Working in the banking sector is a dream for freshers and experienced professionals alike. A career in banking is considered one of the most secure job opportunities, and it offers other benefits like high salary packages, allowances, perks, medical facilities, and so on.
All perks aside, clearing competitive exams and securing a bank job is no cakewalk. However, you can become a successful banking professional with adequate preparation, hard work, and perseverance. Aspiring candidates must start preparing for various bank exams after 12th exams. This gives them ample time for thorough preparations.
In this blog, we will discuss the different bank exams, their eligibility criteria, and the right preparation strategies to excel.
Understand what bank exams are
Preparing for bank exams after 12th? First, you must understand the various bank exams and the posts for which the exams are conducted.
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Prominent bank exams in India
Three institutions conduct bank examinations in India for various posts. These are:
- Reserve Bank of India (RBI) examinations for Assistants, Grade B officers and Specialist Officers (SO)
- State Bank of India (SBI) exams for Specialist Officers (SO), Clerks and Probationary Officers (PO)
- Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) examinations for Specialist Officers (SO), Clerks and Probationary Officers (PO)
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Different posts and their roles in a bank
Bank examinations are conducted mainly for these roles:
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Specialist Officer (SO)
A Specialist Officer specialises in specific fields. Therefore, these professionals may be recruited by banks in the legal, HR, marketing, or IT departments.
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Probationary Officer (PO)
A Probationary Officer must train for about 1-2 years before managerial roles are assigned to tgem. A PO can work in different bank departments.
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Clerks
Clerical posts are the most common designations in any bank. These professionals are responsible for conducting regular bank operations. You will find these professionals helping with cash transactions, documentation and customer service.
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Syllabus and examination structure
While preparing for bank exams after 12th, you must understand the examination structure and be thorough with the syllabus.
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Exam structure
Bank examinations have two or three stages: the preliminary exams, the main exams, and the interview. For certain posts, there is no interview stage; candidates get the job if they clear both the prelims and the main exams.
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Exam syllabus
There are five main sections in the syllabus:
- English Language (grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, cloze test and para jumbles)
- Quantitative Aptitude (arithmetic, number system, data interpretation, algebra, geometry, simplification and basic statistics)
- Reasoning Ability (analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, data sufficiency and non-verbal reasoning)
- Computer Knowledge (MS Office, Basic computer terminology, email usage, internet, basic hardware and software knowledge)
- General Awareness (banking awareness, current affairs – both national and international, financial awareness and static GK)
Preparing for bank exams After 12th: Make a study plan
You must have a practical study schedule to clear the bank exams in minimum attempts. Here are a few useful tips:
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Understand the exam pattern and syllabus
The exam patterns and syllabus vary slightly between bank examinations. Check the syllabus and the exam pattern depending on the bank exam you aim to appear for. You will develop a fair idea of the topics you need to cover, the weightage of each topic, and the number of questions in each section.
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Dedicate ample time to each section of the syllabus
All sections in the syllabus need your time and attention. Estimate your strengths and weaknesses and work on subjects in which you are weak. Solve mock exam papers and stay updated on current affairs as part of the preparation.
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Set realistic goals and timelines
Create a realistic timeline while preparing for bank exams after 12th. To achieve your goals, make small sections of the syllabus and complete them one by one. Keep aside extra time for practice and revision.
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Revise. Practice. Repeat.
Your bank examination preparation will be incomplete without revision and regular practice. This helps you retain the learned information and boosts your problem-solving abilities.
Strategies during the bank exam: Tips for time management
The exam day is your moment to shine. To help you perform at your best, here are some practical strategies you can use during the exam:
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Prioritise questions and sections
First, attempt the questions you are most confident in. Identify your strong areas and work on them first. Also, pay attention to the weightage of each section.
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Keep calm
Maintain your composure during the examination. Choose suitable relaxation techniques to deal with exam stress and anxiety.
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Balance accuracy and speed
Don’t waste time on a question if you cannot solve it. Avoid answering randomly, as there might be negative marks for wrong answers.
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Revise once done
Keep time aside for revision. You might get time to solve an unsolved question as well.
Conclusion
Starting early and making guided preparations for bank exams after 12th are key to success. Also, there is no alternative to hard work and unceasing dedication to achieve success in these competitive exams. Consistency, focus, and the right strategy will help you stay ahead of the competition and achieve your career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is graduation compulsory for appearing in bank exams?
A fundamental eligibility criterion for appearing in bank exams is to graduate with 50-60% marks from any recognised institute/university.
- What is the age limit for appearing in bank exams?
A candidate appearing in bank examinations must be at least 18 years old and, at most, 30 years old.
- What is the minimum preparation time for bank exams after 12th?
According to experts, preparing for bank examinations takes a minimum of 6-8 months.
