The State Bank of India (SBI) has provided a major opportunity for graduates seeking a career in the banking sector by extending the application deadline for its Apprentice Recruitment 2026 drive. The recruitment is being conducted under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, 1961 and aims to fill thousands of apprentice positions across various SBI branches and units throughout the country.

According to the official notification issued by SBI's Central Recruitment and Promotion Department (CRPD), Corporate Centre, Mumbai, a total of 7,150 apprentice vacancies will be filled through this recruitment campaign. Candidates who have not yet applied now have additional time to complete the registration process.

SBI Extends Last Date for Applications

The online application process began on May 19, 2026, and eligible candidates can now submit their applications until June 15, 2026 through the official SBI apprenticeship recruitment portal.

The extension is expected to benefit thousands of aspiring candidates who were unable to complete their applications before the earlier deadline.

Interested applicants are advised to avoid waiting until the final day and complete the registration process well in advance to prevent technical issues or last-minute delays.

Total Vacancies Available

SBI has announced 7,150 apprentice positions across different states and regions of India.

Selected candidates will undergo apprenticeship training for a period of one year in the allotted SBI branches and offices. The apprenticeship program is designed to provide practical banking experience and exposure to various banking operations.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates interested in applying for SBI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 must meet the educational and age requirements prescribed in the notification.

Educational Qualification

Applicants must possess:

• A graduation degree in any discipline

• Degree obtained from a recognized university or institution

Candidates awaiting final results are advised to carefully review the official notification before applying.

Age Limit

The prescribed age criteria are:

• Minimum Age: 20 years

• Maximum Age: 28 years

The age calculation will be based on April 30, 2026.

Age relaxation will be provided to candidates belonging to reserved categories in accordance with government norms and SBI recruitment rules.

Selection Process

The recruitment process involves multiple stages designed to assess the suitability of candidates for apprenticeship training.

1. Online Written Examination

Candidates will first be required to appear for an online examination. The detailed exam schedule will be announced separately by SBI.

2. Local Language Test

Applicants shortlisted after the written examination will have to demonstrate proficiency in the local language of the state or region for which they have applied.

3. Document Verification

Candidates who qualify the earlier stages will undergo verification of educational certificates, identity documents, category certificates (if applicable), and other required records.

4. Medical Examination

The final stage includes a medical fitness assessment as per SBI's recruitment guidelines.

Candidates must successfully clear each stage to be considered for final selection.

Application Fee Details

The application fee varies according to the candidate's category.

The fee must be paid through online payment modes only.

Training and Career Benefits

Although apprenticeship positions are not permanent jobs, they provide valuable experience in the banking sector and help candidates develop practical skills.

Key benefits include:

• Exposure to banking operations

• Experience in customer service and branch functions

• Understanding of financial products and services

• Improved employability in future banking and finance recruitment drives

Many candidates use apprenticeship programs as a stepping stone toward future opportunities in public and private sector banks.

Important Points for Applicants

Before submitting the application, candidates should ensure that:

• They meet all eligibility requirements.

• Personal and educational details are entered correctly.

• Required documents are uploaded in the prescribed format.

• Application fees are paid successfully, if applicable.

• A copy of the completed application form is saved for future reference.

Final Opportunity for Banking Aspirants

With 7,150 vacancies available nationwide, SBI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 represents one of the largest apprenticeship drives in the banking sector this year. The extension of the application deadline until June 15 provides additional time for eligible graduates to apply and compete for these positions.

Candidates interested in building a career in banking should carefully review the official notification, verify their eligibility, and complete the application process before the revised deadline. As competition for government-backed banking opportunities remains high, early application and thorough preparation can significantly improve a candidate's chances of success.