The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) is all set to conduct the IBPS Clerk 2025 Prelims exam starting October 4, 2025. Aspirants across the country who have registered for the clerical cadre posts are gearing up for this crucial phase of the selection process. The prelims will be conducted in multiple shifts over three days — October 4, 5, and 11. With the exam just a day away, it is important for candidates to be fully aware of the shift-wise timings, reporting schedules, exam pattern, and key instructions for exam day.
This detailed article covers everything you need to know about the IBPS Clerk 2025 Prelims exam shift timings
IBPS Clerk 2025 Prelims Exam: Overview
The IBPS Clerk exam is one of the most competitive banking exams in India, conducted annually to recruit clerks for various public sector banks. The recruitment process is conducted in two phases:
Preliminary Examination (Qualifying in nature)
Mains Examination (Marks considered for final merit)
The Prelims 2025 exam will be conducted online and serve as a screening test to shortlist candidates for the Mains stage. While the marks of Prelims are not added to the final score, qualifying this round is mandatory.
Exam Dates and Expected Shift Schedule
As per the official schedule, the IBPS Clerk Prelims 2025 exam will be held on:
Day 1: October 4, 2025
Day 2: October 5, 2025
Day 3: October 11, 2025
Each day is expected to have four shifts, following the same format as in previous years. The tentative shift timings are given below:
| Shift Number | Exam Timing | Reporting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shift 1 | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM | 8:00 AM |
| Shift 2 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 10:30 AM |
| Shift 3 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 1:00 PM |
| Shift 4 | 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | 3:30 PM |
Note: The actual shift allotted to each candidate is mentioned on their IBPS Clerk Admit Card 2025. Candidates must adhere strictly to the reporting time printed on their admit card.
Exam Duration and Sectional Timings
The Prelims exam has a total duration of 60 minutes. The structure is as follows:
English Language: 30 questions, 30 marks, 20 minutes
Numerical Ability: 35 questions, 35 marks, 20 minutes
Reasoning Ability: 35 questions, 35 marks, 20 minutes
Key Points:
Candidates cannot switch between sections at will. Each section is locked to 20 minutes.
Once the timer ends for a section, the test will automatically move to the next.
Accuracy and time management are key to clearing the cut-off.
Marking Scheme
Correct Answer: +1 mark
Incorrect Answer: –0.25 (¼ negative marking)
Unattempted Question: 0 marks
The Prelims cut-off is decided based on the performance of all candidates, the number of vacancies, and the difficulty level of the exam.
Documents to Carry for the Exam
To avoid last-minute stress, candidates must keep the following documents ready:
Admit Card / Hall Ticket (with photograph affixed).
Valid Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Driving License, or Passport).
Passport Size Photographs (same as uploaded in the online application).
Ballpoint Pen (blue or black).
Other Items (if required, e.g., water bottle, hand sanitizer — depending on centre guidelines).
Prohibited items: Mobile phones, calculators, smartwatches, earphones, books, notes, or any electronic gadget.
Important Instructions for Exam Day
Reach Early: Arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the reporting time to complete verification and biometric procedures.
Check Your Centre Location: Plan your travel route a day in advance to avoid delays.
Follow Biometric Rules: Ensure fingers are free from ink, mehndi, or dust for smooth biometric verification.
Follow Invigilator Instructions: Listen carefully and avoid any malpractice. Strict disciplinary action is taken for rule violations.
Time Management: Attempt easy questions first to maximize your score. Avoid spending too much time on a single question.
Stay Calm: Nervousness can affect performance. Stay focused and composed throughout the exam.
Prelims Exam: Nature of Qualification
The IBPS Clerk Prelims 2025 exam is qualifying in nature, which means the marks obtained will not be counted in the final merit list. However, candidates must score above both:
The sectional cut-off for each subject.
The overall cut-off for their state/region.
Only candidates who clear both cut-offs will be eligible to appear for the Mains exam, which is the decisive stage for final selection.
Tips for Last-Minute Preparation
With just a day to go, here are a few last-minute strategies for candidates:
Revise Formulas and Shortcuts: Especially for Numerical Ability.
Practice Mock Tests: To build speed and confidence.
Strengthen Vocabulary and Grammar: For English Language.
Focus on Puzzles and Seating Arrangements: In Reasoning, as they carry high weightage.
Do Not Start New Topics: Stick to what you already know well.
Final Word
The IBPS Clerk 2025 Prelims exam is the gateway to one of the most sought-after clerical posts in the Indian banking sector. With the exam beginning tomorrow onwards, candidates should focus on shift timings, reporting schedules, and mandatory guidelines to avoid last-minute panic. Remember, the Prelims is only the first step; clearing it will take you closer to the Mains, where the real competition lies.
Stay confident, manage your time wisely, and follow all instructions at the exam centre. Good luck to all aspirants appearing for the IBPS Clerk Prelims 2025!
