SBI Junior Associates Clerk Recruitment 2026 Apply Online for 1538 Backlog Posts

The State Bank of India (SBI) has released the official notification for the recruitment of Junior Associates (Customer Support & Sales) in the clerical cadre. This recruitment has been announced as a Special Recruitment Drive for SC/ST/OBC Backlog Vacancies under Advertisement No. CRPD/CR/SPLDRIVE/2026-27/16.

A total of 1538 backlog vacancies have been announced under this recruitment drive. Eligible Indian citizens can apply online for Junior Associate posts in one State/Union Territory only. Candidates applying for a particular State/UT must have proficiency in the specified local language of that State/UT.

The online application process has started on 07 August 2026, and eligible candidates can submit their applications and pay the applicable fee up to 27 August 2026. The Preliminary Examination is tentatively scheduled for September 2026, while the Main Examination is expected to be conducted in October/November 2026.

This SBI Clerk recruitment is an important opportunity for eligible candidates who are looking for a clerical cadre job in India’s largest public sector bank.

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SBI Junior Associates Recruitment 2026 – Overview

Particulars	Details
Organization	State Bank of India
Post Name	Junior Associate (Customer Support & Sales)
Cadre	Clerical Cadre
Recruitment Type	Special Recruitment Drive
Vacancy Type	SC/ST/OBC Backlog Vacancies
Advertisement No.	CRPD/CR/SPLDRIVE/2026-27/16
Total Vacancies	1538 Posts
Application Mode	Online
Online Application Start	07 August 2026
Last Date to Apply	27 August 2026
Preliminary Exam	September 2026 (Tentative)
Main Exam	October/November 2026 (Tentative)
Job Location	State/UT Applied For
Official Website	SBI Careers

SBI has clearly stated that candidates can apply for vacancies in one State/UT only and can appear for the test only once under this recruitment project.

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SBI Clerk Vacancy 2026

The total number of vacancies announced under the SBI Junior Associates Special Recruitment Drive is:

1538 Posts

The category-wise total is:

Category	Total Vacancies
SC	207
ST	1219
OBC	112
Total	1538

The notification specifically identifies these vacancies as SC/ST/OBC backlog vacancies.

Candidates should note that these vacancies are provisional and may vary depending on the actual requirement of the Bank. SBI also states that candidature will be considered only against the State/UT for which the candidate has applied.

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State-Wise SBI Clerk Vacancy 2026

The vacancies are distributed across different SBI Circles and States/UTs.

Circle/State/UT	Total Vacancies
Andhra Pradesh	88
Karnataka	120
Madhya Pradesh	134
Chhattisgarh	26
Odisha	111
Chandigarh UT	22
Jammu & Kashmir UT	42
Himachal Pradesh	11
Punjab	18
Tamil Nadu	65
Telangana	32
Rajasthan	106
West Bengal	55
Uttar Pradesh – Lucknow Circle	31
Maharashtra / Mumbai Metro	165
Delhi	17
Gujarat	289
Assam	39
Tripura	22
Bihar	12
Jharkhand	133
Total	1538

The official notification provides State/UT-wise vacancies along with the local languages required for the respective recruitment areas.

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SBI Clerk Local Language Requirement

One of the most important conditions of this recruitment is the local language requirement.

Candidates applying for a particular State/UT must be proficient in the specified local language of that State/UT.

Proficiency means the candidate should be able to:

• Read
• Write
• Speak
• Understand

the specified local language.

The candidate has to choose one language at the time of online application for the Local Language Proficiency Test (LLPT).

For example, candidates applying for Gujarat need proficiency in Gujarati, candidates applying for Karnataka need Kannada, candidates applying for Maharashtra need Marathi, and candidates applying for Rajasthan need Hindi.

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Local Language Proficiency Test

Candidates who have studied the specified local language in 10th or 12th standard and can produce the relevant marksheet/certificate will not be required to appear for the Local Language Proficiency Test.

Other candidates will have to qualify in the language test after qualifying in the Main Examination but before joining the Bank.

Candidates who fail to qualify the required local language test will not be offered appointment.

Therefore, candidates should carefully select the State/UT and local language before submitting their application.

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SBI Clerk Eligibility Criteria 2026

Age Limit

The age of the candidate should be:

Minimum Age: 20 Years

Maximum Age: 28 Years

The age is calculated as on 01 April 2026.

Candidates must have been born:

Not earlier than 02 April 1998 and not later than 01 April 2006, both dates inclusive.

Age Relaxation

Upper-age relaxation is available for eligible reserved categories.

Category	Age Relaxation
OBC	3 Years
SC/ST	5 Years
PwBD – OBC	13 Years
PwBD – SC/ST	15 Years

The notification contains additional provisions for eligible trained SBI apprentices and other categories under applicable rules.

