Complete Cognizant Preparation Guide
Eligibility, syllabus, selection process, interview insights — everything in one place.
About the Company
Cognizant Technology Solutions (Cognizant) is one of the world's leading IT services, consulting, and business solutions organizations. Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Mumbai, India, Cognizant is part of the renowned Tata Group. The company provides a wide range of services including software development, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital transformation solutions to businesses across industries.
Eligibility Criteria
Ensure you meet all requirements before applying to TCS NQT.
Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.)/ Bachelor of Engineering (B.E)/ Master of Technology (M.Tech.)/ Master of Engineering (M.E)/ Master of Computer Applications (M.C.A)/ Master of Science (M.Sc./M.S) in any specialization offered by AICTE/UGC recognized universities/colleges.
Exclusively open for the Batch of 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Candidates should have a minimum aggregate of 60% or equivalent CGPA in Class 10th, 12th, Diploma (if applicable), Graduation and Post-Graduation.
No pending backlog will be permitted at the time of appearing for the Cognizant selection process.
Candidates should be between 18 to 28 years of age.
It is mandatory to declare gaps in education, and the overall academic gap should not exceed 24 months until the highest qualification.
Candidates with work experience of up to 2 years are eligible to apply. Internship experience is not considered for salary fitment.
Only full-time courses will be considered. Part-time, correspondence or distance education courses are not eligible.
Salary Package
Annual CTC by role tier. Clearing the Advanced section unlocks Digital & Prime.
Selection Process
Your journey from application to offer letter — step by step.
Step 1
Resume shortlisting based on strict eligibility criteria: typically 60% throughout academics (10th, 12th, UG/PG) and no standing arrears.
- Ensure your resume accurately reflects your academic scores.
- Highlight your preferred technical skill cluster (e.g., Java/Cloud/Python).
Step 2 · Elimination Round
An AI-based test evaluating reading comprehension, grammar, listening (audio passages), and speaking skills. This is a strict elimination round.
- Take the test in a quiet environment with a good microphone.
- Speak clearly, avoid fillers like 'um' and 'uh', and focus on pronunciation.
Step 3 · Elimination Round
Evaluates Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Technical knowledge (Coding, SQL/DBMS, and MCQs on OS/Cloud). May include game-based assessments.
- Brush up on SQL queries (joins, aggregations).
- Be prepared to code in your chosen language (Java, Python, C++, or C#).
Step 4
In-depth discussion on problem-solving, core CS subjects, data structures, and significant projects listed on your resume.
- Be ready to explain the logic behind your code from the online test.
- Expect scenario-based questions related to your tech stack.
Step 5
Assesses personality, communication fit, willingness to relocate, flexibility with shifts, and alignment with Cognizant's values.
- Be prepared to demonstrate flexibility regarding location and technology.
- Research the company's recent achievements.
Exam Pattern
The Cognizant online assessment is rigorous, split into a dedicated Communication Test followed by a comprehensive Aptitude and Technical Evaluation. The pattern often varies based on the target profile (GenC, Elevate, Next).
- The Communication Test is a strict elimination round; failure here means you cannot take the Aptitude/Technical test.
- For GenC Next/Pro roles, the test leans heavily on advanced coding (e.g., 4 coding questions in 120 mins) and sometimes skips the basic aptitude sections.
- Candidates are often asked to select a 'Skill Cluster' (e.g., Java, Python, .NET) which determines the technical questions.
- The exact pattern is subject to change based on the specific campus drive and the hiring platform (like AMCAT/SHL or internal platforms).
Syllabus Breakdown
Topics and their weightage in the TCS NQT exam.
Important Topics
High-frequency topics that appear most often in TCS NQT interviews and assessments.
Previous Year Questions
A mini mock simulation — pick an answer, get instant feedback and an explanation, then move to the next question.
Read the following passage and answer the question: 'The rapid expansion of renewable energy sources has significantly reduced the dependency on fossil fuels in the region. However, the initial infrastructure costs remain a barrier for widespread adoption.' What is the main challenge mentioned in the passage?
In how many ways can the letters of the word 'COGNIZANT' be arranged?
Statement: All pens are pencils. No pencil is an eraser. Conclusion I: No pen is an eraser. Conclusion II: Some pencils are pens.
In SQL, what is the purpose of the 'HAVING' clause?
Write a function to find the longest common prefix string amongst an array of strings. If there is no common prefix, return an empty string "".
Note: All given strings consist of only lower-case English letters.
First line contains N, the number of strings. The second line contains N space-separated strings.
A single string representing the longest common prefix.
3 flower flow flight
fl
Explanation: The common prefix amongst the first 3 strings is 'fl'.
3 dog racecar car
""
Explanation: There is no common prefix among the input strings.
Student Interview Experiences
Real insights from students who cleared the TCS NQT hiring process.
Interview was very friendly Managerial round was very they asked all resume related questions focused on the complete knowledge no luck factor no panel based only skilled persons will get offer.
HR round was mostly behavioral. They want to see if you are a cultural fit for the company. Questions like 'Why Cognizant?' are common.