Apply Now — Last Date: 17 March 2026
Federal Bank Apprentice
Recruitment 2026 — Apply Online
Federal Bank, one of India's premier private sector banks headquartered in Aluva, Kerala, has officially released the Graduate Apprentice Recruitment Notification 2026 on 10 March 2026 under the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Act, 1973. Fresh graduates across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka can apply online through the NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in) until 17 March 2026. Selected apprentices receive a ₹18,000/month stipend and gain structured, real-world banking experience at Federal Bank branches. This is a truly golden opportunity to launch your banking career — go apply! 💙
🏦 Federal Bank
🎓 Graduate Apprentice
📅 Apply by 17 March 2026
💰 ₹18,000/month Stipend
📍 Kerala · Tamil Nadu · Karnataka
⚖️ Apprenticeship Act 1973
🌐 NATS Portal
17 Mar
Last Date 2026
₹18,000
Monthly Stipend
1 Year
Training Duration
3 States
KL · TN · KA
Max 28
Age Limit (yrs)
50%+
Min Graduation
01
Important Dates — Verified Timeline
Official Notification Released on NATS Portal10 March 2026
Online Application Process Opens — NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in)10 March 2026
Last Date to Apply Online via NATS Portal17 March 2026
Eligibility Cut-off Date — Age & Qualification to be reckoned as on01 March 2026
Application Shortlisting — by Federal Bank post deadlineAfter 17 March 2026
Personal Interview — Shortlisted Candidates (Date to be notified)To be announced
Contract of Apprenticeship Execution — Before Training CommencesAfter selection
Apprenticeship Training Commences at Federal Bank BranchesAfter contract signing
Training Completion — 1-Year DurationAfter 1 year
02
Recruitment Overview — Key Details at a Glance
Recruiting OrganisationFederal Bank Limited
Post NameGraduate Apprentice
Notification Date10 March 2026
Application ModeOnline via NATS Portal only
Application Dates10 March – 17 March 2026
Monthly Stipend₹18,000/- (All Inclusive)
Training Duration1 Year
Training StatesKerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka
Governing ActApprenticeship (Amendment) Act, 1973
Age Limit (as on 01/03/2026)Maximum 28 years (Born on/after 01/03/1998)
Educational QualificationGraduation with ≥ 50% marks (Full-Time)
Selection StagesApplication Shortlisting + Personal Interview
Application FeeNIL — No Fee Required
Official Portalnats.education.gov.in
Bank Websitefederalbank.co.in
Employment After TrainingNot Guaranteed — Training Only
03
State-wise Training Coverage — Kerala, Tamil Nadu & Karnataka
🌴
Kerala
Federal Bank's Home State — Headquartered at Aluva
Largest share of vacancies
Federal Bank has its highest density of branches in Kerala, making it the state with the most apprentice training opportunities. Founded here in 1931 as Travancore Federal Bank, Kerala remains the core operational heartland.
🏛️
Tamil Nadu
Major South Indian Market
Significant presence across TN
Federal Bank has a growing and well-established presence across Tamil Nadu with branches in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Salem, Tirupur, and other major cities, making it an exciting training ground.
🌿
Karnataka
Tech Hub & Growing Market
Expanding network including Bengaluru
Karnataka offers dynamic exposure at Federal Bank's branches in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubli, and other cities. Training here places apprentices at the intersection of banking and one of India's biggest economic ecosystems.
📌 Note on Vacancies: The total number of state-wise vacancies is as per the official notification published on the NATS Portal under "Apply Against Advertised Vacancies" against Federal Bank's listing. Training location will be at Federal Bank branches within the state the candidate applies for, based on bank operational requirements and availability. The bank reserves the right to decide the exact posting location within the state.
04
Eligibility Criteria — All Conditions Explained
Educational Qualification — Minimum 50% Graduation
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree (Graduation) in any discipline from a University recognised by the Government of India or its regulatory bodies, with not less than 50% aggregate marks. The course must be a Full-Time Programme only — Part-time, Correspondence, Distance, or Open University graduation does not qualify. The degree must be completed before the cut-off date.
