The State Bank of India (SBI), India’s largest public sector bank, regularly announces recruitment opportunities for various positions across the country. One of the most awaited notifications is for the Circle Based Officer (CBO) role. The SBI CBO Online Form 2026 is expected to be released soon, offering a golden chance for banking job aspirants to join the prestigious SBI family. This article provides a complete guide on eligibility, application process, selection, and preparation tips in simple language.

What is SBI Circle Based Officer (CBO)?

A Circle Based Officer is a junior management level position in SBI, posted in a specific circle or region of the bank. The role involves handling customer service, loan processing, account management, business development, and other banking operations at the branch level. Unlike generalist officers, CBOs are recruited for a particular circle and are expected to serve in that region, making it ideal for candidates who wish to work in their home state or region.

Expected Important Dates for SBI CBO 2026

While the official dates are yet to be announced, here is the tentative schedule based on previous patterns:

• Notification Release: February–March 2026
• Online Application Start: March 2026
• Last Date to Apply: April 2026
• Preliminary Exam Date: May–June 2026
• Main Exam Date: July–August 2026
• Interview & Final Result: Late 2026

Note: These are tentative timelines. Candidates should regularly check the official SBI careers website.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Educational Qualification

• Essential: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university.
• Minimum Marks: No minimum percentage requirement for general candidates, but some reserved categories may have relaxations.
• Additional: Basic computer knowledge is required.

2. Age Limit

• Minimum Age: 21 years
• Maximum Age: 30 years (as on 01.04.2026)
• Age Relaxation:
  • OBC: 3 years
  • SC/ST: 5 years
  • PWD: 10 years
  • Ex-Servicemen: As per rules

3. Language Requirement

• Must be proficient in the local language of the circle applied for.
• Candidates must have studied the local language in Class 10 or above, or provide a certificate of proficiency.

4. Nationality

• Indian citizen only.

Expected Vacancy Details

While exact numbers will be announced in the notification, previous recruitments have seen:

• Total Vacancies: 1000–2000 (Approximate)
• Circle-wise Distribution: Vacancies are divided among different SBI circles like:
  • Mumbai Circle
  • Delhi Circle
  • Chennai Circle
  • Kolkata Circle
  • Gujarat Circle
  • Bangalore Circle
  • etc.

Selection Process

The selection process for SBI CBO involves three stages:

1. Preliminary Examination (Objective Test)
2. Main Examination (Objective + Descriptive Test)
3. Interview (Final Selection)

Note: There is no group discussion round for CBO posts.

Exam Pattern

Preliminary Exam (Online)

• Duration: 1 hour
• Questions: 100 (Multiple Choice)
• Sections:
  • English Language: 30 questions
  • Quantitative Aptitude: 35 questions
  • Reasoning Ability: 35 questions
• Marking: +1 for correct, -0.25 for wrong answer
• Language: English & Hindi (except English section)

Main Exam (Online)

• Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Parts:
  • Objective Test: 155 questions (Reasoning, English, Quant, General Awareness, Computer Knowledge)
  • Descriptive Test: 2 questions (Letter & Essay writing in English)
• Marking: Same as prelims for objective part; descriptive test is qualifying.

Application Fee

Expected fee structure:

• General/OBC/EWS: ₹750
• SC/ST/PWD: No fee (Nil)
• Payment Mode: Online (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking/UPI)

Step-by-Step Online Application Guide

Step 1: Registration

• Visit SBI Careers website: sbi.co.in/careers
• Click on “SBI CBO Recruitment 2026” link
• Register with basic details (name, mobile, email)
• Note down registration number and password

Step 2: Fill Application Form

• Login with credentials
• Enter personal, educational, and communication details
• Select preferred circle and local language
• Upload required documents

Step 3: Document Upload

• Photograph: Recent passport size, white background (20–50 KB, JPG)
• Signature: On white paper with black ink (10–20 KB, JPG)
• ID Proof: Aadhaar/PAN/Driving License
• Educational Certificates: Scanned marksheets
• Caste Certificate: If applicable
• PWD Certificate: If applicable

Step 4: Fee Payment

• Proceed to payment page
• Choose payment method
• Complete transaction and save receipt
• Verify payment status

Step 5: Final Submission

• Review all details carefully
• Submit form
• Print confirmation page for future reference

Salary & Benefits

Pay Scale:

• Basic Pay: ₹36,000 – ₹63,840 (as per SBI pay scale)
• Gross Salary: Approximately ₹68,000 – ₹75,000 per month (including allowances)

Allowances & Benefits:

• Dearness Allowance (DA)
• House Rent Allowance (HRA)
• City Compensatory Allowance (CCA)
• Medical Insurance
• Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
• Pension under New Pension Scheme (NPS)
• Loan facilities at concessional rates

Why Choose SBI CBO?

1. Job Security & Prestige

• Permanent job in India’s largest bank
• Respect and social recognition

2. Career Growth

• Clear promotion policy
• Opportunities for internal exams
• Can rise to higher officer levels

3. Work-Life Balance

• Fixed working hours (generally 10 AM – 5 PM)
• Weekly offs and holidays
• Less pressure compared to private banks

4. Learning Opportunity

• Exposure to all banking operations
• Training programs and skill development

Preparation Strategy

1. Understand Syllabus & Pattern

• Download official syllabus from SBI website
• Focus on all sections equally
• Practice previous year papers

2. Time Management

• Create daily study schedule
• Allocate time for each subject
• Regular revision

3. Mock Tests

• Take regular online mock tests
• Analyze performance
• Improve speed and accuracy

4. Current Affairs

• Read newspaper daily
• Follow banking and economic news
• Use mobile apps for daily updates

5. Descriptive Test Preparation

• Practice letter and essay writing
• Improve English grammar and vocabulary
• Time-bound practice

Important Documents Required

1. Class 10 certificate (for age and local language proof)
2. Graduation marksheets and degree
3. Caste certificate (if applicable)
4. Income certificate (for fee exemption)
5. PWD certificate (if applicable)
6. Ex-serviceman certificate (if applicable)
7. Passport size photographs (4–6 copies)
8. Signature proof

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Last-minute application: Apply at least one week before last date
2. Wrong circle selection: Choose circle carefully – once selected, cannot be changed
3. Incorrect document size: Follow prescribed format strictly
4. Ignoring local language: Ensure you meet language requirements
5. Not verifying details: Double-check all entries before submission

Final Tips for Success

Before Application:

• Keep all documents ready
• Check eligibility carefully
• Decide preferred circle

During Preparation:

• Focus on weak areas
• Regular practice
• Stay updated with current affairs

During Exam:

• Time management
• Attempt easy questions first
• Avoid guesswork if unsure

Official Resources

• Website: sbi.co.in/careers
• Helpline: Will be provided in notification
• Email: recruitment@sbi.co.in

Conclusion

The SBI Circle Based Officer recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for graduates seeking a stable and rewarding banking career. With good salary, job security, and growth prospects, it’s a dream job for many. The key to success is early preparation, careful application, and consistent effort.

Remember: Start your preparation now, even before the notification is released. Keep your documents ready, stay updated with SBI website, and prepare systematically. With dedication and smart work, you can surely secure a position in India’s largest bank.