Punjab National Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2026 - Complete Details
Punjab National Bank (PNB), one of India's oldest and most trusted public sector banks, has announced a massive recruitment opportunity for 5138 Apprentice positions across India. This apprenticeship program is being conducted under the Apprentices Act, 1961, offering young graduates an excellent platform to gain practical banking experience and develop their careers in the banking sector.
The PNB Apprentice recruitment 2026 is open to fresh graduates who are looking to start their career in banking operations. This one-year apprenticeship program provides hands-on training in various banking functions including customer service, account operations, digital banking, cash management, and other core banking activities. Upon successful completion, apprentices may get opportunities for regular employment in PNB or other banking institutions.
About the Apprenticeship Program
The PNB Apprenticeship Program is a structured training initiative designed to equip young graduates with essential banking skills and knowledge. The program duration is 12 months, which includes both classroom-based basic training and on-the-job training at PNB branches. During this period, apprentices will be trained in various aspects of banking operations, customer relationship management, regulatory compliance, and digital banking technologies.
This apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity for candidates who aspire to build a career in the banking and financial services sector. The exposure gained during this program significantly enhances employability and provides practical insights into banking operations. Many previous apprentices have successfully secured permanent positions in PNB and other banks after completing their training.
Vacancy Distribution and Post Details
The total number of vacancies is 5138 Apprentice positions spread across all PNB circles and branches throughout India. The vacancies are distributed state-wise and division-wise based on the bank's operational requirements. Metro cities, state capitals, and Tier-2 cities have the maximum number of positions, but rural and semi-urban areas also have significant vacancies.
Candidates can apply for their preferred location based on availability. However, the final allocation of branches will be done by the bank considering candidate preferences, merit, and operational requirements. Candidates may be required to relocate within the allocated circle during the training period based on training schedule and branch requirements.
Educational Qualification Requirements
To apply for PNB Apprentice recruitment 2026, candidates must possess a Graduate degree in any discipline from a recognized university or institution. The degree should be from a UGC-recognized university or an institution approved by AICTE, or equivalent regulatory body. Candidates who are in their final year of graduation or awaiting results are not eligible to apply.
Additionally, candidates must have passed both Mathematics and English subjects at the 10th standard level or higher. Computer literacy is essential, and candidates should be comfortable with basic computer operations, MS Office, and internet browsing. Knowledge of local language of the state/UT for which applied is preferred but not mandatory.
Age Limit and Relaxation Policy
The minimum age limit for PNB Apprentice recruitment is 20 years, and the maximum age limit is 28 years as on 01 January 2026. This means candidates born between 02 January 1998 and 01 January 2006 are eligible to apply. Age relaxation is provided to reserved category candidates as per Government of India guidelines.
SC/ST candidates get 5 years of age relaxation, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) candidates get 3 years relaxation, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) get 10 years relaxation. Ex-servicemen and candidates from other specified categories also get age relaxation as per applicable rules. Candidates claiming age relaxation must submit valid certificates during document verification.
Stipend and Benefits
Apprentices selected under this program will receive a monthly stipend ranging from Rs. 12,300 to Rs. 15,000 depending on the location of posting. Metro cities and Tier-1 locations attract higher stipend compared to rural and semi-urban areas. The stipend will be paid monthly and is subject to satisfactory performance and attendance during the training period.
Apart from the stipend, apprentices are entitled to medical insurance coverage under the ESI scheme (if applicable). However, apprentices are not entitled to bank employee benefits such as PF, gratuity, LTA, or other allowances during the apprenticeship period. The apprenticeship does not confer any right to employment in PNB, though performing apprentices may get preference in future recruitments.
Selection Procedure
The selection of candidates will be based on merit determined through online test and/or interview depending on the number of applications received. For most positions, an online examination will be conducted covering subjects like Reasoning Ability, Numerical Ability, General Awareness (with focus on banking), English Language, and Computer Knowledge. The test will be objective type with multiple choice questions.
Candidates qualifying in the online test will be called for document verification. The final merit list will be prepared based on marks obtained in the online test. In case of a tie, older candidates will be given preference. The bank reserves the right to modify the selection process and may conduct additional rounds such as group discussion or personal interview if deemed necessary.
Important Dates to Remember
The online registration for PNB Apprentice recruitment 2026 will commence from 08 February 2026. Candidates can submit their applications till 24 February 2026 (last date). The application portal will be available on the official website bfsissc.com. Candidates should apply well in advance to avoid last-minute rush and technical issues.
Payment of application fee can be made till 24 February 2026. Admit cards for the online examination will be released approximately 10-15 days before the exam date. Candidates must download their admit cards from the official website using their registration number and password. The exact date of examination will be intimated through admit card and official notifications.
Application Fee Structure
There is a nominal application fee for registration. General, OBC, and EWS category candidates need to pay Rs. 1062/- (including GST and bank charges). SC/ST/PwBD/Women candidates are exempted from paying the application fee and need to pay only Rs. 177/- towards GST and bank charges. The fee can be paid through online mode only using Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
Candidates should ensure that they fulfill all eligibility criteria before paying the fee, as the fee once paid will not be refunded under any circumstances, even if the candidate is found ineligible later. In case of duplicate applications, only the latest application will be considered and fee paid earlier will not be refunded.
How to Apply Online - Step by Step
Candidates must visit the official website bfsissc.com (Banking, Financial Services, Insurance Sector Skill Council). Look for the PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification link on the homepage. Click on "Apply Online" and register yourself by providing basic details like name, email ID, and mobile number. An OTP will be sent for verification.
After successful registration, login using credentials and fill the detailed application form. Provide accurate information regarding personal details, educational qualifications, category, work experience (if any), and preferred location. Upload scanned copies of recent photograph (50 KB, JPG format) and signature (20 KB, JPG format) as per specifications given.
After filling all details, review the form carefully and make corrections if required. Proceed to payment section and pay the application fee through preferred online mode. After successful payment, submit the application form. Take multiple printouts of the submitted application form along with payment receipt for future reference.
Documents Required for Verification
Shortlisted candidates must carry the following original documents along with self-attested photocopies for verification: 10th standard certificate and mark sheet (for date of birth and educational qualification), 12th standard certificate and mark sheet (for Mathematics and English), Graduation degree certificate and mark sheets of all years/semesters, Caste certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates), PwBD certificate issued by competent authority (if applicable), Recent passport size photographs, and Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card/PAN Card/Driving License/Voter ID).
Training and Career Prospects
The apprenticeship training is divided into two phases. The first phase consists of basic training where apprentices learn theoretical aspects of banking, products, services, regulations, and customer service. The second phase is on-the-job training at assigned branches where apprentices get hands-on experience in actual banking operations under the guidance of experienced bank officials.
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, candidates receive a certificate issued by PNB and BFSI Sector Skill Council. This certificate is recognized across the banking industry and significantly enhances career prospects. Many apprentices have successfully secured jobs in PNB, other public sector banks, private banks, and financial institutions after completing their apprenticeship.