Punjab National Bank (PNB) has released the official notification for 5138 Apprentice vacancies under the Apprentices Act 1961. Eligible candidates can apply online for various trade apprenticeships across different circles and regions of PNB throughout India.
This is a major recruitment opportunity for candidates seeking apprenticeship training in banking and allied trades with one of India’s leading public sector banks.
Latest Update (February 2026)
5th February 2026: Punjab National Bank has officially announced 5138 Apprentice positions for the year 2026 on the official website pnbindia.in. The online application process has commenced and eligible candidates can submit their applications before the deadline.
This apprenticeship program offers valuable training and experience in banking operations, computer applications, and other technical trades. Selected apprentices will receive a monthly stipend and hands-on training at PNB branches and offices across India.
Recruitment Overview
| Recruitment Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Punjab National Bank (PNB) |
| Post Name | Apprentice (Various Trades) |
| Total Vacancies | 5138 Posts |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Apprenticeship Duration | 1 Year |
| Job Location | All India (Circle-wise) |
| Official Website | pnbindia.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | February 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | To be notified (likely 20-30 days from start) |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | Same as application deadline |
| Shortlist/Merit List Release | To be notified |
| Document Verification | To be notified |
| Training Commencement | To be notified |
Note: Candidates should regularly check the official PNB website for exact dates and updates.
Vacancy Details – Circle-wise Distribution
Total Vacancies: 5138 Apprentices
Circle-wise Tentative Distribution:
| Circle/Region | Approximate Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Delhi Circle | 400-500 |
| Mumbai Circle | 450-550 |
| Kolkata Circle | 350-400 |
| Chennai Circle | 300-350 |
| Bangalore Circle | 300-350 |
| Hyderabad Circle | 250-300 |
| Ahmedabad Circle | 250-300 |
| Chandigarh Circle | 200-250 |
| Lucknow Circle | 200-250 |
| Jaipur Circle | 150-200 |
| Bhopal Circle | 150-200 |
| Patna Circle | 150-200 |
| Other Circles | 1000-1200 |
Note: Exact circle-wise and trade-wise vacancy distribution is available in the detailed official notification PDF.
Trade-wise Vacancy Distribution:
Major Trade Categories:
- Graduate Apprentice:
- Any Graduate (B.Com/BA/B.Sc)
- MBA/PGDM
- CA/ICWA (Intermediate/Final)
- Technician Apprentice:
- ITI in relevant trades
- Diploma holders
- Technical certificate holders
- Trade Apprentice:
- Banking Operations
- Computer Applications
- Accounts & Finance
- Marketing & Sales Support
- HR & Administration
Category-wise Reservation:
| Category | Reservation |
|---|---|
| SC | 15% |
| ST | 7.5% |
| OBC | 27% |
| EWS | 10% |
| Unreserved (UR) | 40.5% |
| PwBD | 4% (horizontal) |
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
For Graduate Apprentice:
✅ Minimum Qualification:
- Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline (B.Com/BA/B.Sc/BBA/BCA)
- Minimum 60% marks for General/EWS/OBC candidates
- Minimum 55% marks for SC/ST/PwBD candidates
- Degree from UGC recognized university
✅ Preferred Qualifications:
- B.Com/M.Com (for accounts/finance related work)
- BBA/MBA (for business operations)
- BCA/MCA (for IT related work)
- CA/ICWA Intermediate/Final
For Technician Apprentice:
✅ Minimum Qualification:
- ITI certificate in relevant trade from NCVT recognized institute
- Diploma in Engineering (Polytechnic) – Computer/IT/Electronics
- Minimum 60% marks in qualifying examination
For Trade Apprentice:
✅ Minimum Qualification:
- 10+2 (12th) pass in any stream
- OR ITI in relevant trade
- Basic computer knowledge
Important:
- All certificates must be from recognized boards/universities
- Provisional degree holders can apply
- Final year students NOT eligible
Age Limit
As on 1st February 2026:
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General/EWS | 18 years | 28 years |
| OBC | 18 years | 31 years |
| SC/ST | 18 years | 33 years |
| PwBD (UR) | 18 years | 38 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 18 years | 41 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 18 years | 43 years |
Age Relaxation Rules:
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST | 5 years |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 3 years |
| PwBD (General) | 10 years |
| PwBD (OBC) | 13 years |
| PwBD (SC/ST) | 15 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per government rules |
| Widows/Divorced Women | 9 years (General), 12 years (OBC), 14 years (SC/ST) |
Note:
- Age will be calculated as on the date mentioned in notification
- Age relaxation is cumulative where applicable
Domicile/Location Preference
Important Points:
- Candidates can apply for one circle only
- Circle preference cannot be changed after submission
