Canara Bank, one of India’s leading public sector banks, has officially released the notification for the Engagement of Graduate Apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961 for FY 2025-26. A total of 3500 apprenticeship seats are available across different states and union territories. Interested and eligible candidates can apply online through the official website.
Vacancy 2025 State Wise Details:-
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands – 5 seats
- Andhra Pradesh – 242 seats
- Arunachal Pradesh – 5 seats
- Assam – 42 seats
- Bihar – 119 seats
- Chandigarh (UT) – 6 seats
- Chhattisgarh – 40 seats
- Dadra & Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu – 2 seats
- Delhi (UT) – 94 seats
- Goa – 26 seats
- Gujarat – 87 seats
- Haryana – 111 seats
- Himachal Pradesh – 23 seats
- Jammu & Kashmir – 16 seats
- Jharkhand – 73 seats
- Karnataka – 591 seats
- Kerala – 243 seats
- Lakshadweep (UT) – 3 seats
- Madhya Pradesh – 111 seats
- Maharashtra – 201 seats
- Manipur – 3 seats
- Meghalaya – 6 seats
- Mizoram – 2 seats
- Nagaland – 3 seats
- Odisha – 105 seats
- Pondicherry (UT) – 4 seats
- Punjab – 97 seats
- Rajasthan – 95 seats
- Sikkim – 4 seats
- Tamil Nadu – 394 seats
- Telangana – 132 seats
- Tripura – 7 seats
- Uttar Pradesh – 410 seats
- Uttarakhand – 48 seats
- West Bengal – 150 seats
- In total= 3500 Vacancies
Age Limit Details:
Minimum Age Requirement: The minimum age to apply for Canara Bank Apprentice 2025 is 20 years. Applicants must have completed 20 years as on 01.09.2025. Anyone younger than this cut-off date will not be considered. This lower limit ensures that candidates are mature enough to handle banking responsibilities. It also aligns with the Apprentices Act, 1961.
Maximum Age Limit: The maximum age for applying is 28 years as on 01.09.2025. Candidates should have been born between 01.09.1997 and 01.09.2005. Those outside this range will be disqualified during document verification. The restriction ensures equal opportunity among young graduates. It also standardizes the recruitment process across all states.
Relaxation for SC/ST Candidates: Applicants belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) enjoy a 5-year relaxation. Thus, the upper age limit for SC/ST candidates becomes 33 years. This benefit is provided under Government of India reservation rules. It allows disadvantaged communities to compete fairly. The relaxation ensures inclusivity in the apprenticeship scheme.
Relaxation for OBC Candidates: For Other Backward Classes (OBC – Non-Creamy Layer), the age relaxation is 3 years. This makes the maximum eligible age 31 years for such candidates. However, OBC applicants in the Creamy Layer are not entitled to this benefit. They must apply under the General category. The rule follows central government reservation norms.
Relaxation for PwBD Candidates: Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) are eligible for 10 years of relaxation. Their maximum age limit extends up to 38 years. This special provision falls under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. It ensures equal participation of differently-abled candidates in employment opportunities. The rule applies across all states and categories.
Relaxation for Widows and Divorced Women: Special relaxation is available for widows, divorced women, and legally separated women who have not remarried. For General/EWS category, the age limit is extended up to 35 years. For OBC candidates, it is 38 years, and for SC/ST candidates, it is 40 years. This concession aims to support women facing social and financial challenges.
Relaxation for 1984 Riot Victims: Candidates who were affected by the 1984 riots are granted an additional 5-year age relaxation. This extends the maximum age to 33 years for General category candidates. The relaxation is a part of the Government’s rehabilitation measures. It is applicable only upon submission of valid certificates. The rule acknowledges the hardships faced by riot victims.
Cumulative Relaxations: Relaxations in the upper age limit are cumulative for certain categories. For example, an SC candidate with disability can combine both benefits. However, not all relaxations can be clubbed together. The maximum allowable combination is limited as per rules. Candidates must provide valid certificates to claim multiple relaxations.
Conditions for General and EWS Categories: For candidates belonging to the General and Economically Weaker Section (EWS) categories, the upper age limit strictly remains 28 years. No extra relaxation is provided, except for widows and special cases. Applicants must carefully check their eligibility before applying. Incorrect claims may lead to rejection. The Bank verifies all details during document checks.
Importance of Age Verification: Age eligibility is one of the most crucial criteria for the apprenticeship. Any mismatch in date of birth or false declaration can cancel candidature. Candidates should carry valid proofs like birth certificate, SSC/10th certificate, or government ID. The verification is conducted at the time of document submission. Strict compliance ensures transparency and fairness in recruitment.
Educational Qualification Details:
Basic Educational Requirement: To be eligible for Canara Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2025, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline. The degree should be from a University recognized by the Government of India. Equivalent qualifications recognized by the Central Government are also accepted. This ensures that applicants have completed higher education.