Candidates claiming age relaxation must produce the required certificates at the time of joining.

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SBI Clerk Educational Qualification 2026

Candidates must have:

Graduation in any discipline from a recognized University

or any equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government.

Candidates possessing an Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) must ensure that the date of passing the IDD is on or before 31 December 2026.

Final Year Students

Candidates who are in the final year/semester of their graduation may also apply provisionally.

However, if provisionally selected, they must produce proof of having passed the graduation examination on or before:

31 December 2026.

Therefore, candidates who are currently studying in the final year should carefully check the graduation completion condition before applying.

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SBI Clerk Application Fee 2026

The application fee and intimation charges are:

Category	Fee
SC	Nil
ST	Nil
PwBD	Nil
Ex-Servicemen/Disabled Ex-Servicemen	Nil
OBC	₹750

The notification specifies that the fee is non-refundable. Once paid, it cannot be refunded or kept in reserve for another examination or recruitment.

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SBI Junior Associates Important Dates 2026

Candidates should keep the following dates in mind:

Event	Date
Notification/Application Start	07 August 2026
Last Date to Apply Online	27 August 2026
Last Date for Fee Payment	27 August 2026
Preliminary Examination	September 2026 – Tentative
Main Examination	October/November 2026 – Tentative
Local Language Test	After Main Exam, wherever applicable

The notification states that the Preliminary Examination is tentatively scheduled for September 2026 and the Main Examination for October/November 2026.

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SBI Clerk Selection Process 2026

The selection process consists of the following stages:

1. Preliminary Examination
2. Main Examination
3. Local Language Proficiency Test, wherever applicable

The final selection is based primarily on performance in the Main Examination, subject to verification of eligibility and qualifying the required local language test.

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SBI Clerk Preliminary Exam Pattern 2026

The Preliminary Examination is an online objective test.

Subject	Questions	Marks	Time
English Language	30	30	20 Minutes
Numerical Ability	35	35	20 Minutes
Reasoning Ability	35	35	20 Minutes
Total	100	100	1 Hour

Each section has a separate timing.

There is negative marking in the objective tests. For every wrong answer, one-fourth of the marks assigned to that question will be deducted.

There are no prescribed minimum qualifying marks for individual sections or for the aggregate score in the Preliminary Examination. Candidates are shortlisted for the Main Examination based on the aggregate marks, with the Bank deciding the required number of candidates. The notification indicates that approximately 10 times the number of vacancies, subject to availability, may be shortlisted.

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SBI Clerk Main Exam Pattern 2026

The Main Examination consists of four tests.

Subject	Questions	Maximum Marks	Duration
General/Financial Awareness	50	50	35 Minutes
General English	40	40	35 Minutes
Quantitative Aptitude	50	50	45 Minutes
Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude	50	60	45 Minutes
Total	190	200	2 Hours 40 Minutes

Each test has a separate timing.

There is also negative marking of one-fourth of the marks assigned to the question for each wrong answer.

The Bank will decide the minimum qualifying percentage marks required on aggregate.

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Local Language Proficiency Test Pattern

Candidates who have not studied the specified local language in Class 10 or 12 will have to appear for the Local Language Proficiency Test after qualifying in the Main Examination.

The test includes:

• Non-Verbal Test
• Objective questions
• Subjective questions
• Verbal Test

Candidates must obtain the minimum qualifying marks prescribed by SBI.

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SBI Clerk Final Selection

Provisional selection will be made on the basis of the candidate’s performance in the Main Examination.

Final selection will be subject to:

• Verification of eligibility
• Verification of information furnished in the application
• Qualifying the specified local language test wherever applicable

SBI will prepare the merit list State-wise and category-wise. Candidates who qualify will be placed in descending order according to their aggregate Main Examination marks.

SBI Apprentice Bonus Marks

An important benefit is available to certain trained apprentices of SBI.

Eligible SBI apprentices may receive 2.5% of the maximum Main Examination marks, equivalent to 5 bonus marks out of 200.

This benefit is subject to the conditions prescribed by SBI, including engagement start date on or after 01 January 2022, successful completion of the required one-year branch experience by 27 August 2026, and satisfactory conduct and performance.

Candidates who believe they are eligible for this benefit should carefully check all conditions in the official notification.

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SBI Clerk Salary 2026

The Junior Associate post carries the following pay scale:

₹24,050 – 1,340/3 – 28,070 – 1,650/3 – 33,020 – 2,000/4 – 41,020 – 2,340/7 – 57,400 – 4,400/1 – 61,800 – 2,680/1 – 64,480

The starting Basic Pay is:

₹26,730/-

This includes two advance increments admissible to graduates.

According to the notification, the total starting emoluments of a Clerical Cadre employee posted in a metropolitan city such as Mumbai may be around ₹46,000 per month, including DA and other allowances at the applicable rates and the two additional increments for newly recruited graduate Junior Associates.

