Navigating the FASTrack Exam by Infosys During Training

The FASTrack Exam by Infosys is a critical component of the onboarding process, designed to evaluate the knowledge and skills of new employees, particularly those in technical roles. This comprehensive assessment aims to ensure that trainees are adequately prepared for their roles and can apply their learning effectively in real-world scenarios.

The Purpose of the FASTrack Exam

The FASTrack Exam serves multiple purposes. It is an assessment tool used during the training phase to evaluate the knowledge and skills that new employees have acquired. The exam covers various topics relevant to the job, including programming languages, software development methodologies, and problem-solving skills. This helps to identify whether the trainees have the necessary foundational knowledge to perform their roles effectively.

Implications of the Exam Results

The results of the FASTrack Exam have significant implications. They can influence job assignments, project placements, and further training opportunities within the company. Success in the exam can lead to immediate entry into technology-specific training or 'Stream Training' as Infosys calls it. For those who pass, the training period is reduced by two months, and they are also eligible for a bonus of INR 25,000. On the other hand, those who do not qualify may have to undergo the normal training, which is both generic and stream training.

Preparation and Assessments

Candidates prepare for the FASTrack Exam in various ways. Many undergo online training before joining, and some have the luxury of additional time due to delays in the date of joining (DOJ). For candidates who joined in my batch, a mandatory online training was required three months before the DOJ. Additionally, they were required to undertake hands-on projects to ensure a solid understanding of the concepts.

Upon joining, the initial weeks were spent getting a brief idea of the subjects, followed by assessments within a week of DOJ. Successful completion of these assessments opens the door to 'Stream Training' or 'Fastrack Batch'. This reduces the intermediate training of basics like Java by a month. Trainees who do not clear the FASTrack Exam would instead be placed in intermediate batches and would have to complete the full intermediate course before progressing to production.

Conclusion

The FASTrack Exam is an integral part of the onboarding process at Infosys, playing a pivotal role in maintaining high standards of competency among new recruits. It helps to ensure that employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. Whether it's the reduction in training time or the bonus for passing, the FASTrack Exam is a vital step that every trainee should aim to pass successfully.