The Central Bank of India has announced an exciting opportunity for graduates seeking to kickstart their banking careers through its comprehensive Apprentice Program 2025-26. With 4,500 training seats available across various branches and offices throughout India, this program represents one of the largest apprenticeship initiatives in the banking sector.
Program Overview
The apprenticeship program operates under the Apprentices Act, 1961, designed to provide practical banking experience while offering a pathway into one of India's leading public sector banks. This 12-month intensive training program covers all aspects of modern banking practices, products, and processes.
Key Program Highlights
- Total Seats Available: 4,500 apprenticeship positions
- Training Duration: 12 months
- Monthly Stipend: ₹15,000
- Training Locations: Various branches and offices across India
- No Employment Guarantee: Post-training employment is not assured
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark your calendars for these crucial dates:
- Online Registration Period: June 7, 2025 - June 23, 2025
- Application Fee Payment Window: June 7, 2025 - June 25, 2025
- Online Examination: First week of July 2025 (tentative)
Pro Tip: Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues and ensure your application is complete before the deadline.
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality Requirements
Candidates must be:
- Citizens of India, OR
- Subjects of Nepal or Bhutan, OR
- Tibetan refugees who settled in India before January 1, 1962, OR
- Persons of Indian origin who migrated from specified countries with the intention of permanent settlement
Age Limits (as of May 31, 2025)
- Minimum Age: 20 years
- Maximum Age: 28 years (with relaxations for reserved categories)
Educational Qualification
A graduation degree in any discipline from a recognized university or equivalent institution is mandatory.
Age Relaxation Benefits
The program offers generous age relaxations for various categories:
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 years |
| PwBD (UR/EWS) | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| Widows/Divorced/Legally Separated Women | Up to 35-40 years (category-dependent) |
Important Note: OBC candidates belonging to the 'creamy layer' are not entitled to reservation benefits or age relaxation.
Reservation for Persons with Disabilities
The program provides comprehensive reservation under "The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016" for:
- Visually Impaired (VI)
- Hearing Impaired (HI)
- Orthopedically Challenged (OC)
- Cerebral Palsy, Leprosy Cured, Dwarfism, Acid Attack Victims, and Muscular Dystrophy
- Intellectual Disability (ID)
- Multiple Disabilities
Selection Process
The selection process consists of two main components:
1. Online Examination
Conducted by BFSI SSC, the examination comprises 100 questions worth 100 marks with a 60-minute duration. Here's the detailed structure:
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Medium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude | 15 | 15 | English/Hindi |
| Logical Reasoning | 15 | 15 | English/Hindi |
| Computer Knowledge | 15 | 15 | English/Hindi |
| English Language | 15 | 15 | English |
| Basic Retail Products | 10 | 10 | English/Hindi |
| Basic Retail Asset Products | 10 | 10 | English/Hindi |
| Basic Investment Products | 10 | 10 | English/Hindi |
| Basic Insurance Products | 10 | 10 | English/Hindi |
Good News: There's no negative marking for wrong answers, so attempt all questions confidently.
2. Test of Local Language
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the local language of their preferred state of posting.
Application Fees
The fee structure varies by category:
- PwBD Candidates: ₹400 + GST
- SC/ST/All Women/EWS Candidates: ₹600 + GST
- All Other Candidates: ₹800 + GST
Note: Fees are non-refundable and must be paid online only.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Register on NATS Portal: Begin by registering on the government apprenticeship portals (NATS portal)
- Save Enrollment ID: Note down the Enrollment ID issued by NATS portal for future reference
- Await BFSI SSC Email: Expect communication from BFSI SSC regarding caste category details and district preferences
- Prepare Documents: Scan photograph, signature, and all required documents
- Fill Application Carefully: No changes are permitted after submission
- Pay Application Fee: Complete the fee payment within the specified window
- Submit Supporting Documents: Include all necessary certificates and proofs
Required Documents for Verification
Ensure you have these documents ready:
- Valid online application printout
- Date of Birth proof
- Photo Identity proof
- Educational qualification mark sheets and certificates
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Income and Asset Certificate (for EWS candidates)
- Any other relevant documents
Training and Benefits
What You'll Learn
The 12-month training program covers:
- Banking practices and procedures
- Various banking products and services
- Customer service excellence
- Regulatory compliance
- Digital banking technologies
- Risk management basics
Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend of ₹15,000
- No additional allowances or benefits
- No transport or hostel facilities provided
Important Terms and Conditions
Before applying, understand these crucial conditions:
- Previous apprenticeship experience disqualifies candidates
- Candidates with over one year of post-graduation work experience are ineligible
- No guarantee of regular employment after training completion
- Apprentices are trainees, not employees of the bank
- The bank reserves the right to terminate contracts under specific conditions
Preparation Tips for Success
For the Online Examination
- Focus on Basics: Strengthen your foundation in quantitative aptitude and logical reasoning
- Banking Awareness: Study basic banking products, investment options, and insurance concepts
- Computer Knowledge: Brush up on fundamental computer concepts and banking technology
- English Proficiency: Practice reading comprehension and grammar
- Time Management: Practice solving 100 questions in 60 minutes
For Document Verification
- Ensure all certificates are in the prescribed format
- Get documents attested if required
- Carry both original and photocopies
- Verify spelling of your name matches across all documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I change my category after submitting the application? A: No, category changes are not permitted after online application submission.
Q: Is there any job guarantee after completing the apprenticeship? A: No, the bank is not obligated to offer regular employment post-training.
Q: Can I apply if I've completed an apprenticeship elsewhere? A: No, candidates who have previously undergone any apprenticeship are not eligible.
Q: What happens if I don't meet the cut-off marks? A: Candidates must meet the cut-off marks in the online examination for further consideration.
Stay Updated
For the latest announcements and updates:
- Visit the Central Bank of India official website
- Check the BFSI SSC website regularly
- Monitor your registered email for communications
- For queries, contact: info@bfsissc.com
Conclusion
The Central Bank of India Apprentice Program 2025-26 offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on banking experience while earning a decent stipend. With no negative marking in the examination and comprehensive training modules, this program can serve as a valuable stepping stone in your banking career.
Remember, success in this program requires thorough preparation, timely application submission, and meeting all eligibility criteria. Start your preparation early, gather all required documents, and apply before the deadline to maximize your chances of selection.
The banking sector continues to evolve with digital transformation and innovative financial products. This apprenticeship program will provide you with the practical knowledge and skills needed to thrive in this dynamic industry. Take this opportunity seriously, prepare well, and you could be on your way to a rewarding career in banking.
Disclaimer: This blog post is based on the official notification. Candidates are advised to refer to the official websites for the most current information and any updates to the notification.