- Local language proficiency may be required
- Preference given to local candidates (as per circle rules)
Computer Knowledge
Mandatory Requirement:
- Basic computer skills required
- Knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Email and internet browsing
- Certificate desirable but not mandatory
Selection Process
Stage 1: Application Screening
- Verification of educational qualifications
- Age criteria checking
- Category validation
- Document authenticity
Stage 2: Merit List Preparation
Merit Based On:
- For Graduate Apprentice:
- Percentage of marks in highest qualification (70%)
- Percentage in 10+2 (15%)
- Percentage in 10th (15%)
- For ITI/Diploma Holders:
- Percentage of marks in ITI/Diploma (80%)
- Percentage in 10th (20%)
Merit List Features:
- Separate for each circle
- Category-wise merit
- Trade-wise merit (if applicable)
- Tie-breaking rules as per notification
Stage 3: Document Verification
For Shortlisted Candidates:
- Original certificate verification
- Category certificate checking
- Medical examination (if required)
- Character verification
Stage 4: Final Selection
- Based on merit list ranking
- Subject to document verification
- Medical fitness
- Final offer letter issuance
No Written Test or Interview for most apprentice positions (unless specified for specific trades)
Stipend & Benefits
Monthly Stipend (Tentative):
| Qualification Level | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Graduate Apprentice | ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Diploma Holder | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 |
| ITI Holder | ₹7,000 – ₹10,000 |
| 10+2 Level | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 |
Note: Exact stipend amount will be as per Government guidelines and PNB policy.
Additional Benefits:
✅ During Apprenticeship:
- Practical banking training
- Exposure to various banking operations
- Certificate upon successful completion
- No bond or service obligation
- Leave as per Apprentices Act
- Accident insurance coverage
✅ After Completion:
- Apprenticeship completion certificate from PNB
- Experience certificate
- Preference in future PNB recruitments (as per policy)
- Enhanced employability in banking sector
- Valuable practical experience
Important Notes:
- Apprenticeship is NOT a job/employment
- No guarantee of permanent job after completion
- Stipend is taxable as per Income Tax rules
- EPF/ESI may not be applicable
Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General/EWS/OBC | ₹500 – ₹800 |
| SC/ST/PwBD | ₹100 – ₹250 (or exempted) |
| Women Candidates | Same as respective category |
Payment Mode:
- Online payment only
- Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking/UPI
- Payment gateway charges extra (if applicable)
- Application fee is non-refundable and non-transferable
Important:
- Keep payment receipt/transaction ID safe
- Take screenshot of successful payment
- Fee once paid cannot be refunded under any circumstances
How to Apply for PNB Apprentice 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process:
Step 1: Visit Official Website
- Go to pnbindia.in
- Click on “Careers” or “Recruitment” section
- Find “Apprentice Recruitment 2026” notification
Step 2: Read Notification Carefully
- Download detailed notification PDF
- Check eligibility criteria thoroughly
- Note down important dates
- Understand vacancy distribution
Step 3: Registration
- Click on “Apply Online” link
- You’ll be redirected to registration page
- Enter basic details:
- Full Name (as per 10th certificate)
- Date of Birth
- Email ID (valid and active)
- Mobile Number (10-digit)
- Verify Email and Mobile via OTP
- Create strong password
- Note down Registration Number immediately
- Keep registration confirmation email safe
Step 4: Fill Application Form
Login with Registration Number and Password, then fill:
Personal Details:
- Full name, father’s/mother’s name
- Date of birth, gender
- Category (General/SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD)
- Marital status, nationality
- Contact details (address, email, mobile)
Educational Qualification:
- 10th details (Board, Year, Percentage, Roll No)
- 12th details (Stream, Board, Year, Percentage)
- Graduation details (Degree, University, Year, Percentage)
- Any additional qualification (ITI/Diploma/PG)
Other Details:
- Circle/Region preference (CANNOT BE CHANGED)
- Trade preference (if applicable)
- Language proficiency
- Computer knowledge
- Work experience (if any)
Step 5: Upload Documents
Required Scanned Documents:
- Recent Photograph:
- Passport size, colored
- White background
- JPG format, 10-50 KB
- Face clearly visible
- Taken within last 3 months
- Signature:
- On white paper with black ink
- JPG format, 5-20 KB
- Clear and legible
- Educational Certificates:
- 10th mark sheet/certificate
- 12th mark sheet (if applicable)
- Graduation degree/provisional certificate
- All mark sheets (all semesters)
- ITI/Diploma certificate (if applicable)
- Category Certificates:
- SC/ST certificate (as per latest format)
- OBC-NCL certificate (valid for 2025-26)
- EWS certificate (valid for current financial year)
