The SBI Apprentice Syllabus 2026 includes four main sections: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude. The online written exam carries 100 questions for 100 marks, with a total duration of 60 minutes and separate sectional timing of 15 minutes per section.
Candidates who qualify the online written examination must also appear for the SBI Apprentice Local Language Test, unless they studied the selected local language in Class 10 or Class 12 and can submit valid proof. The final selection is based on the online exam, local language test, and medical fitness.
The SBI Apprentice exam is a good opportunity for graduates who want to gain one year of banking experience with the State Bank of India. Candidates should go through the latest SBI Apprentice syllabus and exam pattern carefully before starting preparation, as it helps them understand the section-wise topics, marking scheme, time limit, and important subjects.
SBI Apprentice Syllabus 2026 Overview
Here is a quick overview of the SBI Apprentice recruitment 2026 and exam pattern.
| Parameter | Details |
| Organisation | State Bank of India (SBI) |
| Total Vacancies | 7,150 |
| Post Name | Apprentice |
| Application Dates | May 19 to June 8, 2026 |
| Exam Date | July 2026 Tentative |
| Exam Mode | Online CBT |
| Total Questions | 100 MCQs |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Exam Duration | 60 Minutes |
| Sectional Timing | 15 Minutes for each section |
| Negative Marking | 1/4th mark per wrong answer |
| Selection Process | Online Written Test, Local Language Test, Medical Exam |
| Stipend | ₹15,000 per month |
| Training Duration | 1 Year |
| Educational Qualification | Graduation from a recognised University/Institute |
| Age Limit | 20 to 28 years as on 01.04.2026 |
Understanding the SBI Apprentice salary and the nature of the engagement is vital before applying. Many aspirants ask, “is SBI Apprentice a good permanent job?“—it is important to note that this is a one-year training contract, not a permanent appointment.
SBI Apprentice Exam Pattern 2026
The selection process includes three stages: Online Written Examination, Test of Local Language, and Medical Examination. The final merit list is prepared based on the aggregate marks scored in the online written examination, keeping in mind the seats reservation and selection process specific to each state.
- Online Written Examination
- Test of Local Language
- Medical Examination
The final merit list is prepared state-wise and category-wise based on the aggregate marks scored in the online written examination.
SBI Apprentice Online Written Exam Pattern
The SBI Apprentice online written exam consists of 100 objective-type questions for 100 marks. The paper is divided into four sections, and each section has a separate time limit of 15 minutes.
| Sl. No. | Section | Questions | Marks | Duration | Medium |
| 1 | General / Financial Awareness | 25 | 25 | 15 mins | Bilingual* |
| 2 | General English | 25 | 25 | 15 mins | English only |
| 3 | Quantitative Aptitude | 25 | 25 | 15 mins | Bilingual* |
| 4 | Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | 25 | 25 | 15 mins | Bilingual* |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 mins | — |
Bilingual means English, Hindi, and the applicable regional language such as Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, or Urdu, depending on the state applied for. The General English section is available only in English.
Marking Scheme
| Answer Type | Marks |
| Correct Answer | +1 mark |
| Wrong Answer | -0.25 mark |
| Unattempted Question | No penalty |
| Sectional Cut-Off | No sectional cut-off |
| Qualifying Marks | Aggregate qualifying marks apply |
| Relaxation | 5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD candidates |
📌 Also Read: SBI Apprentice Admit Card 2026 — Download Link & Exam City Details | SBI Apprentice Cut Off 2026 — State-wise & Category-wise Analysis
Test of Local Language
The SBI Apprentice Local Language Test is a qualifying stage conducted after the online written exam. Candidates must show proficiency in the local language of the state they have applied for.
This test checks whether the candidate can:
- Read the specified local language
- Write basic sentences or paragraphs
- Speak the language clearly
- Understand written and spoken instructions
Candidates who fail the Local Language Test will not be considered for final engagement, even if they score well in the online written exam.
✅ Exemption: Candidates who studied the specified local language in Class 10 or Class 12 and can produce a valid mark sheet or certificate do not need to appear for the Local Language Test.
SBI Apprentice Syllabus 2026
The SBI Apprentice Syllabus 2026 covers four subjects in the online written examination. Candidates should prepare each subject carefully because all four sections carry equal marks.
| Section | Key Topic Areas | Marks |
| General / Financial Awareness | Current Affairs, Banking Awareness, Static GK, Government Schemes, Awards, Important Days | 25 |
| General English | Reading Comprehension, Error Detection, Grammar, Vocabulary, Cloze Test, Para-jumbles | 25 |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Number Series, Data Interpretation, Simplification, Arithmetic, Probability, Mensuration | 25 |
| Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude | Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Coding-Decoding, Syllogism, Inequalities, Computer Basics, MS Office | 25 |
SBI Apprentice Syllabus 2026 Section-wise Topics
Candidates should prepare the SBI Apprentice syllabus section-wise to improve speed, accuracy, and confidence in the online exam. The detailed subject-wise syllabus is given below.
