IBPS Clerk Exam Date: Prelims & Mains Schedule Overview

By Brian Howard
February 10, 2026
3 Min
No Comment

The IBPS Clerk (Customer Service Associate – CRP CSA-XV) 2025 exam will occur in two stages: the preliminary exam on October 4, 5, and 11, and the mains exam on November 29, 2025.

Understanding the Exam Timeline and Its Implications

Prelims Schedule at a Glance

The preliminary phase is spread across three days—October 4, 5, and 11. This lets IBPS manage the huge candidate pool while keeping the process orderly.

Why it matters:
– You get multiple slots. Choose the one that fits your prep best.
– This spread eases logistics and exam-day stress.

Beyond just knowledge, timing your slot and ensuring you’re well-rested can make a subtle difference.

Mains: The Final Lap

After prelims, qualifiers will sit for the mains exam on November 29, 2025.

Takeaway:
– There’s a three-week gap between the last prelim and the mains—just right for targeted prep.
– Focus on refining speed and accuracy in all sections.

Exam Structure Changes—Know What’s New

Prelims still covers English, Numerical Ability, and Reasoning—100 questions in 60 minutes. The mains exam has seen a structural tweak, with 190 questions to be solved in 160 minutes across four sections: Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, English, Quant, General/Financial Awareness.

“A strong prelims performance usually sets the tone—mains may seem tougher, but familiarity breeds calm under pressure.”

Keep that in mind when designing your study plan.

How This Fits Your Prep Strategy

1. Calendar Clarity = Better Prep Planning

Here’s the updated schedule:

Now you can allocate time precisely—your roadmap becomes clearer.

2. Strategize Time Based on This Timeline

Prelims prep: Target basics and speed by mid-October.
Post-prelims tune-up: Use the three-week gap for mock tests and section-wise polishing.
Books and resources: Stick to quality over quantity. A few well-chosen guides and mocks go a long way.

3. Updates Matter—Stay Informed

IBPS can and does tweak dates. This revised calendar is official, but keep an eye on announcements just in case.

Quick Checklist Before Your Exam

Note the exact dates.
Download admit cards a week before.
Practice full-length mocks under timed conditions.
Focus on weak areas, but don’t ignore retention of strengths.
Prepare your exam kit early—ID, stationery, extra mask maybe.

Concluding Summary

The IBPS Clerk (CRP CSA-XV) 2025 exam is now clearly scheduled with Prelims on October 4, 5, and 11, followed by Mains on November 29. You have structured phases to target your preparation, with a meaningful gap between the two. Focus on speed in prelims, accuracy in mains, and stay updated for any last-minute changes. This is your roadmap—stick to it, and timing will be your hidden advantage.

FAQs

When exactly are the IBPS Clerk Prelims and Mains in 2025?

Prelims will be on October 4, 5, and 11, 2025, while the Mains exam is scheduled for November 29, 2025.

How long is the break between prelims and mains?

There’s a gap of about three weeks—enough time to reflect, review, and improve ahead of the mains exam.

Has the exam pattern changed for 2025?

Yes. Prelims remains a 100-question test in 60 minutes. Mains now includes 190 questions in 160 minutes across four sections—including a combined Reasoning & Computer Aptitude section.

Will these dates stay fixed?

This is the official revised calendar. While it’s reliable, it’s wise to monitor IBPS notifications because schedules can still change due to administrative requirements.

Any prep tip based on this timeline?

Yes, use the first phase to cement speed for prelims; then switch to precision and mock strategy during the gap before mains.