State Bank of India SBI CBO Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 2273 Posts

State Bank of India CBO Recruitment 2026: Complete Guide for 2,273 Circle Based Officer Vacancies

State Bank of India (SBI), India's largest and most trusted public sector bank, has announced one of its biggest recruitment drives for 2026. Through the Circle Based Officer (CBO) Recruitment 2026 notification, bearing advertisement number CRPD/CBO/2025-26/18, SBI is inviting applications from graduates across India to fill 2,273 vacancies distributed across all banking circles nationwide. This includes 2,050 regular vacancies and 223 backlog vacancies reserved for SC/ST candidates. The online application process opened on January 29, 2026, and interested candidates can submit their applications until February 18, 2026. This recruitment offers an exceptional opportunity to join India's premier banking institution and build a rewarding career in the banking sector.

About State Bank of India (SBI)

State Bank of India, with a legacy spanning over 200 years, stands as India's largest commercial bank and a Fortune 500 company. With its headquarters in Mumbai, SBI commands an impressive network of over 22,000 branches across India and presence in 36 countries globally. The bank serves more than 450 million customers through its extensive banking channels including branches, ATMs, internet banking, mobile banking, and digital payment platforms. As a public sector undertaking, SBI plays a pivotal role in India's economic development, financial inclusion initiatives, and digital banking transformation. Working with SBI means being part of India's most trusted banking brand with unparalleled job security, career growth opportunities, and competitive remuneration.

Understanding Circle Based Officer (CBO) Position

The Circle Based Officer is a specialized banking position introduced by SBI to strengthen its regional operations. Unlike regular clerical positions, CBOs are recruited for specific banking circles (states/regions) and are not subject to inter-circle transfers except in exceptional circumstances. This position offers the perfect balance between career advancement opportunities within the banking sector and geographical stability, making it ideal for candidates who prefer working in their home state or preferred region.

Key Responsibilities of Circle Based Officers:

• Customer relationship management and service excellence
• Banking operations including account opening, deposits, loans processing
• Sales and marketing of banking products and services
• Cash and securities handling as per bank procedures
• Digital banking services promotion and customer education
• Documentation and record maintenance
• Compliance with banking regulations and internal policies
• Branch operations support and administrative tasks
• Cross-selling of financial products like insurance, mutual funds, credit cards
• Recovery and collection of loan accounts

Detailed Circle-Wise Vacancy Distribution

The 2,273 CBO vacancies are distributed across SBI's various banking circles covering all Indian states and union territories:

Total Vacancy Breakup:

• Regular Vacancies: 2,050 posts
• Backlog Vacancies (SC/ST): 223 posts
• Total: 2,273 posts

Category-wise Distribution (Approximate):

• UR (Unreserved): 900-950 posts
• EWS (Economically Weaker Section): 200-220 posts
• OBC (Other Backward Classes): 600-650 posts
• SC (Scheduled Caste): 350-380 posts (including backlog)
• ST (Scheduled Tribe): 170-200 posts (including backlog)

Major Banking Circles with Significant Vacancies:

• Uttar Pradesh Circle: 250+ vacancies (one of the largest)
• Maharashtra Circle: 200+ vacancies
• West Bengal Circle: 180+ vacancies
• Tamil Nadu Circle: 170+ vacancies
• Bihar Circle: 150+ vacancies
• Madhya Pradesh Circle: 140+ vacancies
• Rajasthan Circle: 130+ vacancies
• Karnataka Circle: 120+ vacancies
• Gujarat Circle: 110+ vacancies
• Andhra Pradesh Circle: 100+ vacancies
• Other Circles: Remaining vacancies distributed across Punjab, Haryana, Odisha, Assam, Kerala, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Northeast circles, etc.

Note: Exact circle-wise and category-wise vacancy details are available in the official notification and annexure. Candidates should carefully check vacancies in their preferred circles before applying.

