IBPS SO Notification, Vacancies, Exam Pattern & Eligibility Criteria
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IBPS SO Mains 2023-24 Score Card out: The eagerly awaited moment for aspirants in the banking sector has arrived as the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) Specialist Officer (SO) results have been officially declared 13 feb 2024

IBPS SO Mains 2023-24 Result Out: The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has declared the IBPS SO Mains Result 2024 today, February 13. Candidates who appeared in the Specialist Officer (SO) Main Examination 2024 can check their results from the official website ibps.in.
IBPS SO Mains 2024 was conducted on January 28. Now, the selection board has announced the list of candidates shortlisted for the interview round.

IBPS SO 2023-24 Mains Result Link (Active Now)

Click here to Download IBPS SO 2023-24 Score Card◀️◀️◀️

Click to Check IBPS SO 2023-24 change Exam Centre

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Introduction

In today’s competitive job market, securing a specialized position in the banking sector is a dream for many. The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) Specialist Officer (SO) exam is a gateway to fulfilling this dream. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the IBPS SO exam, shedding light on its significance, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, preparation strategies, and career prospects.

IBPS SO Recruitment 2023- Overview
OrganisationInstitute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS)
PostSpecialist Officer (SO)
Exam LevelNational
Vacancy1402
Participating Banks11
Application ModeOnline
Online Registration01st to 28th August 2023
Exam ModeOnline
IBPS SO Recruitment ProcessPrelims, Main Exams, Interview
OrganizationGraduates or relevant degree
Age Limit20 years to 28 years
Application FeeSC/ST/PWD- Rs.175
General and Others- Rs. 850
IBPS Official Websitewww.ibps.in

Exam Centre Change for Manipur

The link to make changes in the exam centre will remain active till December 27, 2023. On receipt of centre change option from the willing candidates, they will be allocated to the Venues of their chosen Centres.

The decision to offer the option of ‘centre change’ to the candidates who have opted for Imphal (Manipur) as Centre for Online Preliminary Examination for recruitment for the post of Specialist Officers under CRP SPL-XIII was taken after reviewing the situation in the state. The notice for the same was released on December 23, 2023.

Direct link for exam centre change here 

The Significance of IBPS SO Call Letter:

The IBPS SO Call Letter serves as an official invitation for candidates to appear in the examination or interview phase of the recruitment process. This document contains vital information such as the candidate’s name, roll number, exam venue, date, and time. It is a testament to the candidate’s successful completion of the initial stages of the application process.

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Important Dates

Commencement of Call letter Download21 – 12 – 2023
Closure of Call letter Download30 – 12 – 2023

Key Elements of the Call Letter:

  1. Personal Information:
    The call letter includes personal details such as the candidate’s name, photograph, signature, and contact information. It is essential to verify this information to ensure accuracy and prevent any discrepancies.
  2. Exam Details:
    Information regarding the examination, including the date, time, and venue, is clearly mentioned in the call letter. Candidates should carefully read through these details and plan their logistics accordingly to avoid any last-minute hassles.
  3. Instructions and Guidelines:
    The call letter also contains important instructions and guidelines that candidates must adhere to during the examination or interview. This may include details about required documents, reporting time, and conduct rules.
  4. Exam Pattern and Syllabus:
    Some call letters provide a brief overview of the exam pattern and syllabus. Candidates can use this information to tailor their preparation strategies and focus on key areas relevant to their respective positions.

Click here for Your Call Letter Direct Link ( Active)

Steps to Download the IBPS SO Call Letter:

  1. Visit the Official Website:
    Log in to the official IBPS website using your registration number and password.
  2. Navigate to the Call Letter Section:
    Look for the “Download Call Letter” link on the official website. Click on it to proceed.
  3. Enter Required Details:
    Enter the necessary details, such as your registration number, roll number, and password. Ensure the accuracy of the information entered.
  4. Download and Print:
    Once you’ve entered the required details, click on the “Submit” or “Download” button. Download the call letter and take a printout for future reference.

