The Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) has released the official notification for IBPS AFO 2025, announcing 310 vacancies for the role of Agriculture Field Officer (AFO). With applications now open, knowing the eligibility criteria is the first and most crucial step before applying. Candidates who don’t meet the eligibility standards risk disqualification at any stage of the recruitment process.
Let’s break down the detailed IBPS AFO eligibility criteria, including age limit, educational qualifications, nationality rules, and other key requirements for the 2025 recruitment cycle.
Nationality
To apply for the Agriculture Field Officer post, candidates must fall under one of the following categories:
- Citizen of India
- Subject of Nepal or Bhutan
- Tibetan refugee who arrived in India before 1 January 1962 with the intention of permanent settlement
- Person of Indian origin who migrated from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, or East African countries like Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, or Vietnam with the intent to settle in India permanently
These candidates must also have relevant government-issued eligibility certification if they fall under non-citizen categories.
Age
As per the notification, the candidate’s age as on August 1, 2025, must be:
- Minimum: 20 years
- Maximum: 30 years
That means applicants must have been born between August 2, 1995, and August 1, 2005 (both dates inclusive).
Age Relaxation
Reserved category candidates and certain groups are eligible for age relaxation as per government norms:
| Category | Age Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC / ST | 5 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 years |
| PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disabilities) | 10 years |
| Ex-Servicemen / ECOs / SSCOs (5 years service) | 5 years |
| Persons affected by 1984 riots | 5 years |
Education
The educational qualification is the key deciding factor in IBPS AFO eligibility. Candidates must hold a 4-year bachelor’s degree in agriculture or related disciplines from a university approved by the Government of India.
Eligible Disciplines Include:
- Agriculture
- Horticulture
- Animal Husbandry
- Veterinary Science
- Dairy Science
- Fishery Science / Fisheries Engineering / Pisciculture
- Agricultural Marketing and Cooperation
- Cooperation and Banking
- Agro-Forestry / Forestry
- Agricultural Biotechnology / Agricultural Engineering
- Food Science / Food Technology
- B.Tech (Biotechnology)
- Dairy Technology
- Agriculture Business Management
- Sericulture
Make sure the degree is completed and recognized by a government-approved institution before the date of application.
Attempts
There is no restriction on the number of attempts for the IBPS AFO exam. As long as candidates meet the age and educational criteria, they can apply multiple times.
Work Experience
No prior work experience is required. This opens the door for fresh graduates to apply, making it ideal for those just out of university with relevant degrees.
Key Reminders
Here are some important points to keep in mind:
- One Application Rule: Submit only one application. Multiple applications may result in disqualification.
- NOC for Employed Applicants: If you’re working in the public sector or a government job, you’ll need to produce a No Objection Certificate (NOC) at the time of document verification.
- Category Certificates: SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD candidates must upload valid, government-prescribed format certificates to claim age or fee relaxations.
With the IBPS AFO 2025 recruitment process officially underway, make sure you match all eligibility criteria before applying. Keep your documents ready, double-check your age, and ensure your educational qualifications are in line with IBPS norms. This is a great opportunity for agriculture graduates to enter the public sector and work with leading Indian banks under a well-paid and secure government role.
FAQs
What is the age limit for IBPS AFO 2025?
20 to 30 years as on August 1, 2025.
Is prior experience required for AFO post?
No, freshers can apply without experience.
Can I apply with a degree in Forestry?
Yes, Forestry is among the accepted disciplines.
How many attempts are allowed for AFO exam?
There’s no limit on the number of attempts.
Is nationality a key eligibility factor?
Yes, Indian citizenship or specified nationality is required.
