The PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification has been officially released for a massive 5138 apprentice vacancies across India. This is a golden opportunity for graduates seeking hands-on experience in the banking sector under one of India’s leading public sector banks.
The recruitment drive is being conducted by Punjab National Bank (PNB), and the online application process is currently active. Interested candidates can submit their applications before the last date – 24th February 2026.
The apprenticeship program offers structured banking training along with a monthly stipend, making it an excellent stepping stone for candidates aspiring to build a career in banking and finance.
PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 – Overview
Here’s a quick summary of the recruitment drive:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Conducting Body | Punjab National Bank (PNB) |
| Post Name | Apprentice |
| Total Vacancies | 5138 |
| Advertisement Number | HRD/APPRENTICE/ADVT/2025-26 |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Age Limit | 20 to 28 years |
| Educational Qualification | Graduation |
| Selection Process | Online CBT, Local Language Test, Medical |
| Official Website | www.pnbindia.in |
The online registration process is ongoing and will remain open till 24 February 2026.
Important Dates
Candidates must keep track of these important dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | 5 February 2026 |
| Apply Online Starts | 8 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 24 February 2026 |
| Online Exam | 1st Week of March 2026 |
Applicants are advised to complete the application process early to avoid last-minute server issues.
Total Vacancies – 5138 Apprentices
PNB has announced 5138 apprenticeship seats distributed across multiple states and union territories. The vacancies are categorized under UR, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PwBD as per Government of India norms.
Some major states with high vacancy numbers include:
- Uttar Pradesh – 814
- West Bengal – 532
- Punjab – 462
- Delhi – 417
- Rajasthan – 363
- Haryana – 348
- Bihar – 310
This wide distribution ensures opportunities for candidates from across the country.
PNB Apprentice Eligibility Criteria 2026
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the required eligibility conditions.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have completed Graduation from a recognized university/college/institute approved by:
- Government of India
- UGC
- AICTE
The graduation degree must be completed before the specified cutoff date mentioned in the notification.
Age Limit (As on 01/01/2026)
- Minimum Age: 20 years
- Maximum Age: 28 years
Age Relaxation
Age relaxation is applicable as per government rules:
- SC/ST – 5 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) – 3 years
- PwBD – 10 years
- Widows/Divorced Women (not remarried):
- General/EWS – up to 35 years
- OBC – up to 38 years
- SC/ST – up to 40 years
Candidates must provide valid documents to claim relaxation benefits.
PNB Apprentice Salary Structure
Selected candidates will receive a fixed monthly stipend depending on branch location.
| Branch Type | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Rural / Semi-Urban / Urban | ₹12,300 |
| Metro | ₹15,000 |
The apprenticeship does not guarantee permanent employment but offers valuable banking experience.
Apprenticeship Duration
The total apprenticeship period is 1 year (52 weeks):
| Training Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic Training | 2 Weeks |
| On-the-Job Training | 50 Weeks |
| Total Duration | 1 Year |
This structured training helps candidates gain practical exposure in banking operations.
PNB Apprentice Application Fee 2026
The application fee must be paid online via Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI. The fee is non-refundable.
Male Candidates:
- GEN/OBC/EWS – ₹944 (including GST)
- SC/ST/PwBD – ₹236 (including GST)
Female Candidates:
- GEN/OBC/EWS – ₹708 (including GST)
- SC/ST/PwBD – ₹236 (including GST)
Transgender Candidates:
- ₹236 (including GST)
Candidates should ensure successful payment confirmation before submitting the application.
How to Apply for PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026?
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official website – www.pnbindia.in
- Scroll to the “Career/Recruitment” section.
- Click on “Recruitment For 5138 Posts of Apprentices”.
- Select the Apply Online link.
- Complete new registration using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill in personal, educational, and category details.
- Upload scanned documents (photo, signature, graduation certificate).
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit and download the confirmation page for future reference.
Candidates must fill the form carefully, as incorrect details may lead to rejection.
PNB Apprentice Selection Process 2026
The selection process consists of three stages:
Stage 1 – Online Written Test (CBT)
Candidates will appear for a computer-based test consisting of 100 questions.
Stage 2 – Test of Local Language
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the local language of the state they are applying for.
Stage 3 – Medical Examination & Document Verification
Final selection will depend on:
- Qualifying written exam
- Passing local language test
- Medical fitness
- Document verification
PNB Apprentice Exam Pattern 2026
The online exam will consist of 4 sections:
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| General/Financial Awareness | 25 | 25 | |
| General English | 25 | 25 | |
| Quantitative & Reasoning Aptitude | 25 | 25 | |
| Computer Knowledge | 25 | 25 | |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 Minutes |
- No sectional timing
- Medium: English & Hindi (except English section)
Candidates must prepare thoroughly for banking awareness and reasoning topics.
State-Wise Local Language Requirement
Candidates must be proficient in the local language of the state they are applying to. For example:
- Andhra Pradesh – Telugu / Urdu
- Maharashtra – Marathi
- Tamil Nadu – Tamil
- Gujarat – Gujarati
- West Bengal – Bengali
- Punjab – Punjabi / Hindi
- Uttar Pradesh – Hindi / Urdu
Failure to qualify the local language test will result in disqualification.
Why Apply for PNB Apprentice 2026?
The PNB apprenticeship program offers:
- Hands-on banking experience
- Exposure to public sector banking operations
- Attractive monthly stipend
- Enhanced employability
- Structured training model
For fresh graduates, this opportunity provides practical knowledge that strengthens their banking career profile.
Final Words
The PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is one of the largest apprenticeship drives in the banking sector this year, offering 5138 vacancies across India.
With the application deadline set for 24 February 2026, candidates must act quickly. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare required documents, and complete your application well before the last date.
The online examination is scheduled for the first week of March 2026, so begin your preparation immediately to maximize your chances of selection.
If you are a graduate looking to gain valuable banking experience, this is an opportunity you should not miss.
