TCS HackQuest Season 11

Round 1: Online qualification test on 05 Dec 2026 (10 AM – 4 PM IST) → Round 2: Live virtual hackathon challenges and solution presentation → Round 3: HR interview and final selection for interview opportunity with TCS Cybersecurity CoE

TCS is renowned for its inclusive work culture that emphasizes continuous learning, mentorship, and a balanced work‑life approach. Employees benefit from structured career progression, global exposure, and a supportive environment that encourages innovation and collaboration.

The TCS HackQuest interview process typically consists of a technical round focusing on cybersecurity concepts, followed by a scenario‑based discussion where candidates explain their hackathon solutions. Questions range from network protocols to exploit development, with moderate difficulty. Preparing with hands‑on labs, reviewing OWASP Top 10, and practicing clear communication greatly improve performance.

• Must be a final‑year student (2025‑2027 batch) of Engineering (any branch), B.Sc, MCA or related discipline. • Minimum aggregate of 60% (or CGPA 6.0/10) in the qualifying degree. • No active backlogs at the time of registration. • Valid TCS NextStep reference ID (CT/DT number) is mandatory. • Must have a personal email ID and a working phone number for communication. • Participants should have basic knowledge of networking, operating systems, and programming. • Indian nationality or NRI status with eligibility to work in India.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is one of India’s largest IT services and consulting firms, known for its strong focus on innovation, digital transformation, and a culture that nurtures talent across the globe. With a presence in over 46 countries, TCS has built a reputation for delivering end‑to‑end solutions in domains such as banking, retail, manufacturing, and emerging technologies like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity. The company’s Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (CoE) works on safeguarding critical infrastructure, developing threat intelligence platforms, and providing cutting‑edge security services to Fortune‑500 clients. TCS’s commitment to continuous learning is evident through its extensive training programs, certifications, and a vibrant community of security researchers. The TCS HackQuest Season 11 is the 11th edition of the flagship cyber‑arena organized by TCS to identify and reward the brightest minds in cybersecurity among students. This virtual hackathon provides a unique platform for participants to demonstrate their skills in ethical hacking, vulnerability assessment, and incident response while competing for a total prize pool of up to INR 5 Lakhs. Winners also receive an interview opportunity with the TCS Cybersecurity CoE, merit‑based certifications, and exclusive merchandise. The event is open to all final‑year engineering, B.Tech, B.Sc, and MCA students across India, provided they possess a valid TCS NextStep reference ID. **Role Summary** Participants will act as junior cybersecurity analysts for the duration of the hackathon, tackling real‑world security challenges, collaborating in virtual teams, and presenting solutions to a panel of TCS experts. The role is designed to test problem‑solving ability, technical depth, and creativity under time constraints. **Key Responsibilities** 1. Analyse provided challenge briefs and identify potential attack vectors. 2. Perform reconnaissance, scanning, and enumeration of target systems. 3. Exploit identified vulnerabilities using industry‑standard tools (e.g., Metasploit, Burp Suite). 4. Develop proof‑of‑concept exploits and document findings. 5. Propose mitigation strategies and secure coding recommendations. 6. Collaborate with teammates via virtual collaboration tools to share insights. 7. Present a concise technical report and live demo to the judging panel. 8. Adhere to ethical hacking guidelines and maintain confidentiality of all data. 9. Stay updated with the latest threat intelligence and security trends. 10. Participate in post‑event debrief sessions and feedback loops. **Tech Stack**: Linux/Unix, Python, Bash scripting, Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Docker, Git, Cloud platforms (AWS/Azure), SIEM basics. **Growth Path**: High‑performing participants may be fast‑tracked into TCS’s Cybersecurity Analyst or Associate roles, gaining access to structured training, certifications (e.g., CEH, CISSP), and mentorship from senior security architects. The exposure also opens doors to internships, campus placements, and long‑term career opportunities within TCS’s global security practice. **Why Join**: By competing in HackQuest, candidates get hands‑on experience with real‑world security scenarios, a chance to win substantial cash prizes, and a direct interview pipeline with one of the world’s most respected IT services firms. The event also enhances résumé credibility, expands professional networks, and provides a platform to showcase innovative thinking to industry leaders.