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Syllabus codes in TNPSC exams
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A syllabus code is the number TNPSC prints against each paper's syllabus in its notification. The code lets you find the exact official syllabus for the paper you are applying for. Group 4 uses code 496, and the Group 2 preliminary exam uses code 495.
Codes in recent notifications
| Exam and paper | Syllabus code |
|---|---|
| Group 4 (CCSE-IV), 2026 | 496 |
| Group 2 and 2A prelims (CCSE-II), 2025 | 495 |
| Group II mains, Paper II (General Studies) | 469 |
| Group IIA mains, Paper II (computer based) | 583 |
| Group 1 prelims | 497 |
The Group 4 and Group 2/2A codes are printed in the syllabus annexure (Annexure III) of their notifications. For Group 1, the code appears in the file name of TNPSC's official syllabus PDF for the preliminary exam, so confirm it in the current notification before relying on it.
Why the code matters
- It identifies the version. TNPSC revises its schemes from time to time, and the code in the notification points to the version in force. If you study from a PDF with a different code, you may be reading a different scheme.
- Unit counts are indicative. TNPSC says the unit-wise distribution of questions in the syllabus is only indicative. Treat the numbers as a guide to weight, not a promise.
- Older lists are out of date. Group 4 now has six General Studies units plus aptitude, not the ten-unit lists in older articles.
How to use it
- Open the notification for your exam and find the syllabus annexure.
- Note the code against each paper.
- Match the code to the syllabus you use for study, whether it is a PDF or a coaching handout.
- Study from the unit list printed there, and use the Group 4 syllabus or Group 2 syllabus guide to turn the units into a plan.
An example
You find a Group 4 syllabus PDF from a blog that lists ten General Studies units. The 2026 notification's code is 496, and its syllabus has six General Studies units plus Aptitude and Mental Ability. The blog PDF describes an older scheme, so you follow the one printed under 496. The standard for each paper is given in SSLC standard and degree standard.
Frequently asked questions
What is the TNPSC Group 4 syllabus code?
496 in the Group 4 2026 notification.
What is the syllabus code for Group 2 prelims?
495 in the Group 2 and 2A 2025 notification.
Where do I download the syllabus?
From the TNPSC website, using the code in your notification.
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- SSLC and degree standardWhat "SSLC standard" and "degree standard" mean in TNPSC notifications, and which Group 1, 2, 2A and 4 papers use which level, so you know how deep to study.
- TNPSC notificationA TNPSC notification is the official document that opens a recruitment. Learn what the notification number and Advt number mean and what to read first.
- Qualifying paperA qualifying paper must be passed but its marks are not added to your rank. See which TNPSC papers are qualifying (Group 1, 2, 2A Tamil) and which count.
- Group 4 syllabusThe official TNPSC Group 4 syllabus (code 496): seven Tamil units, six General Studies units and aptitude topics, with question counts and priorities.
- Group 2 syllabusThe full TNPSC Group 2 and 2A syllabus: prelims language, GS and aptitude, the Tamil eligibility paper, and Group II and IIA Main Paper II, unit by unit.
More in TNPSC
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- Steno-Typist Grade IIISteno-Typist Grade III is a TNPSC Group 4 post at Level 10 needing typewriting and shorthand. See the 2026 vacancies, code 2300 and counselling ratio.
- TNPSC answer keyA TNPSC answer key lists the correct options for an objective exam. Learn the tentative and final keys, where to find them and how to work out your score.
- TNPSC counsellingTNPSC counselling is the stage where shortlisted candidates are called by rank to be allotted a post and department. Learn how it differs from NEET counselling.
- TNPSC cut-off marksTNPSC cut-off marks are the last scores that earned a stage or selection. Learn how they differ from minimum marks and which published numbers to ignore.
- TNPSC rank listA TNPSC rank list orders candidates by the marks that count in their exam. See what counts in Group 1, Group 2 and Group 4, and what does not enter your rank.
- tnpscexams.intnpscexams.in is where you register (OTR) and apply for TNPSC exams; tnpsc.gov.in is the information site. See which to use, plus helpdesk contacts.
- Shortlist ratioA shortlist ratio is how many candidates TNPSC calls per vacancy at each stage. See the ratios for Group 1, Group 2 and Group 4 and how to read 1:3.