IBPS SO Mains Selection Process: The IBPS SO Mains Selection Process is one of the decisive phases if a candidate wants to become a Specialist Officer. Detail will help candidates understand this stage better, which will help them in their overall preparation for the examination.

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The second phase of the IBPS SO structure is the IBPS SO Mains, and its main objective is to verify the candidates’ professional knowledge in the particular field they practice. Hence, clearing this stage of examination becomes essential for proceeding to the interview round, which is the last phase in the selection process.

IBPS SO Mains Selection Process Highlights

The IBPS SO Mains Exam is a computer-administered objective test that aims to assess a candidate’s knowledge in the specialization area that he or she has applied for. Unlike the prelims, which basically assesses generic abilities, the Mains exam, which has more weightage, targets the candidate’s professional knowledge necessary for the job of a Specialist Officer.

Significance of IBPS SO Mains Selection Process

The significance of the IBPS SO Mains Selection Process stage cannot be overemphasized because the marks scored in the Mains examination are the ones that will determine the final merit list. The Prelims are little more than a formality. However, the score obtained in the Mains examination is essential regarding the chances of a person in an interview and eventually selection. 

The selection for the post of Specialist Officer is made based on the total of Mains examination marks and the interview round. However, the total strategy is necessary since marks obtained in Mains are of greater significance.

Preparation for IBPS SO Mains Selection Process

Since the exam is primarily focused on professional knowledge, it is essential for people applying for the IBPS SO Mains exam to understand the syllabus and IBPS SO Mains Selection Process relating to the specialization they seek clearly. Here is a short strategy for preparing for this crucial phase:

Understand the Syllabus: You should review the official syllabus again for the specific post you have already applied for. This will let you know the areas to concentrate on at the examination.

Practice Knowledge: Since the paper is all about the theory of and about practice, attempting questions on occupation is of paramount importance. Question papers from last year, concept tests, etc., can be used as an indicator of the level of preparation; 

Time Management: Remember that you must answer 60 questions in 45 minutes, so time management is the key. Also, try to practice solving questions within a given time frame; this will help to improve your speed and accuracy; 

Focus on Important Topics: Not all topics will be equally crucial within each specialization. Composing these themes will help you score high on the IBPS SO Mains exam; 

Stay Updated: Knowledge outside the books always helps for some posts, e.g., Marketing Officer/IT Officer. Knowing the latest industry trends forms a reasonable basis for presentation.

Role of Cut-off Marks in IBPS SO Mains Selection Process

Cut-off marks are also essential in determining who qualifies for the interview in the IBPS SO Mains. Cut-off marks depend on the exam level, the number of candidates opting in, and the vacancies available. Applicants must aim for scores much higher than the set minimum cut-off since the competition is so stiff that it is the only way to increase the probability of reaching the final stages.

Documents Verification after IBPS SO Mains Selection Process

After passing the IBPS SO Mains, the document verification stage is followed. In this phase, the required educational certificates, identity documents, caste certificates (if applicable), etc. are verified. It is important to note that all the relevant documents are appropriately arranged. Otherwise, problems will be encountered in this stage.

Interview The Last Steps of the Selection Process

Once applicants successfully pass the IBPS SO Mains, they will be invited for the interview round. Candidates will be asked for an interview round, and the weightage of marks is as follows: 80% IBPS SO Mains Marks and 20% Interview Marks. So, one must perform well during the Mains examination as it will influence one’s chances of final selection.

Also read: IBPS SO Prelims Selection Process 2024

IBPS SO Mains Selection Process 2024 FAQs

Q1 Do the Prelims marks increase the chance for final selection?

Ans: only the mains and interview marks are considered for the final selection.

Q2 Is there any time limit for each section in the Mains exam?

Ans Yes, the total duration is 45 minutes for objective-type sections and 60 minutes for Rajbhasha Adhikari (objective + descriptive).

Q3 How many questions are in the IBPS SO Mains Exam?

Ans There are 60 questions in the Mains exam.