | Percentage, Profit & Loss, SI-CI, Time & Work, TSD, Mensuration, Ratio-Proportion, Averages, Mixture-Alligation, Partnership |
IBPS PO Mains Syllabus: General/ Economy/ Banking Awareness / Digital/ Financial Awareness, including RBI circulars
The GA section in 2026 has been expanded. It is now officially titled “General/Economy/Banking Awareness/Digital/Financial Awareness including RBI circulars.” RBI circulars are explicitly part of the syllabus from 2026.
The section now carries 50 questions for 60 marks, the highest marks of any single section alongside Reasoning and DI.
- Current Affairs (Last 6 months)
- Banking Awareness
- Static GK such as Books and Authors, National Parks & Sanctuaries, Currencies & Capitals, etc.
- Economic & Financial Terms
- Budget & Economic Survey
- RBI Circulars
- Government Schemes & Committees
- Awards, Sports, and Important Days
| IBPS PO 2026 Mains Important General Awareness Topics | |
| Topic Name | Important Keys |
| Banking Awareness | RBI functions, Monetary Policy, Banking terms, NPA, Basel Norms, Priority Sector Lending, Financial markets |
| Current Affairs (6 Months) | National + International CA, Economy CA, Banking CA, Government schemes, RBI Circulars |
| Static Awareness | Countries–Capitals, Important days, National parks, Geography, Polity basics |
| Economy & Finance | Budget, Economic Survey, Inflation, GDP, Reports, Committees, Indexes |
| Banking Regulations | Payment systems, Digital banking, Financial inclusion |
IBPS PO Mains Syllabus: Reasoning
Here is the combined Reasoning syllabus for IBPS PO Mains:
- Verbal Reasoning
- Syllogism
- Coding-Decoding
- Circular & Linear Seating Arrangements
- Double Lineup
- Scheduling
- Input-Output
- Blood Relations
- Directions & Distances
- Ordering & Ranking
- Data Sufficiency
- Statement-Based Questions
- Internet Basics
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Computer Abbreviations
- Hardware & Software Fundamentals
- Operating Systems
- Networking
- Computer Terminologies
| IBPS PO 2026 Mains Important Reasoning+Computer Awareness Topics | |
| Topic Name | Important Keys |
| Puzzles & Seating Arrangement | Circular SA (uni/bi-directional), Linear SA (single/double row), Floor-based puzzles, Box puzzles, Day–Date–Month puzzles, Scheduling puzzles, Mixed-variable puzzles |
| Data Sufficiency | 2/3 statement-based DS on Reasoning + Mixed DS with Quant logic |
| Logical Reasoning | Statement–Assumption, Statement–Conclusion, Cause–Effect, Course of Action, Inference-based reasoning |
| Input–Output | Machine-based IO, Pattern-based IO, Word–Number transformation |
| Syllogism | Reverse syllogism, Coded syllogism, Possibility cases |
| Inequalities | Coded inequalities + Direct inequality sets |
| Blood Relation & Direction Sense | Complex family trees, Multiple-generation relations, Direction puzzles |
| Order & Ranking | Multi-variable ranking, Position-based ranking |
| Coding–Decoding | New pattern / Coded letter-series / Arithmetic coding |
| Computer Awareness | Operating Systems, Memory types, Networking basics, Internet, MS Office, Shortcuts, Input–Output devices, Computer Abbreviations |
Note on Computer Aptitude: In earlier years (2024-25), the Mains section was called “Reasoning and Computer Aptitude.” In the IBPS PO notification 2026, the section is listed simply as “Reasoning” with no explicit mention of Computer Aptitude as a standalone sub-topic. Computer awareness knowledge may still help with any technology-related reasoning questions, but a separate Computer Aptitude sub-topic is not mentioned in the 2026 pattern.
IBPS PO Mains Syllabus: English Language
The English section now carries 40 questions for only 20 marks in Mains 2026. Earlier it was 35 questions for 40 marks. Fewer marks per question.
This means: do not spend too much time on English in Mains. Accuracy still matters because of negative marking, but time should go to GA, DI, and Reasoning.
- Reading Comprehension (Economy & Banking-based passages)
- Vocabulary (High-level Synonyms, Antonyms, Phrases)
- Grammar & Sentence Correction
- Para Jumbles
- Cloze Test
- Fill in the Blanks
- Word Replacement
- One Word Substitution
| IBPS PO 2026 Mains Important English Language Topics | |
| Topic Name | Important Keys |
| Reading Comprehension | Economy/Banking passages, Inference-based RC, Vocabulary-in-context, Fact/Opinion, Tone-based questions |
| Cloze Test | Contextual grammar, Vocabulary-based fillers |
| Para Jumbles & Para Completion | Logical sequencing, Connector words, Theme detection |
| Error Detection | Tense, Subject-Verb agreement, Modifiers, Articles, Prepositions |
| Word/Give-One-Word Substitution | Advanced vocabulary, Usage-based questions |
| Phrase Replacement | Grammar + Contextual usage |
| Match-the-Column | Multi-sentence connectors, Phrase linking |
| Critical Reasoning | Assumption, Strengthen/Weaken, Inferences, Argument evaluation |
IBPS PO Mains: Descriptive English Syllabus
The Descriptive paper in Mains is worth 25 marks and lasts 30 minutes.
