Understanding the SBI CBO cutoff trends is essential for setting target scores. Since SBI CBO is a specialized recruitment for experienced officers, cutoffs are generally lower than PO exams but vary based on vacancies, candidate pool, and circle popularity. Here is an analysis of expected cutoffs for 2026 based on available data and exam patterns [citation:2][citation:8].
Factors Affecting SBI CBO Cutoff
- Number of Vacancies: 2,273 vacancies (including backlog) - higher vacancies typically mean lower cutoffs [citation:2][citation:8].
- Circle Popularity: Metro circles like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru tend to have higher cutoffs due to more applicants.
- Candidate Pool: Only experienced banking officers (2+ years) are eligible, which limits the applicant pool.
- Exam Difficulty: The Banking Knowledge section (40 marks) significantly impacts overall scores.
- Category: Cutoffs vary for General, OBC, SC, ST, and EWS categories.
Expected Cutoff for SBI CBO 2026 (Out of 170 Marks - Objective + Descriptive)
Note: Official cutoffs are released by SBI after results. These are indicative estimates based on exam pattern, vacancy distribution, and eligibility criteria.
| Category | Expected Cutoff Range (Out of 170) | Expected Cutoff Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| General | 110 - 125 marks | 65% - 73% |
| OBC | 100 - 115 marks | 59% - 68% |
| EWS | 95 - 110 marks | 56% - 65% |
| SC | 85 - 100 marks | 50% - 59% |
| ST | 75 - 90 marks | 44% - 53% |
| PwD | 65 - 80 marks | 38% - 47% |
Circle-Wise Expected Cutoff Variation
Cutoffs vary significantly across circles based on demand and local preferences [citation:8]:
- High Demand Circles (Higher Cutoff): Mumbai Metro, New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune - Expected General cutoff: 115-125 marks
- Medium Demand Circles: Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bhopal - Expected General cutoff: 105-115 marks
- Lower Demand Circles: North Eastern, Bhubaneswar, Thiruvananthapuram, Amaravati - Expected General cutoff: 95-105 marks
Sectional Performance Targets for Safe Score
To achieve a safe score in SBI CBO 2026, aim for the following sectional marks [citation:1][citation:3]:
| Section | Maximum Marks | Target Score (General) |
|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 22-26 marks |
| Banking Knowledge | 40 | 30-35 marks |
| General Awareness/Economy | 30 | 22-26 marks |
| Computer Aptitude | 20 | 16-18 marks |
| Descriptive Test | 50 | 35-40 marks |
| Total | 170 | 125-145 marks (Safe Score) |
Safe Score Recommendations
- General Category: Aim for 125+ marks out of 170 to be safe, especially for popular circles.
- OBC Category: Target 115+ marks.
- SC Category: Target 100+ marks.
- ST Category: Target 90+ marks.
Important Note: Since there is no negative marking, attempting all questions is advisable. However, ensure accuracy in the Banking Knowledge section which has the highest weightage [citation:2].