How to Join the Indian Army: A Complete Guide
Joining the Indian Army is a dream for many young Indians who aspire to serve the nation with pride, honor, and courage. The Indian Army offers a challenging and prestigious career full of respect, discipline, and opportunities to grow. Whether you’re a student from a science background or an arts graduate, there are several entry routes into the Indian Army, based on your educational qualification and age.
Below is a detailed guide on **how to join the Indian Army**, highlighting key methods, eligibility criteria, and the selection process.
🔰 Key Ways to Join the Indian Army
1. Through NDA (National Defence Academy) – After 12th
Eligibility:** Only male candidates who have completed or appearing for their 12th standard
Age Limit:** 16.5 to 19.5 years.
Exam Conducted By:** UPSC (Union Public Service Commission).
Process:
Written Exam (Maths and General Ability)
SSB Interview (5 days)
Medical Examination
Training Location: NDA, Khadakwasla (Pune)
Commission Type: Permanent Commission (Officer)
2. Through CDS (Combined Defence Services) – After Graduation
Eligibility:Male and female graduates (depending on the academy applied for).
Age Limit:19 to 25 years.
Academies:
IMA (Indian Military Academy)
OTA (Officers Training Academy)
Process:
Written Exam (English, GK, Elementary Math for IMA; English and GK for OTA)
SSB Interview
Medical Test
Commission Type:
IMA: Permanent
OTA: Short Service (can be extended)
3. Technical Entry Scheme (TES) – After 12th (Science Stream)
Eligibility:PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) in 12th with 60%+ marks.
Age Limit: 16.5 to 19.5 years.
No written exam.Direct SSB interview based on merit and cutoff.
Training:5 years integrated course (technical + military).
Commission Type: Permanent
4. NCC Special Entry – For NCC Certificate Holders
Eligibility:NCC ‘C’ Certificate (Army Wing), graduate with 50%+
Age Limit:** 19 to 25 years.
No written exam.** Direct SSB call.
Applicable for:** OTA (Short Service Commission).
5. University Entry Scheme (UES) – For Pre-Final Year Engineer
Eligibility:B.E./B.Tech students in pre-final year.
Age Limit: 18 to 24 years.
Selection: Campus interview + SSB + medical exam.
Commission Type: Permanent
6. JAG Entry (Judge Advocate General) – For Law Graduates
Eligibility: LLB degree with 55%+, registered with Bar Council Age Limit: 21 to 27 years.
No written exam. Shortlisted candidates appear for SSB. Commission Type: Short Service
7. Agniveer Scheme – For Soldier Level Recruitment
Eligibility: 10th/12th pass (depending on the category).
Age Limit: 17.5 to 21 years.
Process:
Online Written Test (CEE)
Physical Fitness Test (running, push-ups, etc.)
Medical Examination
Service Duration: 4 years
. Post-Service Opportunity: Option to apply for regular army positions.
⭐ Highlighting Points
* 🪖 **SSB Interview is crucial**: Most officer entries involve a rigorous 5-day SSB process including group tasks, psychology tests, personal interviews, and conference round.
* 🎓 **Educational Qualification is key**: Entry options depend heavily on whether you are in school, college, or already a graduate.
* 🧑⚕️ **Medical Fitness is mandatory**: Army has strict physical and medical standards, including eyesight, height, and overall health.
* 🔁 **Permanent vs Short Service Commission**: Choose whether you want to serve for life or for a fixed term (generally 10-14 years).
* 🚩 **Training is intense but rewarding**: Cadets undergo tough training in academies like NDA, IMA, and OTA to transform into officers.
* 📜 **Merit Matters**: Final selection is based on cumulative performance (written, SSB, and medical), not just passing marks.
✅ Final Thoughts
Joining the Indian Army is not just about wearing a uniform – it’s about commitment, responsibility, and dedication to the country. It opens a path to an adventurous life, leadership, and national pride. With multiple entry points for different education levels and interests, aspiring candidates should prepare diligently, stay fit, and remain updated on notifications from official sources.
**Discipline, dedication, and determination** — these three Ds can lead you into the glorious world of the Indian Army. Whether through NDA, CDS, or Agniveer, the uniform awaits those who are ready to earn it with honor.
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