Educational Qualification Requirements

The educational qualification for SBI CBO recruitment 2026 is straightforward and accessible:

Essential Qualification:

• Graduation in any discipline from a recognized University
• OR Any equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government
• The degree must be from a university/institution recognized by UGC or approved by Central/State Government

Percentage/Marks Requirement:

• Minimum percentage is NOT specified
• Simple pass in graduation is sufficient
• However, marks obtained will be considered for shortlisting and merit preparation

Important Points Regarding Qualification:

• Candidates appearing in final year/semester examinations are NOT eligible
• Result must be declared on or before the date of registration
• Provisional degree certificate is acceptable if the final degree is awaited
• Professional degrees like B.Tech, MBBS, CA, CS are also acceptable
• Candidates with postgraduate degrees are also eligible
• Distance education degrees are acceptable if recognized by UGC/DEB

Computer Literacy:

• Candidates should have operational knowledge of computers
• Basic computer skills in MS Office, internet browsing, email are expected
• Will be verified during document verification or training period

Language Proficiency:

• Proficiency in the official language of the state/UT for which the candidate is applying is mandatory
• Candidates should be able to read, write, and speak the local language
• This will be verified during document verification through certificate or by testing

Age Limit and Relaxations

The age criteria for SBI CBO 2026 is calculated as on January 1, 2026:

Age Limit:

• Minimum Age: 21 years (born not later than January 1, 2005)
• Maximum Age: 30 years (born not earlier than January 1, 1996)

Age Relaxation as per Government Guidelines:

• SC/ST candidates: 5 years (up to 35 years)
• OBC candidates (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years (up to 33 years)
• PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities):
  • UR-PwBD: 10 years (up to 40 years)
  • OBC-PwBD: 13 years (up to 43 years)
  • SC/ST-PwBD: 15 years (up to 45 years)
• Ex-Servicemen (ESM): 5 years (for commissioned officers and ECOs including Short Service Commissioned Officers who have rendered at least 5 years military service)
• Widows/Divorced women/Women judicially separated who are not remarried:
  • UR: 9 years (up to 39 years)
  • OBC: 12 years (up to 42 years)
  • SC/ST: 14 years (up to 44 years)
• Persons ordinarily domiciled in Kashmir Division of J&K (1980-89): 5 years
• Persons affected by 1984 riots: 5 years

Cumulative Age Relaxation: Candidates belonging to multiple categories (e.g., OBC-PwBD) are entitled to cumulative age relaxation (3+10=13 years).

Salary Structure and Comprehensive Benefits

SBI offers one of the most attractive remuneration packages in the banking industry:

Pay Scale: Junior Management Grade Scale-I (JMGS-I)

• Basic Pay Scale: ₹48,480 - ₹85,920 (23700/3-30560/3-32850/3-35150-37450/2-42250/4-50650-55750/2-61050/3-69620-75060/2-85920)
• Entry Level Basic Pay: ₹23,700 per month (increased to ₹48,480 after increments in scale)
• Starting Basic for Fresh Joiners: ₹36,000 per month approximately (as per latest revision)

Comprehensive Allowances (As per Bipartite Settlement):

Dearness Allowance (DA):

• As per IBA (Indian Banks' Association) rates
• Currently around 17.00% of basic pay (revised quarterly)
• DA on ₹36,000 = approximately ₹6,120 per month

House Rent Allowance (HRA) / Accommodation:

• Free accommodation in SBI quarters (subject to availability)
• OR HRA in lieu:
  • Mumbai: 10% of basic pay
  • Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai: 9% of basic pay
  • Other major cities: 8% of basic pay
  • Smaller centers: 7% of basic pay

City Compensatory Allowance (CCA):

• Metro cities: 4% of basic pay
• Other cities: 3% of basic pay

Special Allowance:

• 7.75% of basic pay (₹2,790 approximately on ₹36,000)

Other Regular Allowances:

• Fixed Personal Allowance: ₹4,000 per month
• Medical Allowance: ₹5,000 per annum (reimbursement basis)
• Conveyance Allowance: As per location
• Meal/Lunch Allowance: As applicable
• Furniture Allowance: One-time or annual basis

