What is TNEA Cutoff? Formula and Calculation Explained Simply
Published: 19 August 2026. TNEA cutoff is not your 12th total percentage. It is a specific formula using only three subjects. This guide explains it simply.
The TNEA cutoff formula
Cutoff = Maths marks + (Physics marks / 2) + (Chemistry marks / 2)
Marks are taken from the Tamil Nadu Board 12th result. The maximum possible cutoff is 200.
Example calculation
- Maths: 190 marks
- Physics: 180 marks
- Chemistry: 170 marks
- Cutoff = 190 + (180 divided by 2) + (170 divided by 2) = 190 + 90 + 85 = 365
Note: The exact divisor used may differ based on board mark scales. Always verify the exact formula on the official TNEA portal or information booklet for 2026.
Why your rank is different from your cutoff
Thousands of students have similar cutoff scores. Your rank in the merit list depends on where you fall among all those thousands — so two students with 185 cutoff can have very different ranks if one is in OC and one is in a reserved category.
Related: TNEA cutoff explained
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