Quantitative Aptitude Syllabus
The Quantitative Aptitude section tests calculation speed, numerical ability, and data interpretation skills. This section carries 25 questions for 25 marks. Candidates should focus on arithmetic, DI, simplification, approximation, and number series because these topics are frequently asked in banking exams.
Number Series
Number Series questions ask candidates to identify the missing or wrong number in a sequence. The pattern may be based on addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, squares, cubes, or mixed operations. Candidates can expect around 2–3 questions from this topic.
Simplification & Approximation
Simplification and Approximation questions test BODMAS, fractions, decimals, surds, indices, and percentage-based calculations. Candidates should memorise common fraction-percentage values such as 1/8 = 12.5% and 1/6 = 16.66% to save time.
Quadratic Equations
Quadratic Equation questions include two equations in x and y. Candidates must compare the values of x and y and select the correct relationship. This topic is scoring if candidates practise factorisation and root comparison regularly.
Data Interpretation
Data Interpretation is one of the most important topics in the SBI Apprentice Quant section. Candidates may get bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts, tables, caselets, or mixed DI sets. Questions are usually based on percentage, ratio, average, total, and comparison.
Percentage
Percentage questions cover percentage increase, percentage decrease, successive percentage change, and population-based problems. This topic is also useful in Data Interpretation, Profit and Loss, and Simple and Compound Interest.
Profit and Loss
Profit and Loss questions include cost price, selling price, marked price, discount, profit percentage, loss percentage, and dishonest shopkeeper problems. Candidates should practise both direct formula-based questions and statement-based questions.
Simple & Compound Interest
Simple Interest and Compound Interest questions test basic interest calculation. Candidates should revise the formulas for SI and CI and practise questions based on half-yearly compounding, instalments, and comparison between SI and CI.
Ratio and Proportion
Ratio and Proportion is a high-utility topic because it supports other chapters such as partnership, mixture, ages, and DI. Candidates should understand direct ratio, inverse ratio, compound ratio, and proportional division.
Average
Average questions are based on combined average, weighted average, replacement, and group-based calculations. Candidates should pay attention to “average after replacement” and “average after adding/removing members” type questions.
Time and Work
Time and Work questions cover individual work efficiency, group work, wages, and pipes and cisterns. Candidates should use the “work per day” method to solve these questions quickly.
Time, Speed and Distance
Time, Speed and Distance includes average speed, relative speed, train problems, boats and streams, and circular track questions. Boat and stream questions are especially important for SBI-level exams.
Permutation and Combination
Permutation and Combination questions test arrangements and selections. Candidates may get questions based on word arrangements, committee formation, seating arrangements, or condition-based counting.
Probability
Probability questions are usually based on cards, dice, balls, coins, and complementary events. This topic is often connected with Permutation and Combination.
Mensuration
Mensuration includes 2D and 3D shapes such as circle, rectangle, triangle, cylinder, cone, sphere, cube, and cuboid. Candidates should revise formulas for area, perimeter, volume, and surface area.
Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude Syllabus
The Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude section carries 25 questions for 25 marks. It tests logical thinking, analytical ability, and basic computer knowledge. Candidates should focus on puzzles, seating arrangement, coding-decoding, syllogism, inequalities, computer basics, internet, MS Office, and computer abbreviations.
Puzzles and Seating Arrangement
Puzzles and Seating Arrangement usually carry high weightage in the Reasoning section. Candidates can expect linear seating, circular seating, floor-based puzzles, box-based puzzles, scheduling puzzles, and comparison-based puzzles. Use a proper table or diagram to avoid confusion.
Coding-Decoding
Coding-Decoding questions test pattern recognition. SBI exams now include both traditional letter-based coding and new-pattern coding based on words, numbers, or sentence positions. Candidates should practise 2–3 sets daily.
Syllogism
Syllogism questions test logical conclusions from given statements. Candidates should practise questions based on “All,” “Some,” “No,” and “Some not.” The Venn diagram method is the safest approach for this topic.
Blood Relation
Blood Relation questions check family relationship understanding. Candidates should draw a simple family tree while solving these questions. Questions may be direct or combined with puzzles.
Direction Sense
Direction Sense questions are based on movement, turns, distance, and final direction. Candidates should always mark North, South, East, and West clearly on rough paper before solving.
Input-Output
Input-Output questions are based on machine arrangement patterns. Candidates must identify the logic used in each step, such as ascending order, descending order, word-length arrangement, or alternate sorting.