The actual salary and allowances may vary depending on the place of posting.

Junior Associates are also eligible for benefits and facilities such as:

• Provident Fund
• Pension under New Pension Scheme
• Medical benefits
• Leave Fare Concession
• Other applicable facilities and allowances

as per SBI rules.

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SBI Clerk Probation Period

Selected Junior Associates will remain on probation for a minimum period of:

6 Months

During probation, newly recruited Junior Associates have to complete the e-lessons prescribed by SBI.

If the required e-lessons are not completed, the probation period may be extended. SBI may also evaluate the performance of employees before the completion of probation, and probation can be extended if performance does not meet the Bank’s expectations.

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SBI Clerk Pre-Examination Training

SBI will arrange online Pre-Examination Training for eligible candidates in accordance with Government of India guidelines.

Candidates who wish to avail themselves of this facility need to select the relevant option in the online application.

The training schedule will be communicated through the registered email ID and SMS.

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SBI Clerk Transfer Policy

Candidates should carefully understand the posting and transfer conditions before applying.

A candidate can apply for vacancies in only one State/UT.

There is no provision for Inter-Circle Transfer or Inter-State Transfer for Junior Associates recruited under this project.

However, certain intra-state transfers may be permitted between:

• Delhi Circle and Lucknow Circle in Uttar Pradesh
• Mumbai Metro Circle and Maharashtra Circle in Maharashtra

subject to SBI’s applicable guidelines.

Candidates selected under this recruitment will generally be posted in the State/UT for which they have applied.

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SBI Clerk Online Application Process 2026

Candidates must apply online. No other mode of application will be accepted.

Step 1 – Visit SBI Careers Website

Visit the official SBI Careers/Current Openings page and find the Special Recruitment Drive for Junior Associates 2026.

Step 2 – Registration

Register using a valid:

• Mobile Number
• Email ID

Candidates should keep the registered mobile number and email active until the declaration of results.

Step 3 – Select State/UT

Select the State/UT for which you want to apply.

Remember that only one State/UT can be selected.

Step 4 – Select Local Language

Choose the specified local language of the State/UT.

Candidates should select a language they can genuinely read, write, speak and understand.

Step 5 – Fill Application Form

Enter all required personal, educational and other information carefully.

Candidates may save partially completed application data and return later using the provisional registration number and password. The notification states that the saved application can be edited up to the permitted number of times before final submission.

Step 6 – Upload Documents

Candidates must have scanned copies of:

• Photograph
• Signature
• Left Hand Thumb Impression
• Handwritten Declaration

ready before applying.

If a candidate does not have a left thumb, the right thumb may be used as permitted in the notification.

Step 7 – Pay Application Fee

Eligible OBC candidates have to pay the applicable ₹750 fee through the online payment gateway.

Payment can be made using:

• Debit Card
• Credit Card
• Internet Banking

Any applicable transaction charges are to be borne by the candidate.

Step 8 – Final Submission

Check every detail carefully before submitting the application.

After final submission, no further editing will be permitted.

Step 9 – Save Application

After successful payment, an e-receipt and application form containing fee details will be generated.

Candidates should save or print these documents for future reference.

The application printout does not have to be sent to SBI.

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Documents Required for SBI Clerk Form

Candidates should keep the following documents/details ready:

• Recent passport-size photograph
• Signature
• Left thumb impression
• Handwritten declaration
• Graduation certificate/marksheet
• Category certificate, if applicable
• Valid photo ID
• OBC Non-Creamy Layer certificate, where applicable
• Other documents required for age/category relaxation
• SBI apprenticeship documents, if claiming bonus marks
• Valid email ID
• Active mobile number

Candidates should ensure that the uploaded documents meet the specifications mentioned in the official notification.

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SBI Clerk Important Instructions

Before applying, candidates should remember:

1. Apply for only one State/UT.
2. Appear for the examination only once under this recruitment.
3. Check the local language requirement.
4. Enter personal details correctly.
5. Ensure graduation eligibility.
6. Check age eligibility as on 01 April 2026.
7. Keep the registered mobile number active.
8. Upload the photograph and other required documents correctly.
9. Pay the applicable fee within the deadline.
10. Save the registration number and password.
11. Keep the final application and e-receipt safe.
12. Do not submit multiple applications unnecessarily.
13. Keep copies of the uploaded photograph for later stages.
14. Follow the examination centre instructions.
15. Carry valid original photo ID and required documents to the examination.

SBI advises candidates to retain multiple copies of the same photograph uploaded in the application because photographs may be required during subsequent stages of the recruitment.

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SBI Clerk Exam Centre and Call Letter

The Preliminary Examination is tentatively scheduled for September 2026.