Estimated Monthly In-hand Salary:

• Basic Pay: ₹36,000
• DA (17%): ₹6,120
• HRA (8%): ₹2,880
• CCA (3%): ₹1,080
• Special Allowance: ₹2,790
• Fixed Personal Allowance: ₹4,000
• Other allowances: ₹1,500
• Total Gross Salary: ₹54,000 - ₹60,000 per month approximately
• Annual CTC: ₹7,50,000 - ₹8,50,000 approximately

Additional Benefits and Perquisites:

• Provident Fund: Bank contributes 10% of basic pay + DA to EPF
• Pension: Bank's Family Pension Scheme or National Pension System (NPS) as per choice
• Gratuity: As per Payment of Gratuity Act after 5 years of service
• Leave Travel Concession (LTC): For self and family once in two years to hometown or all-India
• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive mediclaim for self and dependents (₹4-5 lakh coverage)
• Group Personal Accident Insurance: Coverage for accidental death/disability
• SBI Bank Accommodation: Subsidized rent or free quarters
• Children Education Allowance: ₹2,250 per month per child (maximum 2 children)
• Hostel Subsidy: ₹6,750 per month per child (if child lives in hostel)
• Festival Advance: Interest-free advance during festivals (Diwali, Christmas, Eid, etc.)
• Vehicle Loan: At subsidized interest rates for staff
• Housing Loan: Concessional home loan facility
• Education Loan: For children's higher education at subsidized rates
• Personal Loan: Staff loan facility at low interest
• Performance Incentives: Annual performance-based bonus
• Weekly Off: 2 Sundays + 2 Saturdays off per month
• Earned Leave: 30 days per year
• Casual Leave: 10 days per year
• Sick Leave: As per requirement with medical certificate

Career Growth and Promotions:

• Entry: Circle Based Officer (JMGS-I) - ₹36,000 - ₹85,920
• After 2-3 years: Assistant Manager (MMGS-II) - ₹48,170 - ₹69,810
• After 5-7 years: Manager (MMGS-III) - ₹63,840 - ₹82,630
• After 10-12 years: Senior Manager (SMGS-IV) - ₹76,520 - ₹91,990
• After 15+ years: Chief Manager (SMGS-V) and above positions
• Promotions are based on performance, seniority, and passing promotional examinations

Application Fee Structure

The application fee for SBI CBO 2026 varies by category:

• General, EWS, and OBC candidates: ₹750/- (Application Fee: ₹125 + Intimation Charges: ₹625)
• SC, ST, and PwBD candidates: Intimation Charges Only: ₹125/- (No application fee)
• Payment Mode: Online through Credit Card, Debit Card, Internet Banking
• Note: Application fee once paid is non-refundable under any circumstances
• Payment Window: Fee can be paid from January 29 to February 18, 2026

Selection Process - Comprehensive Assessment

The SBI CBO 2026 selection process consists of multiple stages designed to assess candidates comprehensively:

Phase-I: Preliminary Examination (Qualifying Nature)

Online objective test to shortlist candidates for Main Examination:

Test Structure (Total: 100 marks, 60 minutes):

• English Language: 30 questions (30 marks) - 20 minutes
• Numerical Ability: 35 questions (35 marks) - 20 minutes
• Reasoning Ability: 35 questions (35 marks) - 20 minutes
• Total: 100 questions, 100 marks, 60 minutes
• Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer
• Sectional Timing: Each section has separate timing; cannot switch between sections

Qualifying Criteria for Prelims:

• Category-wise cut-off marks decided by the bank
• Adequate number of candidates (10-15 times the number of vacancies) will be shortlisted
• Prelims marks NOT counted for final merit; purely qualifying

Phase-II: Main Examination (Marks counted for Final Merit)

Comprehensive online examination for candidates who qualify Prelims:

Test Structure (Total: 250 marks, 150 minutes):

