Are you aspiring to build a career with India's most prestigious public sector bank? The State Bank of India (SBI) has officially released the notification for the recruitment of Circle Based Officers (CBO) under Advertisement No. CRPD/CBO/2025-26/03. This blog post is your complete guide to understanding the eligibility, selection process, application steps, and key dates for this highly anticipated banking opportunity.

Overview of SBI CBO Recruitment 2025

SBI invites applications from eligible Indian citizens for the position of Circle Based Officers (CBOs). The online registration starts from May 9, 2025, and the last date to apply is May 29, 2025. A total of 2600 regular vacancies and 364 backlog vacancies are announced across various circles.

Key Highlights

• Post: Circle Based Officer (CBO)

• Total Vacancies: 2964 (2600 regular + 364 backlog)

• Application Window: 09.05.2025 to 29.05.2025

• Mode of Application: Online only

• Online Exam Date: July 2025 (Tentative)

• Selection Process: Four-stage process comprising Online Test, Screening, Interview, and Language Proficiency Test

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification:

• "Applicants must possess a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university." (For additional qualifications, refer to the official notification.)

Age Limit:

• Minimum: 21 years

• Maximum: 30 years (as on 30.04.2025)

• "Age relaxation all the categories SC, ST, OBC, PwBD, and Ex-Servicemen as per  Government of India guidelines."

Experience:

• A minimum of 2 years of experience as an officer in any Scheduled Commercial Bank or Regional Rural Bank is required.

Language Proficiency:

• Applicants should be proficient in the local language  in 10th or 12th standard must undergo a language proficiency test."

Circle-Wise Vacancy Distribution

Vacancies are spread across all major states and union territories. Each candidate can apply for only one circle. Some examples include:

• Ahmedabad (Gujarat): 240 Regular Vacancies

• Hyderabad (Telangana): 230 Regular Vacancies

• Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh): 280 Regular Vacancies

• Chennai (Tamil Nadu): 120 Regular Vacancies

(For the full vacancy list, refer to the official notification.)

Selection Procedure

"The SBI CBO- 2025 recruitment  consists of 4  stages:"

1. Online Test

   • Objective type Test -120 marks :  English Language, Banking Knowledge, General Awareness ( focus on the Economy), and Computer Aptitude Knowledge"

   • "Descriptive Test (50 marks): Evaluates candidates' proficiency in letter and essay writing." Conducted immediately after the Objective Test.

2. Screening

   • The Screening Committee evaluates candidates' job profiles and submitted documents to ensure they meet the role’s eligibility requirements.

3. Interview

   • The interview carries 50 marks. Candidates must secure minimum qualifying marks as determined by the bank.

4. Local Language Proficiency Test

   • Applicable for candidates who have not studied the relevant local language in 10th or 12th standard.

Application Fee

• General/EWS/OBC: ₹750/-

• SC/ST/PwBD: Exempted from payment

Emoluments and Benefits

• Starting Basic Pay: ₹48,480/- along with applicable allowances.

• "Additional benefits include HRA or lease rental, dearness allowance (DA), city compensatory allowance (CCA), medical coverage, and other perks as per bank policies."

How to Apply

1. Visit the SBI Careers Page.

2. "Scroll down and select the 'Apply Online' option under the Circle Based Officer (CBO) recruitment section."

3. "sign up your email id & mobile number."

4. Complete the application form accurately.

5. Upload all required documents as per specifications.

6. "Complete the payment process of the application fees &  submit the Application form."

Tips for Aspirants

• Begin your preparation early, especially focusing on banking awareness and English writing skills.

• Take regular mock tests to improve accuracy, speed, and time management.

• Ensure that all necessary documents are scanned properly and ready for uploading during the application process.

• Monitor your registered email and the SBI career website for updates on call letters and exam schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

"Q1: Am I allowed to apply for more than one Circle?"
A1: No. Candidates are allowed to apply for only one Circle. "Submitting more than one application will lead to disqualification."

Q2: Is prior banking experience mandatory for this post?
A2: Yes."A minimum of two years’ experience in an officer cadre position at a Scheduled Commercial Bank or Regional Rural Bank is mandatory."

Q3: Will there be negative marking in the online exam?
A3: No. "No penalty will be imposed for incorrect answers in the objective test."

Conclusion

SBI CBO 2025 presents a golden opportunity for experienced bankers to join the largest public sector bank in India. If you meet the eligibility and aspire to work in a challenging and rewarding banking environment, don’t miss this chance. Apply online before May 29, 2025 and take the first step toward a prestigious banking career.

For latest updates, visit the SBI Careers Page.