TCS NQT 2026: The Complete Preparation Guide
Syllabus, exam pattern, previous year questions, cutoff analysis, and a realistic 30-day study plan — everything you need to clear NQT in your first attempt.
What is TCS NQT?
The National Qualifier Test (NQT) is TCS's entry gate for fresher hiring — the single largest fresher exam in India. Your NQT score determines your track: Ninja (₹3.6 LPA), Digital (₹7 LPA), or Prime (₹9+ LPA).
Exam pattern 2026
Part A (Cognitive) covers numerical, verbal and reasoning across 90 minutes. Part B (Programming) has MCQs plus two coding problems across 55 minutes. No negative marking — attempt everything.
The 30-day plan
Weeks 1–2: aptitude foundations, 50 timed questions daily. Week 3: two coding problems daily plus MCQ drills. Week 4: full-length mocks every other day.
Honest cutoff analysis
TCS never publishes official cutoffs. Based on student reports from the 2025 cycle, Digital shortlists typically required scores above the 80th percentile in both sections.
