Punjab National Bank Announces 5,138 Vacancies for Graduates

New Delhi, February 9, 2026 – In a significant move to bolster the banking sector’s workforce and provide practical training to the nation’s youth, Punjab National Bank (PNB) has officially invited applications for its 2026 Apprentice Recruitment drive. With a total of 5,138 vacancies announced under the Apprentices Act, 1961, this recruitment offers a prime opportunity for recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in one of India’s leading public sector banks.

The application window opened on February 8, 2026, and interested candidates have until February 24, 2026, to complete their registrations.

Vacancies and Training Overview

The 5,138 positions are spread across various states and Union Territories, ensuring a nationwide reach. The apprenticeship is a one-year (12-month) program designed to provide a blend of basic theoretical training and practical on-the-job experience.

• Training Structure: 2 weeks of basic training followed by 50 weeks of on-the-job training.
• Stipend Structure:
  • Metro Branches: ₹15,000 per month.
  • Rural, Semi-Urban, and Urban Branches: ₹12,300 per month.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure a fair and competitive selection, PNB has outlined specific requirements for all applicants:

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Graduate Degree in any discipline from a recognized university. The results must have been declared on or before December 31, 2025.
• Age Limit (as of Jan 1, 2026): Applicants must be between 20 and 28 years old.
  • Note: Candidates should have been born no earlier than January 2, 1998, and no later than January 1, 2006. Standard age relaxations apply for SC, ST, OBC, and PwBD categories as per government norms.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the local language (reading, writing, and speaking) of the state for which the candidate is applying is mandatory.

Selection Process

The selection will be conducted through a multi-stage process to evaluate the aptitude and readiness of the candidates:

1. Online Written Test: Expected to be held in the first week of March 2026.
   • Exam Pattern: 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) for 100 marks.
   • Duration: 60 minutes.
   • Subjects: General/Financial Awareness, General English, Quantitative & Reasoning Aptitude, and Computer Knowledge (25 marks each).
   • Negative Marking: 0.25 marks will be deducted for every incorrect answer.
2. Local Language Test: To verify proficiency in the regional language.
3. Document Verification & Medical Examination: Final stages before formal engagement.

Application Fee Details

The application fee varies based on the candidate’s category:

• General/OBC/EWS (Male): ₹944
• General/OBC/EWS (Female): ₹708
• SC/ST/PwBD/Transgender: ₹236

How to Apply

Eligible candidates can apply through the official PNB website or via the designated BFSI Sector Skill Council portal.

1. Register: Complete your profile on the NATS (National Apprenticeship Training Scheme) or NAPS portal.
2. Apply Online: Visit pnbindia.in and navigate to the “Careers” section.
3. Fill Form: Provide all necessary personal and educational details.
4. Payment: Pay the application fee through the online gateway.
5. Submit: Save a copy of the application form and fee receipt for future reference.