SBI FLC Counsellor & Director Recruitment 2026 for Retired Bank Officers – 257 Vacancies

SBI Recruitment 2026 – Overview

The State Bank of India (SBI) has released a significant contractual engagement opportunity for its retired officers and clerical staff. Advertisement No. CRPD/RS/2025-26/23 invites applications for the positions of Financial Literacy Centre (FLC) Counsellor and FLC Director across all its circles in India. A total of 257 vacancies (246 for Counsellor and 11 for Director) are available. The selection process is streamlined and purely based on an interview, with no written examination. This initiative aims to leverage the vast experience of retired banking professionals to promote financial literacy at the grassroots level.

Eligibility, Selection Process & Key Highlights

Candidates applying must be retired officers from SBI, other Public Sector Banks (PSBs), or Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) who retired on superannuation at the age of 60. The age limit for application is strictly between 60 and 63 years as of 31 January 2026. For Counsellors, eligibility extends from Scale I to Scale IV officers, while only Scale III & IV officers can apply for Director posts. Selection is based solely on interview performance, and the engagement is contractual for up to 3 years or until the candidate attains 65 years of age. Applicants must possess proficiency in the local language, working knowledge of computers, and a smart mobile phone.

About Important Dates of SBI FLC Recruitment 2026

The timeline for SBI FLC Recruitment 2026 is concise and critical. The application window is open for a limited period from 05 to 26 February 2026. It is crucial to note that the cut-off date for determining all eligibility criteria, especially age, is 31 January 2026. This means your age and retirement status will be calculated as on this specific date, not the date of application. A significant point for candidates is the absence of a separate correction window after final submission. The system allows only three chances to edit a saved application before you finally submit it. Therefore, extreme care must be taken while filling the form. All further communications regarding interviews will be sent via email, so candidates must regularly check their registered email and the SBI careers website for updates.

About Application Fees for SBI FLC Recruitment 2026

In a notable departure from many recruitment processes, SBI has not prescribed any application fee for this engagement drive. This applies uniformly to all categories of candidates, including General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, and Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD). This policy makes the application process completely free of cost, removing a potential financial barrier for retired officials. Since there is no fee involved, there are no associated details regarding payment modes or refund policies. Candidates should, however, be cautious of fake websites or intermediaries who might charge money for facilitating the application. The entire process, from registration to submission, is to be completed free of charge on the official SBI careers portal.

About Age Limit for SBI FLC Recruitment 2026

The age criteria for this engagement are specific and non-negotiable. You must be between 60 and 63 years old as of 31 January 2026. This directly translates to a date of birth falling between 01 February 1963 and 31 January 1966. A critical aspect is that there is no age relaxation for any category, including SC, ST, OBC, EWS, or PwBD. The maximum age limit is uniformly applied to all. Furthermore, even if selected, your contractual engagement cannot extend beyond the date you attain 65 years of age. This rule impacts the tenure of the contract, which is initially for two years and extendable by one year, subject to performance, but always capped at age 65. Candidates must ensure they meet this strict age bracket; applications from those even a day younger than 60 or older than 63 will be summarily rejected.

About Vacancy Details of SBI FLC Recruitment 2026

The SBI has announced a total of 257 vacancies distributed across two distinct roles: FLC Counsellor and FLC Director. The 246 Counsellor posts are further divided into 211 "current" vacancies and 35 "backlog" vacancies from previous cycles. Similarly, the 11 Director posts comprise 10 current and 1 backlog vacancy. These positions are spread across all 17 SBI Circles in India, as detailed in Annexure-I of the notification. The distribution ensures a pan-India presence for the Financial Literacy Centres. Understanding the vacancy split is important because the selection and merit listing will be done circle-wise and category-wise. Candidates must apply for a specific circle and cannot later claim a change in posting location based on vacancy. The backlog vacancies are specific to certain categories and circles, offering opportunities where representation was previously inadequate.

Common & Post-Wise Eligibility

The eligibility criteria are defined by retirement status, past service grade, and essential skills.

Common Eligibility for All Posts:

• Must have retired on superannuation at the age of 60 from SBI/other PSBs/RRBs.
• Voluntary retirement (except under specific SBI circular), resignation, dismissal, or leaving service before superannuation makes a candidate ineligible.
• Proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding the local language of the applied circle.
• Working knowledge of computers is essential.
• Must possess a smart mobile phone.
• Must be in good health, free from major ailments.
• Should have a clean service record: no punishment/penalty (censure or higher) in the last 5 years of service, no pending CBI/legal cases.

Post-Wise Eligibility:

Post	Who Can Apply	Educational Qualification
FLC Counsellor	Retired Officers in Scale I to Scale IV from SBI/PSBs/RRBs. If officers are not available, retired SBI clerical staff may be considered.	Not Applicable (NA). No specific degree required.
FLC Director	Retired Officers in Scale III & IV only from SBI/PSBs/RRBs.	Not Applicable (NA). No specific degree required.

About Category Wise Vacancies for SBI FLC Recruitment 2026

The vacancy distribution follows the Government of India's reservation policy. For FLC Counsellors, out of 246 posts, 114 are for Unreserved (UR) candidates, 74 for OBC, 29 for SC, 14 for ST, and 15 for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). It is important to distinguish between "current" and "backlog" vacancies. Backlog vacancies are those that remained unfilled from previous recruitment cycles and are now being carried forward. For instance, all 26 OBC backlog posts for Counsellors must be filled by OBC candidates meeting the non-creamy layer criteria. The PwBD reservation is "horizontal," meaning it is applied within each vertical category (UR, OBC, etc.). For example, a post reserved for VI (Visually Impaired) will be filled by a candidate from the respective social category who also has a VI disability certificate. Candidates must apply under the correct category and ensure they have the valid, recently issued certificates to claim the benefit during document verification.

About Exam Pattern for SBI FLC Recruitment 2026

The selection process is refreshingly straightforward for experienced bankers: there is no written examination. This is a significant point that sets this engagement apart from typical recruitments. The process consists of two stages. First, a committee will shortlist candidates based on their application details, which include their retirement grade, service history, experience, and suitability for the role. Merely meeting the minimum eligibility does not guarantee an interview call. Second, shortlisted candidates will face a formal interview carrying 100 marks. The Bank will decide the qualifying marks for the interview. The final merit list for each circle and category will be prepared solely based on the interview scores in descending order. In case two candidates score the same, the tie is broken in favor of the older candidate. This places a premium on performance in the personal interview, where candidates must effectively articulate their experience and vision for the FLC role.

About Physical Eligibility for SBI FLC Recruitment 2026

Since these are contractual posts for retired officials, there are no specific physical standards like height, weight, or chest measurements, nor is there a Physical Efficiency Test (PET). However, the notification emphasizes a critical condition regarding health. Candidates must be in good health and should not be suffering from any major ailments that could hinder their ability to perform the duties of an FLC Counsellor or Director, which may involve travel and conducting camps. Most importantly, the final engagement offer is contingent upon the candidate being declared medically fit as per the Bank's standards at the time of joining. This medical examination will be arranged by the Bank. Candidates with chronic or debilitating health conditions that could affect their regular attendance or performance should consider this before applying, as failure in the medical test will lead to disqualification.

Key Notes on Salary:

• The remuneration is a fixed, lump-sum amount paid monthly and is without prejudice to your pension.
• This amount remains unchanged for the entire tenure of the contract (up to 3 years).
• No other benefits like PF, Bonus, Gratuity, Medical Reimbursement, or Pension accrual from this engagement are provided.
• For official outstation travel (e.g., for training), you will be entitled to allowances applicable to your grade at retirement.
• Income Tax will be deducted at source (TDS) as per prevailing rules.

As the selection is based solely on an interview and there is no written test, no specific syllabus is prescribed by the State Bank of India.