What Changed in 2026?
- Letter writing has been removed.
- The paper now consists of Essay + Comprehension only.
- IBPS has stated in the notification that the Descriptive paper may be assessed using an automated evaluation system.
Essay Topics to Prepare
- Banking and financial sector themes
- Economy and fiscal policy
- Digital banking and fintech
- Government schemes and social welfare
- Current affairs-based topics
Comprehension in Descriptive
A passage is given. Questions are based on it. These test reading, inference, and vocabulary in context. Practice with banking-themed passages.
- PYQs of 2025
- PYQs of 2024
- PYQs of 2023
- PYQs of 2022
What is the IBPS PO Personality Test?
The Personality Test is a new addition in 2026 between Mains and the Interview.
Key facts:
- It is non-qualifying. Your score here does not add to the final merit.
- It is mandatory. If you do not appear, you are not eligible for the Interview.
- It is a self-report psychometric assessment.
- The personality profile is shared with the Interview panel before your interview.
- It may be conducted online in proctored mode or at designated centres.
There is no specific preparation required for this. Answer honestly. The panel uses it to frame interview questions around your responses.
What is the IBPS PO Syllabus for Interview?
The IBPS PO Interview Syllabus tests awareness, thought, decision-making, confidence, and communication skills, not textbook knowledge.
Minimum Qualifying Marks in Interview
- General and EWS: 40%
- SC / ST / OBC / PwBD: 35%
The Mains and Interview are weighted at 80:20 for final merit.
Banking and Financial Awareness
- RBI policies, repo rate, reverse repo, CRR, SLR, bank rate
- Monetary policy and its tools
- Recent banking sector developments: mergers, new bank licences, digital banking initiatives
- Priority Sector Lending, NPA norms
- NITI Aayog schemes, Budget highlights
Current Affairs
- National events from the last 6 months
- International affairs linked to trade, finance, and diplomacy
- Economic data: GDP, inflation, fiscal deficit, current account deficit
- Government schemes relevant to financial inclusion
Personal Background Questions
- Tell me about yourself
- Your educational background and stream
- Any prior work experience
- Why do you want a career in banking?
- Why IBPS PO specifically?
HR and Behavioural Questions
- Your strengths and how they apply to banking work
- Your weaknesses and how you manage them
- Situational questions: “If a customer complains that your bank wrongly debited their account, what do you do?”
- Ethical questions: “Your manager asks you to do something that seems incorrect. How do you handle it?”
Questions on the PO Role
- What does a Probationary Officer do in the first year?
- What does your posting bank do? What are its recent initiatives?
- How would you handle difficult customers?
- What is your understanding of financial inclusion?
Tip: Know the basic profile of the bank you are likely to be allotted. Research its recent news, headquarters, tagline, and key products before the interview.
How Long Does it Take to Cover the IBPS PO Syllabus?
Most of the IBPS PO Syllabus overlaps between Prelims and Mains, so you don’t study everything separately.
Only two sections are unique in IBPS PO Mains:
- General Awareness
- English Descriptive Paper
Because of this overlap, the total preparation time becomes easier to manage.
Here is the realistic IBPS PO syllabus coverage time requirement:
- Total Preparation Time(Prelims+Mains): 4-6 months with steady daily study
- General Awareness: Needs daily 30-40 minutes for 3-4 months
- Descriptive Paper: Can be covered in 10-12 days with practice of essays and letters
- Revision + Mock Tests: Continuous till the exam for both stages
- Interview Preparation: 15-20 days after Mains result
How Much of the IBPS PO Syllabus Overlaps with Other Bank Exams?
A large part of the IBPS PO Syllabus matches exams like IBPS Clerk, SBI Clerk, SBI PO, RRB PO, and RRB Clerk.
The core subjects, Quant, Reasoning, and English, and General Awareness in other PO exams, consist of the same foundational topics.
It means that 70–80% of your preparation is done for IBPS PO if you have prepared for other banking exams.
- PYQs of 2025
- PYQs of 2024
- PYQs of 2023
- PYQs of 2022
Final Take on IBPS PO Syllabus
The IBPS PO syllabus is wide, but it becomes much simpler once you see the overlap. Most of the Prelims and Mains subjects as well as topics overlap, and the core subjects: Quant, Reasoning, English, and DI keep repeating in different forms.
Only the Financial Awareness and the Descriptive Test add new work in the Mains.
If you focus on the high-weight chapters, build speed early, and keep GA and mocks running every week, the syllabus can be completed in a steady 4-6 month plan.
Master the basics, sharpen the scoring areas, and stay consistent. That’s all you need to clear IBPS PO 2026.
