Cognizant uses different “GenC-tracks” to onboard freshers / early-career candidates depending on their skills/aptitude. TNP
Based on recently collected public data (2024–2025), here are approximate compensation/CTC numbers for freshers under each track. Actual in-hand may vary based on location, allowances, bonuses.
| Hiring Track | Approx Annual CTC / Package* |
|---|---|
| GenC (entry / trainee) | ₹4.0 LPA |
| GenC Elevate | GenC base + “Skill/Technical Bonus” → ₹5.4 LPA (some sources say ₹4.25–₹4.5 LPA; but skill-bonus raises to 5.4 LPA) |
| GenC Pro | For niche-skill freshers (e.g. platform tech) — package reportedly in the ballpark of ₹7.5 LPA–₹8.5 LPA (some sources) |
| GenC Next | For coding-skilled freshers, base or starting package varies in reports: many say ₹6.75 LPA (common) Others citing surveys report total ₹6.5 LPA–₹7.2 LPA (depending on role & city) |
*CTC ≈ gross annual package including base + allowances/bonuses (not necessarily take-home).
What “CTC → in-hand” roughly looks like depends heavily on city, deductions (taxes, PF), allowances, etc. Many sources suggest GenC/intern-level salaries are modest (near minimum wage range in smaller cities), while GenC Next/Pro with bonuses are better but still modest compared to major private-sector standards.
| Track | What they expect / skill-set required |
|---|---|
| GenC | Minimal programming — basic problem-solving, good communication. Often for infrastructure/support or non-core roles. |
| GenC Elevate | Foundational coding/database or IT skills. Basic programming + aptitude. |
| GenC Pro | Freshers with knowledge/skills in enterprise tech (e.g. SAP, Salesforce, PEGA, cybersecurity, specific services). Suitable for niche roles. |
| GenC Next | Candidates with stronger programming skills — coding, algorithms, possibly full-stack or backend fundamentals. Good for core development roles. |
Also, eligibility typically requires standard criteria for freshers: graduation (e.g. BE/BTech/MCA etc), no active backlogs, academic thresholds (often ~60% throughout), gaps limited, etc.
According to official info for the GenC India program: