The Central Bank of India has announced a recruitment drive for 266 Zone-Based Officer (ZBO) positions in 2025. This is a significant opportunity for individuals aspiring to build a career in the banking sector. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the recruitment process, including eligibility criteria, selection procedure, application steps, and more.

Overview of Central Bank of India ZBO Recruitment 2025

• Total Vacancies: 266 Zone-Based Officer positions
• Zones:
  • Ahmedabad: 123 posts
  • Chennai: 58 posts
  • Guwahati: 43 posts
  • Hyderabad: 42 posts
• Application Period: January 21, 2025, to February 9, 2025
• Educational Qualification: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university
• Age Limit: 21 to 32 years as of November 30, 2024
• Selection Process: Online written examination followed by an interview
• Official Website: centralbankofindia.co.in

Eligibility Criteria 📋

To apply for the ZBO positions, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification:
  • A bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government.
  • Candidates with professional qualifications such as Medical, Engineering, Chartered Accountant, or Cost Accountant are also eligible.
• Age Limit:
  • Applicants must be between 21 and 32 years of age as of November 30, 2024.
  • Age relaxation is applicable as per government norms:
    • SC/ST: 5 years
    • OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
    • Persons with Benchmark Disabilities: 10 years
    • Ex-servicemen and others: as per government rules

Application Process 📝

Interested candidates can apply online by following these steps:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to centralbankofindia.co.in.
2. Navigate to Careers: Click on the “Career with us” section and select ‘Current Vacancies’.
3. Registration: Click on ‘Click here for New Registration’ and enter your basic details to generate a provisional registration number and password.
4. Fill Application Form: Log in using the registration number and password to complete the application form with accurate personal and educational information.
5. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph and signature as per the specified guidelines.
6. Pay Application Fee:
   • SC/ST/PWBD/Women Candidates: Rs. 175 + GST
   • All Other Candidates: Rs. 850 + GST
   • Payment can be made online using Debit Cards, Credit Cards, Internet Banking, IMPS, Cash Cards, or Mobile Wallets.
7. Submit Application: Review all the entered details carefully and submit the application form.
8. Print Application: After submission, download and print the application form for future reference.

Selection Process 🏆

The selection process comprises two stages:

1. Online Written Examination:
   • The exam will consist of 120 multiple-choice questions, each carrying 1 mark.
   • The duration of the exam will be 80 minutes.
   • The test will assess candidates on the English language, banking knowledge, computer skills, and current economic and general awareness.
2. Interview:
   • Candidates who qualify in the written examination will be shortlisted for an interview.
   • The final selection will be based on the combined performance in the written exam (70% weightage) and the interview (30% weightage).
   • Proficiency in the local language of the respective zone is mandatory.

Important Dates 📅

• Start of Online Application: January 21, 2025
• Last Date to Apply Online: February 9, 2025
• Tentative Date of Online Examination: March 2025
• Interview Date: To be announced later

Salary and Benefits 💰

Selected candidates will receive a salary ranging from Rs. 48,480 to Rs. 85,920 per month. In addition to the basic pay, employees are entitled to various allowances and benefits as per the bank’s policies.

Preparation Tips 📚

• Understand the Exam Pattern: Familiarize yourself with the exam structure and types of questions asked.
• Study Relevant Subjects: Focus on English language proficiency, banking knowledge, computer skills, and current economic and general awareness.
• Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest news in the banking sector and current affairs.

FAQs ❓

1. What is the last date to apply for the Central Bank of India ZBO Recruitment 2025?
   • The last date to submit the online application is February 9, 2025.
2. Is work experience required to apply for the ZBO position?
   • Relevant work experience in scheduled commercial banks, cooperative banks, or