Candidates who want to choose one of these two exams and prepare for it often ask this question: “Which is easier – IBPS PO or RRB PO?” It’s a common question, especially for first-time aspirants. Both exams are for Probationary Officer (PO) posts, and both are conducted by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS). But still, there are some major pattern-wise, difficulty level-wise, and selection criteria-wise differences between them. And these differences make one exam more suitable than the other, depending on a candidate’s interest or strengths. In this blog, we will break it down for you in simple terms and help you choose which one might be the better fit for you.
Which is easier to crack: IBPS PO or RRB PO?
The answer depends on your strengths and weaknesses. If you are weak in English, then RRB PO can be easier, because English is not part of the Prelims exam in RRB PO. On the other hand, if you’re comfortable with English and want to target national-level banks, then IBPS PO may offer better opportunities.
Let’s look at a comparison between the two exams.
IBPS PO vs RRB PO, Main Differences
Here is how these two exams are different:
| IBPS PO vs RRB PO: Main Differences Explained | ||
| Parameter | IBPS PO | RRB PO |
| Conducting Body | IBPS – Conducts exams for national public sector banks. | IBPS – Also conducts RRB PO for regional rural banks. |
| Prelims Subjects | English, Quant, Reasoning – English adds a competitive layer. | Quant, Reasoning – Easier for non-English medium students. |
| English in Prelims? | Yes – Compulsory section with decent weightage. | No It is a big relief for candidates weak in English. |
| Exam Level | Moderate to Tough – More complicated puzzles and lengthy questions. | Easy to Moderate – More direct questions with simpler logic. |
| Job Posting | Urban & Semi-Urban – Usually in metros and tier-2 cities. | Mostly Rural & Semi-Rural – Postings in village-level or small towns. |
| Language Preference | English/Hindi – No regional language requirement. | Regional Language Required in Some States – Important for interviews. |
| Final Interview | Yes – Weightage in final selection. | Yes – Includes regional language proficiency check in some banks. |
| Vacancies | Moderate – Varies year to year. | High – Often, more vacancies than IBPS PO in recent years. |
| Salary Structure | Slightly Higher (Includes city allowance and benefits.) | Slightly Lower (Perks vary by bank and rural location.) |
| Work Culture | Fast-paced with more growth opportunities in larger branches. | Promotions are available, but are generally slower than IBPS PO. |
| Career Growth | Quicker promotions in competitive, high-performing environments. | Relatively relaxed, but with a strong community impact in rural banking. |
| Transfer Policy | Frequent transfers across India. | Mostly limited to the same state or region. |
| Work Pressure | High, due to sales targets and heavy workload in cities. | Moderate, less pressure compared to urban branches. |
| Eligibility for Exams | Graduate in any discipline from a recognized university. | Same, Graduate degree required, but knowledge of local language preferred. |
| Computer Knowledge Section | Included in Mains as part of General Awareness. | Separate section in Mains, basic knowledge tested. |
Which exam has an easier syllabus and pattern?
Both exams have similar subjects, like Quantitative Aptitude and Reasoning Ability in Prelims. But the main difference is the English section, which is only in IBPS PO Prelims. That makes RRB PO easier for students who are weak in English or come from a Hindi-medium background.
In Mains, both exams include:
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Reasoning
General Awareness - Computer Knowledge
- English or Hindi Language (IBPS PO has English only)
Also, the difficulty level of IBPS PO is usually a bit higher, especially in terms of puzzle complexity and comprehension.
Salary of IBPS PO vs RRB PO
Overall, the salary of an IBPS PO is slightly higher than that of an RRB PO, mainly due to additional allowances and faster career growth opportunities. However, the cost of living advantage in rural areas makes the RRB PO package equally comfortable, especially for those preferring stability and higher savings.
| Component | IBPS PO | IBPS RRB PO |
| Basic Pay | ₹48,480 | ₹48,480 |
| Gross Salary | approximately ₹90,732.77 per month | around ₹80,437 |
| Perks | Higher allowances, travel benefits | Fewer perks but better work-life balance |
| Career Growth | Faster promotions | Slower promotions |
Which job is better, IBPS PO or RRB PO?
Both jobs are respectable government banking jobs with similar roles like customer service, managing accounts, and supervising staff. However:
- IBPS PO postings are usually in urban or semi-urban locations.
- RRB PO jobs are mostly in rural or semi-rural areas.
If you’re comfortable living in smaller towns or your hometown, RRB PO may suit you better. If you want to work in cities or metro areas, IBPS PO might be a better option.
How to prepare for both exams with free resources?
Whether you choose IBPS PO or RRB PO, the right preparation tools will make your journey smoother. If you want to start and speed up your prep for free, PracticeMock has got you covered!
Free Topic-wise Practice Tests
Cover every important section:
- Quant: Simplification, DI, Arithmetic
- Reasoning: Puzzles, Syllogism, Blood Relations
- English: Cloze Test, RCs, Error Spotting (for IBPS PO)
- General Awareness: Banking, Static, Current Affairs
Takeaway
So we compared both exams on several parameters and understood which exam is easier or tougher for you. If you are weak in English, then the IBPS RRB PO exam (especially the prelims exam) might be easier for you to crack. On the other hand, if you want a posting in the city and are looking for a competitive role, then IBPS PO would be a better option for you, even if it’s a bit tougher. Because, along with difficulty, your preferences also play a role in the choice of the exam. In the end, the conclusion is that to clear either of the two exams, good planning, consistent practice, and self-analysis through mock tests are very important. And PracticeMock gives you such free resources that you don’t have to think much to start your preparation. You have to start your preparation without any financial commitment. Start your preparation today.
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FAQs
No, there is no English section in RRB PO Prelims.
IBPS PO is slightly more competitive and tougher in difficulty.
Yes, since the syllabus overlaps, you can prepare together with small changes.
RRB PO is mostly posted in rural and semi-rural areas.
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