Ever thought of diving into the banking world without beginning with a full-blown officer role? That’s exactly what this apprenticeship drive by UCO Bank is about. The bank, headquartered in Kolkata and one of India’s established public sector banks, has opened up an apprenticeship programme under the Apprentices Act, 1961. The aim: to provide hands-on experience in banking operations, customer service, and behind-the-scenes operations that you might not see until later in a full career path.
In 2025, UCO Bank has announced an opportunity for graduates across India to apply for apprentice positions — ideal if you’re looking to start your banking career with a solid foundation and practical exposure.
What’s the Big News?
The big update is that the UCO Bank Apprentices Online Form 2025 is officially open for applications. According to recent reports:
The application window opened on 21 October 2025.
It will (or is) set to close on 30 October 2025.
A total of 532 vacancies have been announced for the apprentice posts.
This is under the provisions of the Apprentices Act, meaning the positions are for a fixed term and provide training + stipend.
So if you’re eligible (and quick), you’ve got a real shot at a banking apprenticeship this year.
Why This Apprenticeship Matters
Real-world exposure: Rather than just classroom learning, you’ll be embedded in bank operations, which looks great on your résumé.
Pay & perks: It’s not just a volunteer role — you’ll be paid a stipend during the apprenticeship year. For instance, the announcement says a monthly stipend of around ₹15,000.
Possible pathway to banking career: After finishing the apprenticeship successfully, opportunities for absorption or further roles may open up (depending on bank policy).
Nationwide reach: Vacancies span multiple states and union territories, so you aren’t limited to one region.
Eligibility Criteria (Who Can Apply?)
Here are the main eligibility requirements for the UCO Bank Apprentices Online Form 2025:
Educational Qualification
Must be a graduate from a recognized university or institute.
Graduation must have been completed on or after a specific date (in some notifications) – this ensures newer graduates get a crack.
Age Criteria
Minimum age: 20 years (as on some reference date).
Maximum age: 28 years for general category.
Age relaxations apply for SC/ST, OBC, PwBD categories as per government norms.
Other Requirements
Candidates must have registered on the official apprenticeship portal (such as the NATS portal — National Apprenticeship Training Scheme.
They should ensure they have valid documents, email ID, etc.
Vacancies & State-wise Distribution
Total vacancies: 532.
These are distributed across states and union territories — for example, large numbers in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, etc.
Note: You may need to apply for a specific state/region, and your local language proficiency may be considered. (Often banks expect local language knowledge in the applied state.)
Application Timeline — Key Dates You Must Remember
Online Application Start Date: 21 October 2025.
Online Application End Date: 30 October 2025.
In some sources, mention of other dates (for exam, payment, etc) like 9 November 2025 for exam.
It is strongly advisable to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute glitches.
Application Fee Details
Here’s how the fee structure works (non-refundable) for the apprenticeship recruitment:
SC / ST: Nil.
PwBD: Around ₹400 + GST.
General / OBC / EWS: Around ₹800 + GST.
Remember: Once paid, the fee won’t be refunded, so ensure eligibility before paying.
Selection Process & Exam Pattern
Here’s what the selection process for the UCO Bank apprenticeship looks like:
There will be an online objective test (60 minutes, 100 questions).
The test covers sections like General/Financial Awareness, English Language, Reasoning & Computer Aptitude, Quantitative Aptitude.
Merit lists will be drawn state-wise and category-wise. If tie occurs, older candidate may get preference.
After selection, engagement is on a temporary apprenticeship basis (typically one year) under the Apprentices Act.
How to Apply – Step by Step
Here’s a breakdown of the steps to apply for the UCO Bank Apprentices Online Form 2025:
Visit the official UCO Bank website (career/jobs section).
Register yourself on the NATS portal (if not already done). Keep login ID, enrolment number handy.
After NATS registration, fill the online application form on the UCO Bank/BFSI SSC portal. Upload photograph, signature, certificates etc.
Pay application/exam fee as applicable.
Submit the form and take a printout of the confirmation for your records.
Keep an eye on the email/portal for admit card, exam date/time, result announcements.
Conclusion
The UCO Bank Apprentices Online Form 2025 presents an excellent gateway for graduates eager to launch their careers in banking with real training, good stipend and structured exposure. With 532 vacancies spread across India and a clear timeline (21 Oct to 30 Oct), you’ve got a well-defined window to act. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria, apply correctly, prepare for the online test and keep your documents ready. If you treat this like your chance to shine, it could be the stepping stone you’ve been waiting for — so don’t let it slip by.
Read also: WBPSC JE Result 2025