However, candidates are advised to prepare for the interview by focusing on their domain expertise and experience in banking, particularly in areas relevant to financial literacy. This may include:

• Knowledge of basic banking products and services (Savings, Loans, Insurance, Pension).
• Understanding of financial inclusion schemes (Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana, etc.).
• Awareness of digital banking and cyber security practices.
• Familiarity with the Charter of Customer Rights and grievance redressal mechanisms.
• Understanding the role and functioning of Financial Literacy Centres (FLCs).
• Ability to communicate effectively and train diverse groups (farmers, SHGs, students, senior citizens).

The interview will assess your overall suitability, communication skills, and passion for contributing to financial literacy.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Visit Official Website: Go to SBI Careers portal: https://sbi.bank.in/web/careers/current-openings.
2. Find Advertisement: Locate and click on the link for Advertisement No. CRPD/RS/2025-26/23 for FLC engagement.
3. Registration: Click on "Apply Online" and register using a valid, active email ID and mobile number.
4. Fill Application: Log in with your credentials and fill the online application form carefully.
   • Select the desired Circle and Post (Counsellor/Director).
   • Fill in personal, retirement, and service details accurately.
5. Save and Edit: You can save the partly filled form. The system will generate a Provisional Registration Number and Password. Note these down carefully. You can reopen and edit the saved form only three times.
6. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of photograph, signature, and required documents in the specified format and size (see below).
7. Final Submission: Review all details thoroughly. Once satisfied, finally submit the application. No changes can be made after final submission.
8. Printout: Take a printout of the finally submitted application form for your records. Do not send it to the Bank.

Documents to Upload (Specifications)

Document	Format	Specifications
Recent Photograph	JPG/JPEG	20-50 KB, 200x230 pixels, White background, Passport style.
Signature	JPG/JPEG	10-20 KB, 140x60 pixels, Signed on white paper with black ink.
10-year Experience Biodata (Prescribed format)	PDF	Max 1024 KB.
ID Proof, DOB Proof, Caste/EWS/PwBD Certificate	PDF	Max 500 KB per document. Clear and readable.

Beyond the standard details, this SBI engagement notification contains several critical clauses that candidates must understand thoroughly to ensure a smooth application and tenure.

Contractual Nature, Tenure, and Performance Linkage

This engagement is purely contractual and does not constitute an extension of service or re-employment. The initial contract is for a period of two years, which may be extended by one more year based on a satisfactory quarterly performance review conducted through the Bank's HRMS system. However, the absolute upper limit is the date you attain 65 years of age. Continuation is not automatic; it is performance-dependent. You will be entitled to 30 days of leave per year (pro-rata), but sanction is at the Bank's discretion. Unavailed leave due to administrative reasons may be encashed at contract end. This structure emphasizes that while it offers post-retirement engagement, it demands consistent performance and is not a permanent arrangement.

Stringent Eligibility and Integrity Checks

The eligibility criteria are strict and verification is rigorous. Only officers who retired on superannuation at the age of 60 are eligible. Those who took voluntary retirement (except under a specific SBI circular), resigned, were dismissed, or left service earlier are not eligible. Your service record in the last five years must be clean—no penalties of censure or higher. There should be no pending cases with the CBI or other enforcement agencies. At the time of engagement, you must provide a proper discharge certificate from your last employer. The Bank will also conduct police verification. Any discrepancy or suppression of facts, even discovered after engagement, can lead to immediate termination of contract and potential legal consequences.

Job Role, Restrictions, and Compliance

The roles are clearly defined: FLC Counsellors conduct financial literacy camps for specific target groups and report to the FLC Director, who manages the centre and reports to the AGM at the Local Head Office. Crucially, engaged retirees must not accept any other assignment with any other organization during the contract period. You will have no administrative or financial powers. You are also bound by confidentiality and must not divulge any sensitive information obtained during the assignment. A stamped Service Level Agreement (SLA) defining key performance metrics must be executed before starting. The Bank reserves the right to post you anywhere in India, even to a centre not listed initially. These conditions ensure the role remains focused, compliant, and aligned strictly with the Bank's objectives for financial literacy.

