IBPS PO/MT XVI Main Examination Syllabus 2026
Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS)
The IBPS PO/MT XVI Main Examination is the second stage of the recruitment process. It consists of objective and descriptive tests covering Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, General/Economy/Banking Awareness, English Language, Data Analysis & Interpretation, and Descriptive English. Marks obtained in the Main Examination are considered for the final merit list along with the Interview.
Duration
3 Hours 30 Minutes
Marking
Marks are awarded according to the weightage prescribed for each section. The Descriptive Test carries 25 marks.
Negative marking
0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer in the objective sections. There is no negative marking for the Descriptive Test.
Exam Pattern
| Subject | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 40 | 60 |
| General / Economy / Banking Awareness | 35 | 50 |
| English Language | 35 | 40 |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 35 | 60 |
| Descriptive Test (Letter Writing & Essay) | 2 | 25 |
Subject-wise Syllabus
Reasoning & Computer Aptitude
High-Level Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Input-Output, Logical Reasoning, Critical Reasoning, Data Sufficiency, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Computer Fundamentals, Operating Systems, Internet, Networking, MS Office, Computer Hardware & Software, Cyber Security
General / Economy / Banking Awareness
Current Affairs, Banking Awareness, RBI, Monetary Policy, Financial Awareness, Indian Economy, Government Schemes, Budget, Economic Survey, Banking Terminology, Static General Knowledge
English Language
Reading Comprehension, Cloze Test, Para Jumbles, Error Detection, Vocabulary, Grammar, Sentence Improvement, Word Usage, Fill in the Blanks
Data Analysis & Interpretation
Tabular DI, Bar Graph, Line Graph, Pie Chart, Caselet DI, Missing DI, Data Sufficiency, Arithmetic Word Problems
Descriptive Test
Essay Writing, Formal Letter Writing, Business Letter Writing
Preparation Tips
- Focus on high-level puzzles and Data Interpretation.
- Read newspapers and banking magazines daily.
- Revise RBI circulars, banking terms, and current affairs.
- Practice essay and letter writing weekly.
- Attempt previous years' papers and full-length mock tests regularly.