As a fresh graduate, your goal is to join a reputable company and start your career strong. Having your first job with a well-established organization ensures you gain valuable experiences and sets you on a path of consistent professional growth. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is one such company.

TCS is a global leader and an Indian multinational company known for its expertise in business solutions, digital services, and IT services. They collaborate closely with clients to enhance, transform, and simplify their business operations. With a presence in 46 countries, TCS is a top employer, employing around six lakh people.

So, how can you secure a job at TCS? The answer lies in the TCS National Qualifier Test, or TCS NQT.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about the TCS NQT.

What is TCS NQT and Why Should You Know About it?

The TCS NQT is a comprehensive assessment designed to evaluate your core cognitive abilities, which are essential for entry-level positions in the company. The cognitive skills assessed in the TCS NQT include verbal, reasoning, and numerical abilities.

Additionally, the exam holds recognition from top corporations and companies in various industries. It is designed to meet industry standards, providing job seekers and students with a valuable opportunity to pursue their dream jobs.

So, who is eligible to take this exam? What does the exam syllabus entail? And what is the exam structure? Let’s delve into these details to gain a comprehensive understanding.

Eligibility Criteria of TCS NQT: Who Can Apply?

The table below provides a consolidated overview of the eligibility criteria for the TCS NQT exam.

You can also read our guide on TCS Xplore – an innovative learning and development program for students, employees, and organizations and how it helps elevate your career.

TCS NQT Exam Pattern: Understanding the Test Structure

The TCS NQT test consists of two main rounds: the foundation round and the advanced round. To secure a job at TCS, you must successfully clear both rounds. The scores obtained in these tests will determine the job opportunities that align with your skills and requirements.

The foundation round comprises questions related to reasoning, verbal ability, traits assessment, and numerical ability. This round assesses your foundational knowledge and skills in these areas.

On the other hand, the advanced round encompasses topics at an elevated level. It includes coding tests to evaluate programming skills, quantitative ability tests to assess numerical proficiency, and reasoning ability tests to gauge your logical thinking capabilities. The advanced round delves deeper into these subjects to examine your proficiency and aptitude in advanced concepts.

Now that you understand the test structure, let’s explore the specific topics covered in each round to help you prepare effectively for the test.

TCS NQT Syllabus: What Topics are Covered in the Exam?

TCS NQT Programming Logic Topics

1. Data Types
2. Input-Output (based on C)
3. Functions and Scope
4. Variables and Registers
5. Command Line Programming
6. Pointers
7. Inbuilt Libraries (based on C)
8. Call by value/reference
9. Iteration
10. Recursion

TCS NQT Reasoning Ability Topics

1. Meaningful Word Creation
2. Number Series – Missing Number Single, Missing Number Analogy
3. Data Sufficiency – Rank-Based Logic, Ages
4. Blood Relations
5. Coding-Decoding
6. Ages
7. Odd Man Out – Numbers, Logical
8. Distance and Directions
9. Statement and Conclusion
10. Seating Arrangement (Easy)
11. Seating Arrangement (Complex)
12. Analogy
13. Mathematical Operational Arrangement
14. Symbols and Notations

TCS NQT Numerical Ability Topics

1. Arrangements and Series
2. P&C (Permutations and Combinations)
3. Number System, LCM & HCF (Highest Common Factor)
4. Percentages
5. Allegations and Mixtures
6. Probability
7. Ratios, Proportions, and Averages
8. Reasoning
9. Work and Time
10. Speed Time and Distance
11. Geometry
12. Divisibility
13. Profit and Loss
14. Ages
15. Clocks & Calendar
16. Series and Progressions
17. Equations
18. Averages
19. Area, Shapes & Perimeter
20. Numbers & Decimal Fractions

TCS NQT Verbal Ability Topics

1. Synonyms
2. Antonyms
3. Prepositions
4. Sentence Completion
5. Active and Passive Voice
6. Spelling Test
7. Spotting Errors
8. Passage Completion
9. Substitution
10. Sentence Arrangement
11. Transformation
12. Idioms and Phrases
13. Sentence Improvement
14. Para Completion
15. Joining Sentences
16. Error Correction (Underlined Part)
17. Error Correction (Phrase in Bold)
18. Fill in the blanks

TCS NQT Coding Topics

1. C++
2. Java
3. C
4. Perl
5. Python

TCS NQT Variants: Each Variant Explained

There are three variants in TCS NQT. Let’s take a closer look at each variant and the specific assessments they involve:

1)  NQT -> NQT (Cognitive Test) -> Attitudinal Alignment (Psychometric Test): The first variant begins with the NQT, which evaluates cognitive skills encompassing verbal, numerical, and reasoning abilities. It is a mandatory test and a prerequisite for all other variant tests.