Critical Warnings for Application and Certificate Validity

The application process has zero tolerance for errors. There is no separate correction window after final submission. You get only three chances to edit a saved form. If the uploaded photograph or signature is unclear, the application may be rejected. For candidates applying under reserved categories, certificate validity is paramount. OBC candidates must provide a non-creamy layer certificate issued between 01.04.2025 and the date of the interview, containing the requisite clauses. EWS candidates must produce an Income & Asset Certificate for FY 2024-25 as per DoPT guidelines at the time of document verification; failure will lead to disqualification from the EWS quota. SC/ST certificates must be in the prescribed format. Adherence to these specific document rules is as important as meeting the age and retirement criteria.

1. Is there any application fee for SBI FLC Recruitment 2026?

No. The State Bank of India has not prescribed any application fee for any category of candidates (General/OBC/SC/ST/EWS/PwBD) for this contractual engagement.

2. I retired at age 58 under a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS). Can I apply?

No. Only officers who retired on superannuation at the age of 60 are eligible. The only exception is for SBI officers who took VR under a specific circular (CDO/P&HRD-PM/20/2022-23) and can be engaged only after attaining age 60.

3. Is there a written exam for this recruitment?

No. There is no written test or online examination. The selection is based purely on shortlisting of applications followed by a personal interview.

4. What is the monthly salary for a retired Scale-III officer selected as an FLC Counsellor?

A retired Scale-III (MMGS-III) officer selected as an FLC Counsellor will receive a fixed monthly remuneration of ₹ 45,000/-. This amount remains the same for the entire contract period of up to 3 years.

5. Can I apply for both Counsellor and Director posts?

You can likely apply for only one post per circle as per your eligibility (grade at retirement). The application system will prompt you to choose. Submitting multiple applications for the same post may lead to rejection.

6. Is knowledge of computer mandatory?

Yes. Working knowledge of computers is listed as an essential qualification for both FLC Counsellor and FLC Director posts.

7. How many times can I edit my online application?

You can edit your saved online application a maximum of three times before final submission. There is no separate correction window after the final submit button is clicked.

8. I am 63 years and 1 month old as on 31.01.2026. Am I eligible?

No. The maximum age limit is 63 years as on 31.01.2026. If you are even a day older than 63 on that date, you are not eligible to apply.

9. What is the tenure of the contract?

The initial contract is for 2 years, which may be extended by 1 more year subject to satisfactory performance. However, the contract will terminate automatically when you attain 65 years of age, whichever is earlier.

10. Are PF, Gratuity, or Medical benefits provided?

No. This is a purely contractual engagement. No benefits like Provident Fund, Gratuity, Pension, Bonus, or Medical reimbursement are provided. The fixed monthly remuneration is all-inclusive.

11. Where will the interview be conducted?

The interview will likely be conducted at the respective SBI Circle headquarters or a designated centre within the Circle you applied for. Exact details will be communicated via call letter/email to shortlisted candidates.

12. Can a retired clerical staff from SBI apply for Counsellor post?

Yes, but only as a second preference. The notification states that retired officers (Scale I-IV) will be considered first. If a sufficient number of eligible officers are not available, then retired SBI clerical staff may be considered for Counsellor posts.

13. What is the validity period of the OBC non-creamy layer certificate?

The OBC-NCL certificate must be issued on or after 01 April 2025 and must be valid up to the date of the interview. It must contain the non-creamy layer clause as per Central Government guidelines.

14. Is there any age relaxation for SC/ST candidates?

No. The age limit of 60-63 years is uniformly applicable to all categories (UR/SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD). No age relaxation is provided for reserved category candidates.

15. Who does the FLC Counsellor report to?

The FLC Counsellor reports to the FLC Director of that particular centre. The FLC Director, in turn, reports to the AGM (Lead Bank/RSETI/FLC/CFL) at the Local Head Office (LHO).