The TNPSC, or the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission, has officially released the Group 1 Exam Date for the 2025 cycle for 72 key positions, including roles such as Deputy Collector, DSP, and others. The Preliminary Examination for the 2025 cycle was scheduled for 15 June 2025. For the 2026 cycle, dates are yet to be announced — check tnpsc.gov.in for the latest updates. Candidates interested in applying should carefully check the eligibility criteria and other relevant details.
The TNPSC holds the Group 1 Combined Civil Services Examination-I (குரூப் 1) every year to recruit candidates for top-level government roles. For the 2025 recruitment cycle, TNPSC announced 72 vacancies. The 2026 Annual Planner is expected to be released on the official TNPSC website.
By the end of this blog, you will know
- The TNPSC Exam Date
- The eligibility criteria for the TNPSC Exam
- Vacancy details for the TNPSC Group 1 and 1A exams.
TNPSC Group 1 & 1A Recruitment 2026: Key Highlights
For the 2025 cycle, 72 vacancies were filled through a three-stage selection process: Preliminary Exam, Main Exam, and Interview. The 2026 cycle notification is expected later in 2026 on tnpsc.gov.in.
Details |
Information |
Conducting Body |
Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) |
Exam Name |
Combined Civil Services Examination - I (Group-I Services) |
Posts |
Deputy Collector, DSP (Category-1), Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Taxes), Deputy Registrar of Co-operative Societies, Assistant Director of Rural Development, District Employment Officer, District Officer (Fire and Rescue Services) |
Total Vacancies |
72 (2025 reference; 2026 vacancies TBA) |
Status |
2025 cycle completed; 2026 cycle Expected |
Application Mode |
Online |
Selection Process |
Preliminary Exam, Mains, and Interview |
Salary Range |
Rs. 56,100 - Rs. 2,05,700 |
Official Website |
TNPSC Group 1 Eligibility Criteria 2026
Candidates must carefully review the eligibility requirements before applying for the TNPSC Group 1 Services. These include educational qualifications and age limits, which vary depending on the post.
TNPSC Group 1 - Age Criteria
The minimum age to be eligible is at least 21. The maximum age for general category aspirants is 34. However, reserved category candidates are granted a 5-year relaxation in the upper age limit, as specified in the official notification.
Below is the age limit breakdown by post and category:
Post Name |
Max Age (General) |
Max Age (Reserved Categories) |
Deputy Collector |
34 years |
39 years |
Deputy Superintendent of Police (Category-1) |
34 years |
39 years |
Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Taxes) |
||
With any degree |
34 years |
39 years |
With a B.L. degree |
35 years |
40 years |
Deputy Registrar of Co-operative Societies |
34 years |
39 years |
Assistant Director of Rural Development |
34 years |
39 years |
District Employment Officer |
34 years |
39 years |
District Officer (Fire and Rescue Services) |
34 years |
39 years |
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Tamil Nadu Group 1 Educational Qualification 2026
Candidates must have a degree from a recognised university (either a Central/State University or an institution approved by the UGC under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956). Extra academic qualifications may be required for specific posts, so candidates should read the official notification for complete details.
S. No. |
Post Name |
Qualification |
1 |
Deputy Collector |
A degree from a recognised university under the UGC Act, 1956. Preference will be given to those proficient in Tamil. |
2 |
Deputy Superintendent of Police (Category - 1) |
A degree from a recognised university under the UGC Act, 1956. Preference will be given to candidates with national sports achievements. |
3 |
Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Taxes) |
A degree from a recognised university under the UGC Act, 1956. Preference is given to candidates holding a B.Com or B.L. degree with a Diploma in Taxation Laws or both degrees. |
4 |
Assistant Director of Rural Development |
A degree from a recognised university under the UGC Act, 1956. Preference is given to those with a Post Graduate Degree/Diploma in Rural Sciences or Gandhian Rural Studies. |
5 |
District Employment Officer |
A degree from a recognised university under the UGC Act, 1956. Preference given to candidates with a Post Graduate Diploma in Economics. |
6 |
Assistant Commissioner of Labour |
A degree from a recognised university under the UGC Act, 1956. Preference given to freedom fighters and their family members. |
TNPSC Group 1 Physical Measurement Criteria 2026
Candidates applying for the positions of Deputy Superintendent of Police (Category 1) and District Officer (Fire and Rescue Services) must undergo a physical measurement test, which includes height, weight, and chest measurements. These measurements are part of the eligibility criteria for both male and female applicants.