Section-wise Breakup:

• General/Financial Awareness: 50 questions (50 marks) - 35 minutes
• General English: 40 questions (40 marks) - 35 minutes
• Quantitative Aptitude: 50 questions (50 marks) - 45 minutes
• Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude: 60 questions (60 marks) - 45 minutes
• Data Analysis & Interpretation: 50 questions (50 marks) - 45 minutes (may be included in Quantitative Aptitude)
• Total: 200 questions (approximately), 250 marks, 150 minutes (2.5 hours)

Main Exam Details:

• Negative Marking: 0.25 marks for each wrong answer
• Sectional Timing: Separate timing for each section
• Qualifying Marks: Minimum qualifying marks in each section and overall
• Language: English and Hindi (bilingual) except English section

Phase-III: Local Language Test (Qualifying)

Candidates who qualify Main Exam will be called for Local Language Test:

• Purpose: To verify proficiency in the local/official language of the state/UT
• Nature: Written test or oral test as decided by the bank
• Medium: In the official language of the state/UT
• Qualifying: Pass/Fail basis; marks not counted for final merit
• Exemption: Candidates who have studied the local language up to matriculation/graduation may be exempted

Phase-IV: Document Verification

Candidates who qualify in all stages will be called for document verification:

• All original certificates and documents must be produced
• Educational certificates, mark sheets, date of birth proof
• Category certificates (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD)
• Experience certificates (if claiming relaxation)
• Local language proficiency certificate
• Any discrepancy may lead to disqualification

Phase-V: Medical Examination

• Finally selected candidates will undergo pre-employment medical examination
• As per SBI's medical fitness standards
• Candidates must be medically fit to perform banking duties

Final Merit List Preparation:

• Based on marks obtained in Main Examination only
• Circle-wise and category-wise merit lists
• Subject to qualifying in all stages (Prelims, Mains, Local Language Test, DV, Medical)
• In case of tie, candidates with higher age get preference

Important Dates to Remember

• Notification Release Date: January 28, 2026
• Online Registration Opens: January 29, 2026
• Online Registration Closes: February 18, 2026
• Payment of Fee: January 29 - February 18, 2026
• Last Date to Edit Application: February 23, 2026 (tentative)
• Download Prelims Admit Card: March 2026 (tentative, 10-15 days before exam)
• Prelims Examination Date: March-April 2026 (tentative)
• Prelims Result Declaration: April 2026 (tentative)
• Download Mains Admit Card: May 2026 (tentative)
• Mains Examination Date: May-June 2026 (tentative)
• Mains Result Declaration: June-July 2026 (tentative)
• Local Language Test: July-August 2026 (tentative)
• Document Verification & Medical: August-September 2026 (tentative)
• Final Result & Joining: September-October 2026 (tentative)

How to Apply Online for SBI CBO 2026

Follow these detailed steps to successfully complete your application:

1. Visit Official SBI Careers Website: Go to https://bank.sbi/careers or https://sbi.co.in/careers
2. Navigate to Current Openings:
   • Click on "Careers" in the main menu
   • Select "Current Openings/Latest Jobs"
   • Find "Recruitment of Circle Based Officers (CBO) - 2026"
   • Click on the advertisement link
3. Read Detailed Notification:
   • Download the complete advertisement PDF
   • Read all eligibility criteria, instructions, and terms carefully
   • Check circle-wise vacancy details in annexure
4. Click on "Apply Online" Link:
   • You will be redirected to the application portal
5. New Registration:
   • Click on "New Registration" or "Click here for New Registration"
   • Enter basic details: Name, Email ID (valid and active), Mobile Number (10-digit Indian number)
   • Verify email and mobile through OTP
   • Set a strong password (alphanumeric with special characters)
   • Complete captcha verification
   • Submit and note down Registration Number and Password
   • Important: Keep registration details safe; required for future login
6. Login to Application Portal:
   • Use Registration Number/Provisional Registration Number and Password
   • Login to continue application
7. Fill Online Application Form:
   • Personal Details:
     • Full Name (as per 10th/12th certificate - NO initials)
     • Father's Name, Mother's Name
     • Date of Birth (as per 10th certificate - format: DD/MM/YYYY)
     • Gender, Marital Status
     • Category (UR/SC/ST/OBC/EWS), Sub-category if any
     • Religion, Nationality
     • Identification marks (two)
     • Aadhar Number, PAN Number
   • Contact Details:
     • Permanent Address with PIN code
     • Correspondence Address with PIN code
     • State, District, Police Station
     • Email ID (same as registered)
     • Mobile Number (same as registered)
     • Alternative Mobile Number (optional)
   • Educational Qualifications:
     • 10th Details: Board, Year of Passing, Roll Number, Percentage
     • 12th Details: Board, Year, Roll Number, Percentage
     • Graduation Details: University, Degree Name, Specialization, Year of Passing, Roll Number, Percentage/CGPA
     • Post-Graduation (if applicable): University, Degree, Year, Percentage
     • Professional Qualifications (CA/CS/CFA, etc. if any)
   • Work Experience (if any):
     • Organization name, Designation, Period (From-To), Nature of work
     • Current/Last drawn salary
   • Language Proficiency:
     • Languages known with proficiency level (Read/Write/Speak)
     • Must include local language of preferred state/UT
   • Circle/State Preference:
     • Select preferred banking circle/state for posting
     • Very Important: You can select only ONE circle; cannot be changed later
     • Verify circle-wise vacancies before selection
     • Check local language requirement for chosen circle
   • Category Details (if applicable):
     • SC/ST: Certificate number, issuing authority, date
     • OBC: Certificate number, issuing authority, valid up to (must include Non-Creamy Layer certificate)
     • EWS: Certificate number, issuing authority, valid up to
     • PwBD: Type of disability, percentage, certificate details
     • Ex-Servicemen: Service details, discharge date
8. Upload Scanned Documents:
   • Photograph: Recent passport-size colored photo, light/white background (JPG/JPEG, 20-50 KB, 200x230 pixels)
   • Signature: On white paper with black/blue pen (JPG/JPEG, 10-20 KB, 140x60 pixels)
   • Left Thumb Impression: Clear impression (JPG/JPEG, 20-50 KB)
   • Hand-written Declaration: Write given text on white paper, scan and upload (JPG/JPEG, 50-100 KB)
   • All uploads must be clear, legible, and as per specifications
9. Preview Filled Application:
   • Review all entered information carefully
   • Check for any errors or typos
   • Verify uploaded documents are clear
   • Once submitted, changes cannot be made (except during edit window)
10. Pay Application Fee:
    • Proceed to payment section
    • Select payment mode (Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking)
    • Enter card/account details
    • Complete payment through secure gateway
    • Transaction charges (if any) to be borne by candidate
    • Save transaction ID and payment receipt
11. Final Submission:
    • After successful payment, return to application portal
    • Accept declaration checkbox
    • Click on "Final Submit"
    • Application successfully submitted message will appear
12. Download and Print:
    • Download the submitted application form PDF
    • Take multiple printouts on A4 size paper
    • Also download and print fee payment receipt
    • Keep safely with all original documents
    • Will be required during document verification

Documents Required for Application and DV

Keep the following documents ready:

For Online Application (Scanned Copies):

• Recent passport-size photograph (colored, white background)
• Signature on white paper
• Left thumb impression
• Hand-written declaration as per format

For Document Verification (Original + Self-attested Copies):