Graduation Timeframe: Applicants must have completed their graduation not earlier than 01.01.2022 and not later than 01.09.2025. Candidates who graduated before 2022 or after the cut-off date are not eligible. This rule ensures that only fresh graduates are considered. It also matches the training purpose of the Apprenticeship Act.
Recognition of Universities: The graduation degree should be from an approved and recognized institution. Fake or unrecognized university certificates will lead to disqualification. Candidates are advised to check whether their university is listed under UGC or equivalent authorities. Only authentic educational backgrounds are entertained.
Local Language Requirement: In addition to a graduation degree, candidates must be proficient in the local language of the state where they apply. Proof of having studied the language at 10th or 12th standard is acceptable. Those without such proof must clear a local language test during document verification. This ensures better communication with customers.
Proof of Educational Qualification: At the time of document verification, candidates must submit their degree certificate and mark sheets. Semester-wise mark sheets are required for validation. The final degree must be issued on or before 01.09.2025. Provisional certificates will only be accepted if officially recognized. Proper documentation is mandatory for final selection.
Candidates with Diploma Background: For merit list preparation, marks from 12th Standard or Diploma are considered. This applies when calculating percentage cut-offs. The minimum qualifying marks are 60% for General/OBC/EWS and 55% for SC/ST/PwBD candidates. This allows fair comparison among graduates with different study backgrounds.
Conversion of Grades into Percentage: Candidates with CGPA/OGPA must convert it into percentage as per their university rules. A certificate from the institution explaining the conversion method must be produced. Without this certificate, applications may be rejected. Transparency in marks calculation ensures fair ranking in the merit list.
Restrictions on Prior Training or Experience: Applicants must not have undergone any apprenticeship training earlier with Canara Bank or any other organization. Similarly, candidates with one year or more job experience after graduation are not eligible. This rule ensures the scheme benefits only new and inexperienced graduates.
Reservation Certificate Requirements: Educational qualification requirements remain the same across all categories. However, SC/ST/OBC/EWS candidates must submit valid caste or category certificates. For OBC applicants, the certificate must clearly state Non-Creamy Layer status. Failure to provide the correct certificate will shift them to the General category.
Importance of Educational Eligibility: Educational qualification is a primary eligibility factor for apprenticeship selection. Without valid proof, candidates will not be considered. The Bank conducts strict verification to prevent discrepancies. Meeting the qualification rules ensures transparency and equal opportunity. Applicants should carefully check eligibility before applying online.
Application Fee Details:
Fee Structure Overview: The Canara Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2025 has a simple application fee structure. Candidates from the General, OBC, and EWS categories are required to pay a fee. On the other hand, certain categories are completely exempted. This makes the process more inclusive and accessible.
General/OBC/EWS Candidates: For candidates belonging to the General, OBC, and EWS categories, the application fee is fixed at ₹500. This fee is inclusive of intimation charges and GST. The payment must be made only through online mode. No offline payments are accepted.
SC/ST Candidates: Applicants belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories are fully exempted from paying the fee. This means they can apply free of cost. The exemption helps candidates from weaker backgrounds to participate easily. It follows the government’s reservation policy.
PwBD Candidates: Candidates under the Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) category also do not have to pay any application fee. Their applications are accepted without charges. This exemption encourages participation of differently-abled candidates. It reflects the bank’s commitment to equal opportunity.
Non-Refundable Nature: The application fee paid by eligible candidates is non-refundable. Once the payment is made, it cannot be claimed back under any circumstances. Applicants are advised to double-check their details before submitting. Incorrect applications will not be refunded even if rejected.
Mode of Payment: The application fee can only be paid through online methods. Accepted modes include Debit Card, Credit Card, Internet Banking, IMPS, UPI, and Mobile Wallets. No demand drafts, cheques, or cash deposits will be entertained. This ensures fast and secure transactions.
Payment Gateway Integration: The online application form is integrated with a secure payment gateway. After filling the form, candidates will be redirected to the payment page. Successful transactions generate an e-receipt. Applicants must save this receipt for future reference.
Transaction Failures: In case of a failed transaction, the candidate should re-login using the provisional registration number. They can attempt the payment again through the portal. If the payment is not successful, the application will not be considered valid. Candidates must ensure proper completion of the process.
Proof of Payment: After a successful payment, candidates should take a printout of the e-receipt. This serves as proof of fee payment. The receipt may be required during later stages of recruitment. Keeping both the application form and payment receipt safe is highly recommended.
Final Instructions on Fees: Candidates should avoid waiting until the last date to pay the application fee. Heavy online traffic may cause failures during final days. Also, applicants must ensure that the name on the card or bank account matches the application details. Any mismatch may result in rejection. Careful payment submission ensures a smooth application process.
