TNEA 2026 Special Category Seats: Sports, Ex-Servicemen, PH Explained
Published: 19 August 2026. TNEA reserves a small percentage of seats for specific special categories. This guide explains each one.
Sports quota
- For students who have represented at state or national level in recognized sports
- Sports certificate from the relevant sports authority (state sports development authority, national federation) required
- The student must also meet academic eligibility (12th with PCM, minimum marks)
- Certificate must be for a recent competition — check the exact cutoff year specified in the current TNEA information booklet
Ex-Servicemen and Defence Personnel Quota
- Children of ex-servicemen or serving defence personnel from Tamil Nadu are eligible
- Service certificate and discharge certificate (for ex-servicemen) required
- Must be verified by the Rajya Sainik Board or relevant authority
Physically Handicapped (PH) Quota
- Candidates with 40% or more disability as certified by a government medical board
- PH certificate from authorised medical authority required
- Most branches are open, but some may have accessibility considerations
How to apply
During TNEA registration, indicate your special category. Upload the required certificate. Verification happens at the facilitation centre or as per the current year process.
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