SBI Clerk Shift Timing 2026: Prelims and Mains Reporting & Shift Schedule

The SBI Clerk Shift Timing 2026 is a critical detail for every candidate appearing for the State Bank of India Junior Associate recruitment examination. SBI conducts the Preliminary Examination across multiple shifts at various examination centres nationwide to accommodate over 13+ lakh applicants. Candidates must strictly follow their allotted reporting time and shift schedule mentioned on their SBI Clerk Call Letter to avoid disqualification at the examination venue.

SBI Clerk 2026 Exam Overview

The State Bank of India is conducting the SBI Clerk Prelims exam to fill 9,766 vacancies for Junior Associates (Customer Support & Sales). The preliminary test takes place across 4 shifts per day on 26th and 27th September 2026. Candidates who qualify in the preliminary round will be called for the Mains Examination, which is conducted in limited shifts.

• Recruitment Body: State Bank of India (SBI)
• Post Name: Junior Associate (Customer Support & Sales)
• Total Vacancies: 9,766
• SBI Clerk Prelims Exam Dates: 26th and 27th September 2026
• Total Prelims Shifts Per Day: 4 Shifts
• Mains Exam Shifts: 2 Shifts (conducted after Prelims results)
• Selection Process: Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, Local Language Test
• Official Website: sbi.co.in/web/careers

SBI Clerk Prelims Shift Timing 2026

Due to the vast number of applicants, SBI has distributed the Preliminary Examination across 4 daily shifts. The allotted shift, gate closing time, reporting time, and exact examination centre address are printed on the candidate's call letter. Shift allotments are completely fixed and non-transferable.

Shift-Wise Guidelines for Candidates

• Shift 1 (Morning - Reporting 8:00 AM): As the first batch of the day, candidates should reach the venue by 8:00 AM. Biometric verification, document checking, and seat allocation take considerable time. Gates close strictly prior to commencement, so plan your commute well in advance.
• Shift 2 (Late Morning - Reporting 10:30 AM): Traffic around examination centres usually intensifies by mid-morning. Candidates assigned to this slot should allow extra commuting time to handle potential congestion near the venue.
• Shift 3 (Afternoon - Reporting 1:00 PM): Maintaining focus during an afternoon paper requires light nutrition. It is recommended to take a light meal an hour prior to reporting so you remain energetic throughout all three sections.
• Shift 4 (Evening - Reporting 3:30 PM): Arrive early to account for any entry queues and carry water. Long waiting periods at the venue can cause fatigue before entering the computer laboratory.

SBI Clerk Mains Shift Timing 2026

The SBI Clerk Mains Examination will be conducted in two shifts for candidates who qualify in the preliminary exam. Admit cards for the Mains stage will be issued separately on the official SBI careers portal. Detailed shift timings for the Mains exam will be notified along with the call letter release.

Important Instructions for SBI Clerk Exam Day

Candidates arriving at the exam hall must adhere to strict guidelines enforced by SBI and exam authorities. Late arrival under any circumstances will lead to direct denial of entry.

• Mandatory Documents: Printout of the SBI Clerk Call Letter with a passport-size photo pasted on it, original photo ID proof (PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving License, Voter ID), and a photocopy of the same ID proof.
• Additional Photographs: Bring two additional passport-size photographs identical to the one uploaded during online registration.
• Biometric Attendance: Biometric data (thumb impression and photograph) will be captured at the exam centre before entry and verified during the exam.
• Prohibited Items: Electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches, calculators), study material, bags, metallic ornaments, and stationery items other than a simple ballpoint pen are strictly prohibited.
• Reporting Buffer: Reach the venue at least 15 to 30 minutes before the official reporting time printed on your admit card.

SBI Clerk Shift Timing 2026 FAQs

1. How many shifts are there in the SBI Clerk Prelims Exam?

The SBI Clerk Prelims Exam is conducted in 4 shifts per day.

2. Can I request a change in my SBI Clerk exam shift or exam centre?

No, request for change of exam center, date, or shift will not be entertained by SBI under any circumstances once the admit card is issued.

3. How many shifts are scheduled for the SBI Clerk Mains Exam?

The SBI Clerk Mains Examination is usually conducted in two shifts across shortlisted exam centres.