Every recruitment cycle, many candidates are rejected not because of marks but because of the form: a blurred photo, a name that does not match the certificate, or a fee that was never paid. This guide lists the 12 most common mistakes and how to avoid them. Keep it open while you fill your next form.
Before you start: keep these ready
| Document | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Class 10 certificate | Your name and date of birth must match it exactly |
| Graduation marksheets / degree | Percentage, year of passing |
| Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS) | In the format and validity period the notice asks for |
| PwBD certificate (if applicable) | For relaxation and scribe |
| Photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.) | Needed at the exam centre; the name should match |
| Active email and mobile number | All call letters and updates come here |
| Scanned photo, signature, left thumb impression, handwritten declaration | Required for IBPS and SBI forms |
The 12 mistakes
1. Wrong photo, signature or document size
Bank exams (IBPS, SBI, RBI) ask for four scans. The commonly specified sizes are:
| Document | Dimensions | File size |
|---|---|---|
| Photograph | 200 × 230 pixels | 20–50 KB (JPG/JPEG) |
| Signature | 140 × 60 pixels | 10–20 KB |
| Left thumb impression | 240 × 240 pixels | As given in the notification |
| Handwritten declaration | 800 × 400 pixels | 50–100 KB |
Always use the exact sizes printed in your exam’s notification. They can change.
2. Old, blurred or selfie-style photograph
Use a recent passport-size colour photo on a light background, face clearly visible, no cap or dark glasses. Keep 8–10 printed copies of the same photo: you will need it at the exam, document verification and joining.
3. Signature in capital letters
Bank notices clearly say a signature in CAPITAL (block) letters will not be accepted. Sign in running hand with a black ink pen on white paper.
4. Handwritten declaration in the wrong language or ink
For IBPS and SBI forms, the declaration must be written in English, in your own handwriting, with black ink, as instructed. It is rejected if it is typed, written by someone else, or in capital letters.
5. Name or date of birth not matching the Class 10 certificate
Fill your name exactly as it appears in your Class 10 certificate, including spelling and initials. A mismatch can cost you at document verification even after you clear the exam.
6. Wrong category or an invalid certificate
- OBC candidates must have a Non-Creamy Layer (NCL) certificate valid for the period the notice specifies.
- EWS candidates need an Income & Asset Certificate for the financial year mentioned in the notice.
- If you are not sure, apply in the category you can prove with a valid certificate.
7. Fee not actually paid
Your form is complete only after the fee payment succeeds. After paying, download the e-receipt and check the status on the portal. If money was debited but the status shows “unpaid”, contact the helpdesk before the last date.
8. Not checking the eligibility cut-off date
Age and qualification are counted as on a specific date given in the notice (for example, “as on 1 July 2026”). Check that you meet them on that date, not on the day you apply.
9. Choosing the wrong state or language (bank clerk forms)
In IBPS Clerk and SBI Clerk you apply for one State/UT, and you must know its official language. Choose a state whose language you can read, write and speak.
10. Wrong exam centre preference
Pick centres you can reach easily. Changes are usually not allowed after submission.
11. Leaving it to the last day
Portals slow down near the deadline, and payment gateways fail. Apply at least 3–4 days before the last date.
12. Not saving a copy
Download and save the filled application form, the fee receipt and the registration number/password. You will need them for the admit card, result and any correction window.
Quick checklist before you click “Submit”
- ☐ Name and date of birth match my Class 10 certificate
- ☐ Category and certificate details are correct and valid
- ☐ Photo, signature, thumb and declaration preview clearly
- ☐ Email and mobile number are active and mine
- ☐ Fee payment shows “successful” and I have the e-receipt
- ☐ I have saved the PDF of the submitted form
Where to find official notifications
See our Jobs page for links to official websites, and read how to spot fake job notifications before you apply anywhere.
Requirements differ by exam and year. Always follow the instructions in the official notification of the exam you are applying for.