Important Dates:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 22nd September 2025 |
| Apprenticeship Portal Registration (NATS) | From 22nd September 2025 (if not registered earlier) |
| Opening of Online Application (Bank’s Website) | 23rd September 2025 |
| Closing of Online Application | 12th October 2025 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 12th October 2025 |
| Document Verification & Language Test | To be announced |
| Final Merit List | To be announced |
Syllabus and Exam Details:
Selection Based on Academic Merit: The Canara Bank Apprentice recruitment does not include a written test. Instead, candidates are shortlisted purely on the basis of their 12th Standard (10+2)/Diploma marks. A merit list will be created state-wise, ranking candidates in descending order of percentage scored. This makes academic consistency a key factor for selection.
Minimum Qualifying Marks: To ensure fairness, the Bank has fixed a minimum cutoff for shortlisting. Candidates from the General, EWS, and OBC categories must secure at least 60% marks, while SC, ST, and PwBD candidates require 55% in their 12th/Diploma. Scores below this threshold will not be considered, even if vacancies remain unfilled.
Tie-Breaking Rules: In cases where two or more candidates secure the same percentage, the older candidate will be ranked higher in the merit list. This tie-breaking method ensures that experienced or mature candidates get preference. The ranking system adds transparency and eliminates confusion during final shortlisting.
Local Language Test: Although no written exam is conducted, a local language test is mandatory for those who did not study the regional language in their 10th/12th. This test evaluates speaking, reading, and basic comprehension skills. It ensures candidates can communicate effectively with customers in the state they are posted.
Document Verification Process: Candidates who clear the merit list will be called for document verification. During this stage, original certificates like educational qualifications, caste certificate, identity proof, and EWS/PwBD documents must be produced. Any mismatch or false information can result in immediate disqualification from the recruitment process.
Medical Fitness Check: Along with documents, candidates must undergo a medical fitness examination as per Canara Bank standards. Only those declared medically fit will be engaged as apprentices. This test checks basic health parameters to ensure the candidate can handle day-to-day banking duties without issues.
No Written or Online Exam: Unlike other banking exams, there is no preliminary or mains written examination in this apprentice recruitment. The entire process focuses on academic merit, language skills, and eligibility checks. This makes it an easier entry point for graduates compared to IBPS, SBI, or other banking exams.
Training Period Assessment: Although there is no formal exam, apprentices will undergo on-the-job training for 12 months. During this period, their performance will be continuously monitored by the bank officials. Candidates must display discipline, punctuality, customer handling skills, and knowledge of banking operations.
Certification After Training: At the end of the apprenticeship, successful candidates will receive a joint certificate from Canara Bank and NATS. While it does not guarantee a permanent job in the bank, the certificate carries high value for future government and private sector opportunities. This acts as proof of professional banking experience.
Importance of Preparation: Even without a written exam, candidates must prepare well for the language test, interviews during verification, and training evaluations. Developing computer skills, banking awareness, and communication abilities will help apprentices perform better. This preparation increases the chances of being considered for future Canara Bank or other PSU bank recruitments.
Reservation Details:
Reservation Policy Overview: Canara Bank follows the Government of India’s reservation guidelines for recruitment under the Apprentices Act, 1961. The vacancies are divided among categories such as SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and UR. Additionally, specific seats are reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD). This ensures equal opportunity across all sections of society.
Scheduled Caste (SC) Quota: Candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community enjoy reserved seats as per state-wise allocation. This reservation helps uplift socially disadvantaged groups and provides fair representation in the banking sector. SC candidates also receive age relaxation of 5 years in the eligibility criteria.
Scheduled Tribe (ST) Quota: Similar to SC, the Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates have dedicated vacancies under this recruitment. The ST reservation percentage varies depending on the state’s population structure. Along with reserved seats, ST candidates are given 5 years of age relaxation to participate in the process.
Other Backward Classes (OBC – Non-Creamy Layer): A significant portion of seats are reserved for OBC candidates belonging to the Non-Creamy Layer. Such candidates get 3 years age relaxation along with reserved seats. However, those falling under the creamy layer category are not eligible for OBC reservation and must apply as General category candidates.
Economically Weaker Section (EWS) Reservation: The EWS category provides reservation for candidates whose family income is below ₹8 lakh per year. In addition to income, property criteria like land ownership and flat size are considered. Valid Income and Asset Certificate issued by a competent authority is mandatory to claim EWS benefits in this recruitment.
Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): Special reservation is available for candidates with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) as defined under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Categories include Visual Impairment, Hearing Impairment, Locomotor Disability, and Intellectual Disability. Candidates must provide a valid disability certificate to avail the benefit.
Horizontal Reservation for PwBD: PwBD reservation is applied horizontally across all categories such as SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and UR. This means a candidate with disability can compete within their category but also secure a seat under the PwBD quota. The reservation is available only for permanent benchmark disabilities (40% or above).
Women Candidates Special Provisions: While there is no direct women reservation quota, widows, divorced women, and women legally separated from their husbands are eligible for extended age relaxation. Their upper age limit is relaxed up to 35 years (Gen/EWS), 38 years (OBC), and 40 years (SC/ST). This indirectly supports women’s participation in the program.
Reservation Exclusions: It is important to note that Ex-Servicemen and Disabled Ex-Servicemen are not eligible for reservation under this apprenticeship scheme. Similarly, candidates who already completed apprenticeship training earlier, or those with over one year job experience after graduation, are not eligible for engagement.
State-Wise Reservation Implementation: The reservation percentages differ from state to state, based on the population structure and government guidelines. Candidates can apply for apprenticeship seats in only one state. Final seat allotment will depend on state-level reservation policies, category certificates, and availability of vacancies in each district.
Selection Process:
Merit-Based Shortlisting: The selection process for Canara Bank Apprentices is purely merit-based. Unlike regular bank recruitment exams, there is no written test. Instead, candidates are shortlisted on the basis of their 12th Standard (10+2)/Diploma marks, which makes academic records highly important in this recruitment.
State-Wise Merit List Preparation: The Bank prepares a state-wise merit list to ensure equal representation across India. Candidates will be ranked in descending order of marks secured in their qualifying examination. This ensures that each state gets a fair distribution of apprenticeship seats according to the number of applications.
Minimum Qualifying Marks: Candidates from the General, OBC, and EWS categories must secure at least 60%, while SC, ST, and PwBD candidates need a minimum of 55%. Any candidate falling below this cutoff will be rejected. This eligibility filter ensures only deserving candidates are considered for final selection.
Tie-Breaking Criteria: In cases where two or more candidates secure the same percentage, the older candidate is given preference. Age is considered in descending order, meaning the senior-most candidate ranks higher. This tie-breaking rule adds fairness and avoids complications in the merit list preparation.
Document Verification Stage: Shortlisted candidates must appear for document verification with original certificates. They need to provide proof of date of birth, identity, educational qualifications, caste/EWS/PwBD certificates, and other relevant documents. Any mismatch or false claim may lead to immediate cancellation of candidature.
Local Language Test: Candidates who have not studied the local language of the state in 10th or 12th standard must appear for a language proficiency test. This ensures apprentices can communicate effectively with customers. Those who fail to qualify in this test will not be considered for engagement.
Medical Fitness Requirement: A medical fitness test is also part of the selection process. Candidates must be declared physically and medically fit as per Canara Bank’s standards. Only those who pass the health check are eligible to sign the apprenticeship contract and start training at the assigned branches.
Final Selection List: The final selection list will be published after successful verification of documents, clearance of the local language test, and medical examination. Only those candidates fulfilling all eligibility conditions will be offered the apprenticeship contract. The list will be released state-wise on the official Canara Bank website.
Apprenticeship Contract: Selected candidates must accept the digital apprenticeship contract generated on the NATS portal within the given timeline. Without signing this contract, the apprenticeship engagement is not valid. This step legally binds the candidate and the bank for the one-year training period.
Training Commencement: After all formalities, candidates will be assigned training locations in bank branches. The apprenticeship begins with on-the-job training, where candidates learn about banking operations. This marks the final step of the selection process, transitioning candidates from recruitment into active apprenticeship roles.
Apply Process:
- Visit the official website: www.canarabank.com → Careers → Recruitment → Engagement of Graduate Apprentices 2025.
- Register on the NATS Apprenticeship Portal (www.nats.education.gov.in) and get the enrollment number.
- Click on “New Registration” link on Canara Bank’s portal and fill in basic details.
- Upload scanned copies of: Photograph, Signature, Thumb Impression, and Handwritten Declaration.
- Enter personal, academic, and category details correctly as per certificates.
- Pay the application fee online (₹500 for General/OBC/EWS, Nil for SC/ST/PwBD).
- Preview the application carefully and click on Final Submit.
- Take a printout of the submitted application form and fee receipt for reference.
- Keep registration number and password safe for future login.
- Apply between 23rd September 2025 and 12th October 2025 (no other mode accepted).
Important Documents Required:
- System-generated online application form printout.
- Proof of Date of Birth (SSC/ Birth Certificate).
- Aadhaar Card / PAN Card / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License (any one for ID proof).
- 10th, 12th, and Graduation Mark sheets & Certificates.
- Valid Caste Certificate (for SC/ST/OBC candidates).
- Non-Creamy Layer Certificate (for OBC NCL candidates).
- Income & Asset Certificate (for EWS candidates).
- Disability Certificate (for PwBD candidates).
- Certificate for age relaxation (Widows/Divorced women/1984 riot affected, if applicable).
- Recent passport-size photographs (as per specifications).
