What is SOTS? -Understanding the Program in Simple Words
The State Bank of Pakistan has introduced a recruitment and training program known as the Statistical Officers Training Scheme, usually abbreviated as SOTS. The State Bank of Pakistan is inviting applications, under Batch-9, for the post of Assistant Director (OG-2).
Yes, you read it right — Assistant Director, which is a very strong starting position, especially for fresh graduates who want a career in economics, finance, statistics, banking, or research.
But what does this job involve?
SBP recruits young professionals through SOTS and trains them for postings in:
- Data analysis,
- Statistical modeling
- Economic research
- Banking system monitoring
- policy support work,
- And other key departments that help maintain the stability of Pakistan’s financial system.
It’s not just a job; rather, it’s a proper professional journey with training, discipline, exposure, and long-term career growth inside the Central Bank of Pakistan.
And here’s another important point:
The entire training is conducted in Karachi.
Applicants must, therefore, be willing to relocate upon selection.
Who Should Apply? Ideal Candidates
SOTS is designed for the motivated, the analytical, and the academically strong. If you love working with numbers, analyzing trends, solving problems, and understanding how economies function, this program is for you.
If you have a passion for :
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Statistics,
- Data Science
- Or finance.
Then SOTS can be your one-way ticket to a prestigious, stable career in government service.
Educational Eligibility: The Most Important Part
Let’s talk qualifications, as this part is crucial.
To be eligible, 16 years of education in one of the following disciplines must be completed:
- Statistics
- Mathematics
- Data Science
- Actuarial Science
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Or any other related discipline
But having a degree is not sufficient. The advertisement also expressly states:
You have to obtain a minimum of 60% marks.
OR a minimum CGPA of 2.5 out of 4.0,
OR the minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 5.0.
Whether you studied at a public university, a private university, or even abroad, your degree must be:
- Recognised by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan.
- Verified as equivalent if obtained from a foreign institution. If you do not meet these requirements, your application may be rejected.
Age Limit – Are You Eligible?
The next important factor is age.
Applicants should not be over 26 years as of December 7, 2025.
However, SBP is providing a 3-year relaxation in the maximum age limit for:
- Candidates from FATA,
- Gilgit Baltistan
- Balochistan
- Azad Jammu & Kashmir,
- And applicants from minority groups.
This is a positive step by SBP in order to ensure equal opportunity for all the regions of Pakistan.
Required Skills & Qualities: What SBP Wants in You
Being eligible on paper is one thing — being a strong candidate is another. The advertisement and previous batches of SOTS show that SBP looks for individuals with:
- Analytical thinking
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Data interpretation skills
- Interest in research and statistics
- Good communication skills
- Motivation to serve in the public sector
If you feel you fit these qualities, then SOTS can be the perfect fit.
Job Posting & Training Location
Training for every selected candidate will be provided at the National Institute of Banking and Finance – NIBAF, Karachi.
NIBAF is the official training institute of SBP, where the trainees learn through:
- Classroom lectures,
- Practical workshops,
- Hands-on exercises
- Banking simulations
- And expert-led sessions.
This training prepares you to take up the position of Assistant Director (OG-2) with confidence.
Application Process: Step by Step
Application to SOTS is very easy and fully online. Here’s how you can submit your application correctly:
1. Visit the Official SBP Job Portal
Go to:
👉 https://www.sbp.org.pk/careers/status.asp
Here you’ll find all details, the online application form, and the link to create your candidate profile.
2. Scan the QR Code (Optional Method)
The advertisement also includes a QR code.
You can scan it using your mobile phone, and it will take you directly to the application page.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | SOTS Batch-9 |
| Job Position | Assistant Director OG-2 |
| Training | NIBAF Karachi |
| Education | 16 years in relevant fields |
| Grades Needed | 60% OR 2.5/4.0 OR 3.5/5.0 |
| Age Limit | Max 26 years (3-year relaxation for specific regions) |
| Application Method | Online only |
| Website | sbp.org.pk/careers |
| Last Date | 22 December 2025 |
👉 Deadline: December 22, 2025
👉 Apply online through SBP’s official career portal
Best of luck, your future might be waiting on the other side of this application!
