SBI Clerk Mains Shift Timings 2026: Reporting Time, Exam Schedule and Instructions

State Bank of India (SBI) will conduct the SBI Clerk Mains Exam 2026 for candidates who qualify in the preliminary phase. Aspirants appearing for the main examination must be well aware of the SBI Clerk Mains shift timings 2026, reporting times, handwriting sample duration, and essential guidelines to avoid any last-minute hassle at the test center.

The SBI Clerk Mains examination is expected to be conducted in 2 shifts across various exam centers in India. The duration of the examination is 2 hours 40 minutes (160 minutes), comprising 190 questions for a total of 200 marks. Candidates are strongly advised to reach the exam center at least 15 to 30 minutes before the official reporting time specified on their call letters.

SBI Clerk Mains Shift Timings 2026 Overview

The SBI Clerk Mains exam is conducted in two slots — Morning Shift and Afternoon Shift. Below is the detailed breakdown of the shift timings, reporting times, handwriting sample window, and exam start/end times:

• Shift 1 (Morning Shift):
  • Reporting Time: 7:30 AM
  • Handwriting Sample Timing: 8:25 AM to 8:30 AM
  • Exam Duration: 8:30 AM to 11:10 AM
• Shift 2 (Afternoon Shift):
  • Reporting Time: 1:30 PM
  • Handwriting Sample Timing: 2:25 PM to 2:30 PM
  • Exam Duration: 2:30 PM to 5:10 PM

SBI Clerk Mains Exam Pattern and Sectional Duration

Understanding the section-wise time duration and question count is crucial for effective time management during the SBI Clerk Mains exam. The test consists of four objective sections, each having a dedicated sectional time limit.

• General / Financial Awareness: 50 Questions | 50 Marks | Duration: 35 Minutes
• General English: 40 Questions | 40 Marks | Duration: 35 Minutes
• Quantitative Aptitude: 50 Questions | 50 Marks | Duration: 45 Minutes
• Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude: 50 Questions | 60 Marks | Duration: 45 Minutes
• Total Structure: 190 Questions | 200 Marks | Total Time: 2 Hours 40 Minutes

Negative Marking: There is a penalty for wrong answers marked in the objective tests. For every incorrect response, 1/4th of the marks (0.25 marks) assigned to that question will be deducted as penalty.

SBI Clerk 2026 Recruitment Important Dates

Candidates can review the key dates related to the SBI Clerk 2026 recruitment process for both Regular vacancies and Special Recruitment Drive (Backlog vacancies):

• SBI Clerk Official Notification 2026 Release Date: 07-08-2026 (Backlog) | 11-08-2026 (Regular)
• Online Application Start Date: 07-08-2026 (Backlog) | 11-08-2026 (Regular)
• Last Date to Apply Online: 27-08-2026 (Backlog) | 31-08-2026 (Regular)
• Prelims Call Letter Download Date: 09-09-2026 (Backlog) | 21-09-2026 (Regular)
• Prelims Exam Dates: 16-09-2026 (Backlog) | 26 & 27 September 2026 (Regular)
• Mains Exam Date: November 2026

Documents Required at SBI Clerk Mains Exam Centre

Candidates must carry the following mandatory documents to the exam hall for identity verification:

• SBI Clerk Mains Admit Card: A printed copy of the mains call letter with a recent passport-sized photograph glued in the designated space.
• Valid Photo ID Proof (Original): Passport, Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Driving License, Voter ID Card, or Bank Passbook with an attested photograph.
• Photocopy of Photo ID Proof: A clear photo-copy of the same original ID proof produced.
• Additional Passport Photos: Bring extra passport-sized photographs matching the one uploaded during online registration.
• Prelims Admit Card & Stamped ID Copy: As per SBI instructions, candidates must retain and bring the stamped prelims admit card and verified ID proof copy if instructed.

Key Exam Day Instructions for SBI Clerk Mains 2026

To ensure a smooth exam experience, candidates must strictly follow these instructions on the day of the examination:

• Report strictly as per the reporting time mentioned on the call letter. Gate closure times are strictly followed, and latecomers will not be permitted inside under any circumstances.
• Affix your passport-size photograph on the call letter at the specified spot. Ensure that signatures match your application record.
• Do not bring prohibited electronic items such as mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators, Bluetooth devices, or study material into the examination hall.
• Rough sheets will be provided at the test venue. Candidates must write their roll number and registration number on each rough sheet before submitting them at the end of the test.
• Read all section-specific instructions carefully before answering questions. Manage your time efficiently across each section since sectional timings are strictly enforced automatically by the test console.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the total exam duration for SBI Clerk Mains 2026?

The total exam duration for SBI Clerk Mains is 2 hours 40 minutes (160 minutes), divided into section-specific timings.

2. Are there individual sectional time limits in SBI Clerk Mains?

Yes, each of the four sections has a specific time limit. Candidates cannot move to another section until the allotted sectional duration expires.

3. Is there negative marking in the SBI Clerk Mains exam?

Yes, 0.25 marks (1/4th of the marks assigned to the question) will be deducted for every incorrect response.