Preliminary Exam
100 questions, 100 marks, 60 minutes. English, Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude, with sectional timing.
NICL Assistant Recruitment 2026 Exam Pattern and Final Merit
Prelims filters candidates for Mains. Main Examination score drives final merit, subject to passing the regional language test.
The NICL Assistant selection process has four steps: Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, Regional Language Test and final document verification. Negative marking applies in both written exams.
Main Exam
200 questions, 200 marks, 120 minutes. Reasoning, English, Numerical Ability, General Awareness and Computer Knowledge.
Regional Language Test
Qualifying only. Candidates must show reading, writing and speaking ability for the State/UT language.
Final Appointment
State-wise and category-wise merit, document verification and medical fitness decide appointment consideration.
Marking Scheme
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language | 30 | 30 | 20 min |
| Reasoning Ability | 35 | 35 | 20 min |
| Quantitative Aptitude | 35 | 35 | 20 min |
| Total | 100 | 100 | 60 min |
| Section | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reasoning | 40 | 40 | 30 min |
| English Language | 40 | 40 | 30 min |
| Numerical Ability | 40 | 40 | 30 min |
| General Awareness | 40 | 40 | 15 min |
| Computer Knowledge | 40 | 40 | 15 min |
| Total | 200 | 200 | 120 min |
Negative marking applies in both Prelims and Mains: one-fourth of the mark assigned to a question is deducted for each wrong answer. Unanswered questions do not attract penalty.