IBPS SO Exam Pattern

For the post of IT Officer, Agriculture Field Officer, HR/Personnel Officer and Marketing Officer:

S No.Name of TestsNo. of QuestionsMaximum MarksMedium of ExamDuration
1English Language5025English40 minutes
2Reasoning5050English and Hindi40 minutes
3Quantitative Aptitude5050English and Hindi40 minutes
Total150125 120 minutes

For the post of Law Officer and Rajbhasha Adhikari:

S No.Name of TestsNo. of QuestionsMaximum MarksMedium of ExamDuration
1English Language5025English40 minutes
2Reasoning5050English and Hindi40 minutes
3General Awareness with Special Reference to Banking Industry5050English and Hindi40 minutes
Total150125 120 minutes

Section 1: Understanding the IBPS Specialist Officer Exam

  1. What is IBPS SO?

    The banking sector plays a pivotal role in the economic stability of any nation. It serves as the backbone of financial activities, channeling funds, and offering a wide range of services. To efficiently manage and diversify these services, banks rely on a specialized workforce. The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) recognizes this need and conducts exams for the recruitment of Specialist Officers (SO) in various banks across India. In this blog, we will delve into the importance of SO positions in the banking sector and explore the different SO posts available through IBPS.

Read More

  1. IBPS SO Complete Syllabus & Exam Pattern 
  2. IBPS SO Complete Notification & Vacancies 
  3. IBPS SO 30 Days Preparation Strategy 
  4. IBPS  SO Free Mock Test
  5. IBPS SO Admit Card 
  6. IBPS SO cut off

Important Dates

IBPS SO 2023- Important Dates
ActivityIBPS SO 2023 Dates
IBPS SO Notification 202331st July 2023
Online Registration Starts From1st August 2023
Last Date to Apply Online for IBPS SO28th August 2023
IBPS SO Prelims Admit Card 2023December 2023
Commencement of IBPS SO Preliminary Exam30th & 31st December 2023
IBPS SO Mains Exam Date 202328th January 2024

Importance of Specialist Officer Positions in the Banking Sector

  • Expertise in Niche Fields: Specialist Officers are hired for their expertise in specific domains. They bring in-depth knowledge and skills to the bank, allowing them to handle complex tasks and offer specialized services. This expertise is crucial for the efficient functioning of banks in various financial sectors.
  • Enhancing Customer Experience: Banks deal with diverse customer needs, from complex investment strategies to risk management. Specialist Officers are essential in providing personalized and accurate advice, thereby enhancing the overall customer experience and satisfaction.
  • Regulatory Compliance: In an era of stringent financial regulations, banks must adhere to various rules and guidelines. Specialist Officers play a pivotal role in ensuring that the bank’s operations comply with these regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues.
  • Innovation and Growth: As the financial landscape evolves, banks need to innovate to stay competitive. SOs often lead research and development efforts, helping banks adapt to new technologies and emerging trends, ultimately contributing to growth.

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Different Specialist Officer Posts Available through IBPS

  1. IT Officer: Information Technology Officers handle the bank’s technological infrastructure. They are responsible for software development, network management, and cybersecurity, ensuring that the bank’s digital systems run smoothly and securely.
  2. Agricultural Field Officer: These officers specialize in agricultural finance and rural banking. They work closely with farmers and agribusinesses, providing financial solutions tailored to their needs.
  3. Marketing Officer: Marketing Officers are responsible for promoting the bank’s products and services. They develop marketing strategies, conduct market research, and create campaigns to attract and retain customers.
  4. Law Officer: Banks need legal experts to navigate the complex legal landscape. Law Officers deal with legal matters, and contracts, and ensure that the bank’s operations comply with all relevant laws and regulations.
  5. HR/Personnel Officer: These officers manage the bank’s human resources. They are responsible for recruitment, training, and employee relations, ensuring that the bank has a skilled and motivated workforce.
  6. Finance Officer: Finance Officers handle financial planning, budgeting, and risk management. They help the bank make informed financial decisions and ensure its financial stability.

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Specialist Officer positions in the banking sector are essential for the industry’s growth and stability. They bring specialized skills and knowledge to address the unique challenges that banks face today. The IBPS SO exam is the gateway to these coveted positions, offering a rewarding career path for individuals with expertise in various fields. Whether you are an IT expert, a marketing guru, a legal enthusiast, or have skills in other niche areas, there’s likely a Specialist Officer role that suits your talents and interests in the world of banking. So, if you aspire to make a difference in the financial world, consider the IBPS SO exam as your ticket to a fulfilling career in the banking sector.