Category |
Post Name |
Height (CM) |
Chest (Normal) |
Chest (Expansion) |
Weight (kg) |
Men |
Deputy Superintendent of Police |
165 |
86 (around the chest) |
05 |
Not Applicable |
District Officer (Fire and Rescue Services) |
165 |
89 (around the chest) |
05 |
50 |
|
Women |
Deputy Superintendent of Police |
155 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
District Officer (Fire and Rescue Services) |
155 |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
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TNPSC Exam Date 2025: Group 1 Exam Details (2025 Reference)
The TNPSC Group 1 Preliminary Exam for the 2025 cycle took place on 15 June 2025 in offline mode (OMR-based) at various centres across Tamil Nadu. The objective-type test was conducted from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. For the 2026 cycle, the exam date is yet to be announced — candidates should watch tnpsc.gov.in for updates.
Candidates must bring their admit card and a government-issued photo ID to the examination venue. Because Group 1 posts are highly competitive, early and focused preparation is strongly recommended.
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TNPSC Group 1 Notification 2025 - Official PDF (2025 Reference)
The official TNPSC Group 1 Notification for the 2025 cycle was published on the commission's website. It includes comprehensive information on eligibility criteria, selection procedure, salary details, exam syllabus, and more. The 2026 notification is expected to follow a similar pattern - check tnpsc.gov.in when released.
TNPSC Group 1 Notification.pdf
TNPSC Group 1A Notification.pdf
TNPSC Group 1 Exam: Selection Process
The TNPSC Group 1 Exam is a prestigious and competitive recruitment test conducted by the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission to select candidates for high-ranking positions in Tamil Nadu's Civil Services, Police Services, and other major Group 1 departments.
Selection Process Overview:
- Preliminary Exam: This objective-type test assesses candidates on general knowledge, current affairs, and aptitude.
- Main Exam: Those who qualify in the prelims advance to the mains, a descriptive written exam focusing on a deeper understanding of topics relevant to public administration.
- Interview and Document Verification: The final round includes a personal interview and certificate verification, evaluating the candidate's personality, leadership ability, and communication skills to determine suitability for public service roles.
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TNPSC Exam Date - Group 1 2025 Schedule (2025 Reference)
The TNPSC Group 1 application process for the 2025 cycle opened on 1 April 2025 and officially closed on 30 April 2025. Below are the important dates for the 2025 cycle. For 2026 dates, candidates should monitor tnpsc.gov.in for the latest Annual Planner release.