After completing the NQT, you must proceed to the Attitudinal Alignment (Psychometric Test), which assesses your personality traits, work styles, and workplace dispositions. This test evaluates the alignment of attitudes relevant to entry-level positions and provides an assessment report.

2)  Subject NQT -> IT Programming -> Basic Computer Skills -> Accountant: The second variant focuses on specific job roles and skills. It begins with the Subject NQT, which assesses knowledge and proficiency in job role-specific areas. This includes a test of knowledge covering pseudocode, algorithms, programming constructs, and basic Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) concepts.

Additionally, you must demonstrate implementation skills using programming languages such as C, C++, and Java. The assessment also includes hands-on exercises to evaluate the practical application. For those targeting IT programming roles, the subsequent assessments include evaluating basic computer skills and specific skills for accountants.

3)  Industry NQT -> Information Technology -> Banking -> Retail -> Banking and Financial Services: The third variant, Industry NQT, assesses awareness and understanding of industry-specific dimensions.

The Industry NQT allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in various industries, including Information Technology, Banking, Retail, and Banking and Financial Services.

In addition to the variant tests, you will have access to practice tests. You can take four practice tests, two for Cognitive Skills and two for IT Programming. Each practice test allows you to make five attempts, providing valuable preparation opportunities for the actual assessments.

TCS NQT Registration Process: How to Apply for the Exam?

The application process for TCS NQT comprises two steps, comprehensively described below.

Step 1: Register on the TCS iON Portal

1. Visit the TCS iON Portal and create a new account. If you already have an account, log in using your credentials.

2. Register as a learner and provide the necessary details such as name, email ID, mobile number, password, etc.

3. If you are below 18 years old, select the “minor” option and provide the details of your guardian.

4. Accept the terms and conditions and click “Create an account” to complete the registration process.

5. Congratulations! Your account has been successfully created. Now, you can proceed to purchase the desired TCS NQT variants.

Step 2: Purchase TCS NQT Variants

1. The NQT cognitive skill test is a prerequisite for appearing in other NQT variants, such as Industry NQT and Subject NQT.

2. The NQT bundle pack already includes the cognitive skills test, so there is no need to buy a separate NQT cognitive skills pack.

3. To purchase the NQT cognitive skills pack:

–   Log in to the TCS iON home page

–  Click on “Apply Now”

–  Select the NQT cognitive skills option.

-Choose between “Buy now or “Activate”.

–   If you have received an activation key via email from TCS iON, select “Activate.” Otherwise, click on “Buy Now.”

–   If you are a new user, create your account as described in Step 1. If you already have an account, log in with your credentials.

–   After logging in, complete the registration process by providing your personal details, educational qualifications, preferred exam mode (in-center or remote), and other required information. Then click on the “Submit” button.

–   After completing the payment process, an activation key will be issued.

–   To activate the NQT cognitive skills pack, a pop-up window will appear where you can enter the activation key. Click on the “Activate Now” button.

–  Once you select “Close,” you will be redirected to “My Dashboard,” where you can find your purchased product.

4. Upon successful registration, you will receive a confirmation message via email or SMS to your registered email ID or mobile number.

5. Similarly, you can follow a similar process to purchase other TCS NQT products.

By following these steps, you can easily register and purchase the TCS NQT variants of your choice, allowing you to proceed with the exam preparation process.

TCS NQT Preparation Tips: How to Ace the Exam?

To enhance your preparation for the TCS NQT exam and maximize your chances of success on your first attempt, follow these steps diligently and maintain a consistent practice routine.

1. Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern: Before starting your exam preparation, familiarize yourself with the marking scheme and updated syllabus of the TCS NQT exam. This will help you know which topics to focus on and ensure comprehensive coverage.

