The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) conducted the IBPS PO Mains Exam 2024 to recruit Probationary Officers across participating banks. With the exam concluded, aspirants eagerly await the release of the official cut-off scores, which determine eligibility for the interview round.
In this article, we’ll delve into the expected IBPS PO Mains cut-off for 2024, analyze past trends, and provide insights into factors influencing the cut-off. This comprehensive guide will help candidates evaluate their performance and plan for the next stage of the recruitment process.
Types of Cut-Off:
- Sectional Cut-Off: The minimum score required in each section.
- Overall Cut-Off: The total score needed across all sections.
Meeting both cut-offs is mandatory to progress to the interview round.
Expected IBPS PO Mains Cut-Off 2024
Based on expert analysis and exam reviews, here’s an estimate of the cut-off scores for IBPS PO Mains 2024:
| Category | Expected Overall Cut-Off |
|---|---|
| General | 60–65 |
| OBC | 57–62 |
| SC | 50–55 |
| ST | 45–50 |
| EWS | 58–63 |
Sectional Cut-Offs:
| Section | Expected Cut-Off (General) |
|---|---|
| Reasoning & Computer Aptitude | 8–10 |
| General/Economy/Banking Awareness | 10–12 |
| Data Analysis & Interpretation | 8–10 |
| English Language | 8–10 |
Factors Influencing the Cut-Off
Several factors impact the IBPS PO Mains cut-off each year:
1. Exam Difficulty: If the paper is more challenging, the cut-off tends to be lower. The 2024 Mains exam was rated moderate to difficult, with candidates finding the Data Analysis section particularly tough.
2. Number of Vacancies: The total number of vacancies available plays a significant role. Fewer vacancies usually result in higher cut-offs.
3. Candidate Performance: The average performance of candidates across sections directly affects the cut-off.
4. Reservation Policies: Category-wise cut-offs are influenced by the reservation guidelines set by IBPS.
Insights from Past Trends
Analyzing past cut-off trends can offer valuable insights for candidates.
| Year | General Cut-Off | OBC Cut-Off | SC Cut-Off | ST Cut-Off |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 66.25 | 62.75 | 58.50 | 51.75 |
| 2022 | 71.25 | 68.50 | 59.25 | 53.25 |
| 2021 | 80.75 | 78.50 | 65.50 | 57.75 |
The expected cut-off for 2024 is slightly lower due to the moderate-to-difficult level of the exam and varying section-wise challenges.
How to Calculate Your Score
To estimate your chances of qualifying, calculate your score based on the IBPS marking scheme:
- Correct Answer: +1 mark
- Incorrect Answer: -0.25 marks (negative marking for wrong answers)
- Unattempted Questions: No marks deducted
Compare your estimated score against the expected cut-off to assess your performance.
Next Steps After Clearing the Cut-Off
Candidates who meet the cut-off will move to the interview round, the final stage of the recruitment process. Here’s what to expect:
1. Interview Preparation
- Focus on banking awareness, current affairs, and personal background.
- Practice common interview questions to build confidence.
2. Document Verification
- Ensure all required documents, such as educational certificates, ID proofs, and category certificates, are ready.
3. Final Selection
The final merit list is prepared based on a weighted ratio of 80:20 for the mains exam and interview scores.
Conclusion
The IBPS PO Mains Exam 2024 is a critical milestone for candidates aspiring to build a career in the banking sector. With the expected cut-off ranging between 60 and 65 for the general category, aspirants should evaluate their performance carefully and gear up for the interview round.
Stay updated on official announcements by visiting the IBPS website, and remember to prepare thoroughly for the next stage to secure your dream job.
FAQ’s
Q1. When will the official IBPS PO Mains cut-off be released?
The cut-off will be announced along with the result in December 2024.
Q2. Is there any relaxation in cut-offs for reserved categories?
Yes, reserved categories such as SC, ST, OBC, and PwD benefit from lower cut-off thresholds as per IBPS guidelines.
Q3. Can I appear for the interview if I clear the overall cut-off but not the sectional cut-off?
No, candidates must clear both sectional and overall cut-offs to qualify for the interview round.
Q4. What should I do if I fail to meet the cut-off?
If you don’t meet the cut-off, consider preparing for the next exam cycle or exploring other opportunities in the banking and financial sector.