TNPSC Combined Technical Service Eligibility Criteria
Updated 2026Candidates must ensure they possess the necessary degrees or diplomas from recognized institutions. The educational qualification hierarchy is strict: SSLC β HSC/Diploma β UG β PG β Ph.D. Key examples include:
- Assistant Engineer (Civil): B.E. / B.Tech in Civil Engineering.
- Assistant Engineer (Electrical): B.E. Electrical or AMIE Electrical qualification.
- Assistant Engineer (Mechanical): B.E. Mechanical Engineering.
- Assistant Agricultural Officer: B.E. / B.Tech / B.Sc. in Agriculture.
- System Manager: B.E. / B.Tech (CSE/IT) or MCA / M.Sc.
- Junior Planner: Degree in Town Planning or Architecture.
- Junior Scientific Officer: M.Sc. in Forensic Science.
- Assistant Statistical Investigator: Degree in Statistics, Mathematics, or Economics.
The age limit for the TNPSC Combined Technical Services Recruitment 2026 is strictly enforced as per state guidelines. The minimum age for all applicants is 21 years. However, the maximum age limit varies significantly depending on the specific post, with most general technical posts capping at 32 years. Certain departments and specialized posts have age limits reaching up to 34 years. For candidates belonging to reserved categories, ex-servicemen, and destitute widows, the upper age limit is relaxed significantly, with many being exempt from maximum age caps or eligible up to 50 years. All age calculations are based on the specific reference date defined in the official notification.
The selection process for the TNPSC Combined Technical Services is a multi-stage affair designed to filter the most competent candidates. The stages are as follows:
- Written Examination: The primary stage involving Paper I (Tamil Eligibility + General Studies + Aptitude) and Paper II (Technical Subject). Paper I is generally qualifying, while Paper II score determines the initial merit.
- Onscreen Certificate Verification: Candidates are shortlisted based on their scores to upload their documents on the official portal for primary validation.
- Physical Certificate Verification and Counselling: Shortlisted candidates are required to attend physical verification, where original documents are inspected. This is followed by a counselling session where candidates opt for their preferred departments/posts based on their rank.
- Final Appointment: Based on the final merit list generated after the written exam and the successful completion of document verification, candidates are recommended for appointment following the stateβs reservation roster.
- Ex-Servicemen: Relaxed up to 50 years for most posts.
- Destitute Widows: No maximum age limit for most categories.
- SC/ST/MBC/BC: As per state government reservation policy.
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD): Age relaxation provided as per government norms.