2. Revise the Basics: Create concise notes while studying to facilitate quick and intelligent revision. Understanding the fundamental concepts of each topic is crucial for successfully attempting questions in the exam.

3. Create a Timetable/Plan: To ensure the timely completion of the syllabus, establish a well-structured schedule. Follow your timetable diligently, giving priority to important topics. This approach will prevent last-minute stress and help you cover all necessary subjects.

4. Obtain the Right Study Material: There are numerous online and offline books for TCS NQT exam preparation. Take your time to select the best study materials carefully. Consult curated lists of exam materials tailored to different sections to aid your adequate preparation.

5. Practice Mock Tests: Practice plays a vital role in the success of any competitive exam. Solve as many mock tests, previous year papers, and sample papers as possible. This will familiarize you with the exam pattern, help you manage time efficiently, and identify your strengths and weaknesses. It is also an opportunity to develop effective strategies for the exam and enhance your problem-solving skills within the given time frame.

Also, read our TCS IPA exam guide on understanding the syllabus and exam pattern, finding valuable tips on preparing for the exam, and cracking it in one go. 

Section-wise Strategies to Crack the TCS NQT Exam on Your First Attempt

Verbal Ability:

1. Focus on English Grammar and Reading Comprehension, frequently asked topics in this section.
2. Develop a daily reading habit, including newspapers, short stories, and novels, to improve your verbal ability.
3. Thoroughly prepare to excel in this section using the exam study material.

Reasoning Ability: This section tests logical thinking and mental ability. Practice solving questions based on reasoning regularly. Allocate 50 minutes to attempt the 30 questions in this section.

Quantitative Aptitude: The basics of Arithmetic, Algebra, and Geometry form the foundation of this section. Candidates with a strong math background can excel in this section. Dedicate time and effort to practice solving quantitative aptitude questions daily.

Programming Logic: To excel in this section, refer to the exam study material and understand concepts such as branching, loops, program output, and identifying bugs. Pay attention to questions related to Data Structures.

Coding: The coding section can be challenging. Refer to reference books designed explicitly for the TCS NQT exam to gain exposure to various coding problems. This will help you become familiar with the different coding challenges you may encounter during the exam.

Conclusion: Is TCS NQT Worth Your Time and Effort?

In conclusion, investing your time and effort in preparing for the TCS NQT exam is highly worthwhile. Joining TCS as your first company offers numerous benefits, providing a solid foundation for your career, exposure to diverse projects, and opportunities for professional growth.

Follow the strategic approach shared above to increase your chances of success. Understand the exam structure and syllabus, focusing on specific topics and strengthening your foundational knowledge. Create a well-structured study plan tailored to your needs and allocate dedicated time to each section to stay organized and focused throughout your preparation journey.

Additionally, choose reliable study materials designed for the exam. Regularly practice mock tests, previous year papers, and sample papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and enhance your problem-solving skills. Develop section-wise strategies and hone your skills in Verbal Ability, Reasoning Ability, Quantitative Aptitude, and Programming Logic to excel in each area. Prepare with reference books tailored for the exam to enhance your coding proficiency.

By putting in the necessary effort, you will be well-prepared to clear the TCS NQT exam and embark on a promising career at Tata Consultancy Services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last date for TCS NQT 2023 registration?

The last date to register for the TCS NQT exam 2023 is 4th July 2023.

What is the exam date for TCS NQT 2023?

The exam date for TCS NQT 2023 is 15th July 2023. Interested candidates can register for the exam till 4th July 2023.

What are the qualifying marks for the TCS NQT exam?

There are no minimum marks required to clear the TCS NQT exam. The percentage varies on the number of candidates that appear for the examination. The candidates are advised to aim for at least 60% in the different sections to clear the written stage examination.

How many rounds are there in the TCS NQT exam?

The TCS NQT exam comprises four rounds: an online test, a technical interview, a managerial interview, and the HR interview.

What is the salary after cracking the TCS NQT exam?

Through the NQT exam, TCS hires for two annual profiles: TCS Ninja and TCS Digital. The salary for TCS Ninja and Digital varies as per candidates’ qualifications. The expected offer for TCS Ninja is INR 3.36 lacs per annum, and for TCS Digital is INR 7 lacs per annum.