SSC CGL vs. Bank PO: Which Job Actually Offers a Better Life? Full Comparison for 2025 Aspirants

Nov 20, 2025, 12:53 IST

SSC CGL vs. Bank PO: Check the complete difference between SSC CGL and Bank PO, two of the most popular exams after graduation. It compares both exams on eligibility, posts offered, exam difficulty, selection process, work-life balance, salary, promotion opportunities and long-term career growth.

SSC CGL vs. Bank PO
SSC CGL vs. Bank PO

SSC CGL vs. Bank PO: Lakhs of aspirants dream of joining the government sector. CGL and Bank PO are two popular choices when it comes to top government jobs in India. Both offer high pay, job security, and growth potential. But they differ in responsibilities, promotions, and work-life balance. A key difference is that Bank PO is conducted for a single post, while CGL is organised to fill various Group B and Group C posts. So, which is better: CGL or Bank PO? The answer is not very simple. We have compared SSC CGL and Bank PO in various parameters to guide candidates in the right direction.

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SSC CGL vs. Bank PO: Which is Better?

Before comparing SSC CGL and Bank PO, it is crucial to know what this exam is all about. Staff Selection Commission conducts the Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGL) exam every year. It releases over 14000 vacancies for various Group B and Group C posts in different Ministries/ Departments/Organisations. Most recent data indicates that over 28 lakh applications have been received for the CGL exam.

On the other hand, SBI and IBPS are the exam-conducting bodies for the Probationary Officer post. SBI hires POs for its branches, while IBPS invites PO applications for participating banks like BOI, BOB, etc. Nearly 20 lakh candidates apply for this exam every year. CGL vacancies are generally higher than PO vacancies. The reason is that SSC recruits for multiple departments, and the exam is more popular among aspirants.

What Is the Job Role Difference Between SSC CGL and Bank PO?

SSC CGL is organised to fill various Group B and Group C posts in different Ministries/ Departments/Organisations and various Constitutional Bodies/Statutory Bodies/ Tribunals, etc. Some popular posts are:

  • Assistant Section Officer

  • Inspector of Income Tax

  • Assistant Enforcement Officer

  • Sub Inspector

  • Research Assistant

  • Executive Assistant

  • Divisional Accountant

  • Junior Statistical Officer

  • Statistical Investigator Grade-II

  • Office Superintendent

  • Auditor, etc

Most roles involve desk jobs, data entry, handling records, and administrative tasks.

Bank POs are typically appointed as Management Trainees in the Public Sector Bank.  After the appointment, they need to complete the training period to understand the nature of the work. Key duties are resolving customer queries, loan approval, and handling bank operations. Bank POs are more customer-oriented compared to the desk jobs of CGL posts.

What Are The Eligibility Criteria For SSS CGL And Bank PO?

The educational qualifications for SSC CGL and Bank PO are similar. Both require graduation from a recognised University. But they differ when it comes to the age limit. Bank PO requires applicants to be 20 years or older. While CGL applications are open to candidates who are 18 years or above. In general, SSC CGL is a little more flexible with age.

What is the Selection Process for SSC CGL and Bank PO?

The selection process for CGL and Bank PO is different. The CGL selection includes the Tier 1 and Tier 2. The Bank PO selection involves prelims, mains, and an interview. There shall be no interview for the CGL roles. This makes the Bank PO final stage comparatively more competitive.

Which Provides Higher Perks and Allowances – SSC CGL or Bank PO?

SSC CGL salary differs by group and pay scale. The starting basic pay typically ranges between INR 25500 and INR 44900, depending on the post. Roles like Assistant Section Officer, Inspector of Income Tax, and Section Head posts fall under a higher pay scale.

Bank PO salary is similar in SBI and IBPS. The starting basic pay is INR 48480 per month. They enjoy allowances (DA/HRA/TA), increments, and other benefits. But who earns more: Bank PO or SSC CGL? The starting basic pay for Bank PO is a bit more than the SSC CGL roles.

Which Is Better for Long-Term Career Growth: SSC CGL or Bank PO?

There is an enormous career growth opportunity for CGL or Bank POs. CGL roles have a clear promotion structure with heavy competition. But you can reach senior roles based on the year of service. Bank POs enjoy faster promotion on the basis of their work performance and internal exams. They can advance to a senior manager role in 7-8 years.

Which Exam Is Easier to Clear: SSC CGL or Bank PO?

In today’s era, cracking the CGL or Bank PO exam is equally challenging. But the right strategy and unlimited practice can maximise your chances of success. Both evaluate candidates’ reasoning, verbal, quantitative aptitude, and general awareness. Many consider CGL tough due to the massive syllabus. Many find the bank PO difficult due to the limited time. Hence, the difficulty level depends on your preparation and strengths.

Which Exam Should You Choose After Graduation – SSC CGL or Bank PO?

You should consider a few factors before applying for CGL or Bank PO. CGL offers stability and a good work balance. Bank roles are ideal if you seek rapid growth and can handle work pressure.

Sunil Sharma is an edtech professional with over 12 years of experience in the education domain. He holds an M.Sc. in Mathematics from Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut. He has worked as an Subject Matter Expert (SME) at Vriti Infocom Private Limited. and later joined Aakash Edutech Private Limited . At Jagran New Media, he writes for the Exam Prep section of JagranJosh.com. Sunil has expertise in Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and English, making him a versatile professional in the education and test preparation sector. He has created content for various management exams CAT, XAT and also for exams such as CUET etc
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