Overview
The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) will conduct the Combined Civil Services Examination–IV, commonly known as TNPSC Group 4, for recruitment to various state government posts. The 2026 syllabus covers Tamil, General Studies, and Aptitude and Mental Ability; the total number of vacancies has not yet been announced and will be confirmed in the detailed recruitment notification.
Key Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|
| Organization | Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) |
| Post Name | Group 4 posts, including VAO, Junior Assistant, Typist and Steno-Typist |
| Total Vacancies | To be announced |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | tnpsc.gov.in |
Important Dates
Candidates should treat the following schedule as provisional until TNPSC publishes the official Group 4 notification and examination calendar.
| Event | Date |
|---|
| Application Start | TBA |
| Last Date | TBA |
| Exam Date | TBA |
| Result Date | TBA |
TNPSC Group 4 Exam Pattern and Syllabus
The written examination is generally conducted as a single objective-type paper carrying 300 marks. Candidates receive three hours to answer 200 questions. TNPSC may revise the structure through the 2026 notification, so applicants must verify the final scheme before beginning their applications.
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|
| --- | ---: | ---: |
| Part A: Tamil Eligibility-cum-Scoring Test | 100 | 150 |
| Part B: General Studies | 75 | 112.5 |
| Part B: Aptitude and Mental Ability | 25 | 37.5 |
| Total | 200 | 300 |
Key subject-wise areas include:
- Tamil: Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, literature, authors and literary works, translation, official terminology and language usage.
- General Science: Physics, chemistry, botany, zoology, health, environment, scientific developments and everyday applications of science.
- Current Affairs: National and international developments, Tamil Nadu news, awards, sports, books, important personalities and government initiatives.
- Geography: India and Tamil Nadu geography, climate, rivers, natural resources, agriculture, population and disaster management.
- History and Culture: Indian history, freedom movement, Tamil Nadu history, social reform movements, art, culture and heritage.
- Indian Polity and Economy: Constitution, governance, local bodies, rights, public administration, economic planning, welfare schemes and development indicators.
- Aptitude and Mental Ability: Simplification, percentages, ratio, averages, interest, time and work, area, volume, logical reasoning, number series and data interpretation.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- The minimum qualification for several Group 4 posts is generally a pass in SSLC/Class 10 or an equivalent examination.
- Typist and Steno-Typist posts may require prescribed typewriting or shorthand technical qualifications in Tamil and/or English.
- Some posts may carry additional educational, computer or technical requirements.
- Applicants must satisfy the post-specific qualification by the cut-off date stated in the notification.
Age Limit
- The minimum age is generally 18 years; certain posts, including Village Administrative Officer, may have different conditions.
- The upper age limit varies by post and applicant category.
- Reserved-category candidates may receive upper-age relaxation under Tamil Nadu government rules.
- The exact age calculation date and limits will be provided in the 2026 notification.
Fees
- Candidates may need to complete TNPSC One-Time Registration (OTR) by paying the applicable registration fee.
- A separate examination fee may apply during submission of the Group 4 form.
- Eligible reserved-category applicants can claim full or limited fee concessions under TNPSC rules.
- The final fee amount and exemption conditions are TBA.
Selection Process
- Written Examination: Candidates appear for the objective Group 4 paper covering Tamil, General Studies, Aptitude and Mental Ability.
- Certificate Verification: Shortlisted applicants must produce original educational, community, age, technical and other supporting documents.
- Counselling and Post Allotment: Eligible candidates are allotted posts based on rank, reservation rules, preferences and vacancy availability. Group 4 recruitment ordinarily does not include an interview.
How to Apply
- Visit the TNPSC portal at tnpsc.gov.in and open the online application section.
- Complete or update One-Time Registration using a valid email address, mobile number and identity details.
- Select the TNPSC Group 4/Combined Civil Services Examination–IV 2026 application link.
- Enter personal, educational, community and technical qualification details carefully.
- Upload the photograph, signature and required certificates in the specified format and file size.
- Choose eligible posts, examination centre preferences and fee-concession claims, where applicable.
- Pay the prescribed fee online and submit the application before the deadline.
- Download the completed form and payment receipt. Candidates should also retain copies of uploaded documents for verification.
Important Links
FAQs
1. What is the TNPSC Group 4 exam pattern for 2026?
The expected paper contains 200 objective questions for 300 marks, with a duration of three hours. The final pattern will be confirmed through the official notification.
2. What is the minimum qualification for TNPSC Group 4?
A Class 10/SSLC pass is generally sufficient for several posts, while Typist and Steno-Typist positions require additional technical qualifications.
3. Is there an interview in TNPSC Group 4 recruitment?
TNPSC Group 4 selection ordinarily involves a written examination followed by certificate v
