Difference Between SBI PO and IBPS PO, Which is Better?

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Before applying for a banking job, many candidates compare the SBI PO and IBPS PO exams to choose the best career option. Every year, lakhs of aspirants appear for these competitive examinations to secure the prestigious post of Probationary Officer (PO) in public sector banks. Although both exams are conducted for PO recruitment, they differ in several aspects, including the recruiting authority, salary, selection process, career growth, and job profile.

The State Bank of India (SBI) conducts the SBI PO exam for recruitment in SBI, while the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducts the IBPS PO exam for participating public sector banks.

Understanding the key differences between SBI PO and IBPS PO will help you select the exam that best matches your career goals and professional aspirations.

Difference Between SBI PO and IBPS PO

Candidates preparing for Probationary Officer (PO) recruitment should understand the key differences between the SBI PO and IBPS PO exams before applying. Comparing factors such as the number of vacancies, selection process, salary structure, job profile, career growth, and participating banks can help candidates choose the exam that best suits their career objectives.

Aspects	SBI PO	IBPS PO
Recruitment Authority	State Bank of India	Institute of Banking Personnel Selection
Vacancies	Less vacancies compared to IBPS	IBPS conducts PO exam for various bank which results in large number of vacancy.
Mode of Examination	Online	Online
Selection Process	Prelims, Mains, and Interview round	Prelims, Mains, and Interview round
Level of Examination	Moderate	Easy to Moderate

IBPS PO Syllabus 2026 – Click to Check

SBI PO vs IBPS PO: Salary

The salary structure of SBI PO and IBPS PO differs in terms of both basic pay and monthly earnings. Refer to the table below for a detailed comparison of salaries and allowances.

Difference Between SBI PO and IBPS PO Salary
Aspects	SBI PO	IBPS PO
Basic Pay Scale	Basic Pay is Rs 48,480 and the pay scale is 48480-2000/7-62480-2340/2-67160-2680/7-85920.	Basic Pay is Rs 48,480 and the pay scale is 48480-2000/7-62480-2340/2-67160-2680/7-85920.
Monthly Salary	Rs. 84000 to 85000	Rs 65,000 and Rs 72,000.
Allowanced	DA, CCA, TA, HRA, Petrol Allowances, etc.	HRA, DA, CCA, and Special Allowances
Medical Facility	100% benefits to the individuals and 75% to the familiar	Up to Rs 8000 per year in most of the participating banks

SBI PO vs IBPS PO: Selection Process

Let’s see what is the difference between the selection process of SBI PO and IBPS PO.

Difference Between SBI PO and IBPS PO Selection Process
Aspects	SBI PO	IBPS PO
Stages	Prelims, Mains, and Interview	Prelims, Mains, and Interview
Difficulty Level of Exam	Moderate	Easy to Moderate
Prelims Exam	Objective Test for 100 marks	Objective Test for 100 marks
Mains Exam	Descriptive Test for 250 marks	Descriptive Test for 225 marks
GD and Interview	After mains, candidates will have to appear in GD and Interview	After mains, the candidates will have to appear in the interview only.

SBI PO vs IBPS PO: Which is Better?

Both SBI PO and IBPS PO offer excellent career opportunities, but the better choice depends on your priorities. If you are looking for a higher salary, better perks, and faster career growth, SBI PO is a better option.

If you prefer more vacancies, comparatively easier competition, and the opportunity to work in different public sector banks, IBPS PO is a suitable choice. Compare your career goals, salary expectations, and work preferences before deciding which exam to prepare for.