Nagpur: Aspirants preparing for competitive exams are facing a tough challenge as the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS) Probationary Officer (PO) Mains and the National Insurance Company Limited (NICL) Assistant Prelims have been scheduled on the same day — November 30. This clash has left many candidates struggling to decide between the two important examinations.

The IBPS PO Mains is scheduled for 1 PM, while the NICL Assistant Prelims has two shifts — morning and afternoon. However, the locations of the exam centers, often on the outskirts of Nagpur and in opposite directions, have added to the logistical difficulties.

Mohammad Aquib, a candidate who cleared the IBPS PO Prelims, expressed his frustration. “I’ve cleared the IBPS PO Prelims, and between the IBPS PO Mains and the NICL Prelims, I have no choice but to skip the NICL exam. IBPS has once again put candidates in a tough spot,” he said.

Riya James, another aspirant, highlighted the logistical challenges. “Even if you’re attempting two exams on the same day, the locations of the centers pose a major challenge. One center might be in Besa, while another could be in Gondkhairi on Amravati Road. Managing both would mean tremendous physical exertion. Just imagine appearing for exams after all this,” she remarked.

Adding to the concerns, the duration and format of the exams further complicate the situation. The IBPS PO Mains is a 3.5-hour exam with 220 questions, while the NICL Prelims is a one-hour test with 100 questions. Both exams require candidates to arrive well in advance, leaving little room for coordination.

“Only those with an early morning NICL slot can manage to take the IBPS PO Mains in the afternoon. The rest of us are left asking one question — which exam should we skip?” said Nikita Karmarkar, another aspirant.

Candidates are now urging examination bodies to consider better coordination to avoid such scheduling conflicts, which not only affect their preparation but also their future prospects.