Age Limit — Maximum 28 Years as on 01/03/2026
Candidates must be born on or after 1st March 1998 (i.e., age shall not exceed 28 years as on 01/03/2026). No minimum age limit has been specified — newly graduated candidates are eligible. The official notification does not mention any age relaxation for reserved categories for this specific apprenticeship cycle — always verify via the NATS portal listing.
Year of Passing — Must Be Within 4 Years of Graduation
Candidates should not have completed more than 4 years since passing their Graduation. This means candidates who graduated before March 2022 are generally not eligible. This clause is designed to ensure the training opportunity goes to genuinely fresh or recently graduated candidates who have not yet entered the workforce.
Work Experience — Maximum 1 Year Allowed
Candidates should not have prior job experience exceeding 1 year. This apprenticeship is aimed at fresh graduates and early career professionals. Candidates with more than 1 year of formal work experience in any organisation are not eligible to apply. Part-time, internship, or casual work may or may not be counted — always refer to the official notification on NATS portal for exact interpretation.
No Previous Apprenticeship — Mandatory Condition
Candidates who have already undergone Apprenticeship Training anywhere — under the Apprenticeship Act 1961 or 1973 at any establishment — are not eligible. This is a fundamental requirement of the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Act, 1973. If you have previously enrolled as an apprentice at any bank, PSU, or private company, you cannot apply for this Federal Bank engagement.
Nationality — Indian Citizens Only
Only Citizens of India are eligible to apply. NRIs, OCI (Overseas Citizens of India), and foreign nationals are not eligible for this apprenticeship engagement. Candidates must be able to produce valid Indian citizenship proof (Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID) at the time of document verification and contract signing.
⛔ Disqualification Conditions — You Are NOT Eligible If:
- Your graduation was through a part-time, distance, correspondence, or open university programme — Full-time only.
- You scored less than 50% aggregate marks in your graduation — exactly 50% qualifies, below does not.
- You are older than 28 years as on 01 March 2026 (i.e., born before 1 March 1998).
- You graduated more than 4 years ago (i.e., before March 2022) and fall outside the recency window.
- You have more than 1 year of formal work experience after your graduation.
- You have previously completed or are currently undergoing an apprenticeship at any establishment.
05
Stipend & Training Details — What to Expect
Monthly Stipend (All Inclusive)
₹18,000
per month — fixed for 1 year
All-inclusive — no separate HRA/TA/DA. Fixed amount for entire training period.
Training Duration
1 Year
12 consecutive months
At designated Federal Bank branches in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka
Governing Legislation
Act 1973
Apprenticeship (Amendment) Act
Training contract executed under this Act. Rights and obligations governed by its provisions.
Employment Guarantee
None
Training engagement only
Federal Bank has no obligation to offer permanent employment after training period ends.
💡 Why ₹18,000 Is Higher Than Industry Norm: Most bank apprenticeships under the Apprentices Act 1961 offer stipends between ₹10,000–₹15,000/month. Federal Bank's ₹18,000 all-inclusive stipend is one of the most competitive in the private banking sector for graduate apprentices in South India. For a fresh graduate in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka, this covers most living expenses while delivering hands-on banking experience at a prestigious institution. A truly worthwhile opportunity! 💙
🏦 What Will You Learn During Training? Federal Bank apprentices get structured, on-the-job training in core banking operations including: Customer Service & Account Management, Digital Banking Operations, Loan & Credit Processes, Trade Finance Basics, KYC & AML Compliance, Cash & Treasury Operations, and Branch Technology Systems. With 1,588+ Federal Bank outlets nationwide and a customer base of over 19 million, the exposure you'll gain is genuinely world-class. 💙
06
Selection Process — Application to Appointment
1
Online Application via NATS Portal
Eligible candidates must register on the NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in) and apply against Federal Bank's advertisement under "Apply Against Advertised Vacancies". The application window is open from 10 March to 17 March 2026. After successful NATS registration, candidates receive an Enrolment ID which is their identity for the application. No application fee — the entire process is free. 💙
2
Application Shortlisting by Federal Bank
After the application window closes on 17 March 2026, Federal Bank's HR team reviews all submitted applications. Shortlisting is based on academic merit (graduation percentage), eligibility compliance, and availability of positions per state. Candidates with stronger academic records and meeting all eligibility conditions are prioritised. The bank may also consider other factors at its discretion. Shortlisted candidates are notified via their registered email or NATS portal.
