SBI PO Prelims Exam Analysis 2026

Note: Since this guide is for 2026 preparation, this document covers the SBI PO Prelims 2025 exam analysis (held on 4th and 5th August 2025) as the most recent and directly relevant reference point.

The SBI PO Prelims 2025 was held on 4th and 5th August 2025, and the result was declared on 1st September 2025. Understanding what happened in the 2025 Prelims gives you the clearest possible picture of what to expect in the 2026 exam.

Overall Difficulty Level

The 2025 Prelims was rated as moderate to moderately difficult overall by candidates and exam analysts. The English section was slightly easier than Mains-level difficulty but required careful reading. Quantitative Aptitude was moderate, with DI sets taking up significant time. Reasoning was the most time-consuming section - candidates reported complex puzzles with multiple variables that required careful reading and elimination to solve.

Section-wise Analysis:

What Worked for Successful Candidates

Candidates who qualified the 2025 Prelims consistently reported the following strategies: they attempted English first (as it is faster and boosts confidence), then moved to Reasoning, and saved Quantitative Aptitude for last. They skipped questions they were unsure about rather than guessing (to avoid negative marking). They maintained a pace of roughly 35-40 seconds per question in English and Reasoning, and about 60-90 seconds per question in Quant. And critically - they had done at least 15-20 full-length mock tests before the actual exam, so the format felt familiar.

Cut-off Trend:

These figures give you a clear target to aim for. General category candidates need to score around 67+ to be safely above the cut-off. Remember - there is NO sectional cut-off in Prelims. Only your overall score matters for qualifying. This means if you are exceptionally strong in two sections, you can compensate for a slightly weaker performance in the third.