• 10th standard certificate and mark sheet (Date of Birth proof)
• 12th standard certificate and mark sheet
• Bachelor's degree certificate (provisional/final) with all semester/year mark sheets
• Consolidated mark sheet/grade card
• Master's degree certificate and mark sheets (if applicable)
• CGPA to percentage conversion certificate (if applicable)
• Caste certificate (SC/ST) issued by competent authority
• OBC-NCL certificate in Central Government format valid for current year (2025-26)
• EWS certificate issued after April 1, 2025
• PwBD certificate from authorized medical board (if applicable)
• Ex-Servicemen discharge certificate (if applicable)
• Experience certificates with joining and relieving letters (if claiming experience)
• Local language proficiency certificate (matriculation/graduation with local language OR certificate from recognized institution)
• Government-issued photo ID proof: Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License (any one)
• Domicile certificate of the state for which applied
• NOC from current employer (if employed in government/PSU/bank)
• Declaration regarding pending court cases/conviction (if any)
• Medical fitness certificate (format provided by bank)
• Recent passport-size photographs (10-15 copies)

Important Instructions and Guidelines

• Read the official notification and FAQs thoroughly before applying
• Ensure all eligibility criteria are met before submitting application
• Only ONE application per candidate is permitted; multiple applications will be rejected and fee forfeited
• Use valid personal email ID and mobile number; all communication will be through email/SMS only
• Choose banking circle/state preference very carefully; cannot be changed later
• Verify local language requirement for your chosen circle
• For OBC candidates, certificate must be in Central Government format with "Non-Creamy Layer" clause
• OBC-NCL and EWS certificates must be valid for assessment year 2025-26
• Upload all documents as per exact specifications (size, format, dimensions)
• Keep printout of submitted application and fee receipt safely
• Incomplete applications or applications without fee payment will be rejected
• Furnishing false information or fake certificates will render candidature liable for rejection and legal action
• SBI reserves the right to cancel/postpone the recruitment process without prior notice
• Bank's decision on all matters relating to recruitment shall be final and binding
• Selected candidates will be on probation for 2 years
• Candidates are liable to be posted anywhere within the chosen banking circle
• Inter-circle transfer is generally not permitted for CBOs except in exceptional cases
• Keep checking official website regularly for exam dates, admit card, results, and other updates
• Beware of fraudsters; SBI never asks for money for recruitment apart from application fee
• No request for change of examination center, date, or circle will be entertained
• Admit card will NOT be sent by post; download from website only

Preparation Tips for SBI CBO Exam

For Preliminary Examination:

• Focus on speed and accuracy as time is limited (60 minutes for 100 questions)
• Practice English grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension
• Strengthen numerical ability: simplification, number series, data interpretation
• Work on reasoning: puzzles, seating arrangement, syllogism, coding-decoding
• Take regular mock tests to improve time management
• Previous years' SBI CBO/Clerk question papers are helpful

For Main Examination:

• Study current affairs of last 6-12 months (banking, economy, sports, awards, etc.)
• Banking awareness: RBI policies, banking terms, financial inclusion schemes
• Computer knowledge: basics, MS Office, internet, cybersecurity, banking technology
• Data interpretation: tables, graphs, charts - practice extensively
• Quantitative aptitude: advanced level problems, time-consuming calculations
• English: focus on reading comprehension, error detection, para jumbles
• Reasoning & computer aptitude combined section requires good preparation
• Maintain a balance between speed and accuracy
• Sectional timing requires smart strategy - attempt easier questions first

The State Bank of India CBO Recruitment 2026 for 2,273 positions represents a golden opportunity to join India's largest and most prestigious banking institution. With attractive salary packages (₹7.5-8.5 lakh annual CTC), comprehensive benefits including pension, medical insurance, accommodation, loan facilities, and excellent career progression opportunities, this recruitment offers both financial security and professional growth. The Circle Based Officer position provides the unique advantage of geographical stability while working for a nationally recognized brand. The extensive network of SBI ensures diverse work experiences and exposure to various banking operations. With proper preparation and timely application, candidates can secure this coveted position and build a rewarding lifelong career in India's banking sector. Eligible candidates should complete their online applications before the February 18, 2026 deadline and start preparing immediately for the preliminary and main examinations to maximize their chances of selection.

Job Highlights & Eligibility

• Official Website
• Download Notification PDF