Educational Qualifications, Age Limit, and Citizenship Requirements for IBPS SO

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts examinations to recruit Specialist Officers (SO) in various public sector banks across India. To ensure a fair and competitive selection process, IBPS has established specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet. We will delve into the educational qualifications, age limits, and citizenship requirements for IBPS SO.

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Educational Qualifications

The educational qualifications required for IBPS SO can vary depending on the specific post or specialization you are applying for. Here’s a general overview:

  1. IT Officer (Scale-I): Candidates should have a four-year engineering degree in Computer Science/IT/Electronics & Communication/Electronics & Instrumentation/Information Technology or a postgraduate degree in the relevant field.
  2. Agriculture Field Officer (Scale-I): A four-year degree in Agriculture/Horticulture/Animal Husbandry/Veterinary Science/Dairy Science/Fishery Science/Agri. Engineering/Forestry/Food Technology/Agri. Marketing & Cooperation/Co-operation & Banking/Agro-Forestry is required.
  3. Rajbhasha Adhikari (Scale-I): Applicants should have a postgraduate degree in Hindi with English as a subject at the degree level or a postgraduate degree in Sanskrit with English and Hindi as subjects at the degree level.
  4. Law Officer (Scale-I): A bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) is mandatory.
  5. HR/Personnel Officer (Scale-I): A postgraduate degree or two years of full-time postgraduate diploma in Personnel Management/Industrial Relations/Human Resource/HRD/Social Work/Labour Law is necessary.
  6. Marketing Officer (Scale-I): Candidates should have a two-year full-time MMS (Marketing)/MBA (Marketing)/PGDBA/PGDBM with a specialization in Marketing.
S No.Name of the PostEducational Qualification
1. I.T. Officer (Scale I)1)Four years engineering/Technology degree in Computer Science/IT/Computer Application/Electronics and Communication Engineering/Electronics and Telecommunication/ Electronics and Instrumentation OR
2) Post Graduate Degree in Computer Science/IT/Computer Application/Electronics and Communication Engineering/Electronics and Telecommunication/ Electronics and Instrumentation OR
Graduates having passed DOEACC ‘B’ level exam 
2.Agricultural Field Officer (Scale-I)4 years graduation degree in Agriculture/ Horticulture/ Animal Husbandry/ Veterinary Science/ Dairy Science/ Agricultural engineering/ Fishery Science/ Pisciculture/ Agri Marketing and cooperation/ Co-Operation and Banking/ Agro-Forestry
3.Rajbhasha Adhikari (Scale I)Post Graduate in Hindi with English as a subject at the graduation or degree level OR Post Graduate Degree in Sanskrit with English and Hindi as a subject at graduation level
 
4.Law Office (Scale I)Graduate and Full-Time MMS (Marketing)/ MBA (Marketing)/Full-time PGDBA/ PGDBM with specialization in Marketing
5.HR/Personnel Officer (Scale I)A bachelor’s degree in Law and enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council
6.Marketing Officer (Scale I)Graduate and Full-Time MMS (Marketing)/ MBA (Marketing)/Full time PGDBA/ PGDBM with specialization in Marketing

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Age Limit

The age limit for IBPS SO is another crucial aspect to consider when applying for the examination. Generally, the age limits for different categories are as follows:

  1. Minimum Age: The minimum age required to apply for IBPS SO is usually 20 years.
  2. Maximum Age: The maximum age limit varies based on the candidate’s category and may change from year to year. As of my last update in September 2021, the maximum age limits were as follows:
  • For General Category: 30 years
  • For OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 33 years
  • For SC/ST: 35 years
CategoryIBPS Clerk Age relaxation
Other Backward Classes (OBC)3 years
Scheduled Caste (SC)/Scheduled Tribe (ST)5 years
PWBd Categories10 years
Ex-Servicemen / Disabled Ex-ServicemenActual period of service + 3 years
Persons Affected by 1984 riots5 years

It’s essential to check the official IBPS notification for the most up-to-date information on age limits.

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Citizenship Requirements

To be eligible for IBPS SO, candidates must fulfill certain citizenship criteria:

  1. Citizenship: A candidate must be either:
  • a Citizen of India or
  • a subject of Nepal or
  • a subject of Bhutan or
  • a Tibetan Refugee who came over to India before 1st January 1962 with the intention of permanently settling in India or
  • a person of Indian origin who has migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, East African countries of Kenya, Uganda, the United Republic of Tanzania (formerly Tanganyika and Zanzibar), Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam with the intention of permanently settling in India.