- PwBD certificate (minimum 40% disability)
- Other Documents:
- Aadhar Card
- PAN Card (if available)
- Domicile certificate (if required)
File Format Guidelines:
- Photo/Signature: JPG only
- Certificates: PDF/JPG
- Maximum size: 50-200 KB per file
- All documents must be clear and readable
Step 6: Preview Application
- Review all entered information carefully
- Check for spelling errors
- Verify dates and percentages
- Ensure documents are properly uploaded
- Make corrections if needed
Step 7: Pay Application Fee
- Proceed to payment page
- Select payment mode (Net Banking/Card/UPI)
- Enter payment details
- Complete transaction
- Save payment receipt/Transaction ID
- Take screenshot of successful payment
Step 8: Final Submission
- Check declaration checkbox
- Click “Submit” button
- Application submission confirmation appears
- Download Application Form PDF
- Take printout for future reference
- Note down Application Number
- Save confirmation email
Important Post-Submission:
- Keep multiple printouts of submitted application
- Save PDF in multiple locations (email, cloud, drive)
- Note down important numbers (Registration, Application, Transaction ID)
- Keep all documents ready for verification
Important Links
| Action | Link |
|---|---|
| Apply Online for PNB Apprentice 2026 | PNB Official Website |
| Download Official Notification | Notification PDF |
| Check Detailed Vacancy Distribution | Vacancy Details |
| Registration Portal | Apply Here |
| Track Application Status | Application Tracking |
| Payment Status Check | Verify Payment |
| Official Website | pnbindia.in |
| Helpdesk/Support | Contact Support |
Note: Candidates must visit the official PNB website at pnbindia.in and navigate to “Careers → Current Openings → Apprentice Recruitment 2026” for direct access to the application portal and detailed notification.
Documents Required (Complete Checklist)
For All Candidates (Mandatory):
- [ ] Recent passport size photograph (colored, JPG, 10-50 KB)
- [ ] Signature specimen (JPG, 5-20 KB)
- [ ] Class 10th certificate (age proof)
- [ ] Class 10th mark sheet
- [ ] Class 12th certificate (if applicable)
- [ ] Class 12th mark sheet
- [ ] Graduation degree/provisional certificate
- [ ] All semester mark sheets (consolidated/individual)
- [ ] Aadhar Card (scanned copy)
- [ ] PAN Card (if available)
Category-Specific Documents:
For SC/ST Candidates:
- [ ] Caste certificate (issued by competent authority)
- [ ] Format as per Government of India guidelines
For OBC Candidates:
- [ ] OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) certificate
- [ ] Valid for assessment year 2025-26
- [ ] Issued within last 1 year
- [ ] Central Government format
For EWS Candidates:
- [ ] EWS certificate
- [ ] Valid for financial year 2025-26
- [ ] Income certificate (family income < ₹8 lakh)
- [ ] Issued by competent authority
For PwBD Candidates:
- [ ] Disability certificate
- [ ] Minimum 40% disability
- [ ] Issued by competent medical board
- [ ] Specify type of disability
Optional/Additional Documents:
- [ ] ITI certificate (if applicable)
- [ ] Diploma certificate (if applicable)
- [ ] Computer certificate
- [ ] Work experience certificate (if any)
- [ ] Domicile/residence certificate
- [ ] Character certificate
- [ ] Migration certificate (if university changed)
Important Instructions
Before Applying:
- ✅ Read complete official notification carefully
- ✅ Check eligibility criteria thoroughly (qualification, age, category)
- ✅ Decide circle preference (cannot be changed later)
- ✅ Arrange all required documents
- ✅ Get good quality scanned copies in correct format
- ✅ Keep valid email ID and mobile number active
- ✅ Have payment method ready
While Applying:
- ✅ Fill form in single sitting if possible
- ✅ Use desktop/laptop (mobile may have issues)
- ✅ Ensure stable internet connection
- ✅ Fill all mandatory fields (marked with *)
- ✅ Upload documents in correct format and size
- ✅ Double-check all information before submission
- ✅ Take screenshot at each important step
- ✅ Save payment receipt immediately
After Applying:
- ✅ Download and save submitted application PDF
- ✅ Take multiple printouts
- ✅ Save all confirmation emails
- ✅ Note down important numbers/IDs
- ✅ Keep checking official website regularly
- ✅ Check email and SMS for updates
- ✅ Be alert for merit list/shortlist announcements
- ✅ Keep all original documents ready for verification
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
❌ Wrong email ID or mobile number entry ❌ Uploading wrong size/format documents ❌ Not taking printout of submitted form ❌ Selecting wrong circle (cannot be changed) ❌ Entering incorrect educational details ❌ Not saving payment receipt ❌ Applying after deadline ❌ Providing false information
Contact Information
Punjab National Bank – Head Office
Corporate Office Address:
Punjab National Bank
7, Bhikaji Cama Place
New Delhi – 110066
For Recruitment Queries:
Email:
- Apprentice Recruitment: recruitment@pnb.co.in
- General HR Queries: hrho@pnb.co.in
- Technical Support: support@pnbindia.in
Helpline Numbers:
- Toll-Free: 1800-180-2222 / 1800-103-2222
- Corporate Office: 011-26188800
- HR Department: As per notification
Official Website:
- Main Site: pnbindia.in
- Careers: pnbindia.in/careers
Helpdesk Timing:
Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Sunday & Bank Holidays: Closed
Circle-wise Contact:
- For circle-specific queries, contact respective regional offices
- Contact details available in detailed notification
Social Media:
- Follow PNB official handles for updates
- Twitter: @pnbindia
- Facebook: Punjab National Bank Official
Preparation Tips
For Document Verification Stage:
What to Prepare:
- Keep all original certificates ready
- Arrange in chronological order
- Make multiple photocopies (self-attested)
- Carry additional photographs
- Keep ID proofs ready
- Have experience certificates (if any)
Professional Approach:
- Dress formally for verification
- Reach venue on time
- Be polite and cooperative
- Answer questions honestly
- Don’t argue with officials
- Follow all instructions
After Selection:
Training Preparation:
- Brush up basic banking knowledge
- Improve computer skills
- Practice professional communication
- Learn basic banking terminology
- Understand RBI guidelines basics
- Stay updated with banking news
- Be ready to learn and adapt
Professional Development:
- Take training seriously
- Learn from experienced staff
- Network with colleagues
- Ask questions when in doubt
- Maintain professional behavior
- Document your learnings
FAQs
Q1: When did PNB release the notification for 5138 Apprentice posts?
Punjab National Bank released the official notification for 5138 Apprentice positions in February 2026. Candidates can apply online through the official website pnbindia.in before the deadline mentioned in the notification.
Q2: What is the educational qualification required for PNB Apprentice 2026?
For Graduate Apprentice: Any graduation (B.Com/BA/B.Sc) with minimum 60% marks (55% for SC/ST). For Technician Apprentice: ITI/Diploma in relevant trade. For Trade Apprentice: 10+2 pass or ITI certificate.
Q3: What is the age limit for PNB Bank Apprentice recruitment?
The age limit is 18-28 years for General/EWS candidates as on the cut-off date. Age relaxation: 3 years for OBC, 5 years for SC/ST, and 10 years for PwBD candidates as per government rules.
Q4: Is there any application fee for PNB Apprentice 2026?
Yes, the application fee is approximately ₹500-800 for General/EWS/OBC candidates and ₹100-250 (or exempted) for SC/ST/PwBD candidates. Payment is through online mode only and is non-refundable.
Q5: What is the selection process for PNB Apprentice recruitment?
Selection is merit-based without written test or interview (generally). Merit list is prepared based on percentage of marks in highest qualification, 10+2, and 10th standard, followed by document verification.
Q6: What is the monthly stipend for PNB Apprentices?
The monthly stipend ranges from ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 depending on qualification level. Graduate apprentices receive higher stipend (₹10,000-15,000), while ITI/Diploma holders receive ₹7,000-12,000 approximately.
Q7: Can I change my circle preference after submitting the application?
No, circle/region preference cannot be changed after application submission. Candidates should carefully select their preferred circle during application as this choice is final and binding.
Q8: Will PNB apprentices get permanent jobs after training completion?
Apprenticeship is a training program, not direct employment. However, PNB may give preference to trained apprentices in future recruitments. There is no guarantee or obligation of permanent job after apprenticeship completion.
Q9: How long is the PNB apprenticeship training period?
The apprenticeship training period is typically 1 year (12 months) as per the Apprentices Act 1961. During this period, apprentices receive practical training in banking operations along with monthly stipend.
Conclusion
The PNB Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2026 for 5138 vacancies is an excellent opportunity for graduates, diploma holders, and ITI certificate holders to gain valuable banking sector experience. The apprenticeship provides hands-on training, monthly stipend, and a prestigious certificate from one of India’s leading public sector banks.
Eligible candidates should apply online before the deadline, prepare all required documents, and follow the application process carefully. This apprenticeship can serve as a strong foundation for a career in the banking and financial services sector.
Stay updated with FreeSarkariJobAlert.com for more notifications on PNB apprentice merit list, document verification schedule, training commencement dates, and other banking recruitment opportunities.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about PNB Apprentice Recruitment 2026. Candidates must refer to the official notification at pnbindia.in for complete, authentic, and updated information. FreeSarkariJobAlert.com is not responsible for any inadvertent errors or changes in the recruitment process.