IBPS PO India Exam Details

The IBPS PO Mains Exam 2025, conducted on 12th October 2025, was successfully held across multiple centers in India. According to experts and candidate feedback, the paper ranged from moderate to difficult. Sections such as Reasoning and Data Interpretation were challenging, while English and General Awareness were relatively balanced but still required conceptual clarity and quick decision-making.

The exam aimed to test not just memory or theory but also the candidate’s ability to apply logic and financial knowledge in complex situations. With a total of 145 objective questions and 2 descriptive questions, carrying 225 marks overall, aspirants had to combine accuracy, speed, and analytical strength to perform well.

Key Takeaways

• The overall exam level was moderate to difficult, with reasoning-based puzzles taking the most time.
• Data Analysis and Interpretation questions required strong arithmetic and logical understanding.
• The English section included analytical reading comprehension and rearrangement questions.
• General Awareness focused on RBI updates, economic schemes, and current affairs.
• The Descriptive Paper required critical thinking and structured writing on real-world topics.

IBPS PO Mains 2025: Exam Overview

The 2025 Mains exam tested candidates through four major objective sections and one descriptive paper. The duration was three hours and ten minutes in total. The objective section carried 200 marks, while the descriptive section contributed an additional 25 marks, making the full score 225 marks.

The objective sections included Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, English Language, and General/Banking/Financial Awareness. Each section demanded not only subject knowledge but also efficient time allocation to handle question variety.

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Reasoning and Computer Aptitude

This section was the most demanding part of the exam. The questions involved multi-layered puzzles, seating arrangements, and input-output patterns that required sequential reasoning. Candidates faced time pressure due to the number of variables and logical conditions involved.

The section featured linear and circular seating arrangements, designation-based puzzles, and machine input problems involving both numbers and words. Logical reasoning questions, such as paragraph-based conclusions and data sufficiency, were included to assess critical thinking.

The overall level was moderate to difficult, and students who practiced complex puzzles and logical sets beforehand performed better.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

Data Analysis was also reported as a tough segment. Most questions were based on arithmetic calculations combined with data interpretation. Candidates faced Table DI, Bar and Line Graph DI, and caselet-based problems that required comprehensive understanding.

Topics included quadratic equations, number series, speed and distance, and mensuration-based problems. A few caselet questions were designed to test situational logic rather than direct formula application. The overall section was time-consuming, and accuracy mattered more than attempting every question.

Candidates who prioritized manageable DI sets and maintained numerical accuracy were likely to achieve a competitive score.

English Language

The English section was moderate in nature but lengthy in certain areas. Reading comprehension passages were based on themes like African Aviation and Video Games. Grammar and vocabulary questions were straightforward, though the error detection and filler segments required attention to context.

The section covered sentence rearrangement, odd-one-out identification, column-based questions, and short comprehension passages. Cloze tests and sentence summary questions tested reading depth and analytical comprehension rather than rote grammar.

Those with a strong command of English structure and vocabulary found the section balanced and scoring.

General and Banking Awareness

The General Awareness section ranged from moderate to slightly tricky. It focused on recent updates from RBI, government schemes, financial reforms, and global developments. The inclusion of international institutions and current banking programs made it comprehensive in scope.

Notable questions revolved around topics such as the RBI PRAVAAH Portal, Digitization Charter, IMF Fintech Note, PM SVANidhi Scheme, S&P credit rating updates, AEPS, Vibrant Village Program, Swachh Survekshan rankings, and the UN Intangible Cultural Heritage Day.

Aspirants who kept up with Testbook’s monthly GK capsules and RBI circular updates had an edge.

Descriptive Writing

The descriptive section tested written communication skills through one essay and one reading comprehension passage. Topics included “Biodiversity,” “Right to Information,” and a comprehension comparing AI development between India and other countries.

The key to scoring well was structure, clear argumentation, and factual examples. Candidates who wrote concise, balanced essays with coherent flow were able to perform strongly in this section.

Difficulty Level and Good Attempts

Based on student feedback and expert estimates, the Reasoning and Data Analysis sections were the most challenging. English and General Awareness were moderate. A balanced approach with high accuracy was critical.

Candidates attempting around seventy to eighty questions with precision across all sections are expected to fall in the good attempt range. However, this may vary depending on the normalization process and cutoff trends.

The Reasoning and Computer Aptitude section was moderate in complexity, requiring approximately 18 to 22 good attempts. Data Analysis and Interpretation had 15 to 20 manageable questions. English offered around 20 to 25 good attempts, while General Awareness ranged between 18 to 22. Overall, a well-prepared candidate could expect a total of 70 to 80 effective attempts.

Exam Timing and Conduct

The IBPS PO Mains 2025 was conducted in a single shift across India. Candidates reported to exam centers by 8:00 AM, with the test beginning at 9:00 AM and ending at 12:10 PM. Smooth coordination and strict adherence to guidelines were reported at most venues.

Candidates were advised to arrive early for biometric verification, document checks, and seating allocation, ensuring a stress-free start to the exam.

Final Thoughts

The IBPS PO Mains Exam 2025 reflected a continued focus on analytical reasoning and conceptual knowledge rather than rote learning. Compared to previous years, the inclusion of advanced reasoning patterns and data-intensive sets made it slightly tougher.

For future aspirants, regular mock test practice, familiarity with new banking developments, and consistent writing exercises for descriptive preparation will be key.

Building a structured study plan, revising RBI and financial updates, and maintaining accuracy under pressure will remain vital for success in upcoming IBPS PO cycles.

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FAQs

When was the IBPS PO Mains Exam 2025 held?

The IBPS PO Mains Exam 2025 was conducted on 12th October 2025 in a single shift across India.

What was the total marks distribution in the IBPS PO Mains Exam 2025?

The exam included 145 objective questions carrying 200 marks and 2 descriptive questions worth 25 marks, making a total of 225 marks.

Which sections were part of the IBPS PO Mains 2025 exam?

The paper included Reasoning and Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis and Interpretation, English Language, and General/Banking/Financial Awareness, along with a descriptive writing section.

What was the difficulty level of IBPS PO Mains 2025?

The overall difficulty was moderate to difficult, with Data Analysis and Reasoning sections being the most complex.

What topics appeared in the descriptive paper?

Candidates were asked to write an essay on Biodiversity or Right to Information and a comprehension passage related to Artificial Intelligence.