Where a written test is held, the paper is aimed at graduates with a computing or mathematics background and covers areas such as mathematics, logical and analytical reasoning, computer awareness and basic programming or data-structure concepts, with objective questions and a published marking scheme. The rank list built from the test, or from the alternative score accepted in that year, is used for allotment to
MCA seats in institutions approved by the All India Council for Technical Education and participating in the centralised allotment process run by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations. Allotment proceeds in rounds, with candidates confirming or upgrading their options between rounds and reporting to the allotted college within the notified window. The syllabus, mode of the test, reservation rules, fee structure and the full allotment schedule are set out in the official prospectus issued by the Commissioner for Entrance Examinations each year.