Core Java from scratch: variables, OOP (classes, inheritance, polymorphism), collections (List/Map/Set), exception handling, and the file-handling basics you'll actually use in automation. No prior coding background assumed.
Selenium WebDriver — locator strategies, explicit/implicit waits, handling dynamic elements, frames, alerts, and multi-window scenarios. TestNG for test structuring, annotations, assertions, and parallel execution.
Cucumber and Gherkin syntax for behavior-driven scenarios that non-technical stakeholders can read. Extent/Allure reporting so your test runs produce evidence anyone can review.
Maven for dependency/build management, Jenkins and GitLab CI for running your suite automatically. Page Object Model and a hybrid framework you design and build yourself — this becomes your portfolio piece.
Mock technical rounds specific to automation roles, resume repositioning from "Manual Tester" to "Automation Engineer," and a final review of your framework project before you start applying.