TCS NQT Table of content:
TCS NQT Hiring Process 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Freshers
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:
|
Stage |
Purpose |
|
Application |
Candidates must register through the TCS NQT portal and submit their applications complete with relevant information. |
|
TCS NQT Exam |
A standardised test assessing cognitive, technical, and, if chosen, domain-specific knowledge. |
|
Shortlisting |
Based on the NQT scores, candidates are shortlisted for interviews. |
|
Technical Interview |
Tests programming, data structures, and other core technical skills. |
|
Managerial Interview |
Focuses on problem-solving skills, situational judgment, and decision-making. |
|
HR Interview |
Evaluate communication, personality, cultural fit, and alignment with TCS’s values. |
|
Offer Rollout |
Successful candidates receive job offers based on performance across all stages and role availability. |
TCS NQT Hiring 2025: Eligibility Criteria
To apply for TCS NQT, candidates must meet the following criteria:
|
Criteria |
Requirement |
|
Highest Qualification |
B.E/B.Tech, M.E/M.Tech, M.C.A, M.Sc/M.S (Batch of 2025) from AICTE/UGC-recognized institutes. |
|
Academic Aggregate |
Minimum 60% or equivalent CGPA in 10th, 12th, Diploma (if applicable), Graduation & Post-Graduation. |
|
Backlogs |
No pending backlogs at the time of selection. |
|
Extended Education |
Course must be completed within the stipulated duration. |
|
Education Gap |
Maximum 24 months; gaps must be declared with valid proof. |
|
Course Type |
Only full-time courses accepted (no part-time/correspondence). |
|
Open Schooling |
NIOS candidates eligible if Graduation & PG are full-time. |
|
Work Experience |
Up to 2 years (for Post-Graduate candidates only). |
|
Age Limit |
18 to 28 years. |
TCS NQT Hiring 2025: Application Process & Link
Step 1: Log in to the–
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):
|
Sections |
Duration (in mins) |
|
Part A - Foundation Section Breakdown: |
75
|
|
Part B - Advanced Section Breakdown: |
115
|
|
Total Duration |
190 |
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:
|
Category |
CTC (UG) |
CTC (PG) |
Key Responsibilities |
|
Prime |
₹9.0 LPA |
₹11.5 LPA |
Work on complex projects with advanced tech & algorithms, explore emerging technologies, integrate system designs with automation & security. |
|
Digital |
₹7.0 LPA |
₹7.3 LPA |
Develop and integrate solutions, contribute to TCS' innovation, work on modern tech initiatives, build frameworks & tools. |
|
Ninja |
₹3.36 LPA |
₹3.53 LPA |
Application development & maintenance, systems engineering, explore next-gen technologies. |
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
|
Topic |
TCS Ninja Resources
|
Topic |
TCS Digital Resources
|
Topic |
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.
Suggested reads: