Stage-wise questions, marks, duration and qualifying rules, exactly as the official scheme defines them, plus what happens after the written exam.
Every paper in the TNPSC Group 4 & VAO scheme with its subjects, questions, marks and duration.
| Stage | Type | Subjects | Questions | Marks | Duration | Qualifying |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part A | Objective (OMR) | Tamil Eligibility-cum-Scoring Test (SSLC level) | 100 | 150 | 3 hours (combined) | 60 marks (40%) |
| Part B | Objective (OMR) | General Studies (75 Qs) + Aptitude & Mental Ability (25 Qs) | 100 | 150 | Combined with Part A | 90 marks (30%) overall |
Each question carries 1.5 marks in combined exams. There is no negative marking, so an attempted wrong answer costs nothing more than a blank, attempt everything.
The Tamil Eligibility-cum-Scoring Test needs 40% for your paper to be evaluated further, and once you cross it, the full Tamil mark counts toward your rank. Qualifying marks make you eligible; the cut off decides selection.
See the actual cut-off marksWhat happens from prelim day to final posting.
Written Examination (Objective type, OMR sheets)
Part B evaluated only if Part A minimum (40%) is cleared
Document Verification & Counselling
No interview
Pattern, marks and qualifying rules are transcribed from the official TNPSC scheme of examination. Sources: TNPSC official notifications. Figures are indicative and may change with each official notification. Data last reviewed: July 2026.
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