Understanding the educational qualifications, age limits, and citizenship requirements for IBPS SO is crucial for aspiring candidates. Meeting these criteria is the first step toward a successful career in the banking sector. However, it’s essential to stay updated with the latest notifications from IBPS, as eligibility criteria may change from year to year. Prepare diligently, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an IBPS Specialist Officer and contributing to the growth of the Indian banking industry.

Preliminary Examination

The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts various recruitment exams to fill positions in banks across India. Among its many examinations, the IBPS Specialist Officer (SO) exam is highly sought after by candidates aspiring to work in specialized roles within the banking sector. To succeed in the IBPS SO exam, it is crucial to understand the subjects covered, the types of questions you can expect, the scoring system, and how to effectively manage your time. We will delve into these key aspects of the IBPS SO exam.

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Subjects Covered and Question Types

  1. Reasoning: This section assesses your logical and analytical abilities. Questions in this section may include puzzles, seating arrangement, coding-decoding, syllogism, and data sufficiency.
  2. English Language: Your proficiency in English is evaluated here. You can expect questions on reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and sentence completion.
  3. Quantitative Aptitude: This section tests your mathematical skills. It includes questions on topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
  4. Professional Knowledge: This is a critical section specific to the specialized role you are applying for, such as IT Officer, Law Officer, Marketing Officer, HR/Personnel Officer, or Agriculture Field Officer. Questions in this section are designed to assess your expertise in the relevant field.
  5. General Awareness: This section covers current affairs, banking awareness, and general knowledge. Stay updated with the latest news and developments in the banking industry and current events to perform well in this section.

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Scoring System

Understanding the scoring system in the IBPS SO exam is essential for effective preparation:

  • Marking Scheme: In most IBPS exams, each correct answer is usually awarded one mark, and there is a negative marking system. For every incorrect answer, a fraction of a mark (usually 0.25) is deducted.
  • Cut-off Marks: The IBPS sets a minimum cut-off score for each section, and candidates must score above these cut-offs to qualify for the next round.
  • Overall Score: To qualify for the interview round and be considered for final selection, candidates need to score well both in the individual sections and in the overall examination.

Time Allocation and Number of Questions

Time management is crucial in the IBPS SO exam to attempt all questions and maximize your score. Here’s how the time allocation and the number of questions typically work:

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  1. Reasoning: Allocate around 40-45 minutes for this section. There are usually 50-60 questions in this section. Start with the questions you are most comfortable with to save time for more challenging ones.
  2. English Language: Dedicate about 25-30 minutes for this section. There are usually 40-50 questions. Begin with the reading comprehension and proceed to other questions.
  3. Quantitative Aptitude: Aim for 40-45 minutes for this section. You can expect around 50-60 questions. Focus on solving easier questions first to ensure you secure those marks.
  4. Professional Knowledge: This section typically comprises 50 questions, and you should aim to spend around 30-40 minutes on it, depending on your comfort level with the subject matter.
  5. General Awareness: Allocate approximately 20-25 minutes for this section, which usually has 40-50 questions. Stay updated with current affairs to answer questions quickly.

Remember that effective time management is key to attempting all the questions and maximizing your score. Prioritize accuracy over speed and manage your time wisely.

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The IBPS SO exam is a gateway to specialized roles in the banking sector. To excel in this examination, understanding the subjects covered, question types, scoring system, and time allocation is essential. A well-structured study plan and regular practice are the keys to success. With dedication and the right approach, you can ace the IBPS SO exam and embark on a rewarding career in the banking industry. Good luck!

Conclusion:

The IBPS Specialist Officer exam is not just a means to secure a job in the banking sector; it’s a stepping stone to a fulfilling and rewarding career. With the right guidance, preparation, and determination, aspiring candidates can unlock the doors to specialized banking positions and contribute to the growth and stability of the financial sector.

In conclusion, this article has provided a comprehensive understanding of the IBPS SO exam, from its significance to the nitty-gritty details of preparation. It is hoped that this information will serve as a valuable resource for candidates aspiring to become IBPS Specialist Officers and embark on a successful career in the banking industry.

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By Nikhil

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