TANCET MCA Entrance Exam

Your comprehensive guide to the Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test for MCA

Introduction

The Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test (TANCET) for Master of Computer Applications (MCA) is conducted by Anna University, Chennai, on behalf of the Government of Tamil Nadu. This state-level entrance exam is a gateway for admissions to MCA programs in various university departments, constituent colleges of Anna University, government and government-aided colleges, and self-financing colleges across Tamil Nadu. This guide provides aspiring MCA candidates with crucial information regarding the syllabus, eligibility criteria, exam pattern, and other important details for TANCET MCA.

Syllabus

The TANCET MCA syllabus typically covers four main sections:

1. Quantitative Aptitude

  • Number System, HCF & LCM, Percentages, Ratios.
  • Averages, Simple & Compound Interest, Profit & Loss.
  • Time Speed & Distance, Time & Work, Mixtures & Allegations.
  • Quadratic Equations, Linear Equations, Logarithms.
  • Series and Progressions, Binomial Theorem, Surds & Indices.
  • Functions, Inequalities, Modulus, Geometry, Mensuration.
  • Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Permutation & Combination, Probability, Set Theory.

2. Analytical Reasoning

  • Number Sequence (series), Coded-inequality, Blood Relations.
  • Conditional Statements, Input-Output, Syllogism, Venn Diagram.
  • Odd one out, Inequalities, Sitting Arrangement (Linear, Circular).
  • Directions & Ranking, Sets based on games.

3. Logical Reasoning

  • Alphanumeric series, Reasoning Analogies, Calendars, Cause and Effect.
  • Artificial Language, Data Sufficiency, Decision Making, Dices.
  • Directions, Coding-Decoding, Critical path, Clocks.
  • Cubes and cuboids, Deductive Reasoning/Statement Analysis.
  • Order & Ranking, Seating Arrangements, Pattern Series and Sequences.
  • Shape Construction, Embedded Images, Mirror and Water Images.
  • Statement and Conclusions, Statement and Assumptions, Picture Series and sequences, Paper Folding, Puzzles.

4. Computer Awareness

  • Computer Hardware, Controls, Basic Terminology.
  • Internet & Protocols, Network Basics, Computer Abbreviations.
  • Security Tools, Shortcuts, History of Computer.
  • Memory, Computer Organization, Input-Output tools, Computer Architecture.
  • Languages and Algorithms (including basic programming concepts).

Eligibility Criteria

  • Educational Qualification:
    • A pass in a recognized Bachelor's Degree of minimum 3 years duration in BCA or B.Sc. (Information Technology / Computer Science or equivalent). OR
    • A pass in a recognized Bachelor's Degree of minimum 3 years duration (in disciplines other than the ones mentioned above) with Mathematics at 10+2 level or at Graduation Level.
  • Minimum Marks:
    • Obtained at least 50% aggregate marks in the qualifying degree examination (for Open Category/Unreserved candidates).
    • Obtained at least 45% aggregate marks in the qualifying degree examination (for BC, BCM, MBC, SC, SCA and ST candidates belonging to Tamil Nadu).
  • Qualifying Education Pattern: Candidates must have completed their education in any of the following patterns:
    • 10 + 2 + 3 / 4 / 5 years pattern.
    • 10 + 3 years Diploma + 3 years pattern.
    • 10 + 2 + B.E. / B.Tech. / B.Arch. / B.Pharm.
    • 10 + 2 + AMIE* (with 2 years regular full-time experience in relevant field after completion).
    • 10 + 3 years Diploma (awarded by State Board of Technical Education) + AMIE* (with 2 years regular full-time experience in relevant field after completion).
    *Candidates with Section 'A' & 'B' certificates (A.M.I.E.) and other similar certificates of professional bodies recognized by MHRD, Govt. of India, enrolled before 31.05.2013.
  • Appearing Candidates: Candidates appearing for the final semester/year of examination of the qualifying degree course are also eligible to apply.
  • Domicile: Candidates from any Indian state can apply for TANCET. However, reservation benefits are applicable only to candidates belonging to Tamil Nadu.

Exam Pattern

  • Mode of Examination: Offline (Pen and Paper Based Test, OMR based).
  • Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), with four alternative options.
  • Total Number of Questions: 100.
  • Total Marks: 100.
  • Duration of Exam: 120 minutes (2 hours).
  • Medium of Question Paper: English.
  • Sectional Time Limit: No sectional time limit; candidates can manage their time across sections.
  • Marking Scheme:
    • Correct Answer: +1 mark.
    • Incorrect Answer: -1/4 (-0.25) mark.
    • Unanswered Question: 0 marks.
    • Multiple Shading: If more than one option is shaded, it will be considered incorrect, and 1/4 mark will be deducted.

Section-wise Question Distribution for MCA:

Section No. of Questions
Quantitative Aptitude 25
Analytical Reasoning 25
Logical Reasoning 25
Computer Awareness 25
Total 100

Other Important Details

Application Procedure

The TANCET application process is conducted online. Key steps include:

  1. Visit the official TANCET website (tancet.annauniv.edu).
  2. Register online by providing necessary details.
  3. Log in to fill out the detailed application form.
  4. Upload scanned photograph and signature.
  5. Pay the application fee online (approx. INR 1000 for General/OBC; INR 500 for SC/ST/SCA of Tamil Nadu).
  6. Download and print the filled application form for future reference.

Important Dates (Approximate for 2025)

Please refer to the official TANCET website for the exact and latest dates, as these are subject to change.

  • Notification Release: January 19, 2025
  • Application Start Date: January 24, 2025
  • Last Date to Apply: February 21, 2025
  • Admit Card Release: March 8, 2025
  • Exam Date (MCA): March 22, 2025 (10:00 AM to 12:00 PM)
  • Provisional Answer Key Release: April 4, 2025
  • Result Declaration: April 23, 2025
  • Counselling Registration: June 5 – June 30, 2025 (tentative)
  • Publication of Rank List (MCA): July 14, 2025 (tentative)
  • Online Counselling for MCA: July 24 – July 26, 2025 (tentative)

Counselling and Admission (CAP Rounds)

After the results are declared, qualified candidates participate in the Centralized Admission Process (CAP) conducted by the Directorate of Technical Education (DOTE), Tamil Nadu. The counselling involves online registration, document uploading, publication of rank lists, choice filling, seat allotment, and physical reporting to the allotted college for admission confirmation.

Contact Information

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