NIELIT O/A/B/C Level Eligibility Criteria: A Complete Guide
National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology Exam 2026 ( NIELIT Exam )
Exam On - 7 Feb '26
NIELIT offers structured learning in the field of IT and computer science. Each level of the course builds on the next, and is equivalent to formal academic degree. The NIELIT O/A/B/C Level courses are focused on technical proficiency and practical applications. Check out the eligibility criteria for NIELIT O/A/B/C Level courses.
- What is NIELIT?
- Purpose of NIELIT O/A/B/C Level Courses
- Overview of NIELIT O/A/B/C Level Eligibility
- NIELIT O Level Eligibility Criteria
- NIELIT A Level Eligibility Criteria
- NIELIT B Level Eligibility Criteria
- NIELIT C Level Eligibility Criteria
- Eligibility Summary Table
What is NIELIT?
NIELIT (National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology) is an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India.
NIELIT conducts examinations for four long-term computer courses:
- O Level
- A Level
- B Level
- C Level
Purpose of NIELIT O/A/B/C Level Courses
The main objectives of these courses are to-
- Provide formal computer education
- Build programming and technical skills
- Offer government-recognised qualifications
- Support learners from beginner to advanced levels
The courses are suitable for-
- Students
- Fresh graduates
- Working professionals
- Career switchers
Overview of NIELIT O/A/B/C Level Eligibility
Each level has specific eligibility conditions, explained below-
NIELIT O Level Eligibility Criteria
NIELIT O Level course provides a fundamental skill set in IT tools, web design, and programming logic. The eligibility criteria for entrance to such course are as follows-
| Category |
Qualification Requirement |
Experience Needed |
| NIELIT Students |
10+2 or equivalent OR 1-year ITI/Diploma after 10th |
None (Must complete the course through an Accredited NIELIT Institute) |
| Direct Applicants |
10+2 or equivalent OR 1-year ITI/Diploma after 10th |
1 Year of relevant IT experience |
| Graduates |
Any Degree from a recognized University |
None. Can apply directly |
| NCVT Holders |
Pass in NCVT-DP&CS (Data Preparation & Computer Software) |
None |
| Age Limit |
NONE |
NIELIT A Level Eligibility Criteria
A Level is equivalent to an Advanced Diploma in Computer Applications. It focuses on programming, software development, and computer concepts.
| Applicant Type |
Educational Path |
Experience Needed |
Note on Concurrency |
| Institute Students |
O Level OR Polytechnic Diploma (after Class 10). |
None |
No Concurrency: Must finish the prerequisite before starting the 'A' Level. |
| Institute Students |
Graduate OR Polytechnic Diploma (after 10+2). |
None |
Concurrent: Can study for 'A' Level while finishing your Degree/Diploma. |
| Direct Applicants |
O Level OR Graduate OR Polytechnic Diploma. |
1 Year |
Experience must be in IT or teaching at a recognised institution. |
NIELIT B Level Eligibility Criteria
B Level course is equivalent to a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) and is designed primarily for employment purposes. It focuses on advanced computing, business functions, and advanced IT concepts.
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| Applicant Type |
Educational Path |
Experience Needed |
Key Benefit |
| Institute Students |
'A' Level / PGDCA / PPDCA |
None |
Exemptions: First 2 semesters waived for 'A' Level holders. |
| Institute Students |
Graduate / Polytechnic Diploma |
None |
Must complete an Accredited 'B' Level Course. |
| Direct Applicants |
'A' Level / PGDCA / PPDCA |
2 Years |
Relevant experience in IT or formal teaching. |
| Direct Applicants |
Graduate / Polytechnic Diploma |
3 Years |
Experience must be post-qualification |
NIELIT C Level Eligibility Criteria
NIELIT C Level is equivalent to an M.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering. The course aims to develop senior-level professionals, including Project Managers, Consultants, R&D Scientists, etc.
| Applicant Type |
Required Educational Background |
Experience Needed |
| Institute Students |
'B' Level / B.Tech / BE / MCA / M.Sc / Master's (Maths/Stats/OR) / MBA (with Maths/Stats background) / GATE (Computer). |
None (Must enrol in Accredited 'C' Level Course). |
| Direct Applicants |
Same as 'B' Level, B.Tech, MCA, M.Sc, Master's, or GATE |
1.5 Years of relevant IT or teaching experience. |
Eligibility Summary Table
| Level |
Minimum Eligibility Criteria |
| O Level |
|
| A Level |
|
| B Level |
|
| C Level |
|
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 3 weeks ago
Registration for the July 2026 NIELIT exam cycle is open until March 31, 2026, for O, A, and C levels for both direct and institute candidates. For A/C level institute candidates, the deadline is extended to April 10, 2026.
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
The tentative date for the declaration of results is the last week of April. Results will be available online at the NIELIT official website.
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
- O/A/B/C Levels: Practical examinations are scheduled to commence on February 7, 2026.
- CHMT-O Level: Both the practical and the Employability Skills (ES) exams are expected to take place during the last week of January 2026.
R
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 3 weeks ago
The theory papers for the January 2026 cycle are scheduled to begin on January 10, 2026.
- A/B/C Levels: January 10 - 14, 2026
- O Level (A1–A4 R5) & CHMT-O Level: January 10 - 18, 2026
R
Contributor-Level 9
Rashmi Karan is a writer and editor with more than 15 years of exp., focusing on educational content. Her expertise is IT & Software domain. She also creates articles on trending tech like data science,