PNB LBO Syllabus 2026, Exam Pattern, Subject-wise Topics

Punjab National Bank conducts the PNB LBO examination to recruit officers for the post of Local Bank Officer(LBO). Understanding the PNB LBO Syllabus 2026 and exam pattern is crucial to cracking this exam. In this article, we will provide you with the latest updates on the syllabus, exam pattern, subject-wise topics, and more.

PNB LBO Syllabus 2026

The PNB LBO Syllabus 2026 covers 5 sections, including Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and General/Economy/Banking Awareness. General Awareness holds the highest weightage. It is essential to understand the PNB LBO syllabus and exam pattern for effective preparation. A well-planned strategy that aligns with the syllabus helps in reducing wasteful efforts and increasing the chances of selection. Below we have provided a detailed subject-wise breakdown of the syllabus for the ease of candidates.

PNB Local Bank Officer Syllabus

Before we dive into the PNB LBO Syllabus 2026, let’s discuss some key elements of the PNB Local Bank Officer exam. The selection process, expected exam date, and other details are given at a glance below, as per the PNB LBO Exam:

Punjab National Bank LBO Exam Pattern

Understanding the PNB LBO Exam Pattern 2026 helps in optimizing preparation and time management. The exam includes 150 questions totaling 150 marks, to be completed in 180 minutes with sectional time limits. Each incorrect answer results in a 0.25 mark deduction as negative marking.​

PNB LBO Section-Wise Exam Syllabus 2026

The PNB LBO 2026 section-wise syllabus provides a comprehensive outline of the key subjects candidates need to focus on for the online examination. Covering five main areas: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Data Analysis & Interpretation, English Language, Quantitative Aptitude, and General/Economy/Banking Awareness, it provides the candidate with the right tools to execute a high-scoring preparation strategy. Here’s a breakdown of the PNB LBO Syllabus 2026:

1. Reasoning Ability & Computer Aptitude

• Seating arrangements: linear, circular, rectangular, with conditions/puzzles
• Blood relations, direction & distance, coded directions
• Inequalities (coded & non-coded), coding‐decoding
• Syllogisms, data sufficiency (two/three statements)
• Input-Output (word/number), puzzles (age, floor/flat, box)
• Logical reasoning: statements & assumptions, cause & effect, conclusions
• Ranking & ordering, series (number/letter), classification, analogies
• Basics of Computers
• Hardware & Software
• Operating Systems
• MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Internet & Networking
• Computer Abbreviations

2. English Language

• Reading comprehension (long/short passage)
• Error spotting & correction (grammar, usage)
• Fill in the blanks (single/double), cloze tests
• Sentence rearrangement/jumbling, para-completion
• One-word substitution, idioms & phrases, synonyms & antonyms
• Vocabulary usage in context, connectors, starters, match the column

3. Quantitative Aptitude

• Number system, simplification & approximation
• Ratio & proportion, averages, percentages
• Time, speed & distance, time & work, trains, boats & streams
• Profit & loss, simple & compound interest, partnership, ages
• Data interpretation: tables, bar graphs, line graphs, pie charts
• Probability, permutation & combination, mensuration, quadratic equations, surds & indices

4. Data Analysis & Interpretation

• Tables
• Bar Graphs
• Line Charts
• Pie Charts
• Caselets / Data Sufficiency
• Ratio & Proportion
• Percentage Calculations
• Profit & Loss
• Simple & Compound Interest
• Time, Speed & Distance
• Averages, Mixtures & Alligations
• Data Sufficiency & Logical Interpretation

5. General/Banking/Economy Awareness

• Banking operations, functions of banks, and financial institutions in India
• Credit appraisal, loan documentation, priority sector lending, and regulatory norms
• Basics of accounting: capital structure, balance sheet, asset‐liability management
• Risk management: types of risks (credit, market, operational)
• Indian economy: banking system, monetary/fiscal policy, financial markets
• Current affairs: recent developments in banking, regulatory changes, and major bank mergers

PNB LBO Selection Process 2026

The selection process for PNB LBO 2026 consists of four stages:

1. Online Written Test: Candidates must qualify in the online exam, which includes sectional and overall cutoffs.
2. Screening: Shortlisting based on eligibility and written test marks.
3. Language Proficiency Test (LPT): Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the local language of the state for which they have applied.
4. Personal Interview: Final round to evaluate communication and professional aptitude. The final merit list is prepared based on the combined performance in the written test and interview, subject to qualifying in the LPT.

PNB LBO Language Proficiency Test

The PNB LBO Language Proficiency Test (LPT) is an important part of the selection process, ensuring that candidates have knowledge of the local language of the state for which they have applied. The LPT is qualifying in nature, meaning that candidates must clear it to move forward in the recruitment process, but its marks are not added to the final merit list. Candidates should keep these points in mind regarding the PNB LBO Language Proficiency Test:

• Candidates who did not study the local language of the state (in 10th or 12th standard) must appear for the local Language Proficiency Test (LPT). Those who studied the local language in 10th or 12th and can provide valid proof (mark sheet/certificate) will be exempted from the LLPT.
• The test will assess a candidate’s reading, writing, and speaking skills in the concerned regional language.
• Those who studied the local language in 10th or 12th and can provide valid proof (mark sheet/certificate) will be exempted from the LLPT.
• Candidates who fail to qualify in the LLPT will be disqualified from the final selection, regardless of their exam performance.

PNB LBO Interview

The Personal Interview is the final stage of the PNB LBO 2026 selection process. It assesses not only the candidate’s professional knowledge but also their personality and communication skills. Key details for the PNB LBO Interview round are as follows:

• Only candidates who successfully clear the Online Written Test, Screening, and Language Proficiency Test are shortlisted for the interview round.
• The Interview carries 50 marks, and candidates must score at least 25 marks (50%), while SC/ST candidates need 22.5 marks (45%) to qualify.
• The interview panel will assess communication skills, banking awareness, and overall suitability for the role.
• The final selection is made based on the combined performance in the online written test and the interview, provided that the candidate has qualified in the LPT.

Check: PNB LBO Salary 2026