How is the TNPSC merit list prepared?
Quick answer
Total marks in the qualifying papers decide rank, and the communal rotation roster distributes vacancies across categories. Post allotment then follows rank plus your submitted preferences.
For interview posts, oral test marks are added before ranking. Ties are typically resolved by criteria like date of birth as specified in the notification.
Worth knowing
- Rank comes from total marks in the merit-deciding papers; screening stages like the Group 1 prelims do not count
- For interview posts, oral test marks are added to written marks before ranking
- The 200-point communal rotation roster is applied on the merit list to produce the selection list
- The cut off is simply the mark of the last selected candidate in each category and gender
- Ties are typically resolved by criteria like date of birth, as specified in the notification
- The reserve list holds the next candidates in merit order, drawn on only when selected candidates do not join
From marks to posting
- Total marks in the qualifying papers (plus interview, where applicable) fix your rank
- Communal rotation distributes vacancies across categories to produce the selection list
- Certificate verification confirms every claim behind your category and rank
- Counselling allots posts in rank order against your submitted preferences
Related questions
What is certificate verification (CV) in TNPSC?
CV is the stage where TNPSC checks your original certificates, education, age, community, PSTM and any special claims, against what you entered at application.
How does TNPSC counselling work?
After certificate verification, candidates are called in rank order to choose from available posts and departments. Your final allotment depends on rank, category, communal rotation and the preferences you submit.
What is communal rotation in TNPSC?
Communal rotation is the 200-point roster Tamil Nadu uses to distribute vacancies across categories: GT, BC, BCM, MBC/DNC, SC, SCA and ST, in a fixed repeating order.
How do I challenge the TNPSC answer key?
TNPSC publishes a tentative answer key after the exam and opens an objection window, usually about a week, where you submit representations with evidence through the official portal.
What happens after clearing TNPSC prelims?
For Group 1 and Group 2, prelims qualifiers write a descriptive mains exam. Group 4 is a single-stage exam, so qualifiers go directly to certificate verification and counselling.
Which TNPSC posts have interviews?
Group 1 posts and Group 2 (interview posts) include an oral test after mains. Group 2A and Group 4 have no interview; selection is written marks plus certificate verification.
This answer is verified against official TNPSC notifications and scheme documents. Sources: TNPSC official notifications. Figures are indicative and may change with each official notification. Data last reviewed: July 2026.
Unlock the full app, every paper and an AI tutor.
Study, tests, all PYQ & current affairs · no auto-renew · starting at ₹199