Everything you need to know about the Certificate Course in Computer on Office Automation
COA stands for Certificate Course in Computer on Office Automation. It is a Government Technical Examination (GTE) that certifies a candidate's proficiency in computer skills essential for modern office environments. The course combines knowledge of computer applications with typing speed skills in both English and Tamil.
This certification is particularly valuable for those seeking government employment in Tamil Nadu, as it's mandatory for various clerical and administrative positions.
According to Government Order (G.O. Ms. No. 187), the essential qualification for the COA course is:
The examination fee for the COA course is Rs. 1,600 to be paid online. Training fees will vary depending on the institute you choose.
Exam for June and December Every Year
The COA syllabus covers 7 comprehensive units that prepare students for modern office environments:
History of computers, types of computers, memory, CPU components, input/output devices
Functions and types of OS, detailed study of MS-Windows, introduction to Linux with basic commands
MS-Word & OpenOffice Writer - formatting, page styles, tables, mail merge, tools
MS-Excel & OpenOffice Calc - formulas, functions, formatting, charts, pivot tables, data tools
MS-PowerPoint & OpenOffice Impress - creating slides, formatting, adding graphics, animations, transitions
File management, creating notes, drafts, approvals, and dispatches within an e-office system
Computer networks, internet, web browsers, email, Google Workspace tools, using scanners/smartphones
The COA examination consists of four papers, each designed to test specific skills:
| Paper | Description | Marks | Duration | Pass Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Theory Test on Computer and Office Automation tools | 50 | 60 minutes | 20 (40%) |
| II | English Typing Speed Skill Test (@ 30 wpm) | 50 | 10 minutes | 20 (40%) |
| III | Tamil Typing Speed Skill Test (@ 30 wpm) | 50 | 10 minutes | 20 (40%) |
| IV | Practical Test on Computer and Office Automation tools | 50 | 60 minutes | 20 (40%) |
Overall Pass Criteria: A candidate must score at least 40% in each paper individually and an aggregate of 50% across all four papers.
The exam is conducted digitally, with Papers I-III administered through a web application with digital evaluation, and Paper IV (Practical) using on-screen digital evaluation.
The Directorate of Technical Education announces notifications for registration twice a year (typically in June and December).
Candidates must apply online through the designated portal at https://tndtegteonline.in/
Pay the examination fee of Rs. 1,600 online through the portal
Download the admit card from the portal when available
Appear for the exam at the designated center on the specified dates
COA certification opens doors to various government positions:
The certificate is particularly valuable for TNPSC Group 4 examinations where it's mandatory for typist and stenographer positions.
The COA certificate is issued in digital format (e-Certificate) and is a permanent qualification. Its genuineness can be verified by the Department of Technical Education after recruitment.
Dual Certification: Passing COA also certifies your typing skill (Junior/Senior Grade) in both English and Tamil.
Yes, for certain clerical and administrative posts, COA certification is required for eligibility.
No previous qualification is required because the COA course includes Tamil and English typewriting speed exams.
Yes. Both online and direct classes are available. However, the exam itself is conducted at authorized test centers using digital platforms.
Practice regularly with official layouts (QWERTY for English, Tamil99 for Tamil) using the provided lessons. Consistent practice is key to achieving the required speed and accuracy.