Candidates will be able to download their Preliminary Examination call letter from the SBI website, tentatively around 10 days before the examination date.

Candidates qualifying for the Main Examination will similarly be able to download the Main Examination call letter around 10 days before the examination.

No hard copy of the Preliminary or Main Examination call letter will be sent by post.

Candidates should therefore regularly check the SBI website and their registered email/SMS for updates.

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SBI Clerk Identity Proof Requirements

At the time of the Preliminary and Main Examination, candidates must carry an acceptable photo identity proof in original along with a self-attested photocopy.

Accepted identity documents include, among others:

• Aadhaar Card
• PAN Card
• Passport
• Driving Licence
• Voter’s Card
• Bank Passbook with photograph
• School/College Identity Card
• Identity card issued by a Gazetted Officer

The identity proof must meet the requirements specified in the notification.

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SBI Junior Associates 2026 – Who Can Apply?

This recruitment is specifically for the SC/ST/OBC backlog vacancies mentioned in the official notification.

Candidates should check their category eligibility carefully.

For OBC vacancies, the candidate must belong to the Non-Creamy Layer. SBI specifically states that OBC candidates belonging to the creamy layer are not eligible for the OBC vacancies under this recruitment.

The OBC certificate must contain the required Non-Creamy Layer clause and meet the date requirements mentioned by SBI.

SC/ST candidates must produce caste certificates in the prescribed Government of India format during document verification.

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SBI Clerk Recruitment 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How many vacancies are announced for SBI Junior Associates 2026?

SBI has announced 1538 backlog vacancies under the Special Recruitment Drive.

Q2. Which post is being recruited?

The recruitment is for Junior Associate (Customer Support & Sales) in the clerical cadre.

Q3. What is the application start date?

The online application process starts on 07 August 2026.

Q4. What is the last date to apply?

The last date for online registration and fee payment is 27 August 2026.

Q5. What is the educational qualification?

Candidates must have graduation in any discipline from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government.

Q6. What is the age limit?

Candidates must be between 20 and 28 years as on 01 April 2026, subject to applicable age relaxation.

Q7. What is the application fee?

SC/ST/PwBD/Ex-Servicemen/Disabled Ex-Servicemen candidates have Nil fee, while eligible OBC candidates have to pay ₹750.

Q8. Can I apply for more than one State?

No. Candidates can apply for vacancies in one State/UT only.

Q9. Is knowledge of the local language compulsory?

Yes. Candidates must be proficient in the specified local language of the State/UT for which they apply. A Local Language Proficiency Test will be conducted where applicable.

Q10. When will the SBI Clerk Preliminary Exam be held?

The Preliminary Examination is tentatively scheduled for September 2026.

Q11. When will the Main Exam be conducted?

The Main Examination is tentatively scheduled for October/November 2026.

Q12. Is there negative marking?

Yes. One-fourth of the marks assigned to a question will be deducted for each wrong answer in the objective tests.

Q13. What is the starting basic salary?

The starting Basic Pay is ₹26,730, including two advance increments admissible to graduates.

Q14. What is the selection process?

Selection consists of the Preliminary Examination, Main Examination and Local Language Proficiency Test wherever applicable. Final selection is primarily based on Main Examination performance, subject to eligibility verification and language qualification.

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Conclusion

The SBI Junior Associates Clerk Recruitment 2026 is a special recruitment drive announced by the State Bank of India for 1538 SC/ST/OBC backlog vacancies in the clerical cadre. The post is titled Junior Associate (Customer Support & Sales), and candidates selected through this recruitment will be posted in the State/UT for which they have applied.

Candidates must have a graduation degree in any discipline and should be between 20 and 28 years of age as on 01 April 2026, subject to applicable relaxations. Candidates applying for a State/UT must also satisfy the specified local language requirement.
The online application process is available from 07 August 2026 to 27 August 2026. Eligible OBC candidates have to pay an application fee of ₹750, while SC, ST, PwBD and eligible Ex-Servicemen/Disabled Ex-Servicemen candidates are exempted from the fee.

The selection process includes the Preliminary Examination, Main Examination and Local Language Proficiency Test wherever applicable. The Preliminary Examination consists of 100 questions for 100 marks, while the Main Examination consists of 190 questions for 200 marks. Both examinations include negative marking.

The SBI Junior Associate post offers a competitive salary structure, with a starting Basic Pay of ₹26,730 and total starting emoluments that may be around ₹46,000 per month in a metropolitan location such as Mumbai, depending on applicable allowances and posting location.

Candidates should carefully read the official notification, verify their category, educational qualification, age, local language eligibility and State/UT preference before submitting the online application. Since only one State/UT can be selected, applicants should make this choice carefully.

For the latest information regarding the SBI Clerk 2026 admit card, exam date, result, answer key and further recruitment updates, candidates should regularly visit the official SBI Careers website.