3
Personal Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be called for a Personal Interview conducted by Federal Bank. The interview typically assesses communication skills, basic banking awareness, motivation for joining the programme, subject knowledge, and general aptitude. The interview may be conducted in person at designated Federal Bank offices or virtually — mode will be communicated with the interview call letter. Federal Bank also reserves the right to introduce any other mode of selection as it deems fit.
4
Document Verification & NATS Contract
Candidates who clear the interview are required to present original documents for verification — graduation certificate, marksheets, Aadhaar card, and other documents as specified by Federal Bank. Following verification, a Contract of Apprenticeship is executed on the NATS portal between the selected candidate and Federal Bank before training commences. This is a legal requirement under the Apprenticeship Act.
5
One-Year Apprenticeship Training at Federal Bank Branches 🏦
Finally selected apprentices join Federal Bank branches in their respective state (Kerala / Tamil Nadu / Karnataka) for a full one-year training programme. They receive a ₹18,000/month all-inclusive stipend and gain real-world exposure to banking operations. At the end of the training year, candidates have a significant competitive edge for banking job applications — IBPS, Federal Bank direct recruitment, SFB, NBFCs, and private banks. We are SO excited for you! 💙
NATS Registration
Application Submission
Shortlisting by Bank
Personal Interview
Document Verification
Contract + Training
07
How to Apply — Step-by-Step via NATS Portal
1
Visit the NATS Portal — nats.education.gov.in
Open nats.education.gov.in on your browser. This is the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) Portal — the Government of India's official platform for apprenticeship applications. All Federal Bank apprentice applications must be submitted here only. Using a desktop or laptop for a smooth experience is highly recommended. 💙
2
Register as a Student on NATS (if not already registered)
Click on "Student Register/Login" on the NATS homepage. If you are a new user, click "New Registration". Fill in your Name, Date of Birth, Email ID, Mobile Number, Qualification details (Graduation — Subject, Year, College, University, Percentage), and Aadhaar number. Upload your photograph and digitally sign. Submit — you will receive your NATS Enrolment ID via email. Save this ID — it is required for all future steps.
3
Log in and Search for Federal Bank's Advertisement
After NATS registration is confirmed, log in to the NATS Portal using your Enrolment ID and password. Navigate to "Apply Against Advertised Vacancies". In the search box, type "Federal Bank" or search by state (Kerala / Tamil Nadu / Karnataka). Locate the Federal Bank Graduate Apprentice 2026 advertisement. Verify that the vacancy matches your state of preference and eligibility before proceeding.
4
Fill in Application Details and Submit
Click "Apply" against the Federal Bank advertisement. Review your pre-filled personal and academic details from your NATS profile — correct any errors if needed. Fill in any additional details requested in the application such as preferred state, branch location preference, or other information asked in the Federal Bank advertisement. Double-check all information before submitting — inaccuracies may lead to rejection. Submit the application before 17 March 2026.
5
Save Your Application Confirmation
After successful submission, you will receive a confirmation message on NATS and an email acknowledgement to your registered email address. Save / screenshot the application confirmation along with your NATS Enrolment ID. This serves as proof of your application. Check your registered email and spam folder regularly for further communication from Federal Bank regarding shortlisting, interview dates, and other updates. 💙
📌 Documents to Keep Ready Before Applying: Graduation Marksheets (all semesters), Graduation Degree Certificate, Class 10 Marksheet (DOB proof), Class 12 Marksheet, Aadhaar Card, Passport-size Photograph (digital), Scanned Signature. All must be in prescribed file size and format as specified on the NATS portal. Keep originals ready for document verification stage after interview.
08
About Federal Bank — Why This Apprenticeship Matters
A Legacy Since 1931 — India's Trusted Private Bank
Federal Bank was founded in 1931 as Travancore Federal Bank and renamed Federal Bank Limited on 2 December 1949. Headquartered at Aluva, Kerala, it is one of India's most respected private sector banks with 1,588+ banking outlets and 2,079+ ATMs/CDMs spread across India. Federal Bank has a customer base of over 19 million and handles more than one-fifth of India's total personal inward remittances.
