TCS NQT Hiring Process 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Freshers

6 mins read

The TCS National Qualifier Test (NQT) serves as a premier recruitment gateway for fresh graduates aiming to start their careers with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of the world's leading IT service companies. The TCS NQT is a standardised test designed to evaluate candidates across cognitive skills, programming proficiency, and domain-specific knowledge, offering a fair and transparent recruitment process.

This article provides a thorough breakdown of the TCS NQT hiring process, from the application to the final stage, ensuring fresh graduates are well-prepared to succeed.

TCS NQT Recruitment Process: Overview

The TCS NQT recruitment process includes several key stages that assess both technical abilities and cultural fit. Here’s an overview:

TCS NQT Hiring 2025: Eligibility Criteria

To apply for TCS NQT, candidates must meet the following criteria:

TCS NQT Hiring 2025: Application Process & Link

Step 1: Log in to the–

TCS NextStep Portal

Step 2: Register & Apply

• Existing Users (IT category): Log in with your TCS Reference ID (CT/DT) and complete the application. Click ‘Apply For Drive’.
• New Users: Click ‘Register Now’, select ‘IT’, fill in your details, submit the form, and click ‘Apply For Drive’.

Step 3: Choose In-Center Mode, select three preferred test centers, and click ‘Apply’. (Allocation depends on availability.)

Step 4: Check ‘Track Your Application’ – status should show "Applied for Drive".

Important Notes:

• Official test communication will come from TCS iON. 
• TCS does not send hiring emails from personal domains (Gmail, Yahoo, etc.).
• TCS is not affiliated with any external agency for hiring.
• No payment is required for job offers.

Important Dates: TCS NQT Hiring 2025

• Registrations Open: Now
• Registration End Date: 2nd April 2025

TCS NQT Exam Structure: Detailed Breakdown

The TCS NQT exam assesses candidates on cognitive and technical skills, ensuring they possess the foundational knowledge required for success. It is an integrated test consisting of the following two sections (with breakdown):

TCS NQT Hiring Categories

Based on the test performance, candidates will qualify for Prime, Digital or Ninja interviews. The details of the hiring categories are as follows:

Important Note: 

• While all candidates are encouraged to attempt both sections, ‘Advanced section’ is mandatory if you aspire for Digital or Prime offer.
• The final offer depends on overall performance in the selection process.

TCS NQT 2025: Preparation Resources

Prepare for TCS NQT with these curated resources:

General NQT Resources

TCS Ninja Resources

TCS Digital Resources

Practice Mock Tests & Targeted Questions

Conclusion

The TCS NQT hiring process is an excellent opportunity for fresh graduates to embark on a successful career in one of the top IT firms. Through a structured, transparent recruitment process that includes cognitive testing, technical interviews, and personality assessments, TCS ensures it hires candidates who are not only skilled but also aligned with the company's values and culture. 

By understanding each stage of the process and dedicating time to preparation, candidates can significantly increase their chances of success. Good luck as you begin your journey with TCS!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the eligibility requirement for TCS NQT?

Candidates should hold a BE/BTech/ME/MTech/MCA/MSc degree with at least 60% or equivalent CGPA throughout academics.

2. What types of questions are asked in the TCS NQT exam?

The NQT exam includes questions on cognitive skills, programming logic, hands-on coding, and optional subject-specific knowledge.

3. How can I prepare effectively for the TCS NQT?

Focus on cognitive and technical skills, practice coding, and work on sample tests. Use platforms like HackerRank for coding practice.

4. What happens if I clear the NQT exam but don’t pass the interview

Candidates can reattempt NQT in future cycles and apply for other TCS roles based on their NQT scores and skills.

5. Is there a cut-off score for the TCS NQT exam?

TCS does not announce a fixed cut-off, as shortlisting depends on test scores, relative performance, and availability of roles.

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