Exams   »   IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings 2026

IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings 2026, Exam Duration and Reporting Time

The IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings 2026 help candidates understand their exam schedule, reporting time, gate closing time, and exam duration before the examination day. The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) generally conducts the Preliminary Examination in four shifts across multiple exam days to accommodate a large number of candidates.

In this article, we provide complete details on the IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings, including exam pattern insights, important exam day instructions, and more.

IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings 2026

The IBPS Clerk 2026 will take place on 10th and 11th October 2026, with successful candidates moving on to the main exam on 27th December 2026. The exact shift allotted to a candidate will be mentioned on the IBPS Clerk Admit Card 2026.

Candidates must reach the examination centre well before the reporting time to complete document verification, biometric attendance, and other formalities. Late entry after gate closure is not permitted.

IBPS Clerk Shift Timings: Overview

Particulars Details
Conducting Body
Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS)
Exam Name
IBPS Clerk (Customer Service Associate) 2026
Exam Stages
Prelims and Mains
Prelims Duration 60 Minutes
Number of Shifts 4 (Expected)
Mains Duration 120 Minutes
Admit Card To be Released
Official Website www.ibps.in

IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings 2026

The IBPS Clerk Preliminary Examination is expected to be conducted in four shifts each day. Candidates should report to the exam centre according to the timing mentioned on their admit card.

Shift Reporting Time Handwriting Sample Time Exam Start Exam End
Shift 1 08:00 AM 08:55 AM 09:00 AM 10:00 AM
Shift 2 10:30 AM 11:25 AM 11:30 AM 12:30 PM
Shift 3 01:00 PM 01:55 PM 02:00 PM 03:00 PM
Shift 4 03:30 PM 04:25 PM 04:30 PM 05:30 PM

IBPS Clerk 2026 Exam Pattern

The total time for the IBPS Clerk Prelims exam is 60 minutes (1 hour). You cannot shift time between sections; each section has to be completed in its respective 20 minutes. There is negative marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for each incorrect answer. The exam is divided into three sections as follows:

Section Questions Marks Duration
English Language 30 30 20 Minutes
Numerical Ability 35 35 20 Minutes
Reasoning Ability 35 35 20 Minutes
Total 100 100 60 Minutes

Documents to Carry to the Exam Centre

Candidates must carry the following documents:

Required Documents
Printed IBPS Clerk Admit Card
Original Photo Identity Proof
Passport-size Photographs
Photocopy of ID Proof

Tips to Manage Your Shift Day Smoothly

Here are some simple tips to manage your shift day for IBPS Clerk Prelims shift timings 2026:

  • Reach the exam centre well before your reporting time to avoid last-minute stress.
  • Keep your admit card, photo ID, and other required documents ready the night before.
  • Eat a light meal suited to your shift timing so you stay alert during the exam.
  • Visit the exam centre location in advance if possible to estimate travel time accurately.
  • Carry only the permitted items mentioned in the admit card instructions.
  • Listen carefully to invigilator’s instructions once seated and follow them without rushing.
  • Manage your energy levels by sleeping well the night before and avoiding late-night study.

FAQs

What are the start and end times for each IBPS Clerk Prelims Shift Timings 2026?

The exam timings (IBPS / SBI Clerk Shift Timings) are:
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM.

When should I report to the exam centre?

You should report one hour before your shift start time. For instance, 8:00 AM for shift 1, 10:30 AM for shift 2, etc.

What is the total exam duration and sectional timing?

The exam lasts 60 minutes, with each section (Reasoning, Numericals, English) allotted 20 minutes each.

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About the Author

Aaditya is a dedicated content writer at Adda247 with 1 year of experience covering Banking, SSC, and other government exam updates. He is committed to delivering reliable, accurate, and trustworthy information to help aspirants stay informed and exam-ready.