Pioneering Technology in Indian Banking
Federal Bank was among the first banks in India to computerise all its branches. In March 2024, it became the first bank in India to unveil Gen-AI search functionality for its corporate website. The bank offers Internet Banking, Mobile Banking, Online Bill Payment, Cash Management Services, Depository Services, Merchant Banking, and Insurance — giving apprentices exposure to truly cutting-edge banking technology during training.
Career Boost — Beyond the One Year
While the apprenticeship does not guarantee permanent employment, completing a year at Federal Bank positions you exceptionally well for future opportunities. Banks like Federal Bank itself, IDFC First Bank, Yes Bank, South Indian Bank, CSB Bank, Kerala Gramin Bank, and other financial institutions actively prefer candidates with prior banking experience. The NATS Certificate of Apprenticeship issued by the Board of Apprenticeship Training adds significant weight to your resume.
South India's Banking Hub — Strategic Training Ground
Kerala is India's personal remittance capital, Tamil Nadu is one of India's top manufacturing and services economies, and Karnataka (especially Bengaluru) is the technology and startup hub of India. Training at Federal Bank branches in these three states gives apprentices unparalleled exposure to diverse customer segments, NRI banking, trade finance, and digital-first banking workflows — a genuinely enriching experience. 💙
09
Interview Preparation Tips — Crack the Personal Interview
Know Federal Bank Inside Out
Before the interview, thoroughly research Federal Bank: founded in 1931, headquartered in Aluva Kerala, MD & CEO Shyam Srinivasan (verify current CEO), 1,588+ branches, listed on BSE & NSE, known for NRI remittance banking. Know its recent achievements — first Indian bank with Gen-AI search. Interviewers are always impressed when a candidate knows the organisation well. Visit federalbank.co.in for latest updates. 💙
Brush Up on Basic Banking & Finance Concepts
Be ready to answer: What is KYC? What is RTGS/NEFT/IMPS? What is a Fixed Deposit? What is CRR and SLR? What is the difference between a savings and current account? Who is the RBI Governor? (Check current holder.) These basic banking questions are standard fare for bank apprenticeship interviews. Also prepare your "Why do you want to work in banking?" answer — make it personal and genuine.
Communication Skills Are Key
Federal Bank is a customer-facing, service-oriented bank — clear, confident, and professional communication is the most important thing they look for during the interview. Practice speaking clearly in English (and the local language of the state you're applying for — Malayalam, Tamil, or Kannada). Good eye contact, positive body language, and a calm demeanour go a long way. Practice mock interviews with a friend.
Stay Updated on Current Affairs & Banking News
Follow The Hindu, Business Standard, or RBI's website for the latest banking and finance news. Key topics: recent RBI monetary policy decisions, recent interest rate changes, SEBI announcements, fintech developments, UPI transaction statistics. Showing awareness of current events signals a proactive and curious candidate — exactly what Federal Bank wants in an apprentice. Keep a daily 15-minute current affairs habit. 💙
10
Important Links — Apply Now & Official Resources
🔗 Direct Application & Official Links
✅ Apply Now — NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in) — Federal Bank Graduate Apprentice 2026
🏦 Federal Bank Careers Page — federalbank.co.in/careers
🌐 Federal Bank Official Website — federalbank.co.in
📝 NATS Student Registration — New Users Register Here First
🔍 Official Notification Federal Bank Advertisement
11
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Federal Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2026 — and is it a permanent job?
Federal Bank has announced the engagement of Graduate Apprentices under the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Act, 1973 for a one-year training programme across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. This is not a permanent job — it is a structured training engagement. Selected candidates receive a ₹18,000/month all-inclusive stipend during the one-year training period. Federal Bank has no obligation to offer permanent employment after training, and the apprentice has no right to claim a job. However, the experience and NATS certificate significantly strengthen your career profile. 💙
What is the last date to apply for Federal Bank Apprentice 2026?
The last date to apply online is 17 March 2026. Applications must be submitted through the NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in). The notification was released and the application window opened on 10 March 2026 — giving candidates only a short 8-day window to apply. Given this extremely tight deadline, eligible candidates must apply TODAY without any delay. There are no extensions — 17 March 2026 is the absolute final date. 💙
What is the stipend for Federal Bank Apprentice 2026?
