PrepMaticExam questions answered · TNPSC
How many attempts are allowed in TNPSC?
TNPSC does not prescribe a limit on the number of attempts in the Group 1, Group 2/2A and Group 4 notifications we reviewed (2025 and 2026). You can apply as many times as you remain eligible. The things that actually run out are your age window and, for fee concessions, your free chances.
Why "unlimited" is not an official promise
Nothing in these notifications says "unlimited attempts" either. They are silent on attempts, so treat the number as open but check each new notification, because TNPSC can add rules at any time.
What does run out
Maximum age. Every group has an upper age limit counted on a fixed date, 1 July of the notification year. For Group 4 (2026) it is 30 for Others, 32 for BC/BCM/MBC/DC and 35 for SC/SC(A)/ST on most posts. Candidates in the reserved categories who hold a higher qualification than the minimum have no maximum for most posts, which in the notification means not having completed 60 years. See the age limit for Group 4 answer.
Free fee chances. If you claim a fee concession, each application uses up one free chance, whatever the post.
| Category | Free chances |
|---|---|
| SC, SC(A), ST | Full exemption, no counting |
| Persons with benchmark disability | Full exemption |
| Destitute widows | Full exemption |
| BC(OBCM), BCM, MBC/DC | 3 free chances |
| Ex-servicemen | 2 free chances |
After the free chances are used, you pay the normal exam fee (Rs.100 for Group 4). The who gets fee exemption page has the rules, including the penalty for a false claim.
Planning around it
Because attempts are open, a failed attempt is not final. Use the annual planner to see when the next notification is due and keep your One Time Registration valid. The OTR validity answer explains the five-year window.
Source
The eligibility rules can change with every notification, so confirm them on tnpsc.gov.in.
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- Group 4 age limitGroup 4 age limit as on 1 July 2026: 30 for Others, 32 for BC/MBC, 35 for SC/ST on most posts, and no maximum for higher-qualified reserved candidates.
- TNPSC fee exemptionSC, SC(A), ST, disabled candidates and destitute widows pay no TNPSC exam fee. BC, MBC and DC get 3 free chances and ex-servicemen 2. How the count works.
- TNPSC age limit & eligibilityTNPSC age limits for Group 1, Group 2/2A and Group 4 by community, PwBD, ex-servicemen and widows, plus qualification, Tamil knowledge and attempt rules.
More in TNPSC
- TNPSC community reservationTNPSC follows Tamil Nadu's community reservation: SC 15%, SC(A) 3%, ST 1%, BC 26.5%, BC Muslim 3.5% and MBC/DC 20%. Plus women and disability quotas.
- TNPSC concessions for PwBDTNPSC gives persons with benchmark disabilities 4% reservation, full fee exemption, higher age limits and relaxations in Tamil papers. Group-wise details.
- TNPSC exam feeTNPSC fees: Rs.150 for OTR once, then Rs.100 for Group 4, Rs.100 plus Rs.150 for Group 2, and Rs.100 plus Rs.200 for Group 1. Who pays nothing.
- TNPSC helpdesk numberTNPSC helpdesk toll-free number 1800 419 0958 works 10 AM to 5.45 PM on working days. Email addresses for OTR queries and grievances, and when to use each.
- TNPSC OTR validityA TNPSC One Time Registration is valid for 5 years from registration and costs Rs.150 once. What it does and does not cover, and how renewal works.
- TNPSC photo and signature sizeTNPSC photo and signature specs from the 2026 notification: 20-50 KB photo, 10-20 KB signature, 4.5 x 3.5 cm with a name and date strip. No selfies.
- Typist and Steno-Typist qualificationTNPSC Group 4 Typist needs SSLC plus a government typewriting certificate; Steno-Typist Grade III also needs shorthand. Vacancies, pay level and age.
- VAO age limitTNPSC VAO age limit as on 1 July 2026: minimum 21; maximum 30 for Others and 40 for reserved categories. PwBD, ex-servicemen and destitute widow limits.