The mains is a different exam
The prelims only qualifies you. The mains, together with the local language test, decides selection. There is no interview. The mains has 190 questions for 200 marks in 2 hours 40 minutes, with a timer for each section and −0.25 per wrong answer.
- General / Financial Awareness: 50 questions, 50 marks, 35 minutes.
- General English: 40 questions, 40 marks, 35 minutes.
- Quantitative Aptitude: 50 questions, 50 marks, 45 minutes.
- Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude: 50 questions, 60 marks, 45 minutes.
Financial awareness decides the gap
General and financial awareness carries 50 marks and can be answered in a fraction of its 35 minutes if you have revised it well. That makes it the highest-return section. Cover banking terms, RBI policy and current affairs from the last six months, and revise it every day rather than in one block at the end.
A seven-week plan
- Weeks 1–2: Mains-level reasoning (long puzzles, input-output, coded inequalities) and data interpretation. These are a step up from prelims.
- Weeks 3–4: Two sectional tests a day, plus daily banking and current-affairs revision. Add computer aptitude basics, which are short and scoring.
- Weeks 5–6: Full mains mocks three times a week, with analysis the same day.
- Week 7: Revision only. Financial awareness notes, error log and formulas. Download the mains call letter as soon as it is released.
Don't skip the language test
Candidates who did not study the local language of their chosen state in Class 10 or 12 must pass a language proficiency test. Check your status in the notification now so it doesn't surprise you after the mains.
Key takeaways
- SBI Clerk 2026: prelims held 26–27 September; mains tentatively on 23 November 2026; prelims result expected in October.
- Mains: 190 questions, 200 marks, 2 hours 40 minutes, sectional timers, −0.25 per wrong answer, no interview.
- Start mains preparation before the prelims result, and revise financial awareness every day.
Sources
Dates and patterns change — always confirm on the official website before applying.
