Overall Structure

• The exam is divided into two main parts:

  1. Foundation Section (Part A) – mandatory for all aspirants (especially for the “Ninja” track)

  2. Advanced Section (Part B) – required for higher-profiles (e.g., “Digital”, “Prime”) or those who qualify from Part A. 

• There is no negative marking in most recent cycles. 

• Total duration and number of questions vary depending on whether you attempt only the Foundation Section or also the Advanced Section. 

Detailed Pattern (2025 approximate)

Part A: Foundation Section

*Time is typically “shared” among the sub‐sections or pre‐allocated per sub‐section as above. 

Part B: Advanced Section

This is for those targeting higher profiles and usually has tougher content.

*Note: The time for the coding section is significantly larger because of the programming tasks.

Key Additional Details

• The exam is online, often at authorised centres via the TCS iON platform. 

• Switching between sections or going back may not be allowed in some cycles. 

• The difficulty of Part B is higher than Part A and tests coding, algorithmic & logical skills beyond basic aptitude. 

• The score you receive (especially in Advanced Section) can determine which job track/profile you’re eligible for in TCS (e.g., “Ninja”, “Digital”, “Prime”). 

What You Should Focus On

• For the Foundation Section: Pace yourself so you can clear the aptitude segments (numerical, verbal, reasoning) in allocated time.

• For the Advanced Section: Prepare for deeper algorithmic/coding tasks and tougher reasoning/quants.

• Practice full‐length mocks with the timing structure, because time management is critical.

• Make sure your coding environment (if you practise online) is comfortable and you’re comfortable with languages allowed (C, C++, Java, Python typically) as coding is part of the advanced round.