Alphanumeric Series
Alphanumeric Series questions include letters, numbers, and symbols. Candidates must apply multiple conditions and count positions carefully. This topic tests accuracy and observation skills.
Inequality
Inequality questions are based on mathematical relationships between variables. Candidates should practise both direct inequalities and coded inequalities where symbols replace greater than, less than, and equal signs.
Ranking and Order
Ranking and Order questions ask candidates to calculate positions from left, right, top, bottom, or total number of people. The common formula is:
Total = Position from left + Position from right – 1
Logical Reasoning
Logical Reasoning includes statement-assumption, statement-conclusion, cause and effect, course of action, and decision-making questions. Candidates should avoid overthinking and answer based on the information given.
Computer Fundamentals
Computer Fundamentals includes generations of computers, types of memory, input/output devices, storage devices, operating systems, number systems, and computer languages. These are usually fact-based questions.
Internet
Internet topics include HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, TCP/IP, IP address, web browsers, email, cloud computing, phishing, malware, firewall, and cyber security basics. These topics are relevant to modern banking operations.
MS Office
MS Office includes MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint. Candidates should revise shortcut keys, formatting tools, mail merge, formulas, VLOOKUP, SUM, IF, pivot tables, slide layouts, and transitions.
Networking
Networking topics include LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN, network topology, router, switch, hub, modem, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Candidates should prepare basic definitions and differences.
Computer Abbreviations
Computer Abbreviations are easy-scoring if revised regularly. Important abbreviations include CPU, RAM, ROM, USB, HTTP, HTTPS, HTML, SQL, PDF, GUI, API, URL, LAN, WAN, ATM, OTP, UPI, NEFT, RTGS, IMPS, MICR, and IFSC.
General English Syllabus
The General English section carries 25 questions for 25 marks and is conducted only in English. This section tests grammar, vocabulary, reading ability, and sentence structure. Candidates with good grammar basics can attempt this section quickly and score well.
Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension questions are based on passages related to banking, economy, social issues, or current affairs. Candidates may get factual, inferential, vocabulary-based, and theme-based questions.
Error Detection
Error Detection questions ask candidates to identify the incorrect part of a sentence. Common error areas include subject-verb agreement, tense, articles, prepositions, pronouns, and parallel structure.
Sentence Improvement
Sentence Improvement questions require candidates to choose the grammatically correct and meaningful replacement for an underlined part. Choose the option that is clear, concise, and grammatically correct.
Sentence Rearrangement
Sentence Rearrangement, also called Para-jumbles, tests the ability to arrange sentences in a logical order. Candidates should identify the opening sentence first and then connect the remaining sentences using pronouns, connectors, and idea flow.
Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the Blanks questions test grammar and vocabulary in context. Candidates should first eliminate grammatically incorrect options and then choose the word that best fits the meaning of the sentence.
Cloze Test
Cloze Test includes a passage with multiple blanks. Candidates must understand the theme of the passage before selecting answers. Topics are usually based on banking, economy, education, or society.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary questions include synonyms, antonyms, idioms, phrases, and one-word substitutions. Candidates should learn words in sentence context instead of memorising isolated meanings.
Grammar
Grammar topics include tenses, subject-verb agreement, articles, prepositions, conjunctions, pronouns, modifiers, and sentence structure. SBI Apprentice grammar questions are usually moderate in difficulty.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms and Antonyms may appear as standalone questions or from Reading Comprehension. Candidates should revise high-frequency banking exam words such as pragmatic, mitigate, augment, volatile, prudent, fiscal, monetary, liquidity, and collateral.
Also Read: Best Books for SBI Apprentice 2026 — Section-wise Recommendations | English Language Practice Sets for SBI Apprentice 2026
General / Financial Awareness Syllabus
This section is often the most scoring. To master this, refer to a comprehensive general financial awareness guide.
This section tests banking awareness, financial awareness, static GK, government schemes, awards, books, organisations, and important days.
Current Affairs
Candidates should cover at least the last 6–8 months of current affairs before the exam. Focus on RBI updates, Union Budget 2026, government schemes, national and international events, sports, awards, appointments, and important reports.
Banking Awareness
Banking Awareness is one of the most important topics for SBI Apprentice. Candidates should revise RBI functions, monetary policy tools, repo rate, reverse repo rate, CRR, SLR, MSF, types of banks, banking acts, types of accounts, priority sector lending, and digital banking.
Financial Awareness
Financial Awareness includes financial markets, SEBI, IRDAI, PFRDA, mutual funds, bonds, equity, derivatives, insurance, pension schemes, credit rating agencies, UPI, digital payments, and fintech developments.
Static GK
Static GK includes Indian states and capitals, national parks, rivers, dams, mountains, constitutional articles, national symbols, important places, and geography-based facts.
Important Days
Important Days questions are based on national and international days along with their themes. Candidates should revise important dates such as Republic Day, International Women’s Day, World Environment Day, Independence Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Children’s Day, and World AIDS Day.
Books and Authors
Books and Authors questions include recently published books, books by politicians, economists, sportspersons, and public figures. Candidates should also revise famous books such as Discovery of India, Wings of Fire, and Arthashastra.
Awards and Honours
Awards and Honours include Padma Awards, Nobel Prize, Bharat Ratna, Booker Prize, sports awards, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, Khel Ratna, and Dhyan Chand Award. Candidates should note Indian winners and award categories.
National & International Organisations
Candidates should revise the headquarters, heads, and functions of IMF, World Bank, WTO, WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, ILO, ADB, AIIB, NDB, FATF, G20, SAARC, ASEAN, SCO, BRICS, SEBI, IRDAI, PFRDA, NABARD, SIDBI, and EXIM Bank.
Government Schemes
Government Schemes are important for both General Awareness and Financial Awareness. Candidates should know the scheme name, ministry, launch year, objective, and target beneficiaries. Important schemes include PM Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Mudra Yojana, PM Kisan, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, Swachh Bharat, Digital India, Skill India, and recent Budget 2026 schemes.
Preparation and Strategy
To stay ahead of the competition, candidates should analyze the SBI Apprentice previous year cut off to understand the difficulty level and target scores.
- Sectional Focus: Since there is no sectional cut-off, maximize your score in your strongest areas.
- Practice: Regularly attempting an SBI Apprentice test series is the most effective way to handle the 15-minute time pressure per section.
- Local Language: Don’t ignore the Local Language Test; it is a mandatory qualifying stage.
SBI Apprentice Local Language Test Syllabus 2026
The SBI Apprentice Local Language Test 2026 is qualifying in nature. It is not counted in the final merit list, but candidates must qualify it to be considered for final engagement.
| Competency | What is Tested |
| Reading | Ability to read a passage or text in the selected local language |
| Writing | Ability to write basic sentences or short paragraphs |
| Speaking | Ability to communicate in the local language |
| Understanding | Ability to understand written or spoken instructions |
SBI Apprentice Local Language Test Preparation Tips
- Read local newspapers daily for 2–3 weeks before the test.
- Practice writing 10–15 simple sentences every day.
- Watch regional news channels to improve spoken understanding.
- Learn basic banking words such as account, deposit, withdrawal, loan, passbook, branch, and customer.
- Keep your Class 10 or Class 12 local language mark sheet ready if you are eligible for exemption.
Conclusion
The SBI Apprentice 2026 exam is a strong opportunity for graduates who want to start their banking career with India’s largest public sector bank. The syllabus covers Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude, General English, and General/Financial Awareness, while the selection process also includes a qualifying Local Language Test.
Candidates should not prepare randomly. First, understand the SBI Apprentice Exam Pattern 2026, then divide the syllabus section-wise, revise high-weightage topics, and practise mock tests regularly. Since the online exam has sectional timing and negative marking, speed, accuracy, and smart question selection will play an important role.
To improve your score, start with an SBI Apprentice Free Mock Test and analyse your performance. A mock test helps you identify weak areas, improve time management, and build confidence before the actual online examination.
SBI Apprentice Syllabus 2026 FAQs
What is the syllabus for SBI Apprentice 2026?
The SBI Apprentice Syllabus 2026 includes four sections: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude. Candidates must also qualify the Local Language Test after clearing the online written exam.
What is the exam pattern for SBI Apprentice 2026?
The SBI Apprentice 2026 online exam has 100 objective-type questions for 100 marks. The exam is divided into four sections of 25 questions each. Each section has a separate time limit of 15 minutes, and the total duration is 60 minutes.
Is there negative marking in the SBI Apprentice exam?
Yes. There is negative marking in the SBI Apprentice exam. For every wrong answer, 1/4th mark or 0.25 mark is deducted. No marks are deducted for unattempted questions.
Is the Local Language Test mandatory?
Yes. The Local Language Test is mandatory for candidates who qualify the online written exam. However, candidates who studied the specified local language in Class 10 or Class 12 and can submit valid proof are exempted from this test.
How many subjects are included in the SBI Apprentice syllabus?
The SBI Apprentice online written exam includes four subjects: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude. The Local Language Test is a separate qualifying stage.
What is the duration of the SBI Apprentice online exam?
The SBI Apprentice online exam is 60 minutes long. Each of the four sections has a separate time limit of 15 minutes.
How should I prepare for SBI Apprentice 2026?
Start by understanding the latest SBI Apprentice syllabus and exam pattern. Then prepare section-wise, revise current affairs daily, practise reasoning and quant questions regularly, and attempt mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.