Event |
Date |
Release of Official Notification |
1st April 2025 (2025 reference) |
Online Application Start Date |
1st April 2025 (2025 reference) |
Last Date to Submit Application |
30th April 2025 (2025 reference) |
Application Correction Window |
5th-7th May 2025 (2025 reference) |
TNPSC Exam Date - Preliminary Exam |
15th June 2025 (2025 reference) |
Answer Key (Prelims) |
Announced post-exam |
2026 Cycle - All Dates |
Expected/TBA - check tnpsc.gov.in |
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TNPSC Group 1 Vacancy 2025 - Post Details (2025 Reference)
The official Group 1 Notification for 2025 announced 72 vacancies for various high-ranking government posts. Below is the list of available positions and the corresponding number of openings for the 2025 cycle:
S. No. |
Post Name |
Post Code |
Service Name |
Vacancies |
1 |
Deputy Collector |
1001 |
Tamil Nadu Civil Service |
28 |
2 |
Deputy Superintendent of Police (Cat. 1) |
1002 |
Tamil Nadu Police Service |
7 |
3 |
Assistant Commissioner (Commercial Taxes) |
1003 |
Tamil Nadu Commercial Taxes Service |
19 |
4 |
Assistant Director of Rural Development |
1006 |
Tamil Nadu Panchayat Development Service |
7 |
5 |
District Employment Officer |
1007 |
Tamil Nadu General Service |
3 |
6 |
Assistant Commissioner of Labour |
1946 |
Tamil Nadu Labour Service |
6 |
TNPSC Group 1A Vacancy 2025 (2025 Reference)
Post Name |
Post Code |
Service Name |
Vacancies |
Assistant Conservator of Forests |
1009 |
Tamil Nadu Forest Service |
2 |
Total Vacancies (2025 reference): 72
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TNPSC Group 1 Application Fee 2026 - Details
Candidates must complete the registration and pay the required examination fees. The fee structure includes a One-Time Registration (OTR) fee and separate Preliminary and Main Written Examinations charges. Based on government rules, specific categories are eligible for fee exemptions or limited free attempts.
Category |
Fee Details |
One-Time Registration (OTR) |
Rs. 150 |
Preliminary Examination |
Rs. 100 |
Main Written Examination |
Rs. 200 |
SC / SC (Arunthathiyars) / ST / PwBD / Destitute Widows |
Exempted |
MBC / Denotified Communities / BC (Other than Muslim) / BC (Muslim) |
3 Free Attempts |
Ex-Servicemen |
2 Free Attempts |
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TNPSC Group 1 & 1A Online Application 2025 - Closed (2025 Reference)
The TNPSC Group 1 and 1A online application process for the 2025 cycle started on 1 April 2025 and officially concluded on 30 April 2025. The 2026 application window is expected to open in early 2026 - candidates should watch tnpsc.gov.in for announcements.
TNPSC Group 1 Application Correction Window Closed (2025 Reference)
The TNPSC Group 1 application correction window for the 2025 cycle officially closed on 7 May 2025. Candidates are now encouraged to shift their full attention to exam preparation to maximise their chances of success.
How to Apply for the TNPSC Group 1 Online Form 2026?
Here is a clear step-by-step guide to help navigate the process through the official TNPSC website:
- Visit the official TNPSC site at tnpsc.gov.in and click the active application link.
- On the redirected page, register yourself and log in.
- Fill in the required personal details and upload your photo and signature.
- Provide your address and upload all necessary documents.
- Carefully review all the information you have entered.
- Pay the TNPSC application fee using a debit/credit card, net banking, or e-challan.
- Click submit to finalise your application.
- Download and print a copy of your completed form for future use.
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TNPSC Group 1 Selection Process 2026
The TNPSC Group 1 Recruitment 2026 selection process is conducted in three stages:
- Preliminary Examination (Prelims) - The first stage consists of an objective-type examination to assess candidates on general knowledge, current affairs, and aptitude.
- Main Examination (Mains) - Candidates who qualify for the Preliminary Exam will be eligible to appear for the Main Examination, a descriptive-type exam focused on in-depth subject knowledge.
- Interview - The final stage includes a personal interview, during which candidates will be assessed on their personality, communication skills, and overall suitability for administrative roles.
TNPSC Group 1 Previous Year Papers
Candidates preparing for the TNPSC Group 1 Exam should make it a point to review previous year papers. These papers are essential for adequate preparation as they give insight into the types of questions, the exam's difficulty level, and the frequently recurring topics. By analysing these patterns, candidates can focus on critical areas, allowing them to devise a more targeted and strategic approach for both the Prelims and Mains exams, ultimately enhancing their chances of success.
