The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts the IBPS PO exam annually to recruit candidates for Probationary Officers/Management Trainees (PO/MT) posts. The IBPS PO selection process consists of three phases: Prelims, Mains and Interview. The Preliminary exam is the first stage of the selection process conducted on the 17th, 23rd and 24th August 2025. Candidates must know the exam day protocols to avoid any last-minute issues. In this article, we are providing a detailed, step-by-step guide to the IBPS PO 2025 exam day guidelines, covering essential instructions, required documents, and prohibited items.
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IBPS PO 2025: Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Conducting Body | Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) |
| Post | Probationary Officer (PO) |
| Exam Phases | Prelims, Mains, and Interview |
| Mode of Examination | Online |
| Prelims Exam Date | 17th, 23rd and 24th August 2025 |
| Admit Card Availability | 7-10 days before the exam |

IBPS PO Prelims Exam Day Guidelines: Dos and Don’ts
On the day of the IBPS PO 2025 exam, candidates must adhere to specific protocols to ensure a smooth process. Below is a comprehensive list of dos and don’ts:
Before the Exam
- Review Notes: Go through your revision sheet in the morning to refresh key formulas and concepts.
- Stay Hydrated and Energised: Have a light, nutritious breakfast to maintain energy levels.
- Reach Early: Arrive at the exam centre well in advance to avoid stress.
During the Exam
- Read Instructions Carefully: Spend the first 30 seconds skimming the instructions to avoid surprises.
- Prioritise Easy Questions: Start with questions you’re confident about to secure quick marks.
- Manage Time Strictly: Stick to the 20-minute limit per section. Use the on-screen timer to pace yourself.
- Stay Focused: If you get stuck, move on and return later if time permits.
- Double-Check Answers: If time allows, review your answers to catch errors, especially in Quantitative Aptitude.
After the Exam
- Avoid overanalysing your performance, as it may affect your confidence for future exams.
- Start preparing for the Mains immediately if you feel confident about your Prelims performance.
Exam Day Checklist
To streamline your preparation, use this checklist the night before the exam:
- Printed IBPS PO 2025 admit card with affixed photograph
- Original and photocopy of valid photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, voter ID, or driving license)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Transparent blue or black ballpoint pen
- Personal hand sanitiser (50 ml, transparent bottle)
- Transparent water bottle
- PwD certificate (if applicable)
- Route plan to the exam centre
Don’ts
Do Not Carry Prohibited Items: The following items are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall:
- Electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, etc.)
- Books, notes, or study materials
- Bags, purses, or large items
- Jewellery or accessories that could conceal items
- Food items (except water in a transparent bottle)

Mindset & Strategy in the Final Days for the IBPS PO 2025 Exam
1. Revise, Don’t Re-learn
Avoid picking up any new topics now. Instead:
- Revise formulas, grammar rules, and shortcut tricks.
- Focus on your strength areas to ensure accuracy and speed.
- Keep a one-page cheat sheet for each section for quick glances.
2. Focus on Accuracy Over Attempts
In SBI PO Prelims, it’s not about attempting all 100 questions but maximising correct attempts.
- Target a safe score of 65–75+, depending on difficulty.
- Take a full-length mock test to maximise accuracy in the examination.
3. Time Management is Everything
Each section is strictly timed (20 minutes), and you can’t go back.
- Practice in actual time slots to get used to the pressure.
- Don’t get stuck; learn to move on quickly if a question takes time.
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FAQ
You must carry your IBPS PO Prelims Admit Card, a valid photo ID proof (original + photocopy), and two passport-size photographs.
No. Only a printed hard copy of the admit card is allowed. Digital copies on phone/tablet are not accepted.
Your reporting time is mentioned on your admit card. Generally, candidates should reach the exam centre at least 45 minutes before the reporting time.
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