Punjab National Bank Launches Major Apprentice Recruitment Drive for 2026
In a significant move to bolster its workforce with fresh talent, Punjab National Bank (PNB) has officially announced the commencement of its Apprentice Recruitment 2026. The bank is seeking to fill a substantial 5,138 apprentice positions across various states and Union Territories, marking one of the largest banking recruitment initiatives of the year.
Application Process and Key Dates
The online application portal has been activated through the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance Sector Skill Council (BFSI SSC) platform starting February 8, 2026. Aspiring candidates have until February 24, 2026, to complete their submissions. This apprenticeship program represents a golden opportunity for graduates seeking their inaugural entry into the dynamic banking sector.
Successful applicants will not only gain invaluable hands-on experience in real banking operations but will also receive a competitive monthly stipend. The compensation structure varies based on location, with stipends set at Rs 12,300 for rural, semi-urban, and urban areas, and Rs 15,000 for metropolitan locations.
Comprehensive Recruitment Overview
The PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 initiative is designed to provide comprehensive training to young graduates in practical banking functions. Selected candidates will undergo training at PNB branches nationwide, receiving exposure to core banking operations and customer service protocols.
Recruitment Highlights:
- Bank Name: Punjab National Bank (PNB)
- Position: Apprentice
- Total Vacancies: 5,138
- Application Mode: Online exclusively
- Registration Period: February 8-24, 2026
- Examination Mode: Online Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- Educational Requirement: Graduation from recognized institutions
- Age Criteria: 20 to 28 years (with category-based relaxations)
- Selection Process: Online Exam, Local Language Test, Medical Examination
- Official Portal: www.pnbindia.in
Critical Timeline for Applicants
Prospective candidates must carefully note the following schedule:
- Notification Release: February 5, 2026
- Online Application Commencement: February 8, 2026
- Application Deadline: February 24, 2026
- Online Examination: First week of March 2026
Vacancy Distribution and State-Wise Allocation
The 5,138 apprenticeship seats have been distributed according to Government of India reservation policies. The category-wise breakdown includes:
- Unreserved (UR): 2,383 positions
- Scheduled Caste (SC): 887 positions
- Scheduled Tribe (ST): 294 positions
- Other Backward Classes (OBC): 1,110 positions
- Economically Weaker Sections (EWS): 464 positions
Major State-Wise Vacancy Allocation:
- Uttar Pradesh: 814 vacancies
- West Bengal: 532 vacancies
- Punjab: 462 vacancies
- Delhi: 417 vacancies
- Rajasthan: 363 vacancies
- Haryana: 348 vacancies
- Bihar: 310 vacancies
- Maharashtra: 232 vacancies
- Madhya Pradesh: 180 vacancies
- Remaining States/UTs: Balance vacancies
Eligibility Parameters
Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a graduation degree from a university or institute recognized by UGC, AICTE, or relevant government authorities.
Age Limit (as of January 1, 2026):
- Minimum Age: 20 years
- Maximum Age: 28 years
Age Relaxation Provisions:
- SC/ST Candidates: 5 years relaxation
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years relaxation
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): 10 years relaxation
- Widows/Divorced/Separated Women: Up to 35-40 years (category-specific)
Multi-Stage Selection Methodology
The selection process comprises three distinct phases:
- Online Computer-Based Test (CBT): Assessing general awareness, reasoning, numerical ability, and English language skills
- Local Language Test: Evaluating proficiency in the regional language of the applied state
- Medical Examination: Ensuring physical fitness for banking duties
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
Candidates must adhere to the following application protocol:
- Access the BFSI SSC official portal for PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026
- Click on the "PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Apply Online" link
- Complete registration using valid email and mobile number
- Fill in personal, educational, and contact details accurately
- Upload required documents (photograph, signature, academic certificates)
- Pay applicable application fees (if required)
- Submit the form and retain a copy for future reference
Prospective applicants are strongly advised to complete their submissions well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues or server congestion.
This apprenticeship program represents a strategic initiative by Punjab National Bank to cultivate the next generation of banking professionals while providing graduates with practical industry exposure and financial remuneration. The combination of structured training and stipend makes this an attractive proposition for fresh graduates aspiring to build careers in India's banking sector.