TNPSC Group 1 Exam Pattern
The TNPSC Group 1 selection process includes an exam, and candidates must thoroughly understand the TNPSC Group 1 Syllabus and Exam Pattern to identify their strengths and weaknesses. The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission has published the official syllabus for the Group 1 Exam. The exam will be conducted in English and Tamil.
TNPSC Group 1 Prelims Exam Pattern
The TNPSC Group 1 Prelims Exam is qualifying, meaning the marks obtained in this stage will not contribute to the final merit list. The questions will be objective-type, and there is no negative marking.
Qualifying Marks:
- SCs, SC(A)s, STs, MBCs/DCs, BC(OBCM)s, and BCMs: 90 Marks
- Others: 120 Marks
TNPSC Group 1 Prelims Exam Pattern (Objective Type)
Subject |
Questions |
Marks |
Time |
General Studies (Degree Standard) |
175 |
250 |
3 hours |
Aptitude & Mental Ability Test (SSLC Standard) |
25 |
50 |
|
Total |
200 |
300 |
TNPSC Group 1 Mains Exam Pattern
The Mains Exam is descriptive and consists of four papers. Candidates who clear the TNPSC Prelims exam will be eligible to appear for the Mains Exam. The answer sheets for Papers II, III, and IV will only be evaluated if the candidate secures the minimum qualifying marks in Paper I.
Papers |
Subject |
Marks |
Duration |
Remarks |
I |
Tamil Eligibility Test (SSLC Standard) |
100 |
3 hours |
Paper I is Qualifying; 40/100 required to pass |
II |
General Studies - 1 (Degree Level) |
250 |
3 hours |
- |
III |
General Studies - 2 (Degree Level) |
250 |
3 hours |
- |
IV |
General Studies - 3 (Degree Level) |
250 |
3 hours |
- |
Total |
- |
850 |
- |
- |
Interview |
- |
100 |
- |
Final selection based on the combined score from the Mains and Interview |
Qualifying Marks:
- Paper I (Tamil Eligibility Test): 40 out of 100 (for all categories)
- Paper II, III, IV:
- For SCs, SC(A)s, STs, MBCs/DCs, BC(OBCM)s, and BCMs: 255 out of 750
- For Others: 340 out of 750
The final TNPSC selection will be based on the total marks obtained in the Mains Written Examination (Papers II, III, IV) and Interview, with candidates appearing for counselling based on rank.
TNPSC Group 1 Salary
Candidates selected and appointed to the Group 1 Services will receive a salary, benefits, and allowances similar to those of other government employees. The TNPSC Group 1 salary falls under Pay Level 22, with a monthly pay scale ranging from Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 2,05,700, depending on the position.
TNPSC Group 1 Preparation Strategy
To succeed in the TNPSC Group 1 exam, candidates must follow a well-organised study plan covering areas such as General Studies, Aptitude, and Current Affairs. It is crucial to stay updated by reading newspapers regularly, practising past exam papers, and taking mock tests to enhance accuracy and build confidence. Additionally, focusing on improving writing skills for the Mains exam and keeping up with both state and national news is essential. Consistency, regular revisions, and self-assessment play a significant role in achieving success in the exam.
TNPSC Group 4 Exam Date 2026
The TNPSC Group 4 exam for the 2026 cycle is expected to be announced via the TNPSC Annual Planner on tnpsc.gov.in. Below are the 2025 reference dates:
Event |
Date |
TNPSC Group 4 notification release |
April 25, 2025 (2025 reference) |
Start of TNPSC Group 4 registration |
April 25, 2025 (2025 reference) |
TNPSC Group 4 last date to apply |
May 24, 2025 (2025 reference) |
TNPSC Group 4 exam date |
July 12, 2025 (2025 reference) |
TNPSC Group 4 exam date 2026 |
Expected/TBA - check tnpsc.gov.in |
Now that you have the TNPSC exam date details, it is time to start your preparation journey.
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