PNB Apprenticeship Recruitment 2026 brings a massive opportunity for 10th/12th pass and graduates seeking hands-on banking experience with a leading public sector bank. Punjab National Bank (PNB) has announced 5,138 apprentice posts, with the online application deadline fixed at 24 February 2026—perfect timing for freshers to kickstart their career in finance.
What is PNB Apprenticeship Program?
PNB’s apprenticeship scheme under the Apprentices Act 1961 offers practical training in banking operations, customer service, and digital finance for one year. These 5,138 vacancies cover multiple states, targeting youth from rural and urban areas to build future-ready banking talent. Selected apprentices earn a stipend while gaining skills that boost employability in PSBs, NBFCs, or fintech firms.
Unlike permanent jobs, this is a structured training program with certification upon completion, often leading to direct absorption or preference in PNB’s regular recruitments. It’s ideal for those eyeing banking as a long-term career without immediate exam pressure.
Vacancy Breakdown and Key Dates
The recruitment targets 5,138 posts distributed across categories (UR, OBC, SC, ST, EWS) and regions like North, East, West, South, and Central India. State-wise quotas ensure balanced representation—e.g., higher numbers in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, and Maharashtra due to branch density.
Applications opened in early February 2026; last date is 24 Feb 2026 (11:59 PM). No extensions expected, so complete registration early. Merit lists based on 10th/12th marks (minimum 50% aggregate for general; relaxations apply).
Eligibility Essentials
Candidates need:
- Minimum 10th pass (some states prefer 12th/graduation for better stipend).
- Age 18-25 years (relaxable by 5 years for SC/ST, 3 for OBC).
- Indian citizenship; no prior apprenticeship experience.
Fresh ITI/ITI-equivalent holders get priority in technical streams. Delhi residents qualify for local postings, minimizing relocation hassles. Prepare marksheets, Aadhaar, photo, and signature in advance—no application fee for any category.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Follow this foolproof process on pnbindia.in/apprenticeship:
- Click “Apply Online” under Latest Announcements.
- Register with mobile/email; note your login credentials securely.
- Fill personal/academic details; select state preference (matches vacancy quota).
- Upload documents (photo <20KB, signature <10KB, JPEG format).
- Preview, submit, and download PDF acknowledgment—deadline 24 Feb 2026.
Bank holidays won’t affect; apply via laptop for smoother upload. Track status post-submission via same portal.
Selection Process Explained
No written exam—purely merit-based on Class 10/12 percentage. Shortlisting happens state-wise:
- Top rankers allotted branches near home state.
- Document verification at allotted PNB branch within 15 days of list release.
- Medical fitness check (basic vision/hearing standards).
Expect lists by March 2026; training starts April-May. Total process wraps in 45 days, faster than competitive exams.
Stipend, Allowances, and Perks
Apprentices receive Rs. 10,000-15,000 monthly stipend (varies by qualification: Rs. 7,000 for 10th pass, up to Rs. 12,500 for graduates). Additional benefits:
- Statutory PF/ESI contributions by PNB.
- 15 days casual leave + 10 earned leave yearly.
- Free skill training in core banking, MS Office, KYC/AML compliance.
- Travel allowance for reporting/joining (metro limits).
Post-training certification from NCVT boosts resumes; 20-30% convert to PNB Specialist Officer/Apprentice roles.
Job Role and Daily Responsibilities
Apprentices assist in:
- Customer transactions, account openings, cash handling under supervision.
- Digital banking demos (UPI, mobile apps, internet banking).
- Back-office tasks like data entry, ledger reconciliation.
- Branch events, financial literacy camps for underserved communities.
Work hours: 9 AM-5 PM (6 days/week), with rotations across teller/cash/systems counters. Delhi postings offer metro exposure; rural ones build grassroots skills.
Career Progression After Apprenticeship
Completion certificate opens doors:
- Direct interviews for PNB Clerk/PO (quota reserved).
- Lateral entry to IBPS/RBI apprentice programs.
- Private banks (HDFC/ICICI) value PNB experience for entry-level roles.
- Further studies (JAIIB/CAIIB) during tenure for promotions.
Many alumni secure permanent PSB jobs within 2 years. For Delhi aspirants, proximity to PNB head office aids networking.
Preparation and Success Tips
With 12 days left:
- Boost Merit Score: Recheck 10th/12th marks; apply for re-evaluation if borderline.
- Document Kit: Aadhaar, PAN initiation, domicile proof, caste cert (if applicable).
- State Research: Choose quota-matching state for higher selection odds.
- Backup Plans: Apply simultaneously to SBI/BOB apprentices (similar deadlines).
Join Telegram channels like “PNB Apprentice 2026” for updates. Fitness isn’t mandatory but maintain discipline for banking culture.
Why PNB Apprenticeship Stands Out
In India’s crowded job market, 5,138 PNB posts mean 1:200 selection ratio—far better than IBPS PO (1:1000). Zero fees, no coaching needed, and stipend from Day 1 make it fresher-friendly. Compared to private apprenticeships, PNB offers NPS eligibility and govt job prestige.
For content creators/digital marketers, this is goldmine content—high search volume on “PNB apprentice bharti” ensures viral posts. Delhi youth get urban postings; Hindi/English bilinguals edge ahead in customer-facing roles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can graduates apply despite 10th eligibility? A: Yes, higher qualification fetches better stipend/posting.
Q: Home state posting guaranteed? A: Priority, but merit decides exact branch.
Q: Extension possible? A: Unlikely; deadlines strict per NAPS guidelines.
Q: Post-training job assured? A: Not guaranteed, but 25% absorption track record.
