The Indian Overseas Bank Local Bank Officer (LBO) Exam 2025 is designed to evaluate candidates through a structured online test covering four crucial areas. To succeed, aspirants must be well-versed in the exam structure, know the marking scheme, and focus on section-wise preparation. This article covers the complete IOB LBO syllabus and exam pattern for 2025, making it easier for candidates to plan a strategic preparation approach and boost their chances of qualifying.
Let’s walk through each section of the syllabus and the overall exam pattern in detail.
Reasoning
This section combines logical reasoning with computer aptitude to test how well you think and how familiar you are with basic computer operations. Here are the key topics to prepare:
- Puzzles and Seating Arrangement
- Input-Output
- Coding-Decoding
- Blood Relations
- Syllogism
- Statement & Argument
- Data Sufficiency
- Internet and Networking Basics
- MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Operating Systems and Keyboard Shortcuts
Practicing both reasoning and computer-based questions will help you perform better in this dual-purpose section.
Awareness
This section focuses on current affairs and financial knowledge, especially related to banking. The following areas are commonly tested:
- Indian Economy and Budget
- Banking Terms and Concepts
- Current Affairs (past 6 months)
- RBI Functions and Monetary Policy
- Financial Institutions in India
- Government Schemes and Policies
- Static General Knowledge
Stay updated with newspapers, monthly magazines, and banking awareness capsules for the best results.
Analysis
This is a calculation-heavy section that tests your numerical reasoning and data interpretation abilities. It’s essential to practice these topics to develop speed and accuracy:
- Data Interpretation (Tables, Pie Charts, Line and Bar Graphs)
- Caselet DI
- Data Sufficiency
- Probability
- Permutation and Combination
- Time and Work
- Percentage and Ratio-based Problems
The more graphs and charts you solve, the more comfortable you’ll get with quick analysis.
English
This section checks how well you understand and use the English language. Here are the topics to prepare:
- Reading Comprehension
- Cloze Test
- Sentence Rearrangement
- Fill in the Blanks
- Synonyms and Antonyms
- Error Detection
- Grammar Usage
Focus on vocabulary building and grammar rules to score well here.
Pattern
The IOB LBO exam 2025 consists of 140 objective-type questions. The total duration of the exam is 3 hours, with separate time slots for each section. Here’s a breakdown of the pattern:
| Section | Number of Questions | Maximum Marks | Medium | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning and Computer Aptitude | 30 | 60 | English & Hindi | 60 minutes |
| General / Economy / Banking Awareness | 40 | 40 | English & Hindi | 30 minutes |
| Data Analysis and Interpretation | 30 | 60 | English & Hindi | 60 minutes |
| English Knowledge | 40 | 40 | English | 30 minutes |
| Total | 140 | 200 | 3 hours |
Each incorrect answer will cost you 0.25 marks, so answer carefully.
Qualifying Marks
To move forward in the selection process, you need to meet the sectional qualifying marks:
- 35 percent for unreserved category candidates
- 30 percent for reserved category candidates
So, it’s not just about clearing the overall score; make sure you do well in each section to qualify.
Use this syllabus as your blueprint, and divide your study hours smartly across all sections. Focus more on weaker areas while maintaining accuracy in your stronger ones. Regular revision, mock tests, and solving previous papers will help you track your progress and get exam-ready.
FAQs
How many questions are there in the IOB LBO exam?
There are 140 objective-type questions.
What is the total duration of the exam?
The total exam duration is 3 hours.
Is there negative marking in IOB LBO exam?
Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for every wrong answer.
Is English Knowledge section bilingual?
No, English section is only in English.
What are the qualifying marks?
35% for unreserved and 30% for reserved category.
