The cut-off for the Mains stage of the State Bank of India Probationary Officer (PO) exam is a critical benchmark for aspirants. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s known so far for 2025, how it compares to previous years, and what you should aim for in your preparation.
Table of Contents
📝 What do we know so far
While the official cut-off PDF for the 2025 Mains isn’t yet fully released, several sources provide expected figures and historic trends:
For 2025, expected category-wise cut-off ranges (out of 250) are: General ≈ 68-73, OBC ≈ 60-64, SC ≈ 55-60, ST ≈ 54-59.
Another practical-mock source estimates higher: General ≈ 85.50-89.50, OBC/SC/ST ≈ 73-77 for 2025.
For 2024, the official cut-offs were: General & EWS – 87.50, and SC/ST/OBC/VI/LD categories – 75 (out of 250) for Mains stage.
From this, we can see the 2024 Mains cut-off was set at high levels, and 2025 might follow a similar or slightly lower threshold depending on exam difficulty, vacancy count and candidate performance.
📊 Historical Cut-Off Trends
Understanding past trends helps set a realistic target:
| Year | Stage | General / UR Cut-Off (Out of 250) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Mains | 87.50 | High threshold |
| 2023 | Mains | ≈ 70 | Lower than 2024 |
| 2022 | Mains | 88.93 | Similar to 2024 |
| 2021 | Mains | 94.85 | Highest in sample |
Insights:
The cut-off can vary widely (≈ 70-95) for General category depending on exam difficulty and other factors.
Though 2024 was high (87.5), 2023 was significantly lower (~70), showing fluctuations.
There is no consistent linear increase — every year depends on specific dynamics.
📌 Key Factors Affecting the Cut-Off
Several things influence where the cut-off lands:
Number of vacancies released for that year.
Difficulty level of the Mains exam and how many candidates clear Prelims.
Performance of candidates (how many high scorers).
The normalization process (if multiple shifts).
Category-wise competition (UR, OBC, SC/ST, PwBD, etc.).
🎯 Sectional Insight & Qualifying Marks
While full official section-wise cut-offs for 2025 aren’t confirmed yet, some expected ranges appear:
A source estimates for 2025 Mains: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude ~12-14 (out of 50), Data Analysis & Interpretation ~11-13, General Awareness ~14-16, English Language ~16-18.
Note: The Descriptive Test (Essay/Letter) is qualifying – you need a minimum mark (often around 25-28) to be considered.
Given these sectional expectations, a smart strategy is to ensure strong performance across all areas rather than focusing only on one.
✅ What should an aspirant aim for in 2025?
For General category: Aim for ≈ 85-90 out of 250 to be safely above likely cut-off, based on 2024 high and 2025 expected.
For OBC/SC/ST: Aim to hit at least 70-80, so you’re in a safe zone given expected 60-77 range.
Focus on consistency: Score well in each section (especially English and DI/Reasoning) to lift your overall.
Clear descriptive with confidence (target 30+ to secure that qualifying mark) so it doesn’t become a weak link.
📥 Where to Download the Official Cut-Off PDF
To access the official cut-off PDF when released:
Go to the official website of State Bank of India (SBI).
Navigate to “Careers” → “Recruitment” → “Probationary Officer”.
Look for a link titled “SBI PO Mains Cut-off 2025 – Category wise / Section wise PDF”.
Download and save the PDF for reference and future planning.
Several educational portals also update the PDFs and store archived cut-offs.
🧠 Final Thoughts
The SBI PO Mains 2025 cut-off is expected to be competitive — likely in the 80s for General category and 70s for OBC/SC/ST, depending on exam conditions. Use historical trends and current expectations as benchmark targets, but don’t treat them as guaranteed. Focus on:
Strong overall score (aim high).
Balanced sectional performance.
Clearing the descriptive test with ease.