The monthly stipend is ₹18,000/- (Rupees Eighteen Thousand only) — All Inclusive. This means the ₹18,000 is the total payment — no additional allowances like DA, HRA, TA, or medical benefits are provided separately. The stipend is fixed for the entire one-year training duration and will not be revised. At ₹18,000/month, Federal Bank's apprentice stipend is one of the most competitive in the private banking sector for South Indian graduates. 💙
What is the eligibility to apply for Federal Bank Apprentice 2026?
To be eligible, you must:
- Hold a Graduation degree from a recognised Indian University with at least 50% aggregate marks
- Have completed graduation through a Full-Time course only (no distance/part-time)
- Be maximum 28 years of age as on 01/03/2026 (born on or after 1 March 1998)
- Have completed graduation within the last 4 years (i.e., not before March 2022)
- Have not more than 1 year of prior work experience
- Not have previously undergone apprenticeship training anywhere
- Be a citizen of India
How do I apply for Federal Bank Apprentice 2026?
The only way to apply is through the NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in). Step 1: Register on NATS if not already done. Step 2: Log in with your Enrolment ID. Step 3: Go to "Apply Against Advertised Vacancies". Step 4: Search for "Federal Bank" and locate the Graduate Apprentice 2026 advertisement. Step 5: Click Apply, fill in details, and submit. Step 6: Save your application confirmation. No fee is required. The entire process is free and online. Apply before 17 March 2026. 💙
What is the selection process for Federal Bank Apprentice 2026?
The selection process consists of two stages:
- Stage 1 — Application Shortlisting: Federal Bank reviews all applications and shortlists candidates based on academic merit (graduation %), eligibility compliance, and state-wise vacancy availability. Shortlisted candidates are notified via NATS portal or registered email.
- Stage 2 — Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates attend a personal interview to assess communication skills, banking awareness, aptitude, and motivation. The bank also reserves the right to introduce any other mode of selection at its discretion.
Is there any application fee for Federal Bank Apprentice 2026?
No application fee is required for Federal Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2026. The entire application process through the NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in) is completely free of charge. Candidates do not need to pay any fee at any stage — registration on NATS, application submission, or any other step. Be wary of any website or agent claiming to charge a fee for this application — it is a scam. The official portal is nats.education.gov.in only. 💙
Which states are covered under Federal Bank Apprentice 2026?
The Federal Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2026 covers three states: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Training will be conducted at Federal Bank branches within these three states. Candidates must apply for the state where they wish to be posted for training. Note that Federal Bank's 2025 cycle also included Andhra Pradesh and Telangana — the 2026 cycle is specifically for Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka only. Always verify from the NATS portal advertisement for any state-wise specification in the current cycle.
Can final year graduation students apply for this apprenticeship?
No. The eligibility condition requires that candidates be graduates with at least 50% marks — meaning the degree must be fully completed with final result declared before the application. Final year students whose results are still awaited cannot apply for this recruitment cycle. This is consistent with the Apprenticeship Act requirement that apprentices be qualified graduates. If you are in your final year, watch out for the next Federal Bank apprenticeship cycle in 2027 — and keep your result above 50%. 💙
What career opportunities open up after completing the Federal Bank Apprenticeship?
Completing a one-year apprenticeship at Federal Bank opens multiple doors:
- Federal Bank Direct Recruitment — Federal Bank regularly recruits for Officer, Associate Officer, and Office Assistant roles — prior experience at the bank is a significant advantage.
- Other Private Banks — IDFC First, Yes Bank, South Indian Bank, CSB Bank, Dhanlaxmi Bank, Karnataka Bank all value banking experience.
- IBPS PO / Clerk / RRB — Banking experience strengthens your interview performance.
- Small Finance Banks (SFBs) — AU SFB, Equitas, ESAF, Ujjivan — actively hire from banking-trained profiles.
- NATS Certificate — Nationally recognised by BOAT (Board of Apprenticeship Training). 💙
Editor at Jobtheta
Mahato is a dedicated Recruitment Content Writer focused on delivering timely, accurate, and verified updates on government job opportunities across India. His work emphasizes presenting official notifications, eligibility requirements, important dates, and application procedures in a clear, structured, and easy-to-understand format, enabling students and job seekers to take informed and confident decisions.
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