TCS NQT 2025 Preparation Guide: Free Mock Tests, PYQs, Aptitude, Coding, and Interview Resources
The TCS National Qualifier Test (TCS NQT) is one of India’s most recognized assessments for fresh graduates and job seekers aspiring to work in the IT and consulting industry. Conducted by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), this test serves as the gateway to several entry-level roles, including TCS Ninja, TCS Digital, and TCS BPS.
This article covers every important aspect of the exam — eligibility, pattern, hiring process, syllabus, preparation strategy, and all the Let’s Code resources to help you prepare effectively.
What is TCS NQT
TCS NQT (National Qualifier Test) is a national-level hiring assessment conducted by TCS iON. It is designed to evaluate candidates on their cognitive abilities, programming skills, and domain-specific knowledge.
Unlike traditional campus drives, TCS NQT is open to students and professionals from any stream or background across India. The test score is valid for two years and can be shared with multiple organizations that recognize TCS NQT as a selection criterion.
Key Highlights
- Mode: Online (Remote proctored or at TCS iON centres)
- Frequency: Conducted every 2 to 4 weeks
- Score Validity: 2 years
- Eligibility: Students from any stream, including engineering, commerce, and science
- Official Portal: TCS NQT Website
Eligibility Criteria
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | B.E., B.Tech, M.E., M.Tech, MCA, or M.Sc (All streams) |
| Eligible Batches | 2024, 2025, and 2026 graduates |
| Backlogs | Maximum one active backlog allowed |
| Gap in Education | Maximum of two years |
| Experience | Freshers or professionals with up to two years of experience |
| Age Limit | Between 18 to 28 years |
Candidates from non-engineering backgrounds can also apply for roles such as TCS BPS (Business Process Services) through the same NQT process.
TCS NQT Exam Pattern 2025
The TCS NQT exam evaluates a candidate’s aptitude, reasoning, and programming skills through different sections. Each section is timed, and switching between sections is not allowed once the time expires.
| Section | Duration (in minutes) | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Numerical Ability | 25 | Arithmetic, Ratio and Proportion, Speed & Distance, Profit and Loss, Probability |
| Verbal Ability | 25 | Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Sentence Correction |
| Reasoning Ability | 30 | Logical Puzzles, Series, Data Sufficiency, Visual Reasoning |
| Programming Logic | 15 | Data Types, Loops, Functions, Recursion, OOPs concepts |
| Coding (Hands-on) | 45 | Two coding problems based on Arrays, Strings, Recursion, or Basic DSA |
Total Duration: 120 minutes
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Mode: Online (Proctored or Test Centre)
Hiring Process via TCS NQT
After appearing for TCS NQT, your performance and score determine the type of role you are shortlisted for within TCS.
1. TCS Ninja
- Entry-level IT role
- Package: Approximately ₹3.36 LPA
- Selection based on moderate scores in all sections
2. TCS Digital
- Advanced technical role
- Package: Approximately ₹7.00 LPA
- Requires higher technical and coding scores
3. TCS BPS (Business Process Services)
- Non-technical or management-oriented roles
- Package: ₹2.2 – ₹3.0 LPA
- Ideal for commerce, arts, and management graduates
Candidates can take multiple NQT attempts, and the best score among all attempts will be considered for selection.
Exam Schedule and Important Dates
| Event | Tentative Date (2025 Cycle) |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | October 2025 |
| Exam Date | Starting of November 2025 |
| Results Declaration | Mid-November 2025 |
| Interviews | November – December 2025 |
To register, visit the official TCS NQT Portal.
Preparation Resources – Let’s Code Ecosystem
The Let’s Code platform offers a curated set of resources designed to help students prepare for TCS NQT systematically. Each resource focuses on conceptual clarity, problem-solving, and practical application.
Core Preparation Resources
- Free Mock Test
Attempt TCS NQT-style mcq mock tests with real-time analytics, question-level insights, and performance tracking. - ATS Score Checker & Resume Optimizer
Upload your resume to analyze ATS compatibility, keyword strength, and section-wise optimization suggestions. - Previous Year Coding Questions (PYQs)
Practice verified coding problems asked in past TCS NQT and similar company tests with solutions. - Aptitude & Reasoning Practice
Topic-wise roadamp covering arithmetic, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and verbal ability. - Roadmaps
Step-by-step preparation paths for roles like Software Developer, Data Analyst, and Frontend Engineer. - Interview Questions
Curated company-specific technical and HR interview questions to prepare for TCS Ninja, Digital, and other roles. - Resume Templates
Professionally designed ATS-friendly templates to help you create a clean and impactful resume. - Free Placement Materials (Google Drive)
A complete placement preparation repository including aptitude sheets, DSA notes, and technical PDFs. - Interview Experience
Read real interview experiences shared by candidates who cleared TCS NQT and similar drives.
Community Access: Join the Let’s Code Telegram Group
Interview Process
The interview process for TCS NQT-qualified candidates typically includes three rounds.
1. Technical Interview
Focuses on your core technical knowledge, coding skills, and understanding of computer science fundamentals.
Key Topics:
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- OOPs Concepts
- DBMS and SQL
- Operating Systems
- Projects and Internships
2. Managerial Interview
Assesses problem-solving ability, decision-making, and adaptability through situational and behavioral questions.
3. HR Interview
Covers communication, cultural fit, and general questions about your interests, strengths, and career goals.
Strategies to Crack TCS NQT
- Understand the Pattern – Analyze the exam sections thoroughly before starting preparation.
- Practice Daily – Regularly solve aptitude and reasoning questions to improve speed.
- Focus on Programming Logic – Strengthen your basics in any one language (C, C++, Java, or Python).
- Take Mock Tests – Simulate real exam conditions to manage time and pressure effectively.
- Revise Core CS Topics – DBMS, OS, and OOPs frequently appear in interviews.
- Join Let’s Code Live Sessions – Participate in community sessions for peer learning and guidance.
At Last!
The TCS NQT is not just an exam; it is a gateway to start your professional journey with one of India’s most respected organizations. With consistent preparation, smart practice, and the right guidance, you can easily qualify and secure a position as a TCS Ninja or Digital Engineer.
Let’s Code continues to help students and professionals across India prepare for placement exams with practical resources, industry insights, and community-driven learning.
Written by the Let’s Code Team
Empowering students and developers with practical learning, placement resources, and career guidance.
Join Telegram group for more resources & discussions!
🧰 Useful Resources for Your Placement Prep
Lets Code
Contributing Writer