Punjab National Bank, India's second-largest public sector bank with over 10,000 branches, has opened recruitment for 5,138 apprentices. This is not a permanent bank job — let us be clear about that upfront. It is a one-year structured apprenticeship under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme that gives you hands-on banking experience, a monthly stipend, and a credential that can open doors to permanent banking positions later. For fresh graduates who want to enter banking but have not yet cleared IBPS or SBI exams, PNB apprenticeship is a practical stepping stone.
What PNB Apprentices Do
During the one-year program, you rotate through core banking departments — savings and current accounts, cash handling, loan processing, customer service, and digital banking. You learn to operate the Core Banking Solution (CBS) system that PNB uses, process cheque clearings, handle KYC documentation, assist in loan document verification, and manage customer inquiries. The training is structured with periodic assessments. You work regular banking hours (10 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Saturday half-day) and experience the real-world operations of one of India's largest banks.
Stipend — Not a Salary, But Meaningful
The monthly stipend is approximately Rs 15,000 as per apprenticeship norms. This is not subject to PF or tax deductions, so the entire amount is in-hand. PNB also provides limited medical coverage during the apprenticeship period. The stipend is modest but consider the alternative — spending the same year in unpaid exam preparation. At least as an apprentice, you earn while you learn, and the banking experience you gain is directly relevant to IBPS and SBI recruitment exams.
Eligibility
Graduation from any recognized university with a minimum percentage (usually 60% for general, relaxed for reserved categories). You must not have undergone apprenticeship training in any bank before. Age limit is typically 20-28 years. The selection is based on merit — your graduation marks determine your ranking. There is no written examination, making this one of the most straightforward entries into the banking ecosystem.
What Happens After the Apprenticeship
After completing the apprenticeship, you receive a certificate from the Regional Director of Apprenticeship. PNB is not obligated to offer you a permanent position. However, ex-apprentices with banking experience consistently perform better in IBPS PO, Clerk, and SBI recruitment exams because they already understand banking operations, terminology, and workflows. Some ex-PNB apprentices are absorbed into contractual roles within the bank. With 5,138 positions across India, the location preference system allows you to be placed at a branch near your home town — banking exposure without relocating.