TCS NQT (National Qualifier Test) is a golden opportunity for freshers looking to start their career with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). However, with thousands of candidates appearing, you need a smart strategy to stand out.
Here are the most commonly asked questions about TCS NQT, covering eligibility, syllabus, exam pattern, registration, preparation tips, and results.
1. What is TCS NQT?
- TCS NQT (National Qualifier Test) is an online assessment conducted by Tata
Consultancy Services (TCS) to hire freshers for various job roles, including TCS Ninja (₹3.6-4 LPA) and TCS Digital (₹7-8 LPA).
- The NQT score is also valid for other IT companies, making it a great opportunity for students.
2. Who is eligible for TCS NQT 2025?
Eligibility Criteria TCS NQT:
- Graduation Year: 2024, 2025 (Final-year & Pre-final-year students).
- Degree: B.E./B.Tech/M.E./M.Tech/M.Sc/MCA/B.Sc/BCA/B.Com/BA.
- Percentage Criteria: Minimum 60% or 6.0 CGPA in X, XII, and graduation.
- Backlogs: Not more than 1 active backlog at the time of the test.
- Gap in Education: Maximum 24 months (2 years) gap allowed.
3.What is the TCS NQT exam pattern?
The exam consists of five sections:
| Section | Number of Questions | Time Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Numerical Ability (Aptitude) | 20 | 40 mins |
| Logical Reasoning & Problem Solving | 20 | 50 mins |
| Verbal Ability (English Proficiency) | 25 | 25 mins |
| Programming Logic (MCQs – C, Java, Python, DBMS, OS, OOPs, etc.) | 10 | 15 mins |
| Coding (Hands-on Programming Questions) | 2 | 45 mins |
| Total | 77 Questions | ~180 minutes |
Important Notes:
No negative marking in TCS NQT.
The difficulty level varies for TCS Ninja & TCS Digital roles.
4. How to apply for TCS NQT 2025?
Follow these steps to register:
- Go to the official TCS NQT portal: https://www.tcs.com/careers
- Click on “Register Now” and create an account.
- Fill in your personal & academic details.
- Choose NQT Type (IT, BFSI, or Psychometric Test).
- Upload resume & other required documents.
- Select exam date & test mode (Online or In-Center).
- Submit the application and wait for the hall ticket.
Apply at least 1 month before the exam to avoid last-minute issues.
5. What is the difference between TCS Ninja and TCS Digital?
| Feature | TCS Ninja | TCS Digital |
|---|---|---|
| Salary Package | ₹3.6 – 4 LPA | ₹7 – 8 LPA |
| Difficulty Level | Easy – Moderate | Hard |
| Hiring Process | TCS NQT + Interview | TCS NQT (High Score) + Advanced Interview |
| Required Skills | Basic Coding, Aptitude | Strong DSA, Competitive Coding, System Design |
If you want TCS Digital, focus on competitive coding, problem-solving, and advanced algorithms.
6. What are the important topics to prepare for TCS NQT?
Numerical Ability (Aptitude)
Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time-Speed-Distance
Permutation & Combination, Probability
Data Interpretation, Simplification
Logical Reasoning & Problem Solving
Blood Relations, Syllogisms, Seating Arrangements
Coding-Decoding, Puzzles, Direction Sense
Verbal Ability (English Proficiency)
Sentence Correction, Synonyms & Antonyms
Reading Comprehension, Active & Passive Voice
Programming Logic (MCQs)
Data Structures, OOPs, DBMS, SQL, OS Concepts
Coding (Hands-on Programming Questions)
Arrays, Strings, Sorting & Searching
Recursion, Linked Lists, Dynamic Programming
Practice at least 2-3 coding problems daily on LeetCode or GeeksforGeeks.
7. How difficult is TCS NQT?
Difficulty Level:
- TCS Ninja: Easy to Moderate
- TCS Digital: Moderate to Hard
Major Challenges:
Time management is crucial.
Coding section requires strong problem-solving skills.
Logical reasoning & aptitude questions can be tricky.
Solve previous years’ TCS NQT papers to get familiar with the pattern.
8. What is the best way to prepare for TCS NQT?
Step-by-Step Preparation Strategy:
Step 1: Start with Aptitude & Reasoning (IndiaBIX, RS Aggarwal, PrepInsta).
Step 2: Work on Verbal Ability (Grammarly Quizzes, The Hindu newspaper).
Step 3: Learn Programming Basics (C, Java, Python, SQL).
Step 4: Solve DSA problems daily (LeetCode, HackerRank, GeeksforGeeks).
Step 5: Take mock tests weekly to improve speed & accuracy.
Step 6: Revise key concepts before the exam day.
Best Resources for TCS NQT:
- GeeksforGeeks – DSA & Coding Questions
- LeetCode & CodeChef – Competitive Programming
- PrepInsta & IndiaBIX – Aptitude & Reasoning
9. What happens after clearing the TCS NQT test?
After passing TCS NQT, you will go through:
- Shortlisting for Interviews – Based on your score, you will be invited for a Technical & HR Interview.
- Interview Rounds:
- Technical Interview – Programming, DSA, OOPs, SQL.
- HR Interview – Communication, Strengths, Work Flexibility.
- Offer Letter – If selected, you will receive a TCS Offer Letter via email.
Prepare common HR questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “Why TCS?”.
10. Is TCS NQT free or paid?
- TCS NQT is FREE for TCS Hiring, but there is also a paid version if you want to use your score for other companies.
- The paid version costs ₹599 – ₹1,199, depending on the test type.
11. When will the TCS NQT results be announced?
- Results are usually declared within 2-3 weeks after the test.
- You will receive a selection email if shortlisted for the interview.
Apply Early – Don’t wait for the last date.
Practice Daily – Focus on aptitude, coding, and logical reasoning.
Take Mock Tests – Improve time management & accuracy.
Prepare for Interviews – Revise DBMS, OS, and OOPs concepts.
Have any questions? Drop a comment below!
