Banking jobs are considered one of the most stable and respected career choices in India. Every year, IBPS, SBI, and RBI recruit thousands of candidates, but competition is extremely tough. With the right preparation strategy, even first-time aspirants can crack these exams in 2025.
This guide covers eligibility, subject-wise preparation, recommended books, a 3-month study timetable, FAQs, and official resources for effective preparation.
Post Contents
1. Banking Exams in 2025 – Major Recruitments
- IBPS (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection)
- Exams: IBPS PO, IBPS Clerk, IBPS RRB, IBPS SO
- SBI (State Bank of India)
- Exams: SBI PO, SBI Clerk
- RBI (Reserve Bank of India)
- Exams: RBI Grade B, RBI Assistant
👉 Each exam is conducted in two stages (Prelims & Mains), followed by Interview/Language Test.
2. Eligibility for Banking Exams 2025
- Age: 20–30 years (varies, with relaxation for SC/ST/OBC).
- Education: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Attempts: No limit (until you are within the age criteria).
3. Subject-Wise Preparation Strategy
🧮 Quantitative Aptitude
- Topics: Simplification, Data Interpretation, Arithmetic, Number Series.
- Tip: Practice 100+ questions daily with time limits.
- Book: Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal.
🔍 Reasoning Ability
- Topics: Puzzles, Seating Arrangement, Coding-Decoding, Syllogisms.
- Tip: Learn short tricks; focus on puzzle-solving.
- Book: A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal.
📖 English Language
- Topics: Reading Comprehension, Error Spotting, Cloze Test.
- Tip: Read The Hindu editorial daily.
- Book: Objective General English by S.P. Bakshi.
🌍 General Awareness (GA)
- Topics: Current Affairs (last 6 months), Banking Awareness, Static GK.
- Tip: Revise daily using monthly PDFs and online quizzes.
- Book: Banking Awareness by Arihant.
💻 Computer Awareness
- Topics: MS Office, Networking, Internet Basics, DBMS.
- Book: Objective Computer Awareness by Arihant.
4. 3-Month Study Timetable (For Beginners)
Month 1 – Foundation Building
- Quant: Focus on Arithmetic basics & Simplification.
- Reasoning: Practice puzzles and seating arrangements.
- English: Grammar rules + daily vocabulary.
- GA: Read newspapers & revise last 3 months’ current affairs.
Month 2 – Speed & Accuracy
- Quant: Attempt Data Interpretation daily.
- Reasoning: Take sectional mock tests.
- English: Start reading comprehensions regularly.
- GA: Revise banking awareness and financial news.
Month 3 – Mock Test & Revision
- Take daily full-length mock tests.
- Analyze weak areas and improve time management.
- Revise formulae, shortcuts, and GK notes.
👉 Pro Tip: Treat mock tests as real exams. Time management is the key to cracking banking exams.
5. Prelims vs Mains – Strategy
- Prelims: Speed matters. Attempt maximum with accuracy.
- Mains: Focus on advanced reasoning, DI, banking awareness, and descriptive English.
6. Internal Links (Context-Based)
- Preparing without coaching? Check our guide: How to Crack Government Exams Without Coaching – 2025 Success Guide.
- Looking for study material? Explore Best Books for SSC CGL Preparation 2025 – many overlap with banking exams.
- Want a timetable? Similar to our Daily Study Plan for UPSC Aspirants 2025, here’s your 3-month banking study plan.
- Thinking about Railways too? Read Upcoming Railway Recruitment 2025 – Eligibility & Dates.
7. FAQs
Q1. How many months are enough to prepare for banking exams?
👉 Minimum 3–4 months with consistent study & mock tests.
Q2. Can I prepare for banking exams without coaching?
👉 Yes, many toppers prepare through self-study using books & online platforms.
Q3. Which is tougher – SSC CGL or Banking Exams?
👉 Banking exams require faster problem-solving under time pressure, while SSC focuses on depth.
Q4. How important is General Awareness in Banking Exams?
👉 Extremely important